Here’s an overview of Ravana (sometimes spelled Ravanan / Rāvaṇa) — his origins, character, deeds, and how he is viewed in different traditions. If you want a particular version (Tamil, Sri Lankan, etc.), I can give that too.
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Ravana is a major figure in Hindu mythology, primarily known as the antagonist of the Ramayana. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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He is king of Lanka and leader of the rakshasas (a kind of demon / supernatural beings). (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Family and Birth
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Father: Vishravas, a sage. (Wikipedia)
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Mother: Kaikasi (or Kaikeyī), a rakshasa/daitya princess. (Wikipedia)
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Ravana had several siblings, including Kumbhakarna, Vibhishana, and Surpanakha. (Wikipedia)
Powers, Boons, Skills
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Ravana is depicted as extremely powerful, learned, and devout. He mastered the Vedas and many arts. (Wikipedia)
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He performed severe penance (tapas) to the gods, especially Brahma, and obtained boons that made him nearly invincible to many divine forces. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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He is also described as a devotee of Shiva, a skilled musician, etc. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Major Events / Deeds
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Ravana expelled his half-brother Kubera, who originally ruled Lanka, and took over the throne. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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The central event: Ravana abducts Sita, wife of Rama (avatar of Vishnu), which leads to the war in Ramayana and ultimately his defeat. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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He is often shown as violating dharma (moral/ethical order) in various ways, which justifies his being opposed by Rama. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Symbolism & Character Traits
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Ravana is complex: not just evil, but multifaceted. While he is antagonist, many stories also emphasize his scholarship, devotion, and strength. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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The ten heads: symbolic of his wide knowledge, or multiple aspects. (Wikipedia)
Downfall and Legacy
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Rama defeats Ravana in battle, using celestial weapons, etc. This is the climax of the Ramayana. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
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The festival of Dussehra (Vijayadashami) marks Ravana’s defeat — effigies of Ravana are burnt to symbolize the victory of good over evil. (Encyclopedia Britannica)
Varying Perspectives & Cultural Views
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In some traditions, especially in parts of South India and Sri Lanka, Ravana is viewed more sympathetically: as a learned king, a devotee, or a symbol of regional identity. (Tamil Guardian)
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There are temples and places that believe he built certain temples (for example, Thirukoneswaram in Trincomalee is sometimes credited to Ravana) and consider him a Tamil or Dravidian icon in counter-narratives. (Tamil Guardian)
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