Dashanana Swapnasiddhi

Sri Ramayana Darshanam is a magnum opus by Kuvempu, offering a fresh perspective of the epic. The chapter ‘Dashanana Swapnasiddhi’ portrays the improbable experiences of Ravana, highlighting his inner conflict and transformation. Kuvempu presents Ravana as a complex character, oscillating between villainy and a soul yearning for salvation. The episode begins after Ravana’s army is defeated, and Lanka faces destruction. Anguished, Ravana worships Goddess Kalikadevi, seeking power to defeat Rama. As she hesitates to bless him, Ravana, overcome with despair, prepares to sacrifice his head. In this trance-like state, he encounters Dhyanamalini and Lankalakshmi, who mourn the devastation of Lanka. This vision prompts Ravana to repent and prepare for a final battle with Rama to save his kingdom.