Kamban shows Vali as a highly realised soul at the moment of death when he recognises Rama as the Supreme Lord incarnate, said Sri Mathivannan in a discourse. Vali is fully aware of his good fortune to be graced by Rama and departs for the abode of the blessed ones. Vali is known for his boundless strength that is augmented with boons from Siva, whom he propitiates everyday. He is capable of use of magic when in combat. He has the strength of all the elements. He is feared by Ravana ever since he had him bound with his tail.
So, when hit by Rama’s arrow that pierces his chest effortlessly, he first wonders whose arrow might have nullified his invincibility. Could it be Vishnu’s discus or Siva’s trident or Indra’s thunderbolt, he ponders over . Or could it be a rishi’s curse? He pulls out the arrow and then looks at the name inscribed on it. His inner being is stirred by the primordial mantra, the Rama Nama. Through Rama’s grace, Vali realises that Rama has come to establish dharma and extols the power of Rama Nama. It is the panacea not only for all the ills that one suffers in this world but also for all the afflictions in the next seven births. Nevertheless, as Rama comes near him, the contrite Vali begs forgiveness of the Lord only after engaging in a long drawn argument with Him.
He then begins to speak in the vein of a Brahma jnani well versed in the Upanishad truths. He tells Rama: ‘You are all, the first, sin and virtue and foe and friend and all else that remains. None can comprehend your far sighted righteousness.’ He extols the Lord’s all pervasive quality, omnipotence and omniscience that is inseparable in Him like fragrance from flower. Yet He stands alone, aloof, distinct and incomparable as ever.
