Miscellaneous - Religion   

Upholding of Dharma

CHENNAI: Good and evil always stand pitted against each other in a never ending battle and the tendency of evil to gain ascendancy makes it all the more difficult for good to survive. That is why time and again when evil gains strength, the Supreme Being takes up the responsibility of vanquishing it and reinstating virtue among the human race. The Ramayana showcases the challenges that cross the path of Dharma and how it has to be established by an uncompromising loyalty to its cause that is manifested in upholding it at all costs, said Tiruchi Sri S. Kalyanaraman in a lecture.

Human birth gives us a chance to rid ourselves of further births by leading a life of virtue and dharma. The storyline reveals the intricate niches in human behaviour that constitute one’s personality, integrity and ethics and there is an opportunity to enter into the minds of the characters to empathise with the depths of emotions caused by doubts and conflicts regarding right and wrong. Lord Rama by example showed that upholding His father’s promise was of prime importance and sent Bharata back to rule Ayodhya in the name of His Padukas (sandals). Bharata had the mental maturity to remain unaffected when he was blamed for the drastic turn of events when Lord Rama’s coronation was suspended. He showed that ignoring the accusations of the people and remaining steadfast in his devotion to Lord Rama was the path of Dharma for him. Bharata’s patience paid off for people who blamed him began to admire his noble intentions.

Lord Rama Himself exemplifies the value of maintaining equanimity in life and not be affected by joy or sorrow. His calm acceptance of both situations, namely offer and denial of the kingdom in quick succession, is a valuable lesson.

Lakshmana is believed to be an incarnation of the serpent Adisesha and embodies the unique quality of selfless service to the Lord. Lord Rama pays rich tributes to Lakshmana’s fatherly love for Him. There was never a chance for Him to miss His father since Lakshmana’s constant presence took care of all His needs, while Lakshmana is the one who is deprived of a father’s love after Dasaratha’s death.

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