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08Ikigai

What can one learn from Ramayana?

There are innumerable lessons we can learn from the epic Ramayana.

In total, it is Victory of Good over Evil. It is all about following your dharma. It also is an eternal story of Love. As a king, Rama can have multiple wives. But his love for Sitama took him all the way to Lanka, fight with the fiercest rakshasas of that time and bring her back to Ayodhya. Let us not forget that when he started in search of Sitama, he was all alone (just with his brother Laxmana).

Each character in this depicts the qualities we should imbibe to make this life meaningful.

Ramayya shows us how to be a good Son, a good brother, a good Student, a good Husband, a good Friend, Ray of Hope, a good Leader, a good Father, etc., It is all about being a good human being, to be humble and without any ego. He is an epitome of love and responsibility with equal talent and leadership.

From Sitama, it is all about being a good daughter, daughter-in-law, etc., How to hold yourself and yourself esteem in difficult times.She is the embodiment of true love and courage. The confidence in Rama and love for the people of the land are amazing.

Hanuman: He is an embodiment of trust. Though being the strongest warrior, his humbleness, love for his lord are more dominant and they became his strength. Strength comes from faith and what comes to his mind all the time is Jai Sri Ram!! That total faith in his master gives him all the strength needed to overcome all the hurdles.

Ravana: You may be the strongest person ever; but your ego is your enemy. It will destroy you to the core. Never let your mind rule over you. It is not having numerous skills that matters, it is character that matters.

Vibhishana: Though born as a rakshasa, he is wise enough to support dharma. In life it is not about where and how you are born and brought up, it is all about which side you are (dharma or adharma). Even if you are alone and nobody supports you, still stand by dharma.You will ultimately win, over yourself and others too.

Sugriva: You should always keep your word. After victory over Vaali, he accompanies Rama in his search for Sitama and proves to be a trust worthy good friend. And this list goes unending...

There is also a spiritual significance:

Ego (Ravana) takes away your Mind (Sitama) causing disturbance to Self (Rama). To bring back your mind (Sita), you take the help of Breath (Hanuman). You (Rama) should always lead your life with Awareness (Laxman).

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