The Ramayana
The Ramayana is one of India’s priceless epics, the other being the Mahabharata. The Ramayana has been translated, televised and made into motion pictures several times. In it, the great sage, Valmiki, has brought out his deepest thoughts and aspirations. It is regarded as a sacred book by the Hindus who view Lord Rama as a symbol of moral perfection. He was a devoted and obedient son, husband, brother, master, warrior, and a great and just ruler. He is worshipped ardently by one and all, throughout the country.
The philosophy propounded by the Ramayana is very deep. On the one hand, portrays the ideals of truth, bravery, fidelity, an unquestionable acceptance of hardships and personal loss; on the other hand, it depicts the wicked desires of an evil mind, which is man’s greatest destructive force. Ravana, a highly intellectual person, was reduced to nothing because of his wicked and unscrupulous desires.
The destruction of Ravana shows the ultimate victory of good over evil. Even to this day, Dusshera is celebrated with great pomp and show all over the country. On this day effigies of Ravana, Meghnathand Kumbhkaran are burnt to symbolize the victory of good over evil. Ramlilas are held in several places and they still attract a lot of people!
