AHAM – Chapter 5: DETERMINATION OF SITA: UNCHALLENGED LOVE

DETERMINATION OF SITA: UNCHALLENGED LOVE

Defeat or victory in war is as inevitable as life itself. It is a stark reality that we must accept. Life can be more daunting than death. It is evident that those who triumph in battle may still face struggles in their personal lives. Take the example of Rama and Ravana. While Rama emerged victorious in the war of ideologies, he faced challenges in his personal life. He was abandoned by his wife Sita and his children, leaving him feeling lonely and burdened with guilt. Even his beloved brother Lakshmana’s tragic jalsamadhi added to his sorrow. In contrast, the seemingly cowardly Sugreeva and Vibheeshana thrived in power and luxury, ruling over their subjects. Despite the passage of time, we continue to grapple with our own ignorance, striving to uphold Rama’s legacy of defeating deceitful foes like Bali and navigating the complexities of life.

Even today, in any war, innocent warriors are losing their lives for the sake of victory that only brings glory to their King, sacrificing their self-respect and identity. The kings will receive all the praise from the world, while the people and their sacrifices will be forgotten. The tears shed by their families will go unnoticed and unappreciated.

The profound philosophical exploration of victory and defeat, examining their implications in the context of warfare and life in general. The emotional toll of winning a war or accomplishing a goal is emphasized, as seen in Rama’s experience of guilt, loneliness, and sorrow following his victories. This suggests that external triumphs do not always lead to inner peace and contentment. Rama was left to grapple with these emotional burdens for the rest of his life, rather than utilizing his full potential to govern the country. Presently, in the land of Bharath, well-intentioned and capable rulers are being misled by emotionally-driven citizens who feign loyalty to the king.

The impact of war on personal relationships is exemplified by Rama’s estrangement from Sita and the loss of his brother Lakshmana. The emotional toll of leadership and warfare can result in significant personal losses and strained relationships.

Rama’s struggle between his public image as a successful king and his private feelings of failure and guilt illustrates cognitive dissonance. This psychological state occurs when there is a discrepancy between one’s beliefs or actions and their emotional responses or self-perception.

The mention of innocent warriors sacrificing their lives for their kings’ glory highlights the concept of survivor’s guilt, where survivors of a traumatic event, such as war, feel guilty for having survived while others did not.

This situation highlights the temporary nature of life and the contrast between different experiences. It emphasizes that success and failure, as well as life and death, are inevitable aspects of existence, illustrating the interconnectedness of all things.

The reflection on the ethics of war and the moral responsibilities of leaders. It juxtaposes Rama’s triumphs with the suffering of innocent soldiers, suggesting that effective leadership requires considering the broader impact on society.

The notion that kings receive praise while the common people’s sacrifices are overlooked exposes the fallacy of glory. This aligns with the idea that societal recognition and admiration often fail to acknowledge the true costs of accomplishments.

The mention of Rama’s loneliness and guilt, despite his victories, is in line with the philosophy of renunciation found in many Eastern traditions. This philosophy promotes detachment from worldly achievements and recognition of the true nature of the inner self as the path to genuine peace and enlightenment.

Sita’s emotional turmoil when doubted by Rama is a poignant moment in the Ramayana. She felt betrayed by her beloved husband, causing immense pain. The accusation shattered her heart, undermining her faith in their relationship and leading to profound heartbreak. Despite being surrounded by people, she felt isolated and lonely, as Rama distanced himself emotionally. Her willingness to undergo the Agni Pariksha to prove her purity showed her inner strength and determination to uphold her dignity. Sita’s story remains a powerful example of unwavering faith and moral fortitude in adversity.

The author prompts existential contemplation on the essence of life and death, indicating that life can be more daunting and demanding than death itself. This resonates with existential philosophy, which delves into the meaning and purpose of life in the face of inevitable mortality.

The tale of Ramayan ultimately delves into the human condition, underscoring the intricacies and paradoxes of life. It underscores the psychological battles and philosophical inquiries that emerge from our encounters with victory, defeat, and the quest for significance.

In conclusion, the love between Sita and Rama in the Ramayana showcases mutual respect, emotional resilience, selflessness, trust, and loyalty. These qualities exemplify the strength and endurance of their deep emotional bond. The Ramayana teaches valuable lessons on family bonding and cultural values such as loyalty, sacrifice, respect, and compassion. These qualities are essential for a harmonious and fulfilling life, resonating in Indian culture and beyond.

Dr. Sreedhar Saraswathy

Social Circle