Three Key Learnings
Power of Education
Almost every Hindu child has heard the fascinating story of Lord Rama from their parents or grandparents. In 1987 when Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan was aired on Doordarshan it became the most watched show in the world, city roads were empty, it felt like there was curfew.
Set in the Treta Yuga the Ramayana is still relevant to all of us in our daily lives. Lord Rama is referred to as “Maryada Purushottam” which reflects his virtues of dignity & exemplary conduct. And Sita Ma is revered for her loyalty, devotion and sacrifice to her husband. She is considered the epitome of womanhood and is regarded as the ideal wife and mother.
In this Blog, I would like to focus beyond Rama & Sita on three key learnings from the Ramayana.
Hanuman’s Devotion (Bhakti) and Humility
Known for his unwavering devotion, boundless strength, and selfless service, Hanuman symbolizes the epitome of loyalty and devotion. Son of Vayu and a manifestation of Lord Shiva, Hanuman is considered to be immortal. The Hanuman Chalisa talks about how Lord Hanuman not only possesses Ashta Siddhi but can also bestow Ashta Siddhi to his devotees. All he wanted was to be eternally at the feet of his Lord and worship them. All his strength he attributed to the Lord. Just praying to him makes the impossible possible.
Asadhya Sadhaka Swamin
Asadhyam Tawa Kim Vada
Rama Doota Kripa Sindho
Mat Karyam Sadhaya Prabho
असाध साधक सािमन
असाध तव िकं वद
राम दूत कृ पा िसंधो
मतायरसाधपभो ||
While Lakshmana was also a devoted brother, when it comes to Bhakti & Humility, Hanuman Ji is the role model for humanity.
There are many paths in the Spiritual journey but the path of Bhakti and total surrender has always worked miracles.
This is what Lord Krishna also tells in Chapter – 12 (Bhakti Yoga) of the Bhagavad Gita
The Lord said: Those who fix their minds on Me and always engage in My devotion with steadfast faith, I consider them to be the best yogis.
Life is all about making the right Choice
Ravana was the grandson of the great sage Pulastaya. He was a respected scholar & an excellent ruler. An ardent Shiva Bhakt he was a Veena maestro. He has written books on astrology & medicine. He was loved by his subjects. Sadly all his greatness melted away because of the one wrong decision he made – to abduct Sita. His Ego stood in the way –
he was not ready to apologise and correct his wrong inspite of sane advise from many including his brother.
We see this in the Mahabharata also, how the great Karna suffered because of making the wrong choice.
Following the path of Adharma can wipe out the greatest of beings – Like it did to Ravana. This is the crucial learning for us.
The Value of Commitments
The third value that we can learn from the Ramayana is very important in the current age. The importance of honouring a commitment.
King Dasharatha honoured a promise he had made to his queen many years back in the battlefield. It wreaked havoc on him and the kingdom, but the King honoured his commitment. Lord Rama was an obedient son, he did not question his father and fulfilled his commitment of 14 years in exile. Sita fulfilled her vows and marital commitment by being with Rama at his side during the exile.
It is very easy for a person in power to brush away a commitment of the past. But in the early ages the value system was so noble that commitments were etched in stone.
Being truthful and honouring your commitments is the mark of a good human being. It sets you apart, it makes you feel good from within.
Being Truthful and following Dharma is the first step to peace, happiness and spiritual progress.
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