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The
epics and their relevance -
(Feb. 23th 2001)
You must read the story as a human story, lived among human
beings, by a human being, and, then, Oh, what rich treasures
there are of wisdom in it!
Sita
- Not born of a womb
(December 16th 2002)
She represents the womanhood of India. If Rama was the ideal
man, she was the ideal woman. The most beautiful and gracious of
all women.
The
delight of Janaka
(December 17th 2002)
In fact, Sita was dearer to him. He specified a test of strength
for the suitor of Janaki's hand, not that of Urmila, his own
child!
The
Bow of Shiva
(December 18th 2002)
It was a massive bow, mounted on a wheeled box that had to be
hauled by hundreds of warriors. 'Sixty thousand,' says Kamban
hauled it. The arithmetical accuracy of the number doesn't
matter.
A
story of love
(December 19th 2002)
Kamban varies the drama here. He wanted to lay stress on the
point that the girl has a say in the matter. He wanted to
establish beyond doubt that she accepted Rama not just
because...
aNNalum
nOkkinaan avaLum nOkkinaaL
(December 20th 2002)
It is an enthralling story of love that Kamban builds. They see
each other by sheer accident. They forget their surroundings.
pEsavum
vENdumO? (December
23rd 2002)
When hearts are in perfect communion, what is the need for
words! Though they are playing their roles on this earth as
humans, the Divine Couple have been...
Strange
kind of feelings
(December 24th 2002)
Before I could even realise what was happening, his smile that
took me away. That drank the very source of life from me in one
clean sip.
He
rules their hearts
(December 25th 2002)
Rama's eyes were on the bow and on the bow only. He was waiting
for the word 'go' from the mouth of his preceptor, who engaged
the audience in a peroration...
They
heard it breaking
(December 26th 2002)
He picked it up as easily as he would pick the garland that he
is to adorn the shoulders of Sita with, on the day of their
marriage. The people around had frozen in amazement...
If
it is not he...
(December 27th 2002)
She realised what information that she has is only partially
dependable. Chances are that that her guess might go wrong. Her
mind needed an explicit confirmation.
They
meet again (December
30th 2002)
He was a 'thaamaraik kaadu,' says
the Poet. A forest of lotuses. Eyes of lotus, face of lotus,
palms of lotus...
She
does exist, does she!
(December 31st 2002)
'O, are you for real!' Rama's mind leapt up with wonder. 'Does
this koel of ruddy lips exist in this world also! Is she not a
figment of my imagination!'
He
walked out of my dream
(January 01st 2003)
Her head was bent low. Her fingers were playing with her
bangles. She raised one arm slightly up and the fingers of the
other arm moved over the bangles...
Sita
Kalyanam (January 03rd
2003)
It was the wedding of all the four brothers. And yet the event
is known by only one name Sita Kalyanam.
My
heaven is where thou art!
(January 06th 2003)
How happy she must have been when her husband, the joy of the
people, the pride of Ayodhya, encountered the terror of
kshatriyas, Parasurama...
The
power of love - I
(January 07th 2003)
But we are not only surprised but are shocked to listen to the
words of Sita when she receives him in their private chamber.
The
power of love - II
(January 08th 2003)
That shows Rama so human, so close to us. Not a single one of us
could resist himself from taking delight in the thought, 'O was
that so! Was he like me!'
Bid
me good-bye, would you?
(January 09th 2003)
Compare the Sloka with what Rama uttered to Kausalya. The
message is the same. But one can see that the emotions that show
through his words now...
A
child-like exterior
(January 10th 2003)
Her arguments sound too innocent in the beginning. She speaks
like a child and gives out a 'very valid' reason for her being
taken to the jungle...
When
the heart speaks
(January 13th 2003)
A knife should be held by its handle! The emotions that swell in
the mind of Sita have to be seen in perspective and taken into
account accordingly...
When
the heart speaks - II
(January 14th 2003)
It has been pre-ordained that I have to live in the forest and
it has come true now. Ever since I heard that prediction, I have
been nurturing a desire in my heart...
Threats
to taunts (January
15th 2003)
She is unable to control herself any further. And there occurs
this Sloka that she utters to Rama.
A
thorn under the petal?
(January 16th 2003)
These words are usually brought against Sita as a tremendous
transgression of duty on her part, as a violation of the limits
that a woman should observe...
Since
I did not know
(January 17th 2003)
What the critics of Sita seem to miss is that, our opinion does
not at all matter in this respect! What really matters is...
You
have done me proud
(January 20th 2003)
His very tone changes now. It is no more a dispassionate voice,
void of emotions. He is actually delighted. That delight shows
through in his words.
Of
options and decisions
(January 21st 2003)
It is not right to say that Sri Rama was "left with no
option but to accept her decision." He was happy about what
Sita did.
Of
options and decisions - Part II
(January 22nd 2003)
Rama adopted the same strategy that he employed in respect of
Sita, in the case of Lakshmana as well and not before knowing
his heart did he...
Lotus
bloomed on canvas
(January 23rd 2003)
That is an important change in the personality of Rama that
Kamban is making. What then could be the reason for the distress
displayed by Sita!
A
natural decision
(January 24th 2003)
She was emboldened to wear the hermit's weeds by herself. She
did not wait for his 'yes'. She asserted her right as his wife
to accompany him...
Is
this all?
(January 28th 2003)
She pouted. 'So this is the only thing that causes pain?'
Of
affection and administration
(January 29th 2003)
But these are administrative matters. Kamban lays emphasis on
affection...
What
does it mean?
(January 30th 2003)
The person in exile is supposed to lead a life like a hermit,
keeping his mind away from physical pleasures.
How
do they wear it?
(January 31st 2003)
Rama must have smiled at her plight. He quickly came to her
rescue.
Steadfast
she remains
(February 3rd 2003)
It is amazing to see the calmness with which Janaki takes the
situation.
Take
care of my parrot
(February 4rth 2003)
She would display the qualities of an average and innocent woman
now, that of a curious child the next moment.
She
is a delight to watch
(February 5th 2003)
Janaki is no exception to this general rule. We see her praying
at every little opportunity.
She
is a delight to watch - Part II
(February 6th 2003)
It moves like a dream. A thick forest, a swift river, two men
rowing the raft and an angel seated comfortably
She
is a delight to watch - Part III
(February 7th 2003)
For the first time in these three occasions, Rama sees her and
hears her praying.
Unstringing
the bow
(February 10th 2003)
Rama, who is used to moving about with the banded bow in hand,
is extremely careful about...
A
solicitation and a demand
(February 11th 2003)
They remind him of his kingly duties. They tell him that it is
the duty of a Kshatriya to protect the subjects.
Here
are your weapons
(February 12th 2003)
The Poet gives a ‘directorial touch’ here, when they prepare
to leave, taking us close to the heart of Rama.
Up
in arms?
(February 13th 2003)
There are moments when love mutes all logic between the two of
them. But when the intellect is at work...
It
is the way of weaponry
(February 14th 2003)
‘I don’t like your going to Dandaka.. I don’t want you to
indulge in unprovoked war and killing.’
Sword
in the hands of a sage
(February 17th 2003)
Rama, you are a born Kshatriya. Weapons are a part of your life.
To
be armed, or to be harmed?
(February 18th 2003)
Does the assurance that you gave to the sages to wipe out ogres
not violate the main purpose...
A
matter of discussion
(February 19th 2003)
How many of us can take a piece of advice from the wife! How
many of us can remain calm when she speaks in this manner!
A
matter of discussion II
(February 20th 2003)
Sita says, ‘You need not accept my view simply because I tell
you this. You know what is to be done. You know what is right...
You
and your father
(February 21st 2003)
That Vaidehi played her part very well is only half the story.
The beauty of the situation could be spoiled if the husband is
rash and harsh and if he is impatient…
You
said it!
(February 24th 2003)
It was you who uttered these words! Don’t you see that you
have answered your questions with your own words!
Truth
is dearer to me
(February 25th 2003)
‘People blame Sita in their ignorance,’ says Srinivasa
Sastriyar and draws our attention to the way in which Rama took
those words.
Companion
in Dharma
(February 26th 2003)
Let us be fair and put ourselves in his place and ask: ‘Do I
have the patience that Rama had when his wife held a different
point of view and expressed it?
The
story of Dandaka
(February 27th 2003)
The family was firm in its pursuit of Dharma and upholding
righteousness. They had no place for freaks and eccentrics like
Asamanja and Danda.
Viradha
(February 28th 2003)
The name Viradha is interpreted as vi-raadha, ‘devoid of
love.’ According to another version of the story, he was a
worshipper of Lakshmi.
Satan
quoting the scripture
(March 03rd 2003)
‘You have the outward appearance of the sages. Your hair is
matted. You are wearing the hermit’s weeds. But why are you
carrying weapons?
Let
him have his way
(March 04th 2003)
The brothers enjoyed the ride. ‘Do not disturb him. In fact,
this is the way in which we have to go.
In
motherliness she pleads
(March 05th 2003)
But her reaction is quite different. She quickly turns into the
mother that she is. She throws up her hands high in the air at
Viradha, and pleads with him.
Protector
in times of fear
(March 06th 2003)
‘I know you all by name. I did not realise that you are Rama
and she is Vaidehi. Now, bear with me. Let your feet liberate me
and set me unto deliverance!’
Five
and five years of peace
(March 07th 2003)
The couple and Lakshmana spent ten years in Dandakaranya,
spending all their time with the hermits.
The
meeting with Agastya
(March 15th 2003)
Valmiki has portrayed Rama as the incarnation of Narayana,
having come down to the earth for upholding what is right.
Jatayu
the vulture king
(March 18th 2003)
This is a very important role. Conveying the information to Rama,
not merely as a passive witness but as an active and a valiant
martyr.
A
vision or a waking dream...
(March 20th 2003)
A wonderfully fascinating atmosphere indeed! Lake abounding with
lotuses and the Godavari close by, herds of deer, flocks of
peacock...
Surpanakha
arrives (March
21st 2003)
She decided that this was the man for her. That is the trouble
with demons. Or, with persons with demonic qualities.
Darling
or demon?
(March 24th 2003)
Rama is amused at the quick judgment that Surpanakha is capable
of. He is not able to resist the temptation to play the game her
way...
A
fanatic turning frantic
(March 25th 2003)
Kamban develops her lust for Rama, further. What would a
demoness with enormous and limitless power do, when her mind is
propelled by tender feelings?
The
most kindest cut
(March 26th 2003)
Lakshmana could have killed her that day, as did Rama in the
case of Tataka, the grandmother of Surpanakha. He exercised the
‘bare minimum’ force...
The
Turning Point I
(March 27th 2003)
If it was Manthara the hunchbacked who turned the events in the
direction of destruction of Ravana and Kaikeyi who prepared the
ground for it...
The
Turning Point II
(March 28th 2003)
It was the second lease of life for Marica. The arrow of Rama
had killed his brother Subahu, while guarding the penance of
Viswamitra and had merely thrown him into the sea.
Naughty
dear or knotty deer?
(March 31st 2003)
A gem-studded golden deer! That may sound odd and weird. But it
is not so. Only, one has to understand the Poet’s ways of
looking at things around him...
Too
happy in thy happiness
(April 1st 2003)
She became the child that she is once again. She was as joyous
as a child on seeing the deer. She is actually overtaken by
euphoria.
For
the sake of Love - Part I
(April 2nd 2003)
‘You would be happy. Bharata would be happy. Kausalya, Sumitra
and Kaikeyi would be happy.
For
the sake of Love - Part II
(April 3rd 2003)
But even before Rama speaks to Lakshmana in this manner, Valmiki
makes another thing abundantly clear. That is the second reason
why Rama decided...
Dhevar
seydha baakiyam…
(April 4th 2003)
Sita is impatient and is unable to contain herself any further.
Kamban brings her mood out beautifully in just two lines
Dharma
or no dharma?
(April 7th 2003)
Now on the question of Dharma. This point need not be confused
with Dharma. What we have to understand is that there are
certain values, which do not change at all...
A
special gift from a special one
(April 8th 2003)
What she was asking for from Rama was a gift. It is not that the
deer is special and hence she needed it. It should come to her
from that special person...
Seed
of a thunder
(April 9th 2003)
What we are going to do from now on would be for her sake, O
descendant of the Raghus...
He
stays calm and guarding
(April 10th 2003)
What would have been Janaki’s state of mind and what would
have been the feelings of Lakshmana at this moment?
My
love, my anxiety
(April 11th 2003)
She was in a confused state of mind, confused about the
correctness of her desire and having insisted that Rama should
go behind the deer.
“The
boy stood the burning deck”
(April 14th 2003)
If it was threats to taunts with Rama, it is reversed now with
Lakshmana. It is taunts to threats. Of course, the first one was
a different situation.
Motivated,
you are (April
15th 2003)
Commentators place the emphasis on her scorching remarks that
question the very intention of Lakshmana about her. But I think
it would be more appropriate...
Sacred
trust (April
16th 2003)
I won’t move away because that is how Rama has commanded me. I
cannot go against his words nor throw the trust that is vested
in me to the winds.
“marathirkkum
ahdhe thunai”
(April 17th 2003)
It is only fools who think that love is behind virtuous deeds
only...
A
mind lacerated
(April 18th 2003)
Lakshmana’s balance is destabilised obviously. If not, would
he have uttered these words?
The
other fire ordeal
(April 21st 2003)
Kamban skipped all the taunts. He made his choice from one of
her threats, the closest that she could do.
She
wipes her tears
(April 22nd 2003)
She was sitting in the hermitage, hoping to receive her husband
and her brother-in-law safe. Her thoughts were moving around
them. She was in tears.
A
well surrounded by grass
(April 23rd 2003)
He stood like ‘tRiNaiH kuupa’ says Valmiki. A well covered
and hidden by the thick growth of grass.
A
string of lotuses
(April 24th 2003)
If she is the Lakshmi who left her abode of a lotus let that be
so, the Poet seems to suggest, this Mahalakshmi is a string of
lotuses, herself.
Here
lies her heart
(April 28th 2003)
Something prevents her from speaking to him. It must have been
the embarrassment that he caused when he opened the
conversation.
All
that glitters...
(April 29th 2003)
I handpicked them. But now I realise that their beauty is
nothing before you! You glitter like gold...
Of
what avail is knowledge…
(April 30th 2003)
The purpose of education, what Ravana suggests, is to know and
understand what gives comfort to a person – wealth, power,
luxury…
Playing
with fire (May
1st 2003)
Your desire is like the desire to bundle up the blazing fire in
a piece of cloth...
Carrying
her away (May
2nd 2003)
Ravana burned with rage on hearing the challenge. This is
something that none has dared utter in his presence…
Helpless
I am (May 5th
2003)
The Lord and His Consort are playing their human roles now and
let us look at them from that perspective…
Was
he a devotee?
(May 6th 2003)
If Ravana carried her off because he was her devotee, then we
should find other suitable explanations for his behaviour; his
attitude to her...
Clever
but not convincing
(May 7th 2003)
Either way, it is a clever invention. It serves to save Janaki
from the ‘disrepute’ that clouds her. But that
‘disrepute’ is what the pundits have perceived…
This
is what she has to say
(May 8th 2003)
If expert opinion differs and interprets this moment variedly...
This
is what she has to say - Part II
(May 9th 2003)
This is one of the most beautiful and most moving scenes in the
epic.
Ore
and Ornament
(May 12th 2003)
Draupadi was subjected to humiliation worse than this. She was
brought to the hall …
Ore
and Ornament Part II
(May 13th 2003)
Kamban develops the drama convincingly and in consonance with
the dramatis personae and the respective roles that they play...
A
count of shoulders
(May 14th 2003)
Your Ravana was imprisoned by Karthaviryarjuna. That
Karthaviryarjuna was killed by Parasurama. Swamiji, you do not
seem to know...
Makeup
wiped clean
(May 15th 2003)
Kamban captures his embarrassment and the uneasiness
beautifully. Very rarely does Ravana go on the defensive. There
was no necessity for him to do so.
When
feelings run wild
(May 16th 2003)
The inconsistency in his speech is intended. He actually states
that…
Embodiment
of Patience (May 20th
2003)
The Poet very obviously suggests that if Ravana survived that
day, it was due to her quality of patience…
What
would it mean? (May
21st 2003)
More over, this makes her stand with her head held high in the
Agni Pravesa scene
A
father figure (May
22nd 2003)
That he was the friend of Dasaratha was reason enough for Rama
to feel close to Jatayu…
Sampati
(May 23rd 2003)
Valmiki gives a breathtaking account of the way the earth
appears from the skies…
In
the service of their Lord
(May 26th 2003)
This particular place is significant for this is one of those
very few places where Valmiki speaks openly of the divine nature
of Sri Rama...
Inform
my protector (May 27th
2003)
Though shocked beyond words, though lamenting loudly about lack
of protection, Janaki had not lost her sense of proportion that
day.
Jatayu
- The Vulture King
(May 28th 2003)
She wanted Jatayu to remain unharmed, as he is the only link
available now to convey the message to Sri Rama
A
Look at Sri Rama - part I
(May 29th 2003)
The acts of those in power, those in authority or those who are
held in high public esteem, set an example to the general body
of public mind.
Look
at Sri Rama - part II
(May 30th 2003)
What you are doing is not acceptable on any account. First, you
are a king and are supposed to set an example to others…
Last
hope, lost hope
(June 2nd 2003)
He was the only source of hope for Sita. She looked to him for
conveying the message of her abduction to Sri Rama.
The
great bird and the little bird
(June 4th 2003)
Though you maimed the great bird that I am and rendered me
helpless you will never be able to break the strong will of the
little mynah...
Her
world turns cruel
(June 5th 2003)
It was an hour that turned a beautiful dream into a nightmare.
Guided
by intuition…
(June 6th 2003)
There was no time left for her to look for evidence that
supported what she felt about the five monkey-chiefs
The
question of silk and gold
(June 9th 2003)
Why should a person living in the jungle be wearing jewels and
silk clothes?.
Greater
strength and greater courage
(June 10th 2003)
All his skills with the bow and his battle against the evil
depended on this princess, a heart of iron enshrined in a tender
frame.
A
challenge to her will
(June 11th 2003)
Ravana believed in two things to convert anyone to his side.
Have
a choice, do you?
(June 12th 2003)
The first thing is to make it clear to her that he was the lord
of the most enviable of all palaces.
She
is mine (June 13th
2003)
Ravana demonstrates that he has gone incapable of observing,
thinking or deducing the right thing.
Cunning
ways and clever interpretations
(June 16th 2003)
The entire episode would be held in another perspective if this
situation were accepted.
Demands
of modesty? (June 17th
2003)
Janaki displays the metal that she is made of. For ten more
months, she would have to wage a lone battle.
Demands
of modesty? Part II
(June 18th 2003)
From where did Sita find a blade of grass, given the situation
that she was in the palace, especially when the order for taking
her to the Asoka Vana was not yet issued?
Medium
and the message
(June 19th 2003)
"You are as worthless to me as this blade of grass",
retorts Sita, who is neither impressed by Ravana nor afraid of
him...
Blade
of Steel and Blade of Grass
(June 20th 2003)
On hearing Sita's words, Ravana's hair stood on end. This did
not happen to him even during the battle with Yama!...
Left
in the grove (June
23rd 2003)
We move away from Sita, unable to bear the sight and our hearts
heavy, turning back at her again and again as did Lakshmana.
Hanuman
spots her (June 24th
2003)
He has just completed scouring the entire country of Lanka. He
had entered the bedchamber of Ravana...
Flame
covered by smoke (June
25th 2003)
This is the same woman for whom the entire Ayodhya wept when she
wore the hermit’s weeds…
Logically
speaking (June 26th
2003)
Therefore, there is no doubt that she was the one who dropped
the jewels that were collected in Rishyamuka Mountain the other
day.
The
Assault on Identity (June
27th 2003)
‘Everything starts with the assault upon identity,’ says
Lifton. Erase that identity and the person is prepared for his
or her inner surrender.
On
wives and their roles (June
30th 2003)
It is just plain and obvious that Mandodari or Dhanyamalini did
not like what was going on before their eyes.
What
she went through (July 1st
2003)
Ravana's address to Sita, is something which a normal woman of
any age will not like listening to...
What
she went through - Part II
(July 2nd 2003)
That sets a series of threats from those ogresses of varying
shapes, who had mastered the art of coercion...
Is
the spirit willing? (July 3rd
2003)
Subjected to regular and never-ending harassment over a number
of months, Janaki was unable to take it any further...
Surudhi
naayagan varum varum...
(July 4th 2003)
Sita's eyes would roll in all directions, always eager and ready
to receive him the moment he arrives...
The
‘not to be’ - Part I
(July 7th 2003)
It is a sudden impulse that leads Sita to the decision of
committing suicide, in Valmiki Ramayana...
The
‘not to be’ - Part II
(July 8th 2003)
Kamban arms her repartees with sting, fang, nail and teeth.
Black humour bubbles forth from her undaunted spirit.
The
‘not to be’ - Part III
(July 9th 2003)
But let me think of the time after that. He might even accept me
and take me back with him to Ayodhya. Would the people of
Ayodhya be silent?
The
‘not to be’ - Part IV
(July 10th 2003)
Sita foresees a momkent when she would be questioned in public.
She also foresees a moment when she would be questioned by the
public.
Dawn
follows darkness (July 11th
2003)
The story of Ramayana - and that of Mahabharata - has been built
around human nature.
Monkey
in a dream (July 14th 2003)
Sita found a monkey uttering the name of Rama, and wondered if
she was dreaming.
The
Natural and the Supernatural
(July 15th 2003)
Although Rama and his brothers are divine incarnations, their
actions are those of mere humans.
irakkamE
vadivaai vandhu… (July 16th
2003)
He chanted the name of my Lord! If he represents something evil,
let that be so...
He
sweeps into action (July 17th
2003)
Kamban’s Hanuman is the quick, easy and full-spirited self,
especially at such critical times...
The
ice is broken (July 18th
2003)
Hanuman's Sita's initial suspicion about this monkey seemed to
vanish...
An
errand boy I am... (July 21st
2003)
Hanuman sounds very modest. 'Mother, I am nothing more than an
errand boy in that army!'...
Just
one wrong step (July 22nd
2003)
It is only natural that excitement takes over anyone faced with
a formidable task...
An
error of omission too (July
23rd 2003)
At the end of a long peroration, Hanuman produces the signet
ring of Sri Rama...
The
Relations Manager (July 24th
2003)
Kamban's drama is pleasant, convincing and keeps the focus on
building trust.
Rama's
love is undiminished (July
25th 2003)
The jewels that Sita discarded gave him the strength he
needed...
Sita
and the signet - I (July 28th
2003)
Sita rejoices. It is not a ring anymore. She sees her own loving
Rama in it...
Sita
and the signet - II (July
29th 2003)
When the loved one is away, ordinary objects kindle and
intensify tender feelings...
In
praise of Maruti (July 30th
2003)
Maruti is praised by almost everyone in the epic, including Sri
Rama in several instances...
indru
ena iruththi (July 31st
2003)
We have a long tradition of seeking the blessings of elders...
Monkey’s
proposal (Aug 01st 2003)
Maruti's size and the puny form in which he appears makes Sita
doubt his ability...
Limited
by the sky (Aug 04th 2003)
A person, whose self-esteem is strong, does not feel the need to
speak about himself...
On
the Universal Form (Aug
05th 2003)
It is an awe-inspiring form that Valmiki speaks about. Vyasa
shows a similar picture. Bhima, who went in search of the
Saukandhika flower, meets Hanuman in the way.
Monkey’s
proposal (Aug 01st 2003)
Maruti's size and the puny form in which he appears makes Sita
doubt his ability...
Limited
by the sky (Aug 04th 2003)
A person, whose self-esteem is strong, does not feel the need to
speak about himself...
On
the Universal Form (Aug
05th 2003)
It is an awe-inspiring form that Valmiki speaks about. Vyasa
shows a similar picture. Bhima, who went in search of the
Saukandhika flower, meets Hanuman in the way.
The
Lord and the devotee (Aug
06th 2003)
Hanuman was the first one to recognise Sri Rama as the
Supreme...
Galaxies
as fireflies (Aug
07th 2003)
Sita says 'anjinen' -- not afraid of the viswa-rupa but
appreciative...
It
is not my job (Aug
08th 2003)
Ravana's destiny was to die by Rama's hands...
Let
this be my job (Aug
11th 2003)
There is no purpose in leaving her back, making her undergo the
kind of torture that I witnessed just now...
Unassisted
you are (Aug
12th 2003)
Hanuman that he is unarmed, therefore, the decision to carry
away Sita with him may be unwise...
sollinaal
suduvEn (Aug
13th 2003)
Sita has more reasons for not returning with Hanuman...
Means
and ends (Aug
14th 2003)
The whole world should witness my return, insists Sita...
The
question of touch (Aug
15th 2003)
Sita has reservations about touching any male other than her
husband...
Set
Fire to fire (Aug
17th 2003)
It was Sita's purity that burnt the city of Lanka, and not a
mere monkey...
Patience
and punishment (Aug
19th 2003)
Janaki, the daughter of Mother Earth, symbolises both
extremes...
One
for the Self (Aug
20th 2003)
The interest of the self that is neglected in public, keeps
haunting in private...
Eyes
of inference (Aug
21st 2003)
Sita knows Maruti has a keen mind to study details and derive
logical conclusions...
In
penance I live (Aug
22nd 2003)
I do not stir out of the hermitage. I stay there. For this is my
tapa. My mind is always set on him.
A
duty unto himself (Aug
25th 2003)
Sita says that Rama and Lakshmana are obligated to rescue her
and prove their chivalry...
A
word for Lakshmana (Aug
26th 2003)
Sita conveys through Maruti that that she will not live for more
than a month...
Sita
reminds Hanuman (Aug
27th 2003)
Rama gave his word that he would not even think of a second
woman during this birth...
The
incident of the crow (Aug
28th 2003)
Sita narrates to Maruti how Rama resorted to Brahmastra when a
mere bird annoyed her....
Would
it smell as sweetly? (Aug
29th 2003)
Sita also reminds that Rama had uttered the name of Kaikeyi with
affection and respect....
The
transition (Sep.
3rd 2003)
Hanuman had witnessed her distress in captivity justifying
Rama's fight against evil.
Let
it last a little longer (Sep.
4th 2003)
All of us seek to make a good moment last longer.
Sense
of security (Sep.
5th 2003)
Janaki pleaded with Hanuman to stay until dawn.
Sita
(March 8th 2005)
Hari Krishnan is back with his articles on religion from
today...
Sita
- Versions vary; values do not
(March 9th 2005)
Did Rama and Sita see each other before their marriage, explores
Hari Krishnan
Sita
- Versions vary; values do not-II
(March 10th 2005)
There is evidence in Tamil literature of the 'love' version
This
is where we left her… (March
14th 2005)
A new facet of Sita reveals itself when she talks to Hanuman
As
he left (March
15th 2005)
What Hanuman accomplished as a messenger was stupendous, says
Hari Krishnan
Tall
he stands (March
16th 2005)
Sita is shocked by Hanuman's appearance just as she decides to
end her life
Thou
art my father (March
17th 2005)
Hanuman walked effortlessly into Sita's heart and she looked
upon him as father
The
destruction of Asoka Vana (March
18th 2005)
Hanuman wanted a chance to meet Ravana and started drawing
attention to himself
In
fear they wake up (March
21st 2005)
The colossal image of Hanuman instilled fear in even the
ogresses
The
errand boy (March
22st 2005)
Hanuman says self-effasively that he is an ordinary specimen of
the Vanara army
When
among foes… (March
23rd 2005)
Hanuman tells Bhima his size increases in the presence of
enemies
An
attempt to protect him? (March
24th 2005)
Sita pretends innocently to the ogres not know who Hanuman is
The
'defences' (March
25th 2005)
Does Sita have to be protected by our interpretations, asks Hari
Krishnan
A
few parallels (March
28th 2005)
Sugriva pretends to Sri Rama that he has no knowledge of Ravana
A
few parallels - 2 (March
29th 2005)
Hari Krishnan argues that what Sugriva uttered to Rama was not a
falsehood
When
truth cannot be called truth
(March 30th 2005)
Was it wholly true when Yudhishthira said Ahswatthaman was dead?
What
goes to make a truth (March
31th 2005)
Yudhishthira might have uttered a truth but it was irrelevant
information
The
instincts behind a lie (April
1st 2005)
Hari Krishnan tries to reason out why Sita did not utter the
truth to the ogres
The
question of self-preservation
(April 4th 2005)
It was not her instinct of self-preservation that made Sita
utter the lie
Protecting
Hanuman, was she? (April
5th 2005)
Was Sita trying to protect Hanuman when she uttered the lie?
Untruth
but not a lie (April
6th 2005)
What Sita uttered was by way of a natural reaction, argues Hari
Krishnan
Change
of attitude-1 (April
7th 2005)
The ogress guards rushed to Ravana with the news of Hanuman's
presence
Change
of attitude-2 (April
8th 2005)
Sita was tormented by the ogresses before the intervention of
Vibhishana's daughter
Moments
of peace (April
11th 2005)
It was after Hanuman's burning Lanka that Sita breathed a little
easy
Ocean
at bay (April
12th 2005)
For once Ravana was facing a situation that his enemies usually
did
'Was'
is not 'is' (April
13th 2005)
The only thing that Ravana was worried about was that Sita would
be laughing at him
A
wicked deed (April
14th 2005)
Ravana played a cruel trick on Sita, claiming Rama had been
beheaded
Staying
Tough - Part 1 (April
15th 2005)
Sita was a courageous woman but the scene she witnessed was so
cruel
Staying
Tough - Part 2 (April
18th 2005)
Sita fought the torture of Ravana with her own will and support
of Trijata
The
help within - 1 (April
19th 2005)
The illusion of Rama's severed head disappeared just as it had
appeared
The
help within - 2 (April
20th 2005)
There is no clue in the epic as to when Trijata and Sarama come
to the resuce of Sita
Who
was she? (April
21th 2005)
Hari Krishnan ponders over the relationship between Vibhishna
and Trijata
The
curse that was her shield (April
22th 2005)
Ravana had a curse on his head that he could not have a woman by
force
The
father factor (April
25th 2005)
Kamban speaks of how Ravana uses the illusion of Janaka to
terrorise Sita
A
prelude to the plan (April
26th 2005)
Ravana is wonderstruck at Rama who sends him back from the
battelfiled
Between
Mälyavän and Mahodara (April
27th 2005)
There were those who counselled Ravana against Sita's abduction
and those who backed him
Does
help within exist in every situation?-1
(April 28th 2005)
Did someone try to help Ravana redeem himself?
Does
help within exist in every situation?-2
(April 29th 2005)
Mahodara was giving the right advice but at the wrong time in
Ravana's life
When
minds are clouded (May
2nd 2005)
When the mind is clouded by wrong sentiments, one cannot think
straight
The
plan takes shape (May
3nd 2005)
After sending Kumbakarna into the battlefield, Ravana wanted to
visit the Asoka Vana
Even
if he resides in your heart
(May 4nd 2005)
Ravana says he will kill Rama after he begs, pleads with and
cajoles Sita
‘A
woman or Dharma incarnate?’
(May 5nd 2005)
The illusion of Janaka made Sita ask if everything had gone
wonky with the world
Other
things being equal… (May
7nd 2005)
Ravana was able to chip away at Sita’s confidence and break
her down
The
Stormy Petrel (May
10nd 2005)
Notwithstanding the pain of seeing her father bound, Sita fought
back
Janaka,
are you? (May
11nd 2005)
Listening to the utterances of maya Janaka, Sita knew it could
not be her father
The
turn of events (May
12nd 2005)
Just as Sita was unflinching in her trust, so was Ravana in his
mission to win her
On
obstinacy (May
13th 2005)
Hari Krishnan defines the difference between obstinacy and being
tough...
A
quick summing up (May
16th 2005)
Sita’s woes were not over with the fall of the mighty
Kumbakarna
Cantos
of Naga Pasa and Brahmastra
(May 17th 2005)
There is a slight variation in the way Kamban and Valmiki depict
the war scenes...
The
final hope-1 (May
18th 2005)
Valmiki speaks of how Rama and Lakshmana were nearly felled by
the cobra noose
The
final hope-2 (May
19th 2005)
Seeing Lakshmana mortally wounded by the Brahmastra, Rama
faints...
The
guardian of her own self (May
20th 2005)
Sita was taken on the Puspaka Vimana to see Rama and Lakshmana
lying unconscious...
In
interregnum (May
23rd 2005)
Sita was taken on the Puspaka Vimana to see Rama and Lakshmana
lying unconscious...
The
foe ideal (May
24th 2005)
Rama lived his life perfectly and was even a perfect foe, says
Hari Krishnan...
On
his permission (May
25th 2005)
Though a king in exile, there was a code of conduct that Rama
observed...
Between
message and message (May
26th 2005)
Rama used Hanuman on two occasions to send out a message to Sita...
The
message and its mood (May
27th 2005)
There was no trace of doubt in Rama’s message that Hanuman
carried to Sita
What
it meant to him (June
8th 2005)
Hanuman was thrilled to bits as he again carried a message from
Rama to Sita...
In
silence she responds (June
9th 2005)
There was no hint of what was to come when Hanuman carried
Rama's message...
But
I have promises to keep - I
(June 10th 2005)
Sita shows how indebted she was to Hanuman for all the help he
rendered...
But
I have promises to keep-2 (June
13th 2005)
Hanuman was seething in anger and thirsting for revenge...
But
I have promises to keep-3 (June
13th 2005)
Sita promises protection to the ogresses even without their
asking for it...
Let
bygones be bygones (June
15th 2005)
The ogress guards were only acting on instructions from Ravana,
explains Sita
Let
this be your boon (June
16th 2005)
Sita seeks a boon from Hanuman not to even hurt the minds of the
ogresses
Valmiki's
clue (June
17th 2005)
Valmiki mentions in passing what Rama's plan and the state of
his mind…
To
bear or not to bear (June
20th 2005)
Vibishana conveys the message to Sita that Rama would like to
see her...
Let
me come as I am (June
21th 2005)
Sita wanted to appear in front of Rama the way she was to show
how she had been living
Where
does he stand? (June
22th 2005)
Though Vibishana revered Sita, he carried out Rama’s orders as
per his wish
The
point of palanquin (June
23th 2005)
Rama exhibited mixed feeling on seeing Sita arrive on the scene
in a palanquin
Let
her walk her way (June
24th 2005)
Rama ordered Sita to be brought to his presence on foot in
Valmiki Ramayana
Calm
before the storm (June
27th 2005)
In Kamban, Rama appears to be totally calm even minutes before
he is to see Sita
With
their blessings… (June
28th 2005)
Arunachala Kavirayar's Rama Nataka Kirthanai touches very
briefly the agni pravesa scene…
The
body and the soul - 1 (June
29th 2005)
It's amazing that there are over 6,500 verses between the
beginning of the 'knot' and its end…
The
body and the soul - 2 (June
30th 2005)
Kamban uses a beautiful metaphor to decsribe the relationship
between Rama and Sita
The
soul-mate, the sole-mate (July
1st 2005)
Like a scene re-enacted, Rama and Sita looked at each other
again
The
moon and the moon (July
4th 2005)
Valmiki says Rama’s and Sita’s face shone like the moon when
they gazed at each other
The
charges (July
5th 2005)
Rama states in very prosaic terms why he fought Ravana and won
the war…
The
way of the Will (July
6th 2005)
Rama holds fate responsible for Sita being abducted by Ravana to
Lanka
Dead,
you should have been (July
7th 2005)
Kamban's Rama spews venom and tells Sita she should have died
It
was not for your sake (July
8th 2005)
Rama says he crossed the oceans only to restore his name and
that of his family...
Get
lost and be prosperous? (July
11th 2005)
Rama shows his real feelings when he ends his short speech with
a benediction
Light
on diseased eye (July
12th 2005)
Rama compares Sita to light that shines before a sore eye and
causes more pain
Touch…
and go (July
13th 2005)
Rama says he cannot accept Sita as she was touched by another
man…
The
derider’s alternative (July
14th 2005)
Rama seems to have lost control over himself as he lashes out at
Sita
The
missile of mistrust (July
15th 2005)
Rama doubts that Ravana could have a bewitching beauty like Sita
alone
A
worm in the slush (July
18th 2005)
Rama suddenly recalls how Sita was not born of Janaka but only
found in the ground...
The
insinuation (July
20th 2005)
Rama every good quality of womanhood was lost with Sita's
conduct in Lanka...
A
moment lasts the mood (July
21th 2005)
Sita is at first shocked into sorrow by what Rama utters but
soon recovers her grace
In
your keeping is my honour (July
22nd 2005)
As Rama is known to protect others’ honour, Sita says he
should protect hers too
Was
he not your messenger? (July
25th 2005)
Sita argues her case with Rama by citing his sending Hanuman as
a messenger
Have
you forgotten this? (July
26th 2005)
Sita refuses to buy Rama’s argument that he fought the war to
save his name
Because
you do not see… (July
27th 2005)
Sita says she has been crazy to have been through the
tribulations that Rama cannot see
For
whom should I demonstrate? (July
28th 2005)
Sita decides to take her life as Rama has reacted like any
ordinary man
A
word spoken by the eye (July
29th 2005)
Hari Krishnan raises some questions regarding Sita deciding to
enter the fire
How
to name it – 1 (August
1st 2005)
Hari Krishnan stimulates a debate on what to call Sita entering
the fire
How
to name it – 2 (August
2st 2005)
Sita had nothing to prove as Rama had already passed the
judgment on her
Chastisement?
(August 4th 2005)
Did Sita enter the flames to expiate herself from some sins she
had committed?
A
palmful of Ganges (August
5th 2005)
A sloka cannot be read in isolation to judge any character in
the epic, says Hari Krishnan...
Looking
back at it (August
8th 2005)
Rama’s reaction to Sita’s taunts was to reassure her with
soothing words
Proud,
was he not? (August
10th 2005)
Rama let Sita argue her case instead of deciding that she should
go with him to the forest
Offences
imponderable (August
11th 2005)
There are those who argue that Sita was being punished for being
adamant
What
a good penman can do (August
12th 2005)
Hari Krishnan forwards the argument that Rama did not suspect
Sita's behaviour...
On
the pursuit of the deer (August
15th 2005)
Lakshmana warned Rama that the golden deer could be the
deception of Marica...
The
mind, the intellect, the decision
(August 16th 2005)
Sita was the mind that wanted the deer, Lakshmana’s wisdom
caution and Rama made the decision
Who
needs that shield! (August
17th 2005)
Let us not colour Sita’s emotions with considerations of
gender, says Hari Krishnan
Unless
it happens to you (August
18th 2005)
One must place oneself in Sita’s position to understand her
reaction, says Hari Krishnan
What
you should have done (August
19th 2005)
It was only after Rama prodded him that Lakshmana told him what
happened
Unjustified
(August 22nd 2005)
Rama did not find fault with Sita's words, but with Lakshmana
leaving her alone…
Public
opinion-1 (August
23rd 2005)
Valmiki says Rama's heart was troubled at the thought of a
public scandal…
Public
opinion-2 (August
24th 2005)
The sloka that gives a peep into Rama's mind could be an
interpolation, says Hari Krishnan...
Public
opinion-3 (August
25th 2005)
Rama’s repudiation of Sita must be seen in the light of his
abiding love for her
The
wife of Caesar… (August
26th 2005)
Caesar and Rama cannot be compared but the situation they were
in is comparable...
What
remains – a glimpse (August
30th 2005)
Was the Agni Pravesa just a drama directed and enacted by Rama
and Sita?
The
role of Fire (Sept
1st 2005)
Fire plays a major role in the Ramayana from the beginning, says
Hari Krishnan
That
which could not touch a tail
(Sept 2nd 2005)
The fire could not burn Hanuman's tail, so what could it do to
Sita...
Like
a stream of ghee (Sept
5th 2005)
Sita’s Agni Pravesa was more to reveal Rama’s divinity than
test her, says Hari Krishnan
Scorcher
of Fire (Sept
7th 2005)
Sita entering the fire was like Mahalakshmi returning to her
abode
Being
a human (Sept
8th 2005)
In Kamban, Rama continues to behave like a human being even
after seeing the God of Fire
A
witness to the Witness (Sept
12th 2005)
Agni tells Rama that Sita has never been unfaithful to him even
by a glance
The
reunion (Sept
13th 2005)
Agni vouchasfed for the purity of Sita and handed her over to
Rama
The
sun and his light (Sept
15th 2005)
Rama says he and Sita are one and they cannot exist without each
other
daughter
mine (Sept
16th 2005)
The exchanges between Rama and Dasaratha are moving, says Hari
Krishnan
An
exception, not an example (Sept
19th 2005)
Dasaratha explains that Sita was able to go through the ordeal
because she was divine
The
journey back (Sept
20th 2005)
On their way back on the Pushpaka Vimana, Rama shares with Sita
all his experiences
With
love around (Sept
22nd 2005)
The Pushpaka Vimana was full of men with Sita being the lone
woman
Jewel
in hand, joy at heart (Sept
23rd 2005)
Rama clapsed a necklace of pearls, given b Vayu, around the neck
of Sita
Indebted
we are (Sept
27th 2005)
Rama and Sita outdo each other in thanking Hanuman for all his
help
Sitayah
charitam mahat (Oct
18th 2005)
The various stages of Sita’s life fall into almost 12 years
each in Ramayana
Woman
extraordinary (Oct
19th 2005)
Kausalya speaks highly of Sita for opting to follow Rama into
the forest
The
fire, the venom and the nectar
(Oct 20th 2005)
This is how the people on Ravana’s side described Sita
There
may be many Ramas… (Oct
22nd 2005)
Hari Krishnan concludes his study of Sita with the observations
of Swami Vivekananda
In the following pages we present a study of various major and minor characters of the Ramayana as told by Valmiki and Kamban. This study attempts to go into the character sketch, analyse the different ways in which the two poets have constructed their drama with liberal direct quotations and interpretations. These pages are sure to delight the heart of the devotee as well as the litterateur. Click on a link below to access all the articles under each character. Happy reading!
Ramayana – a character study
By
Hari Krishnan
Epics Generalia
The epics and their
relevance - (Feb. 23rd 2001)
You must read the story as a human story, lived among human beings, by a human being, and, then, Oh, what rich treasures there are of wisdom in it!
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