A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.934

c5.934

KUMBHA-KARNA. Son of Visravas by his Rākshasa wife Kesinī, and full brother of Rāvana. A monster who, under the curse of Brahmā (or, as otherwise represented, as a boon), slept for six months at a time and remained awake for only a single day. When Rāvana was hard pressed by Rāma he sent to arouse Kumbha-karna. This was effected with great difficulty, After drinking 2000 jars of liquor he went to consult with his brother, and then took the field against the monkey army. He beat down Su-grīva, the monkey chief, with a large stone, and carried him a prisoner into the city of Laṅkā. When he returned to the battle he encountered Rāma, and after a stout fight he was defeated, and Rāma cut off his head.