Whenever there is talk of the most powerful warriors in Ramayana, the name of Hanuman ji comes first. But very few people know that there was a demon in Lanka who was considered more powerful and dangerous than Hanumanji.
This warrior was none other than Ravana’s elder son Meghnad, who is also known as Indrajit.
Lanka’s most terrifying monster
According to Ramayana, Meghnad was a more dangerous warrior than Ravana and Kumbhakarna. Sage Agastya himself had told Lord Rama that Ravana’s son Meghnad was the most powerful demon of Lanka. His power was not limited to physical strength only, but he was also a wonderful expert in illusionary weapons.
Ram’s army trembled due to illusory powers
Meghnad had shaken the entire monkey army of Lord Ram with his divine and illusive weapons. There came a time in many wars when everyone from Lord Ram to Hanuman ji could not succeed in stopping him. His warfare tactics were so dangerous that he could attack even while being invisible.
Why was the name Indrajit?
Meghnad got the name Indrajit from Lord Brahma. It is said that he had defeated Indra Dev in the war, that is why he got the title of Indrajit. Brahma ji had also given him a boon, but that boon later became the reason for his end.
Brahma ji’s boon and the mystery of death
While giving a boon to Meghnad, Lord Brahma had said, “He can be killed only by the hands of a warrior who has not slept for 14 years.” This condition made Meghnad invincible, because it was considered impossible to find such a warrior. But during the exile period, Lord Ram’s younger brother Lakshman had given up sleep for 14 years.
Meghnad died at the hands of Laxman
Ultimately what happened was what was acceptable to the law. Lakshman faced Meghnad in battle and killed him as per the same condition. Thus came the end of the most powerful and elusive warrior of Ramayana.
Why is Meghnad’s story special?
Meghnad was not just a demon but a symbol of power, penance and blessings. His story teaches that no matter how powerful one is, following the path of unrighteousness is sure to end.
Disclaimer: All the information given here is based on religious texts, beliefs and social beliefs.