Reading Notes: PDE Ramayana, Part D

Public Domain Edition of the Ramayana, Part D

by Multiple Authors from Various Sources: M. Dutt, R. Dutt, Gould, Griffith, Hodgson, Mackenzie, Nivedita, Oman, Richardson, and Ryder.

Notetaking Strategy: Focus on Favorite Episode

• My favorite episode in this reading was Episode 77. Rama Crowned King.
• It is about time that Rama assumes to be the heir of his father's throne!
• Fourteen years have passed in the eventful forest where there seemed to always be a battle that had to be fought. 
• The people of Ayodhya rejoiced that Rama has returned and will become their king again. 
• They dressed Rama and Sita in silky nice clothes and gave them the gemmed and jewelled seat. 
• They searched and brought back sacred water from distant places so that the priests may pour it on and bless Rama and Sita with the sacred water. 
• They placed the crown of the Maharajah along with jewels on top of Rama's head. 
• Even an umbrella was put over Rama so to provide shade for the fearless king. 
• More so, gifts of golden garland and wreath of pearls were sent to Rama in celebration. 
• Therefore, upon Rama's return to his kingdom, a full-out party was released amongst the people. There was music (and I assume dancing) and gifts upon gifts for King Rama.
• Not only the rich celebrated Rama's return, but even the poor (in spirit and in goods). 
• Even those who had every right to be sad about what is going on in their own lives, for example the widows, were no longer crying in their sorrow.
• Robbers, cheats, and deceivers were did not dare lie.
• Neighbors loved each other!
• As the rich and poor people celebrated, so did Mother Earth. 
• The trees provided much fruit for the people.
• The rains came which enabled a rich pasture with ample crop and fertile soil.
• This is my favorite episode because Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita was forced into a hard life by a jealous peer. Their life in the forest tested them in every way. There was battles after battles, and even though they won these battles, it can for sure take a toil on these people. Rama has lived his life with class. He could have been filled with anger against his father and stepmom for causing him to live a tough life in the forest, but he did not. Rather, Rama filled his heart with love for his wife, Sita, and brother, Lakshmana, instead of any anger. Therefore, I just feel like it was about time that he is celebrated for his wonderful attitude and superior strength. 

Image source: Rama's coronation.

Bibliography: Public Domain Edition of the Ramayana, Part D; Multiple Authors from Various Sources: M. Dutt, R. Dutt, Gould, Griffith, Hodgson, Mackenzie, Nivedita, Oman, Richardson, and Ryder.