Why does Ravan have 10 heads?

Ravan's 10 heads were a result of an intense penance he carried out to please Lord Brahma.

Ravan was one of the most learned individuals of his time. He performed intense penance (tapasya) for many years and received several boons by the gods he appeased, for his dedication and sacrifice.

His 10 heads were a result of one of the tapasya’s he carried out for Lord Brahma that lasted several years. Ravana chopped his head off 10 times as a sacrifice to please Lord Brahma.

Every time he chopped his head off, a new one grew back, continuing the penance. After the 10th sacrifice, Lord Brahma was pleased by his commitment and devotion and asked Ravan what he wished to have?

Ravan without a doubt said “Immortality!”

Lord Brahma couldn’t grant a human, immortality. So the Ravan wished for the next best thing! He wished to be blessed, that no animal, god, gandharv, rakshas or magical creature could ever kill him.

“What about a human?” Lord Brahma asked.

Ravan in his pride, assure Lord Brahma, he was very capable of handling a human just by himself with no help! He wasn’t afraid of a powerless man. Asking for protection from a human, would be an insult..

The wish was granted!

Ravan could never be killed by any animal, god, gandharv, rakshas or magical creature ever.

PS: That was why Lord Vishnu had to be born as a normal human being to bring an end to Ravan’s regime.

One Version:

Ravan was a scholar and knew all about the universe including the 4 vedas. His 10 heads symbolise each one of them:

1. Mathematics (Sankhyashastra)

2. Yoga and meditation (Yoga Shastra/Dhyana)

3. Law and administration (Nyayashastra)

4. Science and Astrology (Vaisheshik Shastra

5. Philosophical Justification for rituals (Purvamimansa)

6. Self-Realisation (Uttar Mimansa Shastra)

7. Rigveda

8. Yajurveda

9. Samveda

10. Atharvaveda.

Think with your head, not your pride.

Ravan was so filled with pride that he mostly only thought with his pride. So here's another version:

Another version:

The 10 heads signify 10 significant negative traits of a man, which need to be balanced with positive thoughts to lead a happy and content life.

1. Ego (Ahamkara)

2. Attachment (Moha)

3. Anger (Krodha)

4. Hatred (Ghrina)

5. Regret (Paschataap)

6. Jealousy (Irshya)

7. Greed (Lobha)

8. Lust (Kama)

9. Insensitivity (Jaddata)

10. Fear (Bhaya)

Ravan is a topic in himself with endless stories and so much to learn from each of them. Stay tuned for more!

Have you heard a different version of this? We'd love to know! Let us know in the comments section below.