In the Ramayana, Raavan is portrayed as a complex character with both virtues and flaws. He was indeed a master of all four Vedas and an excellent chanter of Sama Veda (the most melodious). He was a skilled Veena player. He is described as a just ruler who maintained peace and prosperity in Lanka. However, being 'the strongest person in the world' is an overstatement - while immensely powerful, there were other equally powerful beings like Vali and Bali.