The Ramayana EssayRK Narayan's Ramayana is an epic story that provides insight into many aspects of Indian culture and still influences politics, religion and art today of modern India. He based his novel on a poem from one of India's great Sanskrit epics, also called "Ramayana." He revived this ancient story, condensed it and set it in modern times. It is a story of adventure and friendship as well as a story of psychological insight, spiritual significance and wisdom. RK Narayan does a great job in depicting all these aspects throughout his novel. The meanings of the Ramayana are found through the actions and personalities of its main characters. It is part of sacred literature for Hindus because it speaks of the meaning of life. And how one should learn from this meaning and grow as a person and a Hindu. Rama's mission in life to fight evil begins when Viswamithra takes Rama and his brother Lakshmana from their home. Viswamithra teaches him how to use divine weapons or deities of various weapons. Rama falls in love with Sita who, due to an engagement, must only be married to someone who can lift, bend and string Shiva's giant bow. The task presents no problem for Rama. After Rama's marriage, Sita and Lakshmana return to Ayodhya, where King Dasaratha (Rama's father) announces his resignation in favor of Rama as his successor. Kaikeyi is the favorite wife of Dasaratha and the mother of Rama's half-brother Bharata. She uses a wish that was granted to her several years before that required Rama to be exiled to a forest for 14 years. Rama and Sita, dressed in tree bark, head into the forest where they encounter strange and wonderful creatures and beings. They meet Jatayu, the ...... middle of paper ...... th person who is loyal and committed to you. These ideas shine through each of the characters. Rama is faithful to duty and harmony, while Hanuman, Lakshmana and Sita all demonstrate the good qualities of friendship. You should not be full of pride and lust. These traits manifest through the evil Ravana. The epic story of Rama and his partners and enemies gives implications for how one might live one's life. It shows how one can succeed through his positive traits and how one might fail if he followed the path of Ravana. RK Narayan has done a great job using ancient Sanskrit to write this wonderful story. The plot was full of excitement and the meanings of all the characters' actions can be applied in our lives today. It was truly a magnificent work of literature. RK Narayan's interpretation of 'Ramayana »"