Reading Diary B: Public Domain Ramayana

1. Rama Attacks

This story was interesting because it built up to the climax of the story. Ravana’s spies inform him that he needs to surrender Sita. He is angry and refuses, but later, he goes to Sita and tries to trick her by saying that Rama had been killed. Sita is crushed and she begs Ravana to behead her. Before he gets a chance, he is called away to war. As he rushes off to war, Sita is aware that he tried to trick her and she is distraught.

2. Hanuman and the Mountain

Prince Indrajit vows to kill Rama and Lakshmana. He makes a sacrifice to the god of fire in order to keep his vow. The god gives him a brahma-weapon. Indrajit attacks any monkeys and many men from the army. When Hanuman sees what Indrajit has done now, he knows he must take charge to ensure the safety of the men of the army.

3. Indra's Chariot

The beautiful poetry of this story ties together the drama of the Ramayana perfectly. The gods are watching the battle between Rama and Ravana from above. They had already planned for Rama to win the battle so they ensured the win by Indra coming down to help Rama. He brought his chariot and charioteer, Matali, to help Rama win the battle against Ravana. Where exactly are the gods watching the battle?

Rama battles Ravana, shooting off his heads
(British Library: Mewar Ramayana)

4. Sita and Rama

Rama and Sita are once again united after the battle. Sita cannot believe that she is seeing Rama again. Just as she is appreciating his presence, Rama breaks the news to her that Lanka and Sugriva were slain in battle. Sita is heartbroken.

Public Domain Ramayana