Figure in the Hindu festival stories
Sugriva
The vanara king who rallied the army that found Sita
In short
Sugriva is the vanara (monkey) king of Kishkindha in the Ramayana and a key ally of Rama. After Rama helped him defeat his estranged brother Vali and regain his kingdom, Sugriva marshalled the vast monkey army that searched for Sita and crossed to Lanka.
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Sugriva’s story and role
Exiled and wronged by his brother Vali, Sugriva met Rama in the forest and made an alliance: Rama would restore his kingdom, and Sugriva would help find Sita. With Vali defeated, Sugriva was crowned king of Kishkindha.
He then mobilised the vanara hosts, sending search parties in every direction. It was his forces, led by Hanuman, that located Sita in Lanka and built the bridge for Rama's army. Sugriva stands for loyal friendship and gratitude repaid in full.
What Sugriva represents
Sugriva represents loyal friendship and gratitude — the ally who repaid Rama's help by rallying the army that won the war.
Festivals with Sugriva
Chant a verified mantra connected to this story, with Devanagari, transliteration, and meaning.
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About Sugriva
Who was Sugriva?
The vanara (monkey) king of Kishkindha and Rama's ally, whose army — led by Hanuman — found Sita and helped defeat Ravana.
How did Sugriva help Rama?
After Rama restored his kingdom, Sugriva sent the vanara search parties that located Sita and provided the army that crossed to Lanka.
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