Download or read book The Goddess as Role Model written by Heidi R.M. Pauwels and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2008-10-09 with total page 577 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book seeks to understand the major mythological role models that mark the moral landscape navigated by young Hindu women. Traditionally, the goddess Sita, faithful consort of the god Rama, is regarded as the most important positive role model for women. The case of Radha, who is mostly portrayed as a clandestine lover of the god Krishna, seems to challenge some of the norms the example of Sita has set. That these role models are just as relevant today as they have been in the past is witnessed by the popularity of the televised versions of their stories, and the many allusions to them in popular culture.Taking the case of Sita as main point of reference, but comparing throughout with Radha, Pauwels studies the messages sent to Hindu women at different points in time. She compares how these role models are portrayed in the most authoritative versions of the story. She traces the ancient, Sanskrit sources, the medieval vernacular retellings of the stories and the contemporary TV versions as well.This comparative analysis identifies some surprising conclusions about the messages sent to Indian women today, which belie the expectations one might have of the portrayals in the latest, more liberal versions. The newer messages turn out to be more conservative in many subtle ways. Significantly, it does not remain limited to the religious domain. By analyzing several popular recent and classical hit movies that use Sita and Radha tropes, Pauwels shows how these moral messages spill into the domain of popular culture for commercial consumption.

Download or read book The Goddess as Role Model written by Heidi R.M. Pauwels and published by Oxford University Press. This book was released on 2008-10-09 with total page 576 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book seeks to understand the major mythological role models that mark the moral landscape navigated by young Hindu women. Traditionally, the goddess Sita, faithful consort of the god Rama, is regarded as the most important positive role model for women. The case of Radha, who is mostly portrayed as a clandestine lover of the god Krishna, seems to challenge some of the norms the example of Sita has set. That these role models are just as relevant today as they have been in the past is witnessed by the popularity of the televised versions of their stories, and the many allusions to them in popular culture. Taking the case of Sita as main point of reference, but comparing throughout with Radha, Pauwels studies the messages sent to Hindu women at different points in time. She compares how these role models are portrayed in the most authoritative versions of the story. She traces the ancient, Sanskrit sources, the medieval vernacular retellings of the stories and the contemporary TV versions as well. This comparative analysis identifies some surprising conclusions about the messages sent to Indian women today, which belie the expectations one might have of the portrayals in the latest, more liberal versions. The newer messages turn out to be more conservative in many subtle ways. Significantly, it does not remain limited to the religious domain. By analyzing several popular recent and classical hit movies that use Sita and Radha tropes, Pauwels shows how these moral messages spill into the domain of popular culture for commercial consumption.

Download or read book The Book of Ram written by Devdutt Pattanaik and published by Penguin Books India. This book was released on 2015 with total page 228 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: He Is Eka-Vachani, A King Who Always Keeps His Word; Eka-Bani, An Archer Who Strikes His Target With The First Arrow; And Eka-Patni, A Husband Who Is Eternally And Absolutely Devoted To A Single Wife. He Is Maryada Purushottam Ram, The Supreme Upholder Of Social Values, The Scion Of The Raghu Clan, Jewel Of The Solar Dynasty, The Seventh Avatar Of Vishnu, God Who Establishes Order In Worldly Life. Hindus Believe That In Stressful And Tumultuous Times Chanting Ram&Rsquo;S Name And Hearing His Tale, The Ramayan, Brings Stability, Hope, Peace And Prosperity. Reviled By Feminists, Appropriated By Politicians, Ram Remains Serene In His Majesty, The Only Hindu Deity To Be Worshipped As A King.

Download or read book In Search Of Sita written by Namita Gokhale and published by Penguin UK. This book was released on 2009-10-15 with total page 360 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Sita is one of the defining figures of Indian womanhood, yet there is no single version of her story. Different accounts coexist in myth, literature and folktale. Canonical texts deify Sita while regional variations humanize her. Folk songs and ballads connect her timeless predicament to the daily lives of rural women. Modern-day women continue to see themselves reflected in films, serials and soap operas based on Sita’s narrative. Sacrifice, self denial and unquestioning loyalty are some of the ideals associated with popular perceptions of Sita. But the Janaki who symbolized strength, who could lift Shiva’s mighty bow, who courageously chose to accompany Rama into exile and who refused to follow him back after a second trial, is often forgotten. However she is remembered, revered or written about, Sita continues to exert a powerful influence on the collective Indian psyche. In Search of Sita presents essays, conversations and commentaries that explore different aspects of her life. It revisits mythology, reopening the debate on her birth, her days in exile, her abduction, the test by fire, the birth of her sons and, finally, her return to the earth—offering fresh interpretations of this enigmatic figure and her indelible impact on our everyday lives.

Download or read book Breaking the Bow written by Anil Menon and published by Zubaan. This book was released on 2014-03-11 with total page 311 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A long time ago, a young prince, the heir to a great South-Asian kingdom, wielded Siva’s mighty bow and won the heart of a brave princess. The story of what happened next to the married couple—the Ramayana—told and re-told countless times over the centuries, begins where most stories end. The twenty-five stories in Breaking the Bow take a similar courageous leap into the unknown. Inspired by the Ramayana and its cultural importance, the anthology dares to imagine new worlds. Stories by some of the best writers in contemporary south-Asian fiction, including Abha Dawesar, Rana Dasgupta, Priya Sarukkai Chabria, Tabish Khair, Kuzhali Manickavel, Mary Anne Mohanraj and Manjula Padmanabhan. Stories from India, Sri Lanka and Thailand, but also Holland, Israel, the United Kingdom and the United States. Published by Zubaan.

Download or read book Sita written by Amish Tripathi and published by Harper Collins. This book was released on 2022-07-25 with total page 333 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: India, 3400 BCE. India is beset with divisions, resentment and poverty. The people hate their rulers. They despise their corrupt and selfish elite. Chaos is just one spark away. Outsiders exploit these divisions. Raavan, the demon king of Lanka, grows increasingly powerful, sinking his fangs deeper into the hapless Sapt Sindhu. Two powerful tribes, the protectors of the divine land of India, decide that enough is enough. A saviour is needed. They begin their search. An abandoned baby is found in a field. Protected by a vulture from a pack of murderous wolves. She is adopted by the ruler of Mithila, a powerless kingdom, ignored by all. Nobody believes this child will amount to much. But they are wrong. For she is no ordinary girl. She is Sita. Continue the epic journey with Amish's latest: A thrilling adventure that chronicles the rise of an orphan, who became the prime minister. And then, a Goddess. This is the second book in the Ram Chandra Series. A sequel that takes you back. Back before the beginning.

Download or read book Hindu Goddesses written by David Kinsley and published by Motilal Banarsidass Publ.. This book was released on 1998 with total page 296 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Hindu Goddesses is a valuable sourcebook and reference work for students and scholars of Hindu goddesses and of Hinduism in general. Each goddess is dealt with as an independent deity with a coherent mythology, theology and, in some cases, cult of her own. Within the complex, diverse, and rich goddess traditions of Hinduism, one can find suggestions of nearly every important theme in the Hindu religion. In many ways, this book is as much a study of the Hindu tradition itself as it is a study of one aspect of that tradition. No other living religious tradition has displayed such an ancient, continuous, and diverse history of goddess worship.

Download or read book Arrow of the Blue skinned God written by Jonah Blank and published by Grove Press. This book was released on 2000 with total page 388 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Anthropologist and journalist Blank gives a new perspective to the 3,000-year-old Hindu classic, retelling the ancient tale while following the course of Rama's journey through present-day India and Sri Lanka.

Download or read book Sita The Divine Mother written by Rajendra Arun and published by Prabhat Prakashan. This book was released on 2000-01-01 with total page 212 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Immerse yourself in the timeless tale of devotion and strength with Rajendra Arun's captivating exploration, "Sita: The Divine Mother." Journey into the heart of Hindu mythology as Arun delves deep into the life and legacy of Sita, the revered consort of Lord Rama, whose unwavering love and resilience continue to inspire generations. Embark on a spiritual odyssey as Arun unveils the plot points of Sita's life, from her noble birth to her selfless sacrifice and ultimate redemption. Through vivid storytelling and profound insights, Arun paints a rich portrait of Sita's journey, illuminating her divine qualities and eternal significance in Hindu tradition. Identify the recurring themes and motifs that define Sita's role as the Divine Mother, from her unwavering devotion to Lord Rama to her steadfast commitment to truth, virtue, and righteousness. Explore how these timeless themes resonate with readers of all backgrounds, offering profound lessons in love, devotion, and spiritual resilience. Through character analysis, gain insight into the multifaceted persona of Sita, whose strength, wisdom, and grace continue to inspire millions around the world. From her unwavering loyalty as a wife to her role as a loving mother and compassionate leader, Sita embodies the virtues of devotion, sacrifice, and inner strength. Experience the overall tone and mood of "Sita: The Divine Mother," characterized by a blend of reverence, devotion, and spiritual insight. Arun's prose is both lyrical and evocative, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the timeless wisdom and divine grace of Sita's story. Explore the critical reception of Arun's exploration, praised by scholars and devotees alike for its depth of research, cultural sensitivity, and spiritual resonance. Discover how "Sita: The Divine Mother" has deepened the understanding and appreciation of Sita's timeless legacy and significance in Hindu mythology. Consider the audience for Arun's exploration, ranging from devotees of Hinduism and scholars of mythology to readers seeking spiritual inspiration and guidance. Whether you're a lifelong devotee or simply curious about the enduring appeal of Sita's story, Arun's exploration offers a profound and illuminating journey into the heart of Hindu mythology. Compare and contrast "Sita: The Divine Mother" with other retellings and interpretations of Sita's story, highlighting its unique insights and perspectives. Explore how Arun's exploration sheds new light on familiar themes and characters, offering a fresh perspective on this beloved mythological figure. Personal reflection: As a reader, I was deeply moved by the profound insights and spiritual wisdom found in Rajendra Arun's "Sita: The Divine Mother." His exploration not only deepened my understanding of Sita's story but also inspired me to reflect on the timeless virtues of devotion, sacrifice, and inner strength. Arun's exploration is a testament to the enduring power of mythology to illuminate the human experience and awaken the divine within. In conclusion, "Sita: The Divine Mother" is more than just a retelling—it's a spiritual odyssey that invites readers to rediscover the timeless wisdom and eternal significance of Sita's story. Whether you're seeking spiritual inspiration, cultural insight, or simply a captivating tale, Arun's exploration offers a profound and illuminating journey into the heart of Hindu mythology. Don't miss your chance to embark on a transformative journey with Sita: The Divine Mother. Dive into Rajendra Arun's exploration today and discover the timeless wisdom and eternal grace of one of Hinduism's most revered figures.

Download or read book Feminism and Religion written by Rita M. Gross and published by Beacon Press (MA). This book was released on 1996 with total page 300 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Rita M. Gross offers an engaging survey of the changes feminism has wrought in religious ideas, beliefs, and practices around the world, as well as in the study and understanding of religion itself. "This book will be an important resource for all ongoing work in feminist teaching and research in religion."-Rosemary Radford Ruether

Download or read book The Thousand Faces of Night written by Githa Hariharan and published by Penguin Books India. This book was released on 1992 with total page 156 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Winner Of The 1993 Commonwealth Writers&Rsquo; Prize For Best First Book What Makes A Dutiful Daughter, Wife, Mother? What Makes A Good Indian Woman? Devi Returns To Madras With An American Degree, Only To Be Sucked In By The Old Order Of Things&Mdash;A Demanding Mother&Rsquo;S Love, A Suitable But Hollow Marriage, An Unsuitable Lover Who Offers A Brief Escape. But The Women Of The Hoary Past Come Back To Claim Devi Through Myth And Story, Music And Memory. They Show Her What It Is To Stay And Endure, What It Is To Break Free And Move On.Sita Has Been The Ideal Daughter-In-Law, Wife And Mother. But Now That She Has Arranged A Marriage For Her Daughter She Has To Come To Terms With An Old Dream Of Her Own. Mayamma Knows How To Survive As The Old Family Retainer, Bending The Way The Wind Blows. But, Through Devi, She Too Can See A Different Life. A Subtle And Tender Tale Of Women'S Lives In India, This Award-Winning Novel Is Structured With The Delicacy And Precision Of A Piece Of Music. Fusing Myth, Tale And The Real Voices Of Different Women, The Thousand Faces Of Night Brings Alive The Underworld Of Indian Women&Rsquo;S Lives. &Lsquo;

Download or read book Sita written by Devdutt Pattanaik and published by Penguin UK. This book was released on 2013-10-20 with total page 328 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: It is significant that the only character in Hindu mythology, a king at that, to be given the title of ekam-patni-vrata, devoted to a single wife, is associated with the most unjust act of abandoning her in the forest to protect family reputation. This seems a deliberate souring of the narrative, made even more complex by Ram’s refusal to remarry despite the pressure on royalty to produce an heir. The intention seems to be to provoke thought on notions of fidelity, property and self-image. And so mythologist and illustrator Devdutt Pattanaik narrates the Ramayan, drawing attention to the many oral, visual and written retellings composed in different times by different poets, each one trying to solve the puzzle in their own unique way. This book approaches Ram by speculating on Sita—her childhood with her father, Janak, who hosted sages mentioned in the Upanishads; her stay in the forest with her husband who had to be a celibate ascetic while she was in the prime of her youth; her interactions with the women of Lanka, recipes she exchanged, emotions they shared; her connection with the earth, her mother; her role as the Goddess, the untamed Kali as well as the demure Gauri, in transforming the stoic prince of Ayodhya into God.

Download or read book Sita s Kitchen written by Ramchandra Gandhi and published by State University of New York Press. This book was released on 1992-08-17 with total page 148 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Exploring the meaning of a Buddhist story, this book is a testimony of faith in the urgent relevance of India's spiritual traditions to the future of life on Earth, and it is an inquiry into the meaning of some central notions of these traditions. The value of spiritual traditions and of life itself is at stake here. In the Introduction, Ramchandra Gandhi raises the Ayodhya issue to international and universal levels. In the text, he offers a solution on the local and national levels. The temple mound in Ayodhya --the sacred hill on which the present Babri Masjid was built, also known as "Sita's Kitchen"--was originally a sacred place of the Adivasis (the aboriginal inhabitants of the subcontinent). It was sacred to the Goddess, the great nurturing earth, the fecund source of all life, the aboriginal presupposition of all later religions. As an aboriginal place sacred to the Mother Goddess, the hill in Ayodhya brings together all religions. Rather than a source of conflict, Ayodhya should become a meeting ground for the divergent religious traditions of the world to see their ultimate harmony. In the Buddhist story, the principal female character is an adivasi named Ananya ("not other"). The opposing sides come to see their oneness in Ananya. The frame-story is taken from the Vinaya-pitaka of the Pali Canon. It is the Bhaddavaggiyavatthu or "The Story of the Group of Well-Off Ones."

Download or read book Sita s Story written by Jacqueline Suthren Hirst and published by . This book was released on 1997 with total page 67 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:

Download or read book The Book of Ram written by Devdutt Pattanaik and published by Penguin UK. This book was released on 2015-03-31 with total page 188 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: He is Eka-vachani, a king who always keeps his word; Eka-bani, an archer who strikes his target with the first arrow; and Eka-patni, a husband who is eternally and absolutely devoted to a single wife. He is maryada purushottam Ram, the supreme upholder of social values, the scion of the Raghu clan, jewel of the solar dynasty, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, God who establishes order in worldly life. Hindus believe that in stressful and tumultuous times chanting Ram’s name and hearing his tale, the Ramayan, brings stability, hope, peace and prosperity. Reviled by feminists, appropriated by politicians, Ram remains serene in his majesty, the only Hindu deity to be worshipped as a king.

Download or read book India s Immortal Comic Books written by Karline McLain and published by Indiana University Press. This book was released on 2009-03-04 with total page 265 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Combining entertainment and education, India's most beloved comic book series, Amar Chitra Katha, or "Immortal Picture Stories," is also an important cultural institution that has helped define, for several generations of readers, what it means to be Hindu and Indian. Karline McLain worked in the ACK production offices and had many conversations with Anant Pai, founder and publisher, and with artists, writers, and readers about why the comics are so popular and what messages they convey. In this intriguing study, she explores the making of the comic books and the kinds of editorial and ideological choices that go into their production.

Download or read book Sita s Ramayana written by Samhita Arni and published by . This book was released on 2011 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The Ramayana is an epic poem by the Hindu sage Valmiki, written in ancient Sanskrit sometime after 300 BC. It is an allegorical story that contains important Hindu teachings, and it has had great influence on Indian life and culture over the centuries. Children are often encouraged to emulate the virtues of the two main characters -- Rama and Sita. The Ramayana is frequently performed as theater or dance, and two Indian festivals -- Dussehra and Divali -- celebrate events in the story. This version of The Ramayana is told from the perspective of Sita, the queen. After she, her husband Rama and his brother are exiled from their kingdom, Sita is captured by the proud and arrogant king Ravana and imprisoned in a garden across the ocean. Ravana never stops trying to convince Sita to be his wife, but she steadfastly refuses his advances. Eventually Rama comes to her rescue with the help of the monkey Hanuman and his army. But Rama feels he can't trust Sita again. He forces Sita to undergo an ordeal by fire to prove herself to be true and pure. She is shocked and in grief and anger does so. She emerges unscathed and they return home to their kingdom as king and queen. However, suspicion haunts their relationship, and Sita once more finds herself in the forest, but this time she is pregnant. She has twins and continues to live in the forest with them. The story is exciting and dramatic, with many turns of plot. Magic animals, snakes, divine gods, demons, sorcerers and a vast cast of characters all play a part in the fierce battles fought to win Sita back. And in the process the story explores ideas of right vs. wrong, compassion, loyalty, trust, honor and the terrible price of war.