What Happened After Rama Defeated Ravana? The Dussehra Story Most Kids Don’t Hear

Every Dussehra, children watch giant Ravana effigies burn, cheer as fireworks light up the sky, and hear the famous story of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana.

But have you ever wondered what happened after Rama won the battle?

Did everyone immediately return home? Who became the new king of Lanka? And how did this victory lead to the celebration of Diwali?

The Dussehra story for kids doesn't end with Ravana's defeat. In fact, some of its most interesting moments come afterwards. From an unexpected new king to a joyful homecoming in Ayodhya, let's explore the lesser-known events of the Ramayana.

The Battle Was Over, But Rama's Journey Wasn't

After a long and difficult battle in Lanka, Lord Rama finally defeated Ravana.

The vanara army, led by Sugriva and supported by Hanuman, had fought bravely alongside Rama and Lakshmana. Ravana's defeat marked the end of a terrible conflict.

But Rama's journey was not yet complete.

Sita was still in Lanka, waiting to reunite with him. His fourteen years of exile were also coming to an end, and far away in Ayodhya, his brother Bharata was waiting for his return.

So, what happened next?

1. Shree Rama Asked Everyone to Treat Ravana With Respect

One of the most thoughtful moments in the Rama and Ravana story happened after the battle.

Ravana's younger brother, Vibhishana, was deeply saddened by his death. Although he had opposed Ravana's actions and supported Rama, losing his brother was still painful.

According to the Valmiki Ramayana, Rama encouraged Vibhishana to perform Ravana's funeral rites. Rama understood that the battle had ended. There was no reason to continue the hatred.

Lesson for kids: You can disagree with someone's actions without being cruel to them. Winning an argument doesn't mean you should make the other person feel small.

2. Vibhishana Became the New King of Lanka

Who ruled Lanka after Ravana died?

The answer is Vibhishana, Ravana's younger brother.

Earlier in the Ramayana, Vibhishana had advised Ravana to return Sita and avoid war. But Ravana refused to listen. Vibhishana eventually joined Rama because he believed Ravana's actions were wrong.

After Ravana's defeat, Rama arranged for Vibhishana to become the new king of Lanka. Imagine how different that moment must have felt. Lanka had just experienced a terrible war, and now its people had a new ruler.

Lesson for kids: Doing the right thing may not always be easy, especially when people close to us disagree. Vibhishana's story reminds children to think carefully about their choices.

3. Rama and Sita's Long Wait Came to an End

Sita had spent many difficult months in Lanka, separated from Rama. Throughout this time, she remained determined and hopeful.

After Ravana's defeat, Hanuman brought her news of Rama's victory. Vibhishana then arranged for Sita to meet Rama.

Their reunion was an important moment in the Ramayana.

The traditional account also includes Sita's Agni Pariksha, a difficult episode that has been interpreted and retold in different ways. For younger children, parents can begin by explaining Sita's courage during her time in Lanka and discuss the more complicated parts as they grow older.

Lesson for kids: Difficult times can test our patience. Sita's story can help children talk about courage, hope and staying strong through challenges.

4. The Pushpaka Vimana Took Them Towards Ayodhya

Now comes a part of the Ramayana story for kids that can spark plenty of questions. After the events in Lanka, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana prepared to return home.

For their journey, they travelled in the Pushpaka Vimana, a magnificent flying vehicle described in the Ramayana.

Imagine looking down from the sky and seeing forests, mountains, rivers and the places where an unforgettable adventure had unfolded.

During the journey, Rama showed Sita several important locations connected with their time away from Ayodhya. It was a chance to look back at everything they had experienced.

Lesson for kids: Every journey has memories. Some are happy, some are difficult, but all of them can teach us something.

Parents can revisit Rama's earlier adventures through Mummas'Ram Setu – Team Work, which uses the story of the bridge to Lanka to introduce teamwork through storytelling, drawing and activities.

5. Hanuman Went Ahead With the Happy News

Back in Ayodhya, Bharata had been waiting for his elder brother. During Rama's exile, Bharata had looked after the kingdom while honouring Rama as its rightful king.

As Rama's return approached, Hanuman was sent ahead to share the wonderful news. Imagine Bharata's happiness when he learned that Rama, Sita and Lakshmana were finally coming home!

The long wait was almost over.

Lesson for kids: Love and loyalty are shown through actions. Bharata's story teaches children about keeping promises and caring for family.

6. Ayodhya Welcomed Rama Home

Rama finally returned to Ayodhya after completing fourteen years of exile. His family and the people of Ayodhya welcomed him with great happiness.

In popular Diwali traditions, the people of Ayodhya are said to have lit rows of diyas to celebrate Rama, Sita and Lakshmana's return.

This is why many families connect the story of Dussehra and Diwali.

Dussehra celebrates Rama's victory over Ravana, while Diwali is associated with his joyful homecoming. Diwali also has other important stories and traditions across India.

Want to explain this connection to your child?

Mummas'The Story of Dussehra and Diwali introduces both festivals through simple storytelling and five activities, including colouring, mazes and matching exercises.

7. A New Beginning for the Kingdom

After returning home, Rama was crowned king of Ayodhya. The people celebrated his coronation, and his long-awaited reign began.

In Hindu tradition, Rama's rule is remembered as Ram Rajya, an ideal of just and responsible leadership.

But what does being a good king mean to a child?

Explain it this way: A good leader listens to others, tries to be fair, helps people and takes responsibility for their decisions.

Lesson for kids: Leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room. It's about making thoughtful choices and caring for others.

What Can Kids Learn From the Story After Dussehra?

The Ramayana gives children plenty to think about even after the famous battle ends.

• Respect: Rama showed dignity towards Ravana after the battle.
• Honesty: Vibhishana stood against wrongdoing.
• Patience: Bharata waited faithfully for Rama's return.
• Teamwork: Hanuman and Rama's companions helped complete the journey.
• Responsibility: Rama returned to fulfil his duties as king.

Instead of explaining every value at once, choose one and connect it to something your child experiences at school or home.

Make the Dussehra Story More Fun With Mummas

Children may forget the order of every event, but they often remember a story they enjoyed reading with their parents.

Mummas'Ramayana Story Books for Kids – Set of 3 brings Ramayana stories together with comprehension and creative activities for children aged five and above.

For a festival-themed reading experience, theRamayana Combo – Story of Dussehra and Diwali & Shurpanakha helps children explore festival stories and the consequences of different choices.

You can also ask children to draw Rama's journey home, make a paper diya or retell their favourite moment in their own words.

The End of the Battle Was the Beginning of Another Story

Dussehra reminds us of Rama's victory over Ravana. But the events that followed give children even more to explore.

There was a new king in Lanka, a long-awaited family reunion, a remarkable journey home and a kingdom ready to welcome its beloved prince.

This Dussehra, don't stop the story when Ravana falls. Tell your child what happened next.

Explore Mummas' Ramayana Story Books for Kids and bring home stories, activities and meaningful lessons that make Indian mythology exciting for young readers.