Vali and Sugriva

1. Vali and Sugriva had once ruled Kishkindha together with affection. A terrible misunderstanding separated them.
2. Vali chased a demon into a deep cave and did not return for a long time. Seeing blood flow out, Sugriva believed his brother had died and sealed the entrance.
3. Vali escaped alive and thought Sugriva had trapped him to steal the throne. Anger prevented him from hearing the full truth.
4. Vali expelled Sugriva and took everything from him. Sugriva fled with Hanuman and a few loyal friends.
5. With Rama's promise, Sugriva called Vali to a duel. The two brothers looked so alike that Rama could not safely release an arrow.
6. Bruised and confused, Sugriva escaped back to Rama. Rama explained why He had waited and comforted His friend.
7. Lakshmana placed a bright garland around Sugriva's neck. Now Rama could clearly tell the brothers apart.
8. Wise Tara asked Vali not to rush into a second duel because Sugriva had powerful help. Vali's pride would not let him listen.
9. The brothers fought again outside Kishkindha. Rama watched carefully from the forest.
10. Rama released an arrow and ended Vali's unjust rule. The mighty vanara fell, surprised and angry.
11. Vali asked why Rama had struck him from concealment. Rama explained a king's duty to punish one who takes his brother's wife and kingdom.
12. Vali let go of pride and accepted Rama's words. Remembering the Lord, he left this world peacefully.
13. Vali asked Rama and Sugriva to protect his young son Angada and honour wise Tara. They promised to care for both.
14. Sugriva became king of Kishkindha, and Angada became crown prince. The vanaras hoped for a just and united kingdom.
15. Heavy rains delayed the search for Sita, and Sugriva briefly became distracted by royal comfort. Hanuman remembered the promise and waited for the right moment to remind him.

Authoritative sources

• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.10
• Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 9.11