MALAYALAM
Novel based on the Ramayana
K. KUNHIKRISHNAN
OORU KAVAL — Novel: Sarah Joseph; Current Books, Thrissur-686001. Distributed by Cosmo Books. Rs. 110.
MANY NOVELS have been published based on the perspective of a character or an incident in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. This novel’s central character is Angada, son of the slain king of monkeys, Vali. The manner of killing of Vali cast aspersions on Rama, who is the epitome of truth, virtues and justice. Rama killed Vali with an arrow during the fight between Vali and his brother Sugreeva. Rama’s friendship with Sugreeva is explained on the basis of him guarding the ornaments of Sita when she was forcibly taken away by Ravana to Lanka.
Angada is in a dilemma and that is powerfully portrayed by the novelist, who has done considerable research. The turmoil in Angada’s mind while joining hands with Rama, and fighting for him, is like a raging fire. He tries to kill Rama twice; first Lakshmana and the second time Sita drive him away.
He is also angry when Sita was forced to prove her chastity by Rama after the victory in the war, which is described very briefly.
The novelist’s feminist inclination is also apparent in the characterisation of Tara, mother of Angada. The novel describes the topography and customs and the traditions of ancient kingdoms, and their concern for nature.
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