Ravan's Attempt to Kidnap Kaushalya: A Lesser-Known Tale from Ramayana

In a fascinating twist of the Ramayana, Ravan's attempt to kidnap Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Rama, reveals a deeper narrative of fear and prophecy. This article explores the motivations behind Ravan's actions, his failed attempt to escape his foretold demise, and the heroic rescue by King Dasharath. Uncover the layers of this lesser-known tale that precedes the more famous abduction of Sita, and learn how destiny played a crucial role in the epic saga.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 1, 2026, 13:29 IST

The Story Behind Ravan's Actions

According to the Ramayana, the infamous demon king Ravan abducted Sita to avenge the insult of his sister Shurpanakha. However, many are unaware that Sita was not the first woman he forcibly took; prior to her, Ravan had also kidnapped Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Rama.

What prompted Ravan to abduct Kaushalya? Let's delve into this intriguing episode.

Kidnapping Driven by a Prophecy

As per the Anand Ramayana, Ravan's fear of a prophecy led him to kidnap Kaushalya before Sita. A tale from the Ramayana narrates that Ravan, terrified by the prediction of his demise, sought to avert it by abducting Kaushalya.

Lord Brahma had foretold that the son of Dasharath and Kaushalya would be the cause of Ravan's death. To escape this fate, Ravan executed the kidnapping on the very day of Dasharath and Kaikeyi's wedding.

Dasharath's Heroic Rescue

After the abduction, Ravan confined Kaushalya in a box and left her on a deserted island. The sage Narada informed King Dasharath about this heinous act and revealed the location where Kaushalya was held captive.

Upon receiving this news, Dasharath gathered his army and set out to confront Ravan on the island. Unfortunately, his forces were no match for Ravan's powerful army. Yet, Dasharath did not give up; he used a wooden plank to swim to the box where Kaushalya was imprisoned.

Once there, Dasharath freed Kaushalya from her confinement and safely returned her to the palace. Ravan's attempt to delay his foretold death by kidnapping Kaushalya ultimately failed.

Despite all his efforts, Ravan could not escape his fate. Eventually, Kaushalya and King Dasharath's son, Lord Rama, fulfilled the prophecy by defeating Ravan.