Reading Notes: Tiny Tales Ramayana, Part A

Reading Notes: Tiny Tales Ramayana, Part A

The Ramayana begins with the birth of Dashagriva, who is later known as Ravana. Ravana realized the only way to become invincible was to keep a fast and pray for thousands of years. In return, Brahma granted Ravana his boons – immortal nectar. Ravana encountered Shiva one day and decided to pick a fight with him which he lost. Yet, because of his strength and honor, Ravana became a devotee of Shiva. Ravana in return wants Parvathi, Shiva’s wife, and without refusing his request - Shiva grants it. Parvathi turned a frog into her double and she became Ravana’s wife - Mandodari. 

Ravana with the many boons granted to him started to occupy areas in which Devas resided. Ravana attacks Kubera after he pleaded to Ravana that it was wrong for him to attack the Devas and priests. Ravana misbehaves with Vedavati – who will reincarnate as Sita. Ravana becomes the monkey Vali’s friend. Rishyashringa was summoned by Dasharatha to give him a son, meanwhile the devas prayed to Vishnu that the son of Dasharatha be his avatar. 

Rama, the son of Dasharatha is born. Kaushalya, Rama’s mother, was in shock after she found out her son held the entire universe within his body. In a fight against the armies of Shambara, Queen Kaikeyi saved Dasharatha. She provided him her arm to replace the axle carrying the chariot and led him to safety when he became injured. Dasharatha granted her two boons that she would be able to use whenever – but he would regret this later. Dasharatha accidently shot a boy and knew his karma may come – he would lose his son. 

Rama is prepared to face Tataka and her sons – Vishvamitra aids Rama with weapons in regard of his safety. Sita was found by Janaka, King of Videha, as she was left buried by Mandodari, Ravana’s wife. 

Rama was the only one, who not only strung, but bent the bow – Sita and Rama were married.

Rama and Sita (from Wikipedia)

Bibliography: Tiny Tales from the Ramayana from Laura Gibbs