The celestial balance was in turmoil. The gods, tormented by the demons Malyavan, Mali, and Sumali, who ruled from the island fortress of Lanka, sought refuge and a solution from Vishnu, the Preserver. Gathering in his divine presence, they recounted the chaos and destruction unleashed by these powerful Rakshasas. Vishnu, with a calm and reassuring demeanor, assured the gods that he would take action to restore order. With a wave of his hand, he dismissed them, promising intervention.
News of Vishnu's intentions reached the wise sage Narada, who felt compelled to intervene. Traveling to Lanka, Narada found the three demon brothers seated majestically on their gem-studded throne. Upon seeing Narada, they respectfully rose, bowed, and offered him their seat, recognizing his wisdom and status. Curious about the purpose of his visit, they inquired politely.
"I come as a well-wisher," Narada began, "to warn you of an impending danger. Vishnu has vowed to end your reign."
The demons, though powerful, understood the weight of Narada's words. No sooner had Narada departed than Brahma, the Creator, descended upon Lanka. The brothers, recognizing the supreme deity, greeted Brahma with reverence and asked for the reason behind his visit.
"You are dear to me," Brahma stated, "for you have often turned to me in prayer. I wish for you to rule in peace, but your actions have been far from peaceful. Your malevolent deeds and constant attacks on the gods cannot continue. Anyone who harbors jealousy towards the gods and the Brahmans invites their own downfall. Change your ways, or face the wrath of Vishnu."
After delivering his stern message, Brahma left. The brothers were left in a state of contemplation. Malyavan, the most confident, proposed that they could defeat Vishnu together. Sumali, more cautious, reminded them of Vishnu's formidable strength, citing his victory over demons like Hiranyakashipu. Mali, filled with a warrior's spirit, declared that a war was inevitable. The brothers decided to unite their forces, targeting Vishnu first, and then the other gods, Brahmans, and enlightened beings to seize control of heaven.
Preparations for war commenced with great fervor. The brothers' chariots were readied, and they led their armies in a ferocious assault on Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu. The skies darkened as the battle commenced, with Vishnu arriving on his magnificent mount, Garuda. The clash of weapons echoed through the heavens as the Rakshasas launched a relentless attack. Vishnu, ever the warrior, defended against the onslaught with his divine weapons.
Despite their strength, the Rakshasa army began to falter. Sumali and Mali, in a desperate move, struck Garuda on the head, causing him to reel in pain. Yet, Vishnu, with his calming presence, steadied his mount and directed him back into the fray.
In a decisive moment, Vishnu unleashed his Sudarshana Chakra, the divine discus, severing Mali's head from his body. Witnessing the fall of their brother, Malyavan and Sumali fled the battlefield. However, not willing to admit defeat, they soon returned, determined to face Vishnu once more. Malyavan, brimming with defiance, vowed to kill Vishnu. But Vishnu, with a voice full of divine authority, reminded them of his promise to the gods.
With a powerful, fiery weapon, Vishnu incinerated Malyavan, leaving only Sumali. Seeing the inevitable, Sumali and the remaining Rakshasas retreated to the nether world, abandoning Lanka.
With the demons vanquished, Lanka lay desolate. To restore balance, Vishnu appointed Kubera, the god of wealth, as the new ruler of Lanka, ensuring peace and prosperity in the land once more.