Lanka

In the <i>Valmiki Ramayana</i>, Lanka is the magnificent island capital situated upon Trikuta Mountain and surrounded by the sea. Its walls, gateways, palaces and gardens display extraordinary wealth and architectural splendor. Hanuman describes a city filled with towering buildings, broad streets and strong fortifications unlike any he had previously seen. The city is ruled by Ravana after he seizes it from his half-brother Kubera. Under his reign, Lanka becomes the center of rakshasa power. Despite its prosperity, the kingdom's fate changes when Ravana abducts Sita and refuses repeated opportunities to restore peace. Hanuman secretly enters Lanka while searching for Sita. He discovers her in the Ashoka Grove, delivers Rama's signet ring and later burns large portions of the city after his tail is set on fire by Ravana's command. Even then, Ravana rejects wise counsel from Vibhishana and others. After Setubandha is completed, Rama's army reaches Lanka and the great war begins. The city witnesses the fall of Kumbhakarna, Indrajit and finally Ravana himself. When the conflict ends, Rama installs Vibhishana as king, allowing Lanka to continue under righteous rule rather than destruction.

According to the <i>Valmiki Ramayana</i>, Lanka is originally the city of Kubera before Ravana takes possession of it. Built upon Trikuta Mountain and protected by the surrounding ocean, it becomes the capital of Ravana's kingdom. Its place in the Ramayana is defined by the captivity of Sita, Hanuman's mission, the great war and the restoration of righteous kingship under Vibhishana.

Lanka reflects both greatness and warning. Its wealth, strength and beauty are undeniable, yet they cannot protect a kingdom governed by pride and adharma. The city survives because kingdoms may be redeemed even when their rulers fall.