The twin physician gods, fathers of the Vanara warriors Mainda and Dvivida.
Accounts of this vary across texts and traditions. This entry primarily follows Valmiki Ramayana, with other tellings (Ramcharitmanas (Tulsidas), Regional and folk traditions) noted where relevant.
Introduction
The Ashvini Kumaras, also called the Ashvins, are twin gods of medicine and healing, known from the Rigveda. In the Ramayana they are the fathers of Mainda and Dvivida.
This article primarily follows the Valmiki Ramayana. Where a well-known detail comes from a later retelling or tradition, the article identifies it.
Family
The Vanara warriors
When the gods took birth as Vanaras to help Rama, the Ashvins fathered Mainda and Dvivida, two strong warriors in Sugriva's army.
This entry is independently written for myVamsam using the sources listed above.
Where traditions differ, this entry identifies the relevant tradition rather than presenting one account as universally established fact.