Ravana was more than arrogant: scholar of the Vedas, Ayurveda and statecraft, say the legends

In the story of the Ramayana, Ravana is mostly remembered for his arrogance, his show of strength and his battle with Lord Ram. Few people know, however, that he was a highly learned ascetic who was well versed in many texts.

Ravana is called "Dashanan". In religious interpretations, his ten heads are seen as symbols of different kinds of knowledge and powers. Many tales mention his learning. His arrogance alone is described as the cause of his destruction.

Knowledge of the Vedas and weapons: Ravana is regarded as a scholar of the Vedas. According to the tales, he studied the Vedas, the Vedangas and various weapons. He is considered a Sanskrit scholar and also knew religious rituals and mantras. His scholarship shows in the episodes of the Ramayana in which he discusses serious subjects with gods, sages and kings. For this reason he is counted among the best-read kings of his time.

Astrology finds special mention in the tales about Ravana. He is said to have known the movements of the planets and constellations. The story of the birth of his son Meghnad also refers to the position of the planets.

Knowledge of Ayurveda and medicine: Another important belief about Ravana is that he knew Ayurveda and the science of medicine. A text called "Arkaprakash", linked to his name, is well known in Ayurvedic traditions. It is believed to deal with medicines and subjects related to medicine. Ravana is also associated with music and the art of playing instruments.

Religious tales regard him as a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He is said to have composed the "Shiva Tandava Stotra" in praise of Shankar.

Knowledge of politics and warfare: Ravana was not merely a man of bookish learning. He was the powerful ruler of Lanka and knew governance, diplomacy and the strategy of war. He organised his kingdom and built ties with many powerful kings and warriors. His decisions in the Ramayana also show that he thought strategically. But his greatest weakness was his arrogance.