An infographic visualizing the epic conclusion of the Ramayana, from the abduction of Sita to the final, triumphant battle.
The conflict begins not with an army, but with an act of vengeance that spirals into an epic confrontation.
Shurpanakha's humiliation at the hands of Lakshmana ignites the fire. She implores her brother Ravana to avenge her, deceitfully describing Sita's beauty to entice him.
Ravana sends a legion of 14,000 Rakshasas led by Khara and Dushana. Rama single-handedly annihilates the entire force, a stark demonstration of his divine power.
Enraged, Ravana plans Sita's abduction. The plan unfolds in three steps, luring Rama and Lakshmana away and leaving Sita vulnerable.
With Sita captured, Rama forges a powerful alliance and sends his most devoted follower on a near-impossible mission.
Rama and Lakshmana meet Hanuman and Sugriva. By helping Sugriva reclaim his kingdom, Rama gains the loyalty of the entire Vanara army for his quest.
Hanuman makes his epic journey to Lanka, finds Sita, offers hope, and sets the city ablaze as a warning of the power that is to come.
Vibhishana, Ravana's brother, advises peace. Scorned for his counsel, he defects to Rama's side, providing invaluable intelligence on Lanka's forces and secrets.
Ravana's strength was bolstered by his formidable kin. This chart compares the key attributes of his most powerful warriors who fell during the great war.
The final, cataclysmic days of battle where legends clash and the fate of the world is decided.
The colossal Kumbhakarna is awakened. He causes immense destruction before being slain by Rama, a major blow to Lanka's morale.
Ravana's son, Indrajit, a master of illusion, critically wounds Lakshmana with a celestial weapon, pausing the war as Hanuman fetches the life-saving Sanjeevani herb.
Revived, Lakshmana confronts and, after a ferocious battle, slays Indrajit. This victory shatters Ravana's spirit and seals his doom.
On Vijayadashami, Rama confronts Ravana. In the final duel, Rama unleashes the Brahmastra, ending the reign of the demon king and restoring righteousness to the world.