Dr. Arvind Kumar*
Lord Rama is one of the most revered and influential figures in the Hindu tradition. His life story, as narrated in the epic Ramayana, has inspired countless generations of people across time and space. In the world full of luxuries and frivolities Rama represents sustainable way of consumption and living in harmony with nature. His ideals of righteousness, duty, compassion, and courage have shaped the moral and ethical values of Indian society. The contemporary relevance of Lord Rama can be construed from various perspectives, such as familial, social, cultural, spiritual, and ethical. In the words of Swami Vivekananda, Rama is “the embodiment of truth, of morality, the ideal son, ideal brother, ideal friend, the ideal husband and above all, the ideal king”. He is a symbol of the victory of right over the evil, civilization and values. Lord Rama characterizes how a man should fulfill his moral commitments and should strictly follow his limits so that social order can be maintained. It is precisely due to this fact, he is known as “Marayada Puroshattam” or “The man of limits”. He exemplifies the ideal king, leader, and warrior, who rule his kingdom with justice, wisdom, and benevolence. He shows us how to serve our society and uphold its values and interests, and how to deal with the conflicts and challenges that arise in the course of our social interactions.
But what makes him relevant in today’s age? How can his teachings and actions guide us in the face of the challenges and opportunities that we encounter in the modern world? What makes Rama hold such sway over the hearts and minds of generations, both old and young?
The character of Shri Ram is culminate, ethically high, relentless, powerful, stoical, courageous, brave individual who has patience in every troublesome time and never veer off from his track. He is really sort of a hardliner king in case of following rules and laws of the kingdom. That’s why he is additionally known as “Maryada Purushottam”. In contemporary times it would concur that it is a sign of a great ruler who not only executes laws and regulations legitimately in his kingdom but moreover not consider himself above law. The framework of administration amid the Ramayana period if examined is shockingly found to compare favourably indeed with the foremost modern concepts of administration. The Ramayana polity demonstrates that the old sagas are still an imperative guide to handle the present crises.
The timelessness of Ram the person and Ram the ruler
Lord Rama is a timeless and universal figure, who transcends the boundaries and the barriers of time, space, and culture. He is relevant and inspiring for people of all ages and backgrounds, who seek to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. He is a role model and a guide, who teaches and demonstrates the ideals and the values of human society and individual happiness. He is a friend and a companion, who supports and accompanies us in our journey and our quest. He is a source and a goal, which reveals and bestows the ultimate truth and the bliss. He is Lord Rama, the embodiment of dharma, the incarnation of Vishnu, and the ideal human being.
Lord Rama and Sita represent the ideal couple, who are united by love, trust, and respect. They support each other in times of difficulty and celebrate each other’s virtues and achievements. They also complement each other’s personalities and abilities, as Sita is more assertive and adventurous, while Rama is more calm and cautious. They show us how to maintain a healthy and harmonious partnership, based on mutual understanding and appreciation. Lord Rama and Lakshmana share a deep bond of affection and loyalty, as they protect and assist each other in various situations. He treats Lakshmana as his equal and his friend, rather than his subordinate or his servant. He listens to his advice and praises his courage and wisdom. He does not fight for personal vengeance or glory, but for the sake of dharma, or the cosmic order and moral law. He also does not resort to any unfair or unethical means but follows the rules and conventions of warfare. He respects his enemy and offers him a chance to surrender and repent. He also shows his gratitude and generosity towards his allies and supporters. He shows us how to be a righteous and courageous warrior, who fights for a noble cause and with a noble spirit. He shows us how to be a just and wise king, who rules with compassion and integrity.
He exemplifies the ideal embodiment of the Hindu tradition, which is based on the principles of dharma, karma, and bhakti. He shows us how to live according to the teachings and practices of our culture, and how to enrich and preserve it for future generations. He upholds his dharma as a human being and does not violate the natural and ethical laws that bind him. He protects and restores the dharma, when it is threatened or disturbed by the forces of adharma, or chaos and evil. He shows us how to live according to our dharma, and how to align our actions and intentions with the higher purpose and the greater good.
Showing a way ahead
Rama’s life has been an embodiment of selflessness. He believes in equity and inclusion which is the cornerstone of respect and dignity he deems on people he encounter like kevat or shabari. He does not discriminate or oppress anyone, but rather embraces and uplifts them. He also learns from them and appreciates their contributions and qualities. He shows us how to act according to our karma, and how to transcend the cycle of birth and death, by attaining liberation or moksha. He exemplifies the ideal seeker and the master, who realizes his true nature and his ultimate identity. He shows us how to pursue our spiritual path and attain our highest potential, and how to guide and inspire others in their spiritual journey. He chooses to follow his duty, trust his people, uphold his honor, and sacrifice his love for the sake of his kingdom and his reputation. He does not act out of malice or cruelty, but out of compassion and responsibility. He shows us how to deal with ethical dilemmas, and how to make difficult and painful choices, by considering the consequences and the implications of our actions. There is scope and space for everyone. Is it not what we all are vying for- equity, inclusion, respect and no discrimination based on caste, creed, gender or affluence. He shows us how to be a humble and inclusive leader, who respects and values diversity and pluralism.
The paradox of a rapidly shrinking world in which communication is easier than ever before is that human beings are now increasingly isolated from one another. In a world that’s divided by hatred, the tale of Rama who faces adversity with patience, humility and compassion, and triumphs over evil, is an aspirational tale as well as an inspiring one. To follow in his footsteps on a path of righteousness is to sublimate one’s ego and broaden one’s consciousness to live a virtuous life filled with purpose. It is perhaps time we are inspired to follow not only his name but also his values if we want to continue to keep ‘Rama’ relevant to modern society where no one is left behind.
*Editor, Focus Global Reporter
