Danda_Kingdom
Danda is a region frequently mentioned in Hindu mythology, and is prominently featured in various narratives, such as Dandaka, which refers to both a kingdom and forest of the same name.[1] Danda was a colonial state of Lanka during the reign of Ravana, with his governor Khara ruling the province.[2] The region served as a stronghold for all the Rakshasa tribes living in the Dandaka Forest[3]
Historically, Danda is believed to have encompassed the Nashik District in Maharashtra, with its capital located at Janasthana, now known as Nashik city.[4] It was from this region that the Rakshasa Khara launched an attack on Raghava Rama of Kosala, who was residing with his wife and brother at Panchavati, located in modern-day Nashik.[5]
In the Ramayana, the demon Danda is portrayed as the maternal uncle of Ravana, being the son of Sumali.[6]