Introduction
Shurpanakha is the sister of Ravana. She is the Rakshasi who approached Rama in the forest, and the incident that followed set in motion the abduction of Sita.
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
- Husband: Vidyujjihva (husband of Shurpanakha)
- Siblings: Kubera, Ravana, Kumbhakarna, Vibhishana, Khara, Dushana, Trishiras
Marriage and widowhood
According to the Uttara Kanda, Shurpanakha married Vidyujjihva, a Kalakeya chief. During a campaign, Ravana killed him without recognising him. Ravana then sent his sister to live in the Dandaka forest with their relatives Khara and Dushana.
Meeting Rama
At Panchavati she saw Rama and, changing into a beautiful form, asked him to marry her. Rama sent her to Lakshmana, who sent her back. She then attacked Sita, and Lakshmana cut off her nose and ears.
Revenge
She ran to Khara, who attacked Rama with his army and was killed. She then went to Lanka, told Ravana what had happened and described Sita's beauty, urging him to take revenge by abducting her.