Ravana refused to take good counsel
Rama, Lakshmana, and Sugriva were busy in making preparations to invade Lanka. A huge Vanara army headed by them reached the seashore. Then, they sat down to think over how to cross the mighty ocean.
Ravana had information about the movement of the Vanara army. He became anxious. So, he summoned a council of ministers and addressed them, saying,”You have all seen how a single monkey played havoc with our city. He said he was sent by Rama. Rama is preparing to invade us. I would like you all to give your valuable opinion.”
Surely, Ravana ‘s self-confidence was shaken. So, he wanted it to be rebuilt with the encouraging words of his ministers and generals. Sensing his feelings, they rose in their seats one by one, eulogised his powers and invincibility, and spoke with one voice that the Rakshasa army could easily defeat the Vanara army and they were sure Ravana would kill Rama and Lakshmana.
The proud Ravana was elated at this and complimented his ministers and war chiefs on their great optimism.
But the lonely voice of dissent came from his younger brother, Vibhishana, who was known from his youth for his devotion to God and pious nature. He made a humble submission to Ravana,”Brother, I have great respect for your valour and courage. Do not be led away by these foolish generals, who want to please you at any cost. You have done a great crime in kidnapping Rama’s wife. It is not too late. Return her gracefully and I am sure He will pardon you. But, if you pursue a path of pride and egoism, I have no doubt about the impending peril to Lanka and the entire Rakshasa community.
Ravana took this advice in bad taste. He accused his younger brother of jealousy and timidity. So, he declared that everybody should prepare for war with Rama and His Vanara army,
Vibhishana pleaded once again. But, Ravana’s sense of pride and injured vanity made him reject good counsel. Ravana was about to leave his palace in his golden chariot. Mandodari,his wife, accosted him. She fell at his feet and implored, “My lord, return Sita to Rama. Since Sita entered Lanka, something bad is happening here. You have plenty of beautiful women. Why go for an ordinary, human lady? I heard Rama’s arrows are very powerful and they will surely ruin us.”
Ravana brushed her aside, saying,”These are nothing but a weak woman’s fears. I will be ridiculed, if I take your advice. I do not care for these human worms.”
Questions :
- How did his ministers and generals encourage Ravana?
- Why did Ravana reject the good counsel of Vibhishana and Mandodary?