Most Sri Lankans and Indians know a lot about King Ravana. But, most of the facts they know are incorrect. They say that King Ravana is bad because he is a demon. But King Ravana is not cruel.
He abducted Princess Sita because her husband Rama's brother Lakshman cut off Ravana’s only sister Surpanaka’s nose and ears. He abducted Princess Sita, so that Prince Rama will say sorry to his sister. King Ravana was hurt because his sister’s beauty was lost. Instead of apologizing, Rama challenged King Ravana for a fight. Finally, in the battlefield one of Prince Rama’s poisonous arrows killed innocent King Ravana.
Most Sri Lankans say that King Ravana didn’t die, and he still lives in a cave of the Laggala forest. The only thing which all must know is that King Ravana is not a bad king, because he didn’t do any wrong to anyone in his life.
Malith Wijewardane, Grade 10, Carey College, Colombo 8.