Like the Ramayana, every legendary tale imparts two primary teachings: what to do and what not to do. Lord Rama embodies goodness, while Ravana exemplifies the consequences of one’s actions.

While Ravana is often portrayed as an evil, narcissistic demon who chooses the path of ‘Adharma,’ we must acknowledge his significant contributions to art and knowledge. His unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva continues to inspire many devotees. Let’s explore his backstory, as mentioned in the Ramayana.

Ravana, born to Kaikasi, the second wife of Vishwashrava, was a Brahmasura—a being with Brahmin and Asura lineage. He was known as Dashanan or Dashagriva, symbolizing his ten-headed form.

A devout worshipper of Lord Shiva, Ravana once sought to visit Kailash, the abode of the deity. However, Lord Shiva’s gatekeeper Nandi denied him entry as the Lord was in deep meditation. To prove his devotion, Ravana attempted to lift the mighty Kailash mountain. In response, Lord Shiva placed His toe on the mountain, crushing Ravana’s hand and causing him immense pain. Despite the agony, wholly devoted Ravana composed the Shiva Tandava Stotram—a hymn praising Lord Shiva’s divine dance. This powerful hymn continues to be chanted, symbolizing strength, beauty, and power. Pleased by Ravana’s unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva gave him the name ‘Ravana,’ which means ‘the one with a terrifying roar’ due to his scream that reverberated worldwide.

Numerous tales highlight Ravana’s deep devotion to Lord Shiva. During an intense penance, he selflessly sacrificed all his heads. Impressed, Lord Shiva restored his ten heads, giving him immense knowledge. Each head represented the six Shastras and four Vedas that Ravana had imbibed.

Ravana’s contributions extended to literature, science, music, and art. He authored books like Ravana Samhita, and Arka Prakasham and works on Ayurvedic medicine and infant diseases, such as Kumar Tantraya. He also invented the musical instrument known as the ‘Ravana hasta veena,’ now called the Ravanhatta—a mesmerizing fiddle-like instrument.

However, Ravana’s downfall stemmed from his negative traits. Blinded by power, his ten heads symbolized his ten negative qualities: cruelty, lust, ego, anger, injustice, selfishness, greed, jealousy, and arrogance. Embracing these traits marked the turning point in his life, transforming him into the epitome of evil.

The Ramayana teaches us valuable lessons through the contrasting characters of Rama and Ravana. While Rama represents righteousness, Ravana is a cautionary tale about the consequences of succumbing to one’s dark tendencies.