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T he Pancha Kanyas of Hindu mythology are Ahalya, Kunti, Draupadi,
Mandodari and Tara – while the five Satis are Sita, Sati, Savitri, Damayanti
and Arundhati. The distinction of two different titles arose primarily
because various versions of the epics have taken the liberty to celebrate
women as per the popular beliefs of an era and, of course, that of the
translators. A school of thought defines ‘Sati’ as the women’s unconditional
devotion towards and dependence on their men. It casts the women as loyal
followers strongly supporting the vision of the men around them or helping
them overcome social and emotional complications. These women are
depicted as sacrificing and selfless, yet invincible in drafting their own
position of strength and supremacy.
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Here’s a clear, exam-friendly bullet gist based on commonly accepted Hindu tradition. (Note: lists can vary slightly by source.)
5 SATIS (Ideal Chaste Women)
(Women known for fidelity, virtue, and moral strength)
Sita – Symbol of purity, patience, and unwavering devotion (Ramayana)
Savitri – Saved her husband Satyavan from death through devotion
Anasuya – Known for extreme chastity and spiritual power
Arundhati – Ideal wife; symbol of marital fidelity
Draupadi – Strength, dignity, and righteousness despite hardships
5 KANYAS (Pancha Kanya)
(Remembered not for literal virginity, but for spiritual purity)
Ahalya – Redeemed by Lord Rama; symbolizes repentance and grace
Draupadi – Wife of the Pandavas; embodiment of courage and dharma
Sita – Incarnation of virtue and devotion
Tara – Wise queen of Kishkindha; known for intelligence
Mandodari – Righteous wife of Ravana; moral clarity
Key Line to Remember
“Ahalya Draupadi Sita Tara Mandodari tatha” — traditional verse of Pancha Kanya
If you want this shorter, in Sanskrit, or for a specific exam syllabus, tell me 👍
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Mandodari’s life end is described differently across Hindu texts. The most accepted version is below, followed by other traditions.
Most Accepted Account (Valmiki Ramayana & Puranic tradition)
Mandodari survived Ravana’s death in the Ramayana war
She lamented Ravana, acknowledging his faults but honoring him as her husband
After Ravana’s fall, Vibhishana became king of Lanka
Mandodari was married to Vibhishana (by royal and dharmic custom)
She lived on as Queen of Lanka, respected for her wisdom and virtue
➡️ She did NOT die immediately after Ravana in this version.
Other Traditional / Regional Beliefs
Some later traditions say she:
Chose a life of renunciation and devotion
Spent her remaining life in penance and prayer
A few folk narratives suggest sati, but:
❌ This is not supported by Valmiki Ramayana
❌ Not widely accepted by scholars
Summary (Exam-Friendly)
Mandodari outlived Ravana
Married Vibhishana
Continued as a symbol of righteousness and wisdom
Remembered as one of the Pancha Kanyas for moral purity, not marital fate
If you want this in one-line answer, for UPSC/State exam, or with verse reference, tell me.
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Tara’s life end is not described in detail in the Ramayana, but traditional sources give a generally accepted conclusion.
Most Accepted Account (Valmiki Ramayana & later tradition)
Tara survived the death of her husband Vali
After Vali’s death, Sugriva became king of Kishkindha
Tara was married to Sugriva (a customary royal practice of that time)
She continued to live as a respected queen and wise counselor
Tara played a role in:
Advising Sugriva
Supporting Rama’s mission
Maintaining stability in Kishkindha
➡️ No violent or tragic death is recorded.
Later Life (Traditional Belief)
Tara is believed to have:
Lived a peaceful life
Devoted herself to dharma and wisdom
Some traditions suggest she later withdrew from royal life, but:
Details are not specified in canonical texts
Key Points (Exam-Friendly)
Tara outlived Vali
Became queen to Sugriva
Known for intelligence, diplomacy, and righteousness
Her death is not explicitly mentioned in scriptures
Why Tara is a Pancha Kanya
Not for her marital status, but for her clarity of judgment, moral strength, and wisdom.
If you want:
a one-line answer
comparison with Mandodari
or source-wise breakdown
just say so.
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