Overview
This is a summary of the Ramayana as told by Maharshi Valmiki, focusing on the life of Rama, his exile, Sita's abduction, and Rama's eventual triumph and return to Ayodhya.
Birth of Rama and His Brothers
- King Dashratha of Ayodhya had three wives but no children, so he performed a fire sacrifice on his priest's advice.
- The gods rewarded Dashratha with nectar, which he shared among his wives.
- Kausalya bore Rama, Kaikeyi bore Bharata, and Sumitra bore twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna.
Rama’s Marriage to Sita
- The princes were trained in archery by a sage.
- At Sita’s swayamvara, Rama was the only one able to string and break a giant bow, proving his worth.
- Sita chose Rama as her husband by placing a garland around his neck.
Rama’s Exile
- King Dashratha planned to crown Rama and retire, following the rules of Dharma.
- Kaikeyi, influenced by a past promise, demanded Rama's exile for 14 years and Bharata's coronation.
- Rama accepted the exile; Sita and Lakshmana insisted on joining him.
Life in the Forest
- Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana lived peacefully in the forest and defeated troubling rakshasas.
- Bharata was upset at his mother's actions, refused to claim the throne, and placed Rama's sandals on it as a symbol of Rama's true kingship.
Sita’s Abduction
- Ravana devised a plan to abduct Sita by sending a magical deer.
- While Rama and Lakshmana were away, Ravana, disguised as a holy man, tricked Sita and kidnapped her after she stepped outside Lakshmana’s protective circle.
Search for Sita and the Battle
- Hanuman, leader of the monkey army, found Sita in Lanka, comforted her, and informed Rama.
- Hanuman set Lanka on fire after being captured and escaping.
- Rama, Lakshmana, and the monkey army built a bridge to Lanka and battled Ravana’s forces.
- Rama killed Ravana and freed Sita.
Return to Ayodhya and Rama’s Rule
- Sita proved her purity through a trial by fire.
- The trio returned to Ayodhya; Rama was crowned king, establishing an ideal reign where everyone fulfilled their duties.