A compelling anthology exploring the Ramayana’s global influence on art, culture, ethics and spirituality, says Sakshi Priya
About the Book
Book: Ramayana in World Art and Thought
Edited by: Shovana Narayan
Publisher: Shubhi Publisher
Price: Rs 2995/-
Few epics have the same influence as the Ramayana. Its impact stretches far beyond the pages of a single book, reaching into cultures, beliefs and art across centuries and continents. Ramayana in World Art and Thought – An Anthology of Diverse Perspectives, edited by Padmashri Shovana Narayan, is a powerful example of the global reach of this ancient epic. This beautifully compiled coffee table book offers a deep dive into the heart of the Ramayana, exploring its impact on art, ethics, spirituality and morality.
With contributions from sixteen distinguished scholars, historians and artists such as Sharon Lowen, Lady Kishwar Desai and Rana Safvi, this anthology sheds light on the wide-ranging influence of the Ramayana and its presence in global thought and art.
The book is the recognition that the Ramayana, a work that has inspired over 300 versions across various cultures, has spread across geographical boundaries. Its stories and characters, from the heroic Rama to the devoted Hanuman, remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago. The book explores these themes, offering fresh perspectives on how the epic has shaped not only the moral and ethical landscapes of various societies but also their artistic and cultural expressions.
One of the most engaging essays in this anthology explores the historical ties between the city of Ayodhya and South Korea, offering a fascinating look at the ancient connections that link different parts of the world through the Ramayana. It’s stories like these that highlight how this epic, originally rooted in Indian tradition, has reached distant corners of the globe. Another compelling piece looks into the Mughal-era depictions of Rama, examining how the warrior prince’s persona has been immortalised in art, illustrating his commitment to righteousness and justice.
However, it’s not the epic’s warriors who capture attention. The book also highlights the immense strength and devotion embodied by the female characters of the Ramayana. The role of Sita, as a symbol of shakti and resilience, is explored in-depth, adding layers of meaning to her character that are often overlooked in traditional readings. Similarly, the devotion of Hanuman, whose loyalty and service to Rama have inspired countless followers, takes centre stage in several of the essays.
The anthology also examines the Ramayana’s ecological landscape, reflecting how the epic portrays the diverse natural environments of ancient Bharatvarsha. This provides a unique perspective on how the Ramayana shapes human behaviour and connects humanity to the land, highlighting the relationship between moral values and the natural world.
In exploring these themes, the anthology highlights the remarkable ways in which the Ramayana has influenced not only Indian culture but also cultures across South and Southeast Asia. The essays trace how this epic was carried by traders, priests and adventurers across the seas, shaping the arts and beliefs of distant lands. The Ramayana found its way into the hearts of the people of Southeast Asia, where it became deeply embedded in the region’s performing arts, architecture and literature.
One of the more poignant contributions in this collection reflects on the changes brought about by the Partition of India and how the Ramayana’s geographical ties to regions like Punjab have been lost in the process. Yet, as Lady Kishwar Desai notes, even amidst the upheaval, the ancient connections between the epic and the land continue to survive in local beliefs and archaeological discoveries. Through these insights, the anthology calls for a reevaluation of the spaces where the Ramayana once thrived, especially in regions like Punjab, where the story of Rama and his companions may have once been a living part of everyday life.
Ramayana in World Art and Thought is an insightful exploration of how an ancient text continues to shape the world we live in. It reminds us that the Ramayana is not only part of the past but remains influential today, affecting everything from art and culture to ethics and morality in the modern world. Whether you are a scholar or simply a reader interested in understanding how this epic has influenced global thought, this book will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the Ramayana’s lasting legacy.
