Rama and his bow
(Source: Harekrsna)
I would like to start of this post by just expressing my happiness with the smooth nature of the literary work. I found this first reading assignment fairly relaxing in relation to my expectations. I thought I would have a difficult time reading and analyzing the work, but I was greatly surprised with how easily Narayan was able to adapt the story in simpler terms.
In the troubles of Dasharatha, his multiple wives, and inability to produce a son, I instantly thought of the King Henry VIII. That is about as far as the similarities go, but I figured it was a fun comparison to make.
I really enjoyed the similarities between what was seen in the Ramayana and that of various stories that are embedded in the common mind. Rama emerges quite suddenly as the suave hero who completely captures the definition of strength through his actions. This is quite evident when the wrath of Rama is unleashed on all the demons who dare cause chaos. Another great example is the simplicity of love. The relationship between Rama and Sita is the love at first sight phenomenon that the average person as seen many times before. The fact that they are literally star crossed lovers given by their second lives support this idea favorably.
I am completely relieved by the healthy relationship between Rama and Lakshmana. It's refreshing to see a positive connection between brothers instead of one filled with absolute jealousy.
I thought it was not necessarily funny but something along those lines that lead to Rama's exile. He was slated to become the next ruler and the people of the kingdom seemed overjoyed to have a ruler as strong as Rama. However, that seems to go completely out of the window just because of the the favors that were owed. I guess I have a hard time understanding that a favor/wish would be equal to who rules a kingdom. I like it though.
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Bibliography: Narayan's Ramayana
Link to this reading guide
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