Jatayu manifests as a divine vulture-like demigod, acknowledged as the king of vultures. He is the son of Aruna, brother of Sampati, and nephew of Garuda. In their youth, Jatayu and Sampati undertook a challenge soaring toward the sun. Jatayu outpaced his brother, entering the sun's orbit and risking severe burns. Sampati shielded him with his own wings, sacrificing his flight capability. This act permanently separated the brothers, with Sampati descending to the Vindhya mountains under a sage's care. Jatayu shared a long-standing friendship with King Dasharatha, Rama's father. One account tells of Jatayu rescuing Dasharatha during a confrontation with the planetary deity Shani, stabilizing the king's chariot after Shani's gaze snapped its reins. This deed solidified their bond, celebrated through a fire ceremony. During Rama's exile, Jatayu encountered him in the Panchavati forest. Learning of Dasharatha's death and Rama's banishment, he vowed protection for the trio until their exile concluded. When Ravana abducted Sita, Jatayu intervened, attacking Ravana's flying chariot midair. He confronted Ravana, demanding Sita's release and warning of Rama's retribution. A fierce aerial clash ensued, during which Jatayu damaged Ravana's chariot. Ravana struck back, severing one of Jatayu's wings with his sword. Critically wounded, Jatayu plummeted earthward. As Rama and Lakshmana searched for Sita, they discovered the dying Jatayu. With his final breaths, Jatayu conveyed Sita's abduction by Ravana and confirmed Ravana's southward flight toward Lanka. He also requested Rama to inform Sita of his failed rescue attempt. Rama performed Jatayu's last rites, honoring him as a fallen warrior and granting him liberation. His sacrifice later proved crucial to Rama's quest. When Hanuman and the monkey army searched for Sita, they met Sampati, who overheard them discussing Jatayu's death. This prompted Sampati to reveal Lanka's location, enabling Hanuman's leap across the ocean.