The Untold Story of Ravana's Attempt to Kidnap Kaushalya

Explore the intriguing story of Ravana's attempt to kidnap Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Rama, driven by a prophecy of his death. This lesser-known episode reveals the lengths to which Ravana went to avoid his fate and how Dasharatha heroically rescued his wife. Despite his efforts, Ravana could not escape his foretold demise, as Rama ultimately fulfilled the prophecy. Dive into this captivating narrative that adds depth to the Ramayana.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 07:35 IST

Ravana's Dark Past: The Kidnapping of Kaushalya

According to the epic Ramayana, it is well-known that Ravana, the king of Lanka, abducted Sita to avenge the insult of his sister Shurpanakha.

However, many are unaware that Sita was not the first woman Ravana forcibly took. Prior to Sita's abduction, he had also kidnapped Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Rama.

But what prompted Ravana to kidnap Kaushalya? Let's delve into this intriguing episode.

Kidnapping Driven by a Death Prophecy

As per the Anand Ramayana, before Sita, Ravana had abducted Kaushalya. One tale from the Ramayana narrates that Ravana, terrified by a prophecy of his death, decided to kidnap Kaushalya to avert his fate.

Lord Brahma had foretold that the son of Dasharatha and Kaushalya would be the cause of Ravana's demise. To escape this prophecy, Ravana seized Kaushalya on the very day of Dasharatha and Kaikeyi's wedding.

Dasharatha's Heroic Rescue

After the abduction, Ravana imprisoned Kaushalya in a box and left her on a deserted island. The sage Narada informed King Dasharatha about this heinous act, revealing the location where Kaushalya was held captive.

Upon learning of the kidnapping, Dasharatha gathered his army and set out to confront Ravana on the island.

Despite facing Ravana's formidable forces, Dasharatha refused to surrender. Using a wooden plank, he swam through the sea to reach the box containing Kaushalya.

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

It is noteworthy that despite all his efforts, Ravana could not escape his foretold demise. Eventually, Kaushalya and King Dasharatha's son, Rama, fulfilled the prophecy by vanquishing Ravana.