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Book Review: Markandeya Ramayana - Deepak M R

 

(Pic Courtesy : Amazon Kindle)


Ramayana is one of the foremost worshipped, widely read and heavily referenced works from the pantheon on Santana Dharma. One of the two Itihasas, it records the trials, tribulation of Sri Rama who is considered as Maryada Purushottam, one whose reign is considered as the golden benchmark for the modern society to emulate. Rama Rajya is a divine feeling which every soul on this blessed land of Bharatha aspires for. The legend of such a towering personality is bound to evoke emotions and adulation from the wider populace. Srimad Valmiki Ramayana is the authentic source of Ramayana, one which is widely read and worshipped.

However, Ramayana on its own has multiple variations with each retelling having its own quirks and deviations from the classical version. One such version is narrated by Rsi Markandeya to Pandavas when they return after Draupadi’s humiliation by Jayadratha. This is a very fast paced Ramayana, concise to be precise. There are quite a few deviations, most of which has been documented by the author at the end of the book. However, the book has some interesting anecdotes like Kaikasi’s another name (Pushpotkata), the origins of Manthara being a Gandharva woman named Dundubi etc.

Some of the missing pieces from the original apart from the one listed down by the author include the Vali - Sugriva background story, Hanuman’s conundrum prior to the leap to Lanka with the inspiration from Jambavan, his interaction with Lankini and more importantly his interaction with Ravana where Hanuman is impressed with Ravana’s personality, but for his adharma. Essentially a good part of Sundara Kanda is missing from this version, except for Trijata's interaction with Seetha, but doesn’t contain her dream which is considered one of the critical points of Sundara Kanda.]

One of the standout features is the use of correct words like Rakshasas and apes. The specific choices were made to be accurate and inline with the critical edition of Itihasa.

The story of Sri Rama should be read, re-read, worshipped and read more. Every new reading will give a new perspective and provide some points to take away. DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED READ


 




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