Ramayana — a Critical Appraisal

Based on the Valmiki Ramayana, this book discusses the major events of the Ramayana including those in the Uttara-Kanda, analyzing and interpreting them with a fresh approach. Written in a simple and lucid style, the work deals with the birth of Rama, his destruction of rakshasas accompanied by his brother Lakshmana, of Dasaratha, Rama’s exile, the many developments that led to the war between Rama and Ravana and the later events like Rama’s coronation, his abandonment of Sita and the last journey of Lord Rama. It brings out the many qualities of Rama like virtuousness, courage, compassion, equanimity of mind, devotion to duty and truth, and selflessness that make Rama a glorious, divine figure and the story in the Ramayana an unparalleled epic of the world. It also discusses the controversial acts of Rama like his killing of Vali and humiliation of Sita after her rescue. It underlines the importance of the example of Rama and the teachings of the Ramayana in the contemporary world. The volume will fascinate a range of readers — general readers as well as scholars of Indian religion and culture who want to gain a fresh perspective on the glorious Ramayana tradition.