Reading Notes: Ramayana, Part B

Viradha translated by Manmatha Nath Dutt

  • the vivid description of rakshasa evokes true feelings of dread. This creature is a clear embodiment of vicious and unceasing blood lust.
  • Although Virhada is an insatiable demon with an appetite for human flesh and a body that is impervious to weapons, Rama is fearless and vows to destroy the demon. This is a moment wherein it is clear that Rama is the avatar of the god of preservation, Vishnu, as he is driven to protect the innocent even when situations are helpless.
  • Rama is a truly selfless hero, allowing himself and his brother Lakshmana to be captured by the rakshasa in order to move their fight away from the defenseless Sita
  • I liked the twist that what appeared to be a boon from Brahma to make Virhada invincible was actually a curse that forced Tumburu to reside in this demon form until Rama cunningly defeated him
  • Gandharva are divine male spirits who acted as messengers between men and gods. They are also exceptionally musically gifted and thus classical Indian singers today are often referred to as gandharva.
depiction of a Rakshasa

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