It was interesting that these stories actually match up with
the geography of India. For example, I have always wondered how did a line of
rocks formed between Sri Lanka and South India. I have heard a lot about
Rameswaram while watching Tamil movies. Ravana has the power of illution. In
addition, he was able to become invisible. Ravana played "dirty"
while trying to win the war. He caused many wounds on Lakshman and Rama by
being invisible. Previously I have heard about Kumbakarna. He sleeps and when
he wakes up he eats. During summer when I sleep in and wake up just to eat, my
mom used to ask if I am an avatar of Kumbakarna! He is definitely an
interesting character. I did not know he was a rakshasa. Hanuman rooted up
mountain Himalaya- one of the biggest mountains in the world. Rama is destined to beat Ravana in the war.
Thus, gods sends Rama aids to win this war and keep watching over him. The
serpent arrows were interesting, once you fire an arrow it changes into serpents.
Rama defeated Ravana with his Brahma weapon. It is interesting that a god will make
weapon for protection. Rama was forced to exile Sita. Their love has been
tested once again. After Sita is taken by the earth, Lakhman by the gods, Rama
also leaves the earth to become Vishnu again.
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| "Rama's Bridge" between Sri Lanka and India |
Anu, I liked how you incorporated the geography of India into your reading diary post. It's interesting how you are aware of the stories of Rama, Ravana, etc from watching Tamil movies and hearing stories of the epics since you grew up in South India before coming to the United States. I also have heard of some stories, but that is mainly from watching Bollywood movies.
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