IndianSanskriti

Rama’s Recipe For Victory

What are the criteria for ensuring success in life? Is it access to elaborate material goods or something else? Lord Rama answers these questions.

In Tulsidasa’s Ramcharitamanas, Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, is seized with doubt when he sees Ravana enter the battlefield in a splendid chariot.  Ravana is in full battle gear and his vehicle is loaded with advanced weapons. Rama, in contrast, is barefoot and has only his bow and arrows. He is dressed in simple clothes.

Whereas Ravana is fully protected by armour, Rama has no such protection, Ravana’s army is well equipped, with caparisoned elephants, horses, chariots, and trained soldiers with war experience. Rama’s army comprises mostly of monkeys and bears who are neither trained in warfare nor armed with sophisticated weapons. They only have their claws, teeth, boulders, rocks, and trees improvised as weapons.

On seeing the stark contrast between the two, Vibhishana wonders if Rama can ever be victorious. He expresses his concern to Rama thus: “You are without  proper war gear; what to talk of a chariot, you do not have even a shield. Devoid of them how shall you conquer Ravana?”

Rama replies that victory is assured not by worldly chariots and armaments made of gross components, but by inputs of a different kind. The chances of winning a battle against evil forces is greater with valour and fortitude, the two ‘wheels’ of the chariot. Truthfulness and good and righteous conduct are the banners. Strength, discretion, control of one’s five senses and mind, and munificence are the four horses. Compassion, forgiveness, and equanimity are the ropes that connect the horses with the chariot.

Devotion to God is what drives the chariot that wins. As far as weapons are concerned, detachment acts as shield, and contentment serves as sword. Charity is the axe, wisdom and reason are lances, pikes and spears, and deep knowledge is the bow. An irreproachable and unwavering mind is like the arrow’s case. Shama or non-infatuation, continence, abstinence and restraint  — yamas like ahimsa and pratyahar — and various niyamas or religious and moral observations are the arrows. Devotion to one’s teacher and the learned person is the armour, protective cover like armlets, breastplate, gauntlet, helmet, shell, shield and amulet.

These, according to Rama, are the ingredients of victory. One who has all of these is assured of victory. In fact, such a one has no enemies to be won over. For he has overcome the greatest enemy of all, that is, attachment to worldly things.

Our life is a perennial battle for existence. In the battle for survival, we lose sight of our compassionate nature and become cruel and covetous. We lose sight of right and wrong. Like Ravana we become obstinate, haughty, proud, and arrogant. As a result we become selfish and egotitic and are filled with ahamkara or ego which leads us to downfall and failure.

Using the allegory of a chariot, Rama is explaining the most efficacious method of keeping ego at bay. The one who, after knowing all the pros and cons of issues he is faced with, is able to manage life’s challenges with fortitude, with a detached, serene and firm mind – to him will come success as he does not act impulsively.

Success achieved by using the above ingredients is everlasting and makes one famous whereas ‘success’ attained by dubious means is shortlived and may only bring notoriety and failure.

~ Ashok Vohra, Professor at Delhi University

You may also like

Search the website

Like us on Facebook

Get daily updates via Email

Enter your email address:

Recent Posts

5 Picture Books for Kids to Celebrate Holi with Colors and Stories

Holi is a festival of colors, joy, and togetherness, making it the perfect time to introduce kids to its rich traditions through storytelling. These 5 must-read picture books bring the magic of Holi alive with engaging narratives, vibrant illustrations, and timeless cultural wisdom. From Radha and Krishna’s playful colors to heartwarming sibling adventures, these books will make Holi even more special for young readers.

Regional Variations: How Different States Celebrate Holi

Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with unique regional traditions across India. From Lathmar Holi in Barsana, where women playfully chase men with sticks, to the grandeur of Royal Holi in Rajasthan, each state adds its own flavor to this vibrant celebration. Discover the fascinating ways Holi is observed in different parts of India, including Dol Jatra in Bengal, Holla Mohalla in Punjab, and Yaosang in Manipur. Dive into the cultural diversity of this festival and see how colors unite people across the nation!

The Legend of Holika and Prahlad: A Story of Faith and Courage

Experience the joy of Holi in its traditional essence! This vibrant scene captures the spirit of Holika Dahan with people gathered around a sacred bonfire, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The next day, children and adults immerse themselves in the colors of Holi, celebrating unity, happiness, and the cultural heritage of India. The festive decorations, the ancient temple backdrop, and the joyous atmosphere make this an unforgettable depiction of Holi.

css.php