About the Book
Part I
The Ramayana is one of the great epics of the world. The story of Rama and Sita is a timeless tale of heroism, courage, love and loyalty; of human emotions and faults that lead to tragic consequences; and of the triumph of good over evil. An inseparable part of our heritage, the Ramayana provides vital clues about India's ancient history and culture.
Composed by Rishi Valmiki in Sanskrit verse more than 5000 years ago, it touched everyone who heard it. There are versions of the story in almost every Indian language; there are dance, drama and puppet theatre versions, and paintings and sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana in state. Ramayana Songs, composed by great devotees, occupy Special place in Classical and F. The story was carried all over Asia and 'versions are found in countries like Tibet, China, Japan, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia Philippines.
THE RAMAYANA - AYODHYA KAND I
Ayodhya Kan is the second book of Valmiki's Ramayana. It follows Bala Kand and tells the story of Rama's exile from Ayodhya, and the overwhelming grief that grips, not just his family, but the whole city.
In Ayodhya Kand I, King Dasharatha joyfully announces his decision to install Rama as his heir. But his dreams come crashing down when his youngest wife, Kaikeyi, demands Rama's exile and the Installation of her son, Bhorata, as the Yuvaraja. Dasharatha is faced with a terrible dilemma as he has earlier granted Kaikeyi two boons to which he is bound by his word.
Determined to protect his father's honour, Rama willingly accepts the harsh decision and prepares to leave. Sita and Lakshmana decide to accompany him. Even though the people condemn her for her cruelty and the broken-hearted king repeatedly appeals to her better sense, Kaikeyi does not revoke her harsh decision. Kausalya bids a tearful farewell to her son and daughter-in-law, even while Lakshmana's mother, Sumitra, consoles her.
The entire kingdom sinks into dark despair as the chariot carrying the three departs from the city. Unable to bear the loss, the people of - Ayodhya refuses to leave their prince and follow him. Touched by their love and concerned for their welfare, Rama decides to quietly leave them sleeping on the banks of the River Tamasa and the three slip away with Sumantra, their charioteer.
THE RAMAYANA - AYODHYA KAND II
Dashratha, the king of Ayodhya, is grief stricken when he is compelled to send his beloved son, Rama, into exile. Unable to bear the sorrow, he breathes his last. Bharata who, along with his brother Shatrughna, is at the time visiting his maternal grandfather, returns to find a silent and brooding Ayodhya.
Heartbroken to learn about the tragic events in the city, he sets out to find Rama. They are helped by the ruler of the Nishodos, Guha, and guided by Rishi Bharadwaja as they make their way to Chitrakoot where Rama, Sita and Lakshmana dwell. Alerted by the animals of the forest who flee before the approaching army, Lakshmana climbs a tree and sees the army of Bharata approaching. Fearing danger to his beloved brother, Rama, he swears to decimate them.
Will Bharata convince his beloved brother to return to Ayodhya? Or will he have to return, disappointed ?
Contents
Sample Pages
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Vedas (1398)
Upanishads (654)
Puranas (836)
Ramayana (835)
Mahabharata (274)
Dharmasastras (163)
Vedanta (286)
Gita (1006)
Goddess (441)
Bhakti (233)
Saints (1119)
Gods (1306)
Shiva (303)
Journal (132)
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