The Hindu : Miscellaneous / Religion : Uniqueness of the Ramayana

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Wednesday, Feb 16, 2005

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous - Religion

Uniqueness of the Ramayana

CHENNAI, FEB. 16. The genre of sacred literature abounds with many `granthas' and most of them are avidly read by those with a spiritual frame of mind. Commanding a unique spot among these texts is the Ramayana. For generations over the centuries, this epic has not only been a popular tale but also a manual of moral instruction. It is a favourite medium of performers in all art forms, ranging from Harikatha, dance drama, to immortal musical compositions by saints such as Sri Thiagaraja. Why does this epic enjoy such an exalted state?

The nature of Lord Rama is an exceptional one wherein every aspect of the doyen of virtue holds people in a thrall, said Sri Damodhara Dikshidar in his discourse. It is common for human beings to experience fatigue in any interaction but if there is a lack of ennui with regard to Lord Rama it is because He is an embodiment of all that everyone can aspire to be, but cannot. Like a person who visits the beach and returns saying he has seen the ocean, one can only experience the joy of the epic, but none can claim to have plumbed its depths. Every reading of the work not only throws fresh light, but also renders Lord Rama more endearing.

The scriptures state unequivocally what constitutes true joy and the wherewithal of attaining the same; yet it is not readily comprehensible. The Ramayana makes the road easier to travel, and shows the path to attaining one's ultimate goal by shaping our conduct in this world. Showcasing the entire gamut of virtuous conduct, the epic shows the way for all aspirants to follow dharma. Due to the desirable conduct highlighted in it as epitomised by Lord Rama one need not look elsewhere for spiritual guidance. The narration begins not with the birth of the protagonist but with the way the story itself was born, to showcase the ideal man. The enduring appeal does not spring from the fact that he vanquished Ravana, but because Lord Rama shows man how not to cave in (to adharma) despite severe trials. It is for this reason that scholars recommend that if at all one lives, one should live like Lord Rama, and when it comes to surrendering totally to a higher authority, it is best to grasp the feet of Lord Rama the Merciful. Why does the epic enjoy so much glory, one may ask. The holy text is hailed as encapsulating the essence of the Vedas, and the great sage Valmiki's poetic composition is even more glorious since it portrays true happiness devoid of exaggerations wrought by the assumption of poetic licence.

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