Ramayana Through 15 Iconic Characters

The Ramayana, one of India’s great epics, continues to have a major
impact on Indian life. Originally written in almost 24,000 stanzas by
Valmiki, social and public goals from this epic are manifested into
our lives.
In this contemporary rendition meant for young adult readers,
the author, art historian Dr Alka Pande, describes her take on 15
characters, who present the kaleidoscope of what it is to be human—
from demonic, mean and negative, to suprahuman and divine. These
15 characters from the epic present a wide canvas of human behaviour
and offer insights into ethical questions that affect us all.
To show glimpses into just a few—the characters of Rama, Bharata
and Lakshmana provide a model of supportive brotherhood and
friendship; Hanuman remains as an optimal remarkable Karma
Yogi; Sita is viewed as the best illustration of womanly loyalty and
constancy. With an introduction that sets the stage for the 15 chosen
personae, Iconic Characters from the Epics offers fresh perspectives
into this age-old, yet evergreen, Indian epic.