Pátála, the underworld is a subterranean realm associated with waters, serpents, and Daityas, but its significance is not limited to its geography: it is also a refuge for a displaced family, a territory conquered by Rávaṇ, and a domain whose sovereignty Bali retains in another mythic account. These distinct portrayals make it both a place within the poem’s cosmology and a measure of changing power.

Setting and Inhabitants

Pátála lies beneath the earth and is described as a treasure-house of waters. Serpents and Daityas inhabit it, and Varuṇ is associated with its defense. The account gives the underworld a political and populated character: it is not simply a destination below ground, but a realm with cities, rulers, and forces that can be challenged.

Refuge and the Return of Sumali’s Family

Pátála serves as a place of long residence for Sumali and his family while Kuvera dwells in Lanka. When Sumali visits the earth and sees Kuvera traveling to visit his father, Viśravas, he considers how to restore his family’s fortunes. His response is to urge his daughter Kaikasi to approach Viśravas, a decision that leads to the birth of Rávaṇ, Kumbhakarṇa, Śūrpaṇakhā, and Vibhīṣaṇa. In this account, life in Pátála precedes the family’s renewed political ambitions; the realm is a refuge from which a bid to recover lost standing begins.

Rávaṇ’s Campaign Below the Earth

During his conquests, Rávaṇ enters Pátála, described as well defended by Varuṇ and inhabited by serpents and Daityas. He subdues Bhogavati, the city ruled by Vasuki, brings the Nāgas under his authority, and advances to Varuṇ’s imperial seat. Varuṇ is absent, but his sons meet Rávaṇ in battle; Rávaṇ defeats them and departs triumphant. Pátála thus becomes one stage in a series of campaigns through which Rávaṇ extends his power beyond the human world.

Bali’s Retained Domain

A separate account of Vishṇu’s dwarf incarnation gives Pátála a different political outcome. After Vishṇu expands to span the worlds in two strides, Bali retains Pátალა in his dominion. This contrasts with Rávaṇ’s successful conquest of Bhogavati: Pátალა can be a territory overrun by a conquering ruler, yet it can also remain the recognized possession of a ruler whose wider sovereignty has been curtailed. Its recurring function is therefore not merely to signify depth or distance, but to locate struggles over refuge, rule, and the limits of power.