The Ramayana is one of the two major ancient epics of Hinduism. It follows the journey of Rama, the 8th avatar of the god Vishnu, and his fight against the demon king Ravana who kidnaps his wife Sita. The story promotes themes of compassion, hospitality, and ideal behavior in relationships and leadership. There are many versions of the Ramayana as it existed as an oral tradition for centuries before being written down by Valmiki and others, and it continues to be retold and reflected upon in different ways across India.

1. the Ramayana protagonist story

2. Hindu religion Polytheistic 3 major gods in the Ramayana: Bramha – the Creator Shiva – the Destroyer of evil Vishnu – the Preserver of balance ( often depicted as the color of a stormcloud ) Has 10 avatars (incarnations) #8 is Ram #9 is Krishna #10 is Kulki (yet to come)

3. Rama Used for surprise/shock (“Oh, God!”) Closest word the Hindi language has to the word “god” Used as a greeting (“RamRam”) Written on EVERYTHING In India, the characters of the Ramayana are used to sell products (cigarettes, furnaces, cars, etc.)

4. Hinduism (con’t) Belief in reincarnation Dharma – to know and obey one’s duty in life Karma – the consequences of doing one’s dharma

5. Authors There are as many Ramayanas as there are grains of sand on the seashore. Old Hindu saying Valmiki – first to write it down; existed as an oral traditon for several centuries beforehand TulsiDas – most popular version. Wrote it down around 300 CE & changed the characters actions a little.

6. 15 major languages in India, so some changes to the names (Rama in original Sanskrit becomes Ram in Hindi). Ramayana text is considered imperfect; it’s a blueprint, a seed. The story lives when it is told. Expounders – people who take a small section of text and tell it in detail The Ramayana is not reality; it is a mirror that reflect reality. REMEMBER: THIS IS A LIVING EPIC!

7. Themes Compassion for the lowly Hospitality Models of behavior Perfect son Perfect brother Perfect wife Perfect husband Perfect King