Power of Education
Almost every Hindu child has heard the fascinating story of Lord Rama from their parents or grandparents. In 1987, Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayana was aired on Doordarshan. It became the most watched show in the world. City roads were empty. It felt like there was a 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 leanings 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 describes how Lord Hanuman possesses Ashta Siddhi. He 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 Krupa Sindho
Mat Karyam Sadhya Prabho
असाध्य साधक स्वामिन
असाध्य तव किंवद
राम दूत कृपा सिंधो
मत्कार्यं साध्यप्रभो ||
Lakshmana was a devoted brother. Nonetheless, 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 apologize and correct his wrong inspite of sane advice 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 honoring a commitment.
King Dasharatha honored 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 honored his commitment. Lord Rama was an obedient son. He did not question his father. He 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 honoring your commitments is the mark of a good human being. It sets you apart, it makes you feel good from within.
Being Truthful and pursuing Dharma is the first step to peace, happiness and spiritual progress.
This Blog appeared in the Feb 2025 edition of Yogavidya , the monthly magazine of Bharat Yogavidya Kendra
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