Ram Acepted Everyone Equally

The idea of Ram is unparalleled in its character, contribution, and impact. Ram has been understood in multiple ways. For many, Ram is a historical man, but for some, Ram means good qualities, and the Ram-Ravan war is an inner war between good and evil.

Ram is so ingrained in Indian life and culture that we all accept him. He is ishtdev for believers of a personal god (like Tulasi) but also dear to believers of an impersonal god (like Kabir). Ram-Rajya is synonymous with the ideal rule, and Ram-Baan with the infallible tool. 'Hey Ram' is the most-used sigh of the oppressed. He is an ideal son, brother and friend. While questions are raised about Ram as a husband, Ram and Sita are considered to be the perfect couple. In the Hindi belt, majority of marriage songs are based on Ram. Ram is a common name for many people, and Ram-Ram is a standard greeting in rural and semi-rural setups. Ram is such an integral part of our daily life that our everyday discourse cannot be without using the word 'ram'.

Ram is not limited to elite class but worshipped by innumerable deen-dukhi people, including those outside brahmanical order: "Jo gati jog birag jatan kari nahin pavat muni jnani/So gati det gidh Shabri kahan prabhu bahut jiya jani" - Ram easily gives that to the downtrodden which is unattainable by high priests. His popularity cutting across caste, creed, religion and geographical boundaries is a puzzle for many who wish to see India through a narrow lens.

But how did Ram attain such status and importance? Not just because he is an avatar. Ram is in a different league. This importance comes from the sacrifice and progressive outlook exemplified by him. Ram's sacrifice is unparalleled, and tapasya is long and painful. Despite being worthy and powerful, he shuns the kingdom for his father's wish. Being truthful to his vow, he never took comfort from royal patronage during vanvaas. He accepted everyone equally and empowered them. Ram led people to change the world.

Many felt sorry for Ahilya, but only Ram worked for her social reacceptance. Only Ram wept for his wife. For setting the new maryada, he fought with the high and mighty Ravan, Indra, Jayant and Bali. Ram's fight was not only for his wife, but it was for the oppressed. He avowed in Atri Muni Ashram to rid the world of oppressors.

While many cultures and civilisations assign the law-giving role to the wealthy and powerful, India assigns this role to the wise and tapasvi, who are beyond material pursuits. Ram is the ideal person tailor-made for this role, and he ensures that he does so while remaining a lifelong tapasvi - Ram tapasvi raja. That is why Allama Iqbal writes: "Hai Ram ke wajood pe Hindostan ko naaz/Ahl-e-nazar samajhte hain is ko Imam-e-Hind" - India is proud of Ram, wise consider him spiritual guide of India.

Authored by: B Purushartha
The writer is joint secretary, DEA, Ministry of Finance, GOI. Views are personal