Ravana

Ravana is a Sanskrit name that means "roaring, screaming," derived from the Sanskrit word rava (रव), meaning "roar" or "yell." In the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, Ravana is the principal antagonist, a ten-headed rakshasa (demon) king who rules the island kingdom of Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka). He is infamous for abducting Sita, the wife of Rama, which sets off the central conflict of the epic. According to the Ramayana, Ravana was the eldest son of the sage Vishrava and the demoness Kaikasi, and he was known for his immense knowledge, being well-versed in the six shastras and the four Vedas. He is also credited with composing the Shiva Tandava Stotra, a hymn dedicated to the god Shiva.

The name Ravana is often depicted as a complex figure in Hindu tradition—while he is a villain, he is also portrayed as a learned scholar and a devout follower of Shiva. The primary narrative of the Ramayana tells how Sita was abducted and held prisoner in the Ashoka Vatika in Lanka, leading to a fierce war between Rama's army of vanaras (monkey-like beings) and Ravana's forces. Eventually, Rama killed Ravana and rescued Sita. The story of Ravana's defeat is celebrated in Hindu festivals, where effigies of the ten-headed demon king are burned or beheaded.

Beyond his role in mythology, the name Ravana is not commonly used as a personal name in modern contexts due to its negative connotations, but it remains a prominent symbol in Hindu culture and literature. The character appears not only in the Valmiki Ramayana but also in various regional versions, such as the Tamil Kamba Ramayanam and other retellings across Southeast Asia.

• Meaning: Roaring, screaming
• Origin: Sanskrit
• Usage: Hindu (mythological)
• Type: Antagonist from epic