Kumbhakarna was the brother of Ravana in the Ramayana. He
was the second son of Vishrawas and Kaikasi. As per Srimad Bhagavad Purana,
Kumbhakarna was the manifestation of Vijaya – the doorkeeper of Vaikunta. He was
cursed to be born as demon due to the curse of Sanakadi Rishis.
Kumbhakarna had several magical powers and was huge in size
– bigger than an elephant. He roamed around the universe creating havoc. He
caused damage to Devas and humans.
Kumbakarna once performed intense austerities dedicated to
Brahma at Gokarna along with Ravana. The tapasya continued for several years.
Devas were worried that Kumbakara might become even more powerful and destroy
the earth and heaven.
Devas took the help of Goddess Saraswati to thwart the evil
designs of the huge demon. She promised to help them.
Finally, Brahma appeared before Kumbhakarna and as boon
wanted to ask nirdevata – extinction of Devas. But just as he was about to ask
the boon, Goddess Saraswati influenced his speech and he asked nidravata –
sleepiness. Brahma immediately granted it. Thus Kumbhakarna sleeps for six
months and wakes up for a day.
In the Ramayana, Kumbakarna fought valiantly on the side of
Ravana. But he also chastised Ravana for the death of scores of demons. He also
did not approve of Ravana kidnapping Mata Sita.
Kumbhakarna was killed by Rama. He finally got
relieved of the curse and got back his position as the doorkeeper of Vaikunta.