What is surpanakha?

Surpanakha is a character from the Indian epic Ramayana. She is the sister of the demon king Ravana and plays a significant role in the epic. Surpanakha is described as a beautiful but aggressive and vengeful demoness. She falls in love with Rama and tries to seduce him while he is in the forest with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana.

When Rama rejects her advances, Surpanakha becomes enraged and attacks Sita, leading to a chain of events that ultimately culminate in the war between Rama and Ravana. Surpanakha's actions are often seen as a catalyst for the events of the Ramayana.

In some versions of the Ramayana, Surpanakha is also known by the names Meenakshi, Mutilai and Kaikesi. She is sometimes portrayed as a tragic figure, driven to jealousy and revenge due to her unrequited love for Rama.

Overall, Surpanakha is a complex and multi-dimensional character in Hindu mythology, representing themes of desire, jealousy, and the consequences of unchecked emotions.