Ravana and Vibhishana, Sugriva and Vali, and Rama, Lakshmana and Bharata, provide an interesting study on human nature and brotherly ties, pointed out Sri Krishnamurthy Sastrigal in a discourse. Ravana considers Vibhishana to be his worst enemy and does not mince words to condemn and insult him. Envy among brothers is common in the world and when the brave and courageous face danger, the smart ones defect and turn traitors. Kings and rulers have to be wary of their kith and kin. Sugriva also echoes the same opinion and feels Vibhishana cannot be trusted for he has deserted Ravana at a crucial time. Rama says that it is natural for kings to suspect brothers and neighbours. Good kings who entertain no such suspicion are exceptions. Most kings imagine that brothers envy them and this breeds mistrust. Rama sees no sinister motive in Vibhishana coming to Him for refuge. He must have feared danger to himself if he stayed in Lanka. Nor is there any reason for Vibhishana to forsake Rama as he has forsaken his brother. In fact he can gain Lanka through Rama’s victory. Rama’s response also seems to hint at Sugriva’s attitude and relationship with Vali. Rama now recalls Bharata’s exceptional conduct and becomes so overwhelmed that He tells the assembly that Bharata is one without a second. He says that He is most lucky to have such a brother like Bharata, a father like Dasaratha who gave up his life unable to bear separation from Rama and friends such as Sugriva and his vanaras. Rama then proclaims His own dharma which is to grant succour to all beings who seek refuge in Him. Even if He has to suffer, His dharma is to protect all. Why debate over Vibhishana, for even if Ravana comes, he will be accepted unconditionally, says Rama before accepting Vibhishana in His fold.
