Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons
Author: Anand Neelakantan
Genre: Non-Fiction/ Theology
Published by HarperCollins India
Pages: 387
MRP: Rs. 599/-
Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/4hvsEEZ
Thank you Harper Collins India for a review copy of the book.
Introduction
Anand Neelakantan’s Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons invites readers to delve into the multifaceted world of the Ramayana, a tale that has transcended time and geography, adapting to countless cultures and interpretations. Through this book, Neelakantan embarks on a mission to compile folk, oral, and textual variations of the Ramayana, creating a rich tapestry of stories that resonate with contemporary life lessons. With a unique approach rooted in the oral storytelling tradition, the book goes beyond a singular narrative, emphasizing the diverse lenses through which the epic has been understood across generations.
Cover Illustration by Onkar Fondekar
The cover art by Onkar Fondekar is a visual treat, designed in the style of Kerala mural art—a form celebrated for its vibrant colors, intricate details, and mythological themes. This style immediately grounds the book in the traditions of Southern India, reflecting the cultural depth of the stories within. The Kerala mural art emphasizes storytelling through visuals, a concept that mirrors Neelakantan’s textual exploration of the Ramayana’s many retellings. The cover captures the essence of myth and its interplay with history, serving as an evocative introduction to the book.
Illustrations by Subu Chowara
The in-book illustrations by Subu Chowara complement Neelakantan’s narrative beautifully. The artwork is evocative, with a focus on bringing characters and pivotal moments to life. Subu’s ability to portray the emotional and philosophical undertones of the tales enhances the reader’s engagement, making abstract ideas more accessible. The visual interpretations bridge the gap between the textual and the visual, creating a holistic experience of storytelling.
The Design Team at Harper has also done a tremendous job in designing the cover alongside Onkar! The yellow actually pops-out! You must really experience this, in-person!
Structure and Content Analysis
A Primer on the Ramayana’s Universality
Neelakantan begins by positioning the Ramayana as more than a story of Rama’s exploits. It is, in his words, a dharma shastra—a guide to living a righteous life. The book’s foreword sets the stage for its exploratory nature, discussing how the epic evolved through oral traditions, regional adaptations, and religious reinterpretations. This introduction also emphasizes the Ramayana’s dynamic quality, as a living text that reflects societal changes and human dilemmas over millennia.
Lessons from the Infinite Ramayanas
The book’s core strength lies in its ability to present the Ramayana as a multifaceted prism of human experience. Neelakantan draws from multiple versions of the epic, including those from Jain, Buddhist, and folk traditions. This comparative analysis highlights the Ramayana’s adaptability, showing how the same story evolves based on cultural, historical, and geographical contexts.
A recurring theme is the absence of clear-cut binaries of good and evil. For example, Ravana’s portrayal in the Southern Recension differs significantly from the devotional lens often seen in North Indian retellings. Neelakantan’s narrative invites readers to empathize with all characters, challenging conventional notions of heroism and villainy.
The Power of Karma and Dharma
One of the book’s central discussions revolves around the concepts of karma (action) and dharma (duty/righteousness). Through anecdotes and reflections, Neelakantan illustrates how these ideas are woven into the Ramayana’s fabric. The tale of Jaya and Vijaya—Vishnu’s doorkeepers cursed to be reborn as Ravana and Kumbhakarna—becomes a profound exploration of choice, consequence, and redemption. This theme resonates deeply in a modern context, where personal responsibility and ethical dilemmas remain relevant.
Stories That Illuminate
Neelakantan’s use of storytelling as a pedagogical tool is evident throughout. Tales such as Ratnakara’s transformation into Valmiki emphasize the potential for personal growth and redemption. Similarly, the depiction of Dasaratha’s impulsive boons to Kaikeyi, leading to unforeseen consequences, underscores the importance of mindfulness in decision-making.
The narrative also explores lesser-known facets of the epic, such as Shanta’s story. Her journey from Ayodhya’s palace to becoming a key figure in the Putrakameshti Yagna brings attention to sidelined characters and their indispensable roles in the larger narrative.
Contemporary Relevance
Neelakantan’s genius lies in drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern challenges. The book’s lessons are timeless, addressing issues of leadership, morality, resilience, and self-discovery. By presenting the Ramayana not as a static text but as an evolving guide to life, the author empowers readers to find relevance in its teachings today.
Strengths and Highlights
Diverse Perspectives: Neelakantan’s commitment to showcasing multiple versions of the Ramayana enriches the reader’s understanding of its complexity.
Philosophical Depth: The book balances storytelling with introspection, offering profound insights into human nature and universal truths.
Visual Aesthetics: The illustrations by Subu Chowara and the cover art by Onkar Fondekar elevate the book’s appeal, making it a feast for the eyes and the mind.
Accessibility: Written in a conversational tone, the book bridges scholarly analysis and popular appeal, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Areas for Improvement
While the book excels in presenting diverse narratives, its structure can occasionally feel fragmented. Readers unfamiliar with the Ramayana may find it challenging to follow the flow without prior context. A glossary or timeline of events could enhance accessibility for first-time readers of the epic.
Conclusion
Many Ramayanas, Many Lessons by Anand Neelakantan is a compelling exploration of one of the world’s most enduring epics. By presenting the Ramayana as a dynamic, multi-layered story, the book encourages readers to question, reflect, and discover their own lessons within its pages. The combination of evocative illustrations and profound storytelling makes it a valuable addition to both personal and academic collections. This book is not just a retelling of the Ramayana; it is an invitation to engage with its timeless wisdom in deeply personal ways.
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