In the Ramayana-linked Diwali tradition, Rama’s brother returning to Ayodhya is Lakshmana. Lakshmana accompanies Rama and Sita throughout the 14-year exile and returns with them to Ayodhya after Rama defeats Ravana in Lanka.
Lakshmana is Rama’s younger half-brother, born to King Dasharatha and Queen Sumitra. He voluntarily leaves Ayodhya with Rama, choosing to protect and serve him in the forest. In many retellings, his loyalty and vigilance make him one of the central figures of the exile story, alongside Sita and Hanuman.
The Diwali tradition describes Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman reaching Ayodhya after the exile. Citizens are said to have welcomed Rama by lighting rows of oil lamps, a story associated with the festival’s name, derived from Sanskrit words connected with “row” and “lamps.” The return is followed by Rama’s coronation, or Rama Pattabhisheka.
Bharata and Shatrughna are also Rama’s brothers, which can cause confusion. Bharata rules on Rama’s behalf during the exile and meets him in the forest, while Shatrughna remains associated with Ayodhya. The brother specifically identified as accompanying Rama on the celebrated return is Lakshmana.