Sugriva
The Vanara King, Rama's Ally
The vanara king of Kishkindha who became Rama's sworn friend. His armies searched the whole world for Sita and fought the great war of Lanka.
- Sanskrit/Telugu name: సుగ్రీవుడు
- Also known as: Vanara King of Kishkindha
- Symbols: Garland of Rama's friendship, Kishkindha throne
Story
Sugriva was a vanara prince of Kishkindha - which tradition places in southern India, near Hampi on the Tungabhadra, practically in Telugu country's backyard! A terrible misunderstanding poisoned his life: his mighty brother Vali chased a demon into a cave and didn't return for a year, and Sugriva, believing him dead, sealed the cave and became king. When Vali emerged alive and furious, he beat Sugriva, took his wife, and drove him into exile on Rishyamukha hill, where Vali couldn't follow because of a curse. There, through Hanuman, Sugriva met another exile who had also lost his wife - Rama. Before the sacred fire they swore friendship: Rama would deal with Vali, and Sugriva would help find Sita. Rama kept his word, and Sugriva became king again - though at first he got a little too comfortable in his palace until Lakshmana's temper (and Hanuman's counsel) reminded him of his promise! Then Sugriva truly delivered: vanara search parties combed every direction of the earth, and his vast army marched across the ocean bridge to fight and win the war of Lanka.
Fun fact
Kishkindha is traditionally identified with the boulder-strewn hills around Hampi in Karnataka - you can visit "Sugriva's cave" there today, just a road trip away from Telugu states.