The Ramayana is one of India’s national epics. It tells the story of Rama and his wife, Sita.
Rama was the eldest son of the king of Ayodha. One of the king’s wives wanted her son, Bharata, to be king. The king owed her two favors. She asked him to make Bharata his heir and to banish Rama for 14 years.
Rama agreed to go, saying, “I gladly obey my father’s command.” Rama’s wife, Sita, insisted she join her husband in exile. She said, “Is it not the wife’s duty to be at her husband’s side?”
Bharata tried to persuade Rama to return. Rama insisted on doing his duty, even after his father died. Bharata said he would rule in Rama’s name; when the 14 years were up, Rama should become king.
During their exile, Sita was kidnapped, and then rescued by Rama. After that, Rama and Sita returned to Ayodha, and Rama became king.
Rama, Sita, and Bharata are often held up as models of Hindu behavior. What did they do in this story that make them good role models? What does this tell you about Hindu ideals and behavior?