Tara

Tara is a prominent figure in the Ramayana, known for her wisdom, courage, and devotion. She is the wife of Vali, the vanara king of Kishkindha, and the mother of Angada. When Sugriva, Vali’s brother, challenges him to a duel, Tara wisely advises Vali against accepting, warning of Sugriva’s alliance with Rama. Ignoring her counsel, Vali engages in combat and is mortally wounded by Rama. In his final moments, Vali acknowledges Tara’s insight, advising Sugriva to heed her advice: “Whatever she says is right should be done without doubt, for nothing Tara believes turns out to be otherwise.”

After Vali’s death, Tara mourns deeply but later plays a crucial role in stabilizing the kingdom. She pacifies the enraged Lakshmana when Sugriva neglects his promise to assist Rama, demonstrating her diplomatic acumen. Tara is revered as one of the Panchakanya, a group of five revered women whose remembrance is believed to dispel sin.