As parents, we often look for role models who can inspire our children to become good human beings. They are surrounded by Western superheroes like Iron Man and Superman from a young age. But while these characters are exciting due to their superpowers, we also need someone who is more human, someone whose values match our sensibilities, and someone who embodies all the qualities of a great leader.
We know that the Ramayana is an epic text, written by the sage Valmiki, and passed down from one generation to the next, for thousands of years. While we want to do the same for our children, this is a tough task in today’s world. We need to build a narrative that they will understand and relate to. So it makes a lot of sense to look at Rama as a Hero of the story Ramleela.
We start the story of Ramleela with the Crown Prince Rama. He was the rightful heir to the throne of Ayodhya, but his step-mother Kaikeyi plotted against him to make her son the King. Rama’s father, King Dasharatha, to keep his promise had to send Rama into exile for 14 years. His wife Sita, and his half-brother Lakshmana accepted the decree and went to live in the forest.
It was during this challenging period that his character truly shone. Despite not being the King, Rama’s actions and decisions demonstrated his true abilities, his character and his leadership qualities. Through the many stories, your children will learn that you don’t need superhuman strengths to win – just a true heart and a sharp mind! Some of these are:
- Friends help each other (Teamwork):
Rama did not do everything himself but with the help of many others. Vasishtha taught Rama the skills of Dhanurveda (weapon skills), Sita provided unwavering loyalty and moral strength during the exile, while Lakshmana acted as Rama’s protector. Jatayu helped Rama by providing vital information about the abduction of Sita & the monkeys led by Hanuman helped Rama to build a bridge to Lanka and rescue Sita.
Throughout the Ramayana, Rama explicitly thanks those who assist him and bestows them with rewards and honors. He also praises their bravery and sacrifices in front of the gods, ensuring that their deeds are remembered and celebrated. Rama remained humble and empathetic towards everyone. This teaches children to be a Hero you need to work together with your friends and help them when they need.
- Perfect Human Being
Despite all the problems that he faced, Rama didn’t get too upset or angry. He stayed calm and peaceful, like a strong tree that doesn’t shake in the wind. He was always truthful, he did not resort to any wrong means to win, and he always followed the right path even if it was difficult.
This will help teach your child that when they face tough situations, they need to behave like a Hero. They need to always do the right thing and tell the truth so that they can also become great like Rama.
At Grooming Babies we believe that Rama’s story can inspire your child to become a compassionate, empathetic, and empowered leader. Through “Ramleela – Relieve the Epic”, we bring the story of Rama to life through theatre adapted specifically for young children Join us for to watch your child learn valuable lessons from Rama’s journey.
