Introduction
Kumbhakarna is the second brother of Ravana, a giant Rakshasa of huge strength. He is famous for his long sleep and for his loyalty to Ravana in spite of disagreeing with him.
This article primarily follows the Valmiki Ramayana. Where a well-known detail comes from a later retelling or tradition, the article identifies it.
Family
- Father: Vishrava
- Mother: Kaikesi
- Wife: Vajrajvala
- Siblings: Kubera, Ravana, Vibhishana, Shurpanakha, Khara, Dushana, Trishiras
- Sons: Kumbha, Nikumbha
The curse of sleep
Kumbhakarna performed penance with Ravana and Vibhishana. According to the Uttara Kanda, the gods feared what he might ask for, because of his enormous appetite. Under a curse of Brahma, he was made to sleep for long periods, waking only for a single day at a time. In a popular retelling, the goddess Saraswati twisted his tongue so that he asked for sleep instead of the boon he intended.
Waking for war
In the Yuddha Kanda, when the Rakshasa forces were failing, Ravana ordered Kumbhakarna woken. It took great effort, with drums, elephants and blows. Kumbhakarna heard the news and told Ravana that the abduction of Sita was a mistake and that he should return her. But when Ravana grew angry, Kumbhakarna agreed to fight for his brother.
The battle
He caused terrible losses among the Vanaras. He captured Sugriva, who freed himself by biting off Kumbhakarna's nose and ears. Rama then killed Kumbhakarna with an arrow.
Family
His sons Kumbha and Nikumbha were killed in the same war. In later Puranic tradition, Kumbhakarna is identified with the gatekeeper Vijaya, but this is not in Valmiki.