The Stolen City of Lankapuri

Vishravana had a stepmother named Kikasi. Kikasi had three sons named - Ravana, Kumbakarna and Vibhishana who were demons.

Blessed by Shiva, Kuber ruled the city of Lankapuri.

Ravana was a mighty demon and staunch devotee of Shiva. However, over years his engaged in various vices and drifted away from path of devotion.

He was overcome with envy and anger. One day, he attacked the grand city of Lankapuri and took over it. He took it to far south and became its ruler.

After his defeat, Vishravana went to Kashi (present Varanasi) and did penance for several years. When Shiva was pleased with Vishravana, he appeared before him and asked him his wish.

When Vishravana companied about Ravan’s attack, and asked Lankapuri back, Shiva said, ‘Kuber, your brother Ravana s equally dear to me. He is my ardent devotee therefore I cannot hurt him. However, I give you another grand city called Alakapuri. I also declare you as God of divine treasure’.

The city of Alakapuri was near Mount Kailask under Lankapuri which was in far south. Like Lankapuri, it was architected by Vishwakarma. Kuber was pleased residing near Shiva’s abode and happily ruled Alakapuri for years.