Ramayan

The Ramayana is an ancient Indian epic composed by the sage Valmiki. It tells the story of Lord Rama, the prince of Ayodhya, and his journey through love, exile, and war. Here’s a summary of the epic:

1. Birth of Rama & Early Life

King Dasharatha of Ayodhya had three queens but no children. After performing a sacred ritual, he was blessed with four sons—Rama (born to Queen Kaushalya), Bharata (to Kaikeyi), and Lakshmana and Shatrughna (to Sumitra). Rama, the eldest, was virtuous, strong, and beloved by all. He married Sita, the daughter of King Janaka, after winning her in a swayamvara (a contest of strength and valor).

1. Exile to the Forest

As Dasharatha planned to crown Rama as king, Kaikeyi, influenced by a maid named Manthara, demanded that her son Bharata be made king and Rama be exiled for 14 years. Bound by his father’s word, Rama, along with his wife Sita and his devoted brother Lakshmana, left for the forest.

1. Sita’s Abduction

During their exile, the demon king Ravana of Lanka, seeking revenge for his sister Surpanakha, tricked Rama and Lakshmana and kidnapped Sita. He took her to Lanka, hoping to make her his queen.

1. Hanuman & the Search for Sita

Rama and Lakshmana, in their quest to find Sita, allied with Hanuman and the Vanara (monkey) army, led by Sugriva. Hanuman, the mighty devotee of Rama, crossed the ocean, found Sita in Lanka, and assured her of Rama’s arrival.

1. War with Ravana

Rama built a bridge (Rama Setu) across the ocean with the help of Hanuman and his army. A great war ensued between Rama’s forces and Ravana’s mighty demon army. After fierce battles, Rama killed Ravana and rescued Sita.

1. Return to Ayodhya & Rama’s Rule

After proving her purity through a trial by fire, Sita returned to Ayodhya with Rama. Rama was crowned king, and his reign, known as Rama Rajya, was a golden era of peace and prosperity.

1. Sita’s Departure & Rama’s Final Journey

Due to doubts among his people, Rama reluctantly sent Sita to the forest, where she gave birth to their twin sons, Luv and Kush. After proving her chastity again, Sita returned to the earth. Later, Rama ended his earthly journey and returned to his divine abode.

The Ramayana is not just a story but a guide on dharma (righteousness), devotion, and duty, inspiring millions over generations.