Baal Kaanda
34 - The birth of Ravana and his brothers, their austerities, opulence and tyranny
Chaupais
Description
All the three brothers practised austerities of various kinds, terrible beyond all description. Seeing their penance the Creator drew nigh and said to the eldest of them, "Ask a boon, dear son." The ten-headed Ravana suppliantly clasped his feet and addressed to him the following words. "Listen, O lord of the universe; my prayer is that I should die at the hands of none save monkeys and men." "So be it; you have done great penance." This was the boon Brahma and I granted to him (said Siva). The Creator then approached Kumbhakarna and was astonished to see his gigantic form. Brahma said to himself, "Should this wretch have his daily repast, the whole world will be laid waste." So Brahma directed Sarada, who changed his mind. Accordingly the demon asked for continued sleep, extending over six months.