Vibhisana Abandons Ravana and Joins Rama

Vibhisana Abandons Ravana and Joins Rama

Even though those he would fight against were his own relatives and friends, Vibhisana thought that truth was more important than temporary family ties. Outraged, he left the city. 

Soon after, Ravana regretted having treated Vibhisana in that way and sent for him, but he was not found.

In less than an hour Vibhisana arrived where Rama’s armies were encamped and he announced his coming. His arrival caused a bad mood. Many Vanaras were wary, but Hanuman recognized him and remembered how he had defended him from everyone else’s opinion.

Vibhisana was accepted as a friend and ally and was brought before Rama. He bowed respectfully.

“Rama, I am Vibhisana,” he said, “the younger brother of Ravana and Kumbhakarna. In my heart I have always disapproved of my brother’s demonic activities, even in the case of Sita’s kidnapping, but he did not want to listen to my advice. Countless times today I tried to make him understand what are the right things to do, and he insulted me. I no longer want to be on the side of the wicked and oppressors, so I would like to help you win this battle. I know everything about Ravana, his soldiers, and Lanka’s fortifications, and I would give you a valuable contribution.”

Despite the distrust of many, Rama, who knew how to read the hearts of sincere people, accepted him as a friend. Thus the righteous Vibhisana joined Rama.

Meanwhile the Raksasa spies, who were scattered everywhere, informed the king that the Vanara’s army was approaching.