Week 5 Reading Diary B: Abduction of Sita

In the beginning of part B for Week 5, Sita is abducted by Ravana.  I did not understand why he had not forced himself on her before, but I now understand that it is because of his curse. This makes a lot more sense now because Ravana definitely seems like the kind of character that would force himself upon a woman no matter what. So now I understand why Ravana has been trying to woo Sita into liking him—so she will give in and he can bed her.

Here we see the forces setting up with Hanuman and Sugriva to go find Sita. This is where all of the build up happens because it is exciting to know that there is an army of men and Hanuman that are about to set out to find Rama’s love. Rama gave Hanuman Sita’s ring so that when he found her, she will know that it is someone she can trust. In here, we see symbolism with the ring that Rama gives to Hanuman because a ring is a symbol for eternity. I did not catch that in Narayan’s Ramayana.  The episode ends with them finding Swayamprabha in the underground world.  Although they end up staying there for a month, they are now more determined than ever to go find Sita. Again, I am continuously amazed at the loyalty shown by Hanuman.

I chose to post a photo that showed Hanuman with Rama and the earth in the background. Also, his chest shows Rama and Sita, because his heart and loyalty remains with them. I love that he is on what looks like clouds or heaven. 

Photo of Hanuman found online