Karttavirya Arjuna

Karttavirya Arjuna is identified as the mighty king of Máhishmatí and as the victor who defeats, captures, and imprisons Rávaṇ. His brief appearance marks a striking reversal in Rávaṇ’s campaign: the conqueror is himself overcome, and his release depends on Pulastya’s intercession.

Identity and Setting

The account names Karttavirya Arjuna as the ruler of Máhishmatí, locating his encounter with Rávaṇ on the banks of the Narmadá. It supplies no further details of his ancestry, court, or rule; his identity in this episode rests on his kingship and his decisive military success.

Confrontation with Rávaṇ

During Rávaṇ’s expanding series of exploits, he attacks Karttavirya Arjuna. The result reverses the expected direction of conquest: Karttavirya defeats the invading ruler, takes him captive, and holds him prisoner. The passage records the outcome without describing the battle’s tactics or duration.

Capture and Release

Rávaṇ’s imprisonment does not end through his own strength or a victory in battle. Pulastya intercedes, and Rávaṇ is released from his bonds. The account thus sets Karttavirya Arjuna’s power alongside the influence of Pulastya, whose intervention changes the captive’s fate.

Narrative Role

Karttavirya Arjuna’s episode punctuates Rávaṇ’s wider campaign with a clear limit: even a formidable conqueror can be defeated and made a prisoner. Karttavirya’s importance here lies in that reversal, while Pulastya’s appeal brings the confrontation to a close and allows Rávaṇ to continue his subsequent exploits.