Vibhishana

Vibhishana is a figure in the Ramayana, known as the virtuous prince of Lanka and the younger brother of the demon king Ravana. He is the son of Vishrava and Kaikesi, and thus the brother of Kumbhakarna. In the epic he is distinguished by his steadfast adherence to dharma and his willingness to speak truth to power, even when it risks his own safety.

In the story, Vibhishana counsels Ravana to return Sita to Rama and seek a peaceful resolution to the conflict. When Ravana refuses, Vibhishana defects from Ravana’s camp and goes to Rama, seeking asylum. Rama welcomes him as an ally and honors his counsel, recognizing his piety and loyalty to dharma. Throughout the ensuing war, Vibhishana provides strategic insight and moral support, reinforcing the narrative that righteousness can prevail even among the fiercest foes.

After Rama defeats Ravana, Vibhishana is installed as the king of Lanka. Rama appoints him to rule Lanka, with the expectation that he will govern justly and protect both his subjects and Rama’s allies. In many retellings, Vibhishana’s reign is remembered as a period of fair governance and religious devotion, highlighting the theme that dharma transcends birth and lineage.

Vibhishana is widely regarded in Hindu tradition as a paragon of righteousness and devotion to dharma, and his decision to abandon Ravana’s side is often cited as a model of moral integrity. His character appears across regional versions of the Ramayana and related literature, where he is celebrated as a virtuous ruler and steadfast devotee of righteousness.