Here’s Why Lady Sita Is An Ambassador Of Modern Feminism

Lady Sita truly encapsulates what positive modern feminism is all about and she defines how the concept can be adopted in the contemporary social set-up.

This revelation may take many people aback because our perception of Lady Sita is that of a woman who only abides by the rules and extends moral support to her family. But, this isn’t the complete truth because she is so much more. Let’s look at the myths that have been prevalent in the recent past and let’s unearth the truth that has been lost through the ages.

Myth #1: Lady Sita – a damsel-in-distress

This point of view about Lady Sita seeped into our Indian consciousness from the television shows of the 1980s, that were largely based on the Ramcharitmanas – a 16^th century modernization by Sant Tulsidas ji of the original Valmiki Ramayan. Contrary to popular belief, Lady Sita in the Valmiki Ramayan, was a strong and powerful woman who didn’t shy away from taking matters into her own hands, akin to our impression of the modern woman. She fought for and did what she thought was right, what she thought was Dharma.

There are other versions of the Ramayan where one sees her in an even more fierce avatar; the Adbhut Ramayan for example. It would interest you to know that the Adbhut Ramayan was also composed by Maharishi Valmiki. In this version of the Ramayan, Lady Sita is a warrior. In fact, she was the one to slay the elder, and more dangerous Ravan.

A damsel in distress? Certainly not!

 

Myth #2: Lady Sita – a docile and submissive woman

Gond Ramayani, another version of the Ramayan, busts this myth since it paints Lady Sita as a powerful figure who steps forward to save her people. This version of the Ramayan is popular in the tribal regions of Central India. In this version, Lady Sita goes to battle against Indrakamani in a bid to rescue Lord Lakshman. After a long struggle, Lord Lakshman does eventually escape. She was, indeed, a strong character who fought to protect her own. One who can be a role model for modern feminists!

 

Myth #3: Lady Sita – a passive spectator

Even in the 1980s television show, she is not a passive spectator. When she is convinced of something, she will argue her case. For example, when Lord Ram tells her of the trials and tribulations she may have to face in the jungle during exile, she is ready for it and tells him that she is prepared to face any challenge.

Like most Indians, I envision a country where women are a true representation of the powerful Lady Sita. Even our ancient scriptures say that the Gods abandon the land where women are not respected. If we want our country to rise to its historical heights and take its rightful place in the comity of nations once again, then we cannot do so with one half of our population disempowered. Only when women are truly seen as equal in status to men in every way, will our country become what it is capable of becoming.

Fighting for women’s rights is our patriotic duty! And Lady Sita can be one of our role models!

Amish is the bestselling author of the Shiva Trilogy and Ram Chandra Series. His latest, Sita – Warrior of Mithila will release on 29^th May, 2017. Twitter: @authoramish