The Ramayana is an ancient epic centered on the life of Lord Rama, a paragon of virtue known as Maryada Purushottam, or the epitome of honorable men. His existence exemplifies the pinnacle of dignity, and his actions continue to be celebrated as the standard of excellence centuries later. A figure of such moral stature offers invaluable lessons. While some argue that the principles of his era may not be applicable today, the truth is that Lord Rama’s way of life, the values he embraced, and the patience he demonstrated are increasingly pertinent in the modern world.
There are countless inspiring moments within the Ram Katha, but let’s start at the beginning. During Lord Ram’s coronation ceremony, as King Dashrath entered the royal courtyard and received widespread acclaim, he chose to look into a mirror. He sought to reflect on whether he was truly deserving of such praise and applause. This act of introspection is the first lesson we can draw from the story. It teaches us to look within, critically evaluate ourselves, and discern whether praise is warranted, allowing us to recognize our own shortcomings and the possible hidden agendas of others.
When Sita is abducted by Ravana, Lord Rama, despite being a prince, does not depend on Ayodhya for assistance. Instead, he enlists the aid of the forest dwellers, who willingly support him. This teaches us to look for solutions within our immediate environment, fostering harmony with the people and nature around us, leading to peace and greater success in life. Therefore, when confronted with a challenge, seek solutions close at hand, and you will never be defeated.
Another vital lesson from Lord Ram is the importance of respecting elders. The Sundar Kaand details how Jamvant Ji imparted valuable wisdom to Lord Ram just before his departure for Lanka, a conversation that also moved Hanuman Ji. This narrative underscores the significance of heeding the profound wisdom of our elders. While youth may possess the vigor to confront challenges, it is the seasoned guidance of the elderly, born from a lifetime of experiences, that often leads to the best solutions. Unfortunately, this valuable insight is often overlooked today, leading many young people astray due to a lack of proper guidance.
At the conclusion of Ram Katha, Lord Rama returns to Ayodhya and reunites with his family, bringing joy to all. A man’s life is deemed successful when he has family and friends to share in his triumphs. To achieve this, he must balance the various facets of life and the diverse relationships he cherishes. Humans are inherently social beings; they flourish in communal living, sharing both happiness and sorrow. Yet, there is a growing trend among the youth to form nuclear families. Indeed, Lord Rama held Lord Shiva in high esteem. Lord Shiva’s family, comprising a snake, a mouse, an ox, and Ganesha as his son, lived harmoniously despite their vastly different natures.
Therefore, we should take a lesson from Lord Rama and instill values in our children that encourage them to live in harmony with their families, rather than fostering a competitive spirit among them. By doing so, we may nurture children who embody the virtues of Lord Rama himself.
🖊️Bureau Chief : K Kalyani, Bodha and Manchukonda™ Insights Magazine.