Yuddha Kanda
Introduction
The Yuddha Kanda or sixth section of Valmiki’s long poem, tells of the fateful meeting between Rama and his rival, Ravana, of their final fights of Sita’s release from captivity; and of the reunited couple‘s return to Ayodhya. Yuddha means "war" or "combat." So, this part of the epic describes not only the conflict between the exiled prince and the rakshasa-ruler but also the skirmishes and battles between their rank and file. Moreover, such unforgettable characters as Vibhishana, Kumbhakarna, and Indrajit figure prominently here. The clash of the troops, the daring feats of soldiers in single combat, the courage shown by all -- even in defeat -- stir excitement and admiration among those who hear the traditional tales of heroism. Small wonder, then, that the Yuddha-kanda, which is the longest section of the epic, is the most popular part of the Ramayana for the millions who know it.
Some selected chapters (sarga)
- Some of the chapters from Yuddha Kanda containing geographical and historical information are given here for study and analysis
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 7 - The demons inspire Ravana
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 8 - All demons eulogising their strengths
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 9 - Vibhishana speak words of morality
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 14 - Vibhishana informs about the power of Rama's arrow
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 20 - Ravana sends Shuka to Sugreeva as an ambassador
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 25 - Shuka explains the strength of the enemy's army to Ravana
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 26 - Ravana enquirers about the various Vanara leaders
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 27 - Sarana describes the individual strength of the army
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 28 - Shuka enumerates the enemies
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 29 - Ravana reprimands Shuka and Sarana
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 30 - Ravana dispatches Sardula the demon-spy
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 78 - Ravana orders Makaraksha
- Yuddha Kanda Sarga 79 - Makaraksha challenges Rama to fight with him