Sri Ramavatar-Part VI

Another striking aspect of the Avatar is, that though Sri Rama was same to all, the vision of the various characters about Him varies according to the inner development of the individual concerned! Though the Lord appeared as the son of Dasaratha, the father failed to recognize the greatness of the son, though in the same palace sages Vishwamithra and Vasishta knew the divine aspect of Sri Rama. This is spelt out in sage Vishwamitra's address to Dasaratha when he was reluctant to part with Rama despite his earlier promise.

"I know the high souled Rama as a great Mahatma, rooted in unfailing prowess! The highly glorious sage Vasishta and other great Rishis also know him as such"

Again, of the Mothers, Kausalya and Kaikeyi did not know Rama as Sumitra did! Amongst the brothers, Bharatha's vision of Rama differed from that of Lakshmana.

The avatar's another important purpose is to unearth gems of characters, during Sri Rama's march from Ayodhya to Lanka and back, serving as object lessons. Thus, we have the dedicated Lakshmana, the noble Bharatha, the loyal Guha, the devoted Sabari, the reliable friend Sugriva, Tara, Mandodari and from the enemy camp, the Dharmatma Vibhishana,.

Last, but not least, one of the important purposes of the avatara is to project the Bhakta Chakravarthi, Anjaneya, who is significantly, referred to in the Dhyana Sloka of the epic as the Ramayana Mahamala Ratna,' radiant gem and pendant in the garland of Ramayana'. This unique Rama Dasa demonstrates in the epic, 'Service above self' which is the only motto of His life. This mighty character, who won the confidence of His Master and secured a certificate at their very first meeting and earned the spontaneous embrace of gratitude from Sri Rama at the end, has many lessons to teach for the modern youngsters! He also obtained Sita Devi's certificate in Lanka after His mighty exploits there!

Hanuman's achievements are beautifully portrayed in the famous 'Sundara Kanda' of the epic. Within one and half days, He had crossed the ocean by his strength, valour and skill, tactfully met and saved Sita Devi, consoled Her and created hope and confidence in Her, advised Dharma to Ravana with great diplomacy, set fire to Lanka, returned safely and consoled Sri Rama, serving as His excellent ambassador. He is the life-saver in the Ramayana. His powerful portrayal of Sri Rama and Sita Devi, to each other, is eternal and profound and won the admiration and blessings of both!

Read more of the glory of Hanuman in the Next Page