As the war raged on in the epic Ramayana, Ravana faced significant losses with many of his generals and warriors killed. Deciding to personally enter the battlefield, Ravana engaged and defeated several notable Vanara warriors, including Sugriva, Hanuman, and Nila. This sequence of events led to the first dramatic encounter between Ravana and Lakshmana.
The Encounter
Lakshmana, the devoted brother of Rama, confronted Ravana with fierce determination. Ravana, with his formidable prowess, initially launched a volley of arrows towards Lakshmana. Demonstrating his skill and agility, Lakshmana skillfully cut off Ravana's arrows mid-air, rendering them ineffective. Undeterred by the initial failure, Ravana resorted to more powerful and destructive weapons. These weapons struck Lakshmana, causing severe wounds and making his body red with flowing blood.
Despite the intense pain and injuries, Lakshmana maintained his composure and retaliated by destroying Ravana's bow and chariot. Ravana, relentless in his assault, quickly replaced his bow and chariot and continued to shoot arrows at Lakshmana. However, Lakshmana countered each of these attacks with equal prowess.
The Brahmastra Spear
Frustrated by the stalemate, Ravana remembered the divine spear given to him by Brahma. With great force and determination, Ravana flung this powerful spear towards Lakshmana. Lakshmana attempted to intercept and cut off the spear, but the divine weapon struck him with immense force, causing him to fall unconscious to the ground.
Hanuman's Intervention
Seeing Lakshmana fallen, Ravana tried to seize the opportunity to lift Lakshmana's body with the intention of taking him to Lanka. However, despite his efforts, Ravana was unable to move Lakshmana. At this crucial moment, Hanuman, the mighty Vanara warrior and devoted follower of Rama, intervened. He struck Ravana with great force, causing him to reel and fall to the ground. Realizing the growing resistance and danger, Ravana chose to flee from the battlefield.
Lakshmana's Recovery
Hanuman, demonstrating his strength and care, gently lifted the unconscious Lakshmana and carried him to safety. Upon seeing his beloved brother in such a state, Rama was filled with concern and affection. He tenderly caressed Lakshmana with his hands, an act that miraculously revived Lakshmana, bringing him back to consciousness.
This intense and emotional encounter highlighted the bravery and resilience of Lakshmana, the might of Ravana, and the unwavering loyalty and strength of Hanuman. It underscored the epic nature of the Ramayana war, where valor, devotion, and divine interventions played pivotal roles.