Reading Diary A: Rama Goes Away

So this began even worse than I recall it being in the previous version we read of the Ramayana. Not only was Rama sent into exile, he was also disinherited!? Geez. This story gets worse and worse. And now the king has died? This is depressing. Bharata is still loyal as ever to Rama, his brother. Bharata’s crazy mother, Kaikeyi is included in the group of people who follow Rama into the forest. She should have been forced to stay home after all the trouble she caused. Vinata is now a slave because she lost a bet—one which was rigged? People really can’t play nice in this story can they? Who loses their freedom over a little bet? So Ravana’s sister falls in love with Rama on site, and Ravana falls in love with Sita only from haring her physical description. Goodness, this must be one sexy couple! But seriously, what is this nonsense? Why does everyone in this story fall in love for such shallow reasons? I noticed Rama and Sita are one of few couples who are not in a polygamous relationship. I wonder if this has something to do with their status in India and Hindu culture as a “perfect couple” or if it is a mere coincidence…

(Image from Indian Epics Resources)