Reading Notes: Ghatotkacha

Ladoo (Wikipedia Commons)

You're probably wondering why I used a picture of food for this Amar Chitra Katha. Well, I will explain. There is a movie called Mayabazar which actually follows the tale of Abhimanyu and Vatsala's wedding. In this movie, Ghatotkacha pretends to be Vatsala after he takes her away to Abhimanyu. There is a scene in the movie when Ghatotkacha sees a room full of food for the wedding and decides to go inside and eat the food. However, he is too lazy to eat the food with his hands so he uses his magic to literally swallow the food without ever picking it up with his hands. He also makes himself enormous so that he can eat more food at once. The funny part is that there are a couple courtiers watching all of this happen from the window and they are all confused as to what is happening. As soon as Ghatotkacha is done eating, he uses magic to bring food back into all the plates and turns back into Vatsala. One of the most iconic parts of this film is a part in which Ghatotkacha has ladoos (the sweet depicted in the picture above) flying into his mouth. When I would watch this movie growing up, I used to always be scared of Ghatotkacha because of his appearance. However, reading this Amar Chitra Katha and the various stories on the side made me realize that he was one of the good guys all along and wanted Vatsala and Abhimanyu to live happily ever after.

Reading Notes: Ancestors of Rama

Crown (Wikipedia)

Reading the stories about Rama's ancestors was quite interesting. Considering the fact that Rama himself was a king, so his ancestors were obviously royalty was a thought that crossed my mind while reading this story. I think a common theme when thinking of royalty is the fact that there is usually some element of violence, either a play for the highest position, revenge, or some sort of war. No matter the culture, story, country, etc. I seriously think that royalty will always be perceived in the same light. I think the other interesting part was at the end with Indumati's swayamvara. Not only is it semi-foreshadowing to Rama and Sita, but I also think it's a parallel with the beginning of the Mahabaratha. This comic gave readers a lot of background to the characters of the Ramayana, which is something that is inherent to the beginning of the Mahabaratha. I know when I first started reading the Mahabaratha, I had to draw out a family tree on a dry erase board so that I could better visualize the familial relations. While Rama's ancestors are not quite as confusing, I still thought that this Amar Chitra Katha was really fun to read. 

Reading Notes: Kumbhakarna

Sleeping Moon (Wikipedia Commons)

I think after eating and traveling, my next favorite thing in the world is sleeping. So, I connect with Kumbhakarna and his natural inclination to want to sleep (even though he is rakshasa, Ravana's brother, and eats people) due to the boon that he was granted. In fact, from the time I was a child to this day, my family calls me Kumbhakarni, or a female version of Kumbhakarna, because I like to sleep a lot. However, that's about the only similarity I have with the beast. Reading about Kumbhakarna is interesting because he is depicted to be a character of good traits and a generally nice person (rakshasa?) until you read about his tendency to kill and eat people. It's honestly such a stark contrast. Reading the Amar Chitra Katha and the Wikipedia page makes me wonder what a Kumbhakarna dream would be like, since he sleeps for months on end. I think it would be interesting to write a story about that since it would be a very long and drawn out sleep. 

Bibliography: 

• Amar Chitra Katha, Kumbhakarna: The Sleeping Giant
• Kumbhakarna

Reading Notes: Hanuman to the Rescue

Hanuman (Wikipedia Commons)

I don't know if I have actually ever mentioned this but Hanuman is probably one of my most favorite of the Hindu Gods. He personifies a kind and giving nature, but there is just that subtle hint of mischievousness about him. I think that the cover of this comic book even helps to explain that mischievous side of him because of his facial expression. I think that this comic also does a great job of describing Hanuman since he goes to find Vishalya Karani herb for Lakshmana because he cares about Rama and Lakshmana immensely. Since he does not have time to actually go looking for the herb, he ends up picking up the entire mountain. Later on, since Surya is under the control of Ravana and has to speed up the day, Hanuman literally steals the sun so that the day doesn't end. I've heard this story many times and every time I am amused. The last additional reading is by far one of my favorite stories of all time because it is something that I would have probably imagined as a child. Mangoes are my favorite fruit and I could probably eat mangoes forever. Hanuman mistakenly eats the sun thinking its a mango and creates utter chaos on earth. I absolutely love reading Hanuman stories and enjoy that they often have morals of kindness, humour, and courage.

Bibliography: Amar Chitra Katha, Hanuman to the Rescue

Reading Notes, Part B: Narayan

Lotus (Pexels)

I think the lotus is representative of this video because of the references to both Brahma and the cycle of life and death. As mentioned in the video, in Hinduism, death isn't viewed in an end-all-be-all type mindset. Life and death is a constant cycle. While the physical manifestation of life and death is personified within a person's body, it is the soul that eventually lives on. As stated in the video, "the soul whose sleep leads to destruction and whose awakening leads to creation." I think the lotus is a great personification of this idea of a manifestation of a person in more ways than one. A person's soul is one that takes some work to realize and you have to peel away at the layers to get to that point. In that way, the lotus also signifies that there is beauty in all aspects of the flower, similar to a person. However, when bringing it back to the idea of life and death, it is that beauty of life that one must go through (symbolized by the multiple petals) to get to the heart and soul of it all. When at that point, the soul is free-flowing. Tying it all back to Brahma and Vishnu, Brahma is known as the creator and he resides on a lotus flower. Vishnu is the one to control the idea of "What Dies is Always Reborn," the notion that is present with the cycle of life and death.

Bibliography: Devdutt Pattanaik, Part B: Narayan

Reading Notes: Narayan's Secret

Wikipedia Commons (Narayana)

"Just as our world does not exist when we sleep, the whole universe does not exist when God is in deep slumber..."

I think this opening line from the video was pretty insightful. Obviously, people are unaware of their surroundings when they are asleep. Unless they are incredibly light sleepers, the likelihood of the average person knowing exactly what is happening around them while asleep is quite slim. I think it would be cool to write a story about someone that is asleep and having a vivid dream but then wakes up and lives their dream and has the ability to control it this time. It would feel like deja vu because of the dream but then the person would be able to control exactly what happens while awake. I think an interesting twist to add to this story would be that other people also have similar dreams so their destinies could be linked in a way. These intertwined stories would also be a way in which to incorporate mini-stories into the larger plotline.

Bibliography: Devdutt Pattanaik, Seven Secrets of Hindu Calendar Art: Chapter 2, Narayan's Secret 

Reading Notes: Ganesha's Secret Video

Wikipedia Commons (Shiva, Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya)

I definitely grew up hearing the story of Ganesha and Kartikeya racing all the time. While, as a child, the biggest thing that I got from that story was that parents are so vastly important, I do believe that the moral of the story is that the world can be viewed in a number of different perspectives. The way it is explained, however, makes a lot of sense. Some people view the world in a purely subjective, emotional, and intuitive fashion. Others view the world in an objective, rational, and logical way. However, I think that one of the strongest ways to view the world is by incorporating both elements to really gain an understanding of different perspectives. I think a great story for this would be to create a situation: a college decision, relationship, coping with a tragedy, etc. and then develop a story from two different perspectives and how each person would handle the situation. 

I think these videos do a great job of describing some of the Indian stories in a way that everyone can understand them. In that way, DP discusses the stories and how Hindus view the world told through the lens of these stories. 

Bibliography: Devdutt Pattanaik, 7 Secrets from Hindu Calendar Art-Chapter 1 Ganesha's Secret

Reading Notes, Mahabaratha, Part D

 Pandavas vs. Kauravas (Wikipedia Commons)

When I think of the Mahabaratha, usually what comes to mind is the battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. I think the way the epic is narrated, the story builds to the eventual battle--which in a way is a battle of good vs. evil like in the Ramayana. While the battle is a crucial element to the Mahabaratha, I think the importance of it lies with the Bhagavad Gita and the internal struggles that each of the characters face. It appeals to the reader because of the parallels with every day life. Obviously, not everyone faces a violent battle to the extent of the Pandavas versus the Kauravas, but, everyone faces battles in life. These battles often take form in internal disputes, relationship troubles, issues with work/school, etc. The various lessons within the Mahabartha act as a guide to facing one's problems head-on and confronting them. While Veda Vyasa wrote this epic with an elaborate battle, depicted with intricate details, he was really appealing to the common man in describing how to confront these every day battles. However, in keeping with this theme of tackling issues, he also makes sure to address the troubles that come from it. Specifically, the Pandavas are obviously distraught at the fact that their cousins are now dead, by their hands. The Bhagavad Gita, for example, helps Arjuna to come to terms with the fact that he will have to fight his cousins. In an every day context, the Gita can be applied to literally anything. And that is the beauty of the Mahabaratha. 

Bibliography: Mahabaratha, R.K. Narayan, Reading Notes

Reading Notes: Mahabaratha, Part C

Spy (Wikipedia Commons)

I think the part of the Mahabaratha when the Pandavas have to be in hiding for a year is the most difficult part of the exile. While it is somewhat easy to go to another city or the forest and live life elsewhere, it is more difficult to live in hiding in the same city that you are from. If the Pandavas were discovered, they would have had to restart their entire exile from the beginning. I think if I were to create a story from this reading, I would make one in which someone has to live in hiding in the city that they are from; maybe a spy. However, I would make it to where the spy takes down a super-evil organization from the inside. This would be similar to how the Pandavas work for King Virata's kingdom during their year of hiding.

Bibliography: R.K Narayan, Mahabarata, Reading Notes

Reading Notes: Mahabaratha, Part B

Shakuni playing dice (Wikipedia Commons)

One of the common themes in many of the stories that I have read has been exile, especially in the Ramayana and the Mahabaratha. However, in both of these stories, the exiled are sent afar for a lengthy period of time, though they have really done nothing wrong. Rama and the Pandavas were honestly punished for the good morals that they possessed. However, foreshadowing the end of the Mahabaratha, good triumphs over evil, like in the Ramayana. I think the other major aspect of this story was the result of the first dice game when Draupadi's sari is unnecessarily pulled away. However, I think the important part of this section was to show the power of Draupadi's prayer to Krishna. As her sari is being pulled away, more and more cloth appears. This also signifies how the "good" are being punished when they have not done any wrong. Tying this back to a story, I think it would be interesting to write a story told in the present of someone that is sent to exile but is a valued member of society.

Bibliography: R.K Narayan, Mahabarata, Reading Notes

Reading Notes: Mahabaratha, Part A

Pandavas (Wikipedia Commons)

I grew up learning about the Mahabaratha and its various tales. For this set of reading, I decided to read the RK Narayan version of the Mahabaratha. However, I quickly realized that there was a lot to the backstory that I did not know much about prior to the birth of the Pandavas and Kauravas. From reading this part, however, I think it would be interesting to write a story based off of a bystander looking onto the lives of the various members of the family. Without knowing exactly who the characters are, it can get a little confusing to understand both the major characters and even the lineage in the story. In that way, I think it would be interesting to write a story based on another person's perspective looking into the family. I think it would be especially interesting to have a story about Drona training both the Pandavas and the Kauravas or the Pandavas escaping from the fire.

Bibliography: R.K Narayan, Mahabarata, Reading Notes

Reading Notes: Ramayana, Part D

A dog sleeping (Wikipedia Commons)

Rama is a very noble and knowledgeable character by his own merit. However, I think what makes him more admirable is that he still chooses to take advice from those around him, namely Hanuman. It is clear that Hanuman is utterly devoted to the duty of saving Sita from Ravana and Rama recognizes this. But, Hanuman does not take advantage of this position he is in with Rama. He is still reasonable with his actions. For example, when Vibhishana leaves Lanka and goes to Rama, most of the others say that he is not to be trusted. However, Hanuman says otherwise and looks at the qualities of Vibhishana and not just his relation to Ravana. A decision that eventually helps Rama because Vibhishana is able to assist them with the battle in Lanka.

Another part that I enjoyed reading in this section was about Kumbakarna. Although he is "technically" supposed to be evil, he is absolutely hilarious. The fact that he asked for a boon to just sleep for extended periods of time is quite entertaining. My parents used to always make fun of me and say that I was similar to Kumbakarna because I love to sleep. So, I think it would be fun to write a story about a character that loves sleep (maybe from a college student's perspective?).

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan, Ramayana, Reading Notes

Reading Notes: Ramayana, Part C

Hanuman Meditating (Flickr)

The story of how Rama and Lakshmana meet Hanuman is definitely on my favorites list. I remember hearing different variations of this story growing up and the detail in the R.K. Narayan version is definitely very good. Without a doubt, Hanuman is one of my favorite Hindu Gods, both in the Ramayana and in general. He is known as the God of strength and courage, which I'd say is pretty applicable to many situations. However, I also think that his stories and service to both Rama and Sugreeva work well with his title as God of courage. He is completely devoted and becomes a disciple of Rama, promising to help him on his journey to rescue Sita. I know that when I was a child and would get scared of the dark or a thunder storm, my mom or dad would tell me a Hanuman story and it would give me courage again. In that way, I think reading about Hanuman is interesting because it gives me perspective on his pure devotion to Rama but also how he came to be known as the God of courage.

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan, Ramayana, Reading Guide

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana, Part B

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita on Exile (Wikipedia Commons)

I thought one of the strongest aspects about this reading was the first paragraph where Narayan says "Sumithra also bewailed Rama’s exile and tried to stop him" and then later says "While they were talking, a servant maid sent by Kaikeyi came bearing in her arms garments made of tree barks, a reminder for Rama to change quickly and depart." I think it's just the way these two sentences are stated that make them a stark contrast. It is clear that most of the kingdom is upset that Rama is being exiled but, Kaikeyi is ready to get rid of Rama. Rama's departure and King Dasharatha's eventual death set the stage for the next section.

It is clear that Lakshmana and Bharata are devoted brothers to Rama as one goes on exile with him and the other is outraged at the turn of events in Ayodhya. I think another strong part of this section is the way in which this devotion is described. Once Bharata finds out that his father has passed away and is told that he is actually in line for the throne, he is distraught. The kingdom is supposed to be Rama's. I thought the symbolism that Bharata shows by placing Rama's sandals on the throne was very powerful. He vows to never step foot into Ayodhya again until Rama returns.

One of my next "favorite" parts of the Ramayana is when Shurpanakha is introduced. The story of Shurpanakha is one that I grew up hearing many times. The portrayal of her as an "evil" demon is quite accurately depicted in Narayan's narration from what I remember hearing when I was a child. But, to tie it all back together, Ravana is brought into the story and he begins his plans to kidnap Sita. After reading this, I think I want to write a story based on a random court member or an animal in the forest overlooking what is taking place while Rama is in exile.

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan, Ramayana, Reading Guide

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana, Part A

Rama and Lakshmana learning from Sage Vishwamitra (Wikipedia Commons)

I grew up hearing the stories of the Ramayana and reading comic books about it, however, this is my first time reading the actual story for myself. The descriptions that R.K. Narayan uses are great, but I think my favorite part so far is the narration of the story itself. I thoroughly enjoy reading it.

I enjoyed reading the difference of opinion between King Dasaratha and Sage Viswamithra. It was interesting to see how although Viswamithra renounced his crown, he still knew the ways of the court and knew how to sway King Dasaratha's opinion. When the King decided to send Rama and Lakshmana with Viswamithra, I think it accurately depicts the relationship between Rama and Lakshmana. Their brotherhood is honestly quite remarkable and admirable.

When they all go on their journey, it was interesting to see the carnage that Thataka left before hearing about her demonic ways. As a child, I remember hearing the story about Thataka and reading it right now reminded me of when I listened to the story. Also, while I remember always knowing that Viswamithra was a teacher to both Rama and Lakshmana, I didn't realize until reading the story how they became his students. It is incredible to see how Rama and Lakshmana are accompanying Viswamithra on his journey but through it, they are learning so much. Which shows that while Viswamithra portrayed his reasoning to take the two brothers on the journey one way to their father, he had different intentions all together.

However, I think one of the stories I heard most was that of Rama and Sita. Narayan did a really god job of describing the details leading up to when Rama strikes the bow and marries Sita, but I think it would be interesting to have been a member of the audience at that time and see everything unfold. When Rama and Lakshmana return to the kingdom and the drama of Kaikeyi unfolds, I think that is where the real story begins. 

Bibliography: R.K. Narayan, Ramayana, Reading Guide