Introduction
Durvasa is a sage known for his temper. In the Uttara Kanda he arrives in Ayodhya at a decisive moment, and his demand for an audience with Rama leads to Lakshmana leaving the world. He is traditionally regarded as a son of Atri and Anasuya.
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 interruption
Kala, or Time, had come to Rama and demanded that no one interrupt their private talk. Lakshmana guarded the door. Durvasa came and demanded to see Rama at once, threatening to curse the whole of Ayodhya if he was kept waiting. Lakshmana chose to interrupt Rama, to save the kingdom, knowing that he would be punished for it.
Consequences
Rama's promise to punish anyone who interrupted led Lakshmana to leave the world at the river Sarayu.