Week 5 Reading Diary Post A: Rama's voyage

I think that Vasishtha’s proclamation of what will happen to Kaikeyi in her future life was awful. Although she did go through with asking the wishes of Dasaratha, it was Manthara who influenced Kaikeyi. Shouldn’t more of the blame fall on her?

Chitra is described as one of the most spectacular places on earth here. I wonder what it would be like to trek the same path that Rama and Sita did in this story. Buck is great at describing the setting of his stories.

I’m intrigued by the personification of Ayodhya. From what I remember, Narayan didn’t personify Ayodhya nearly as much as Buck. What is the significance of this city? Is this a custom in Hindu culture – affording great significance to a city?

Again, I find the commitment to Rama impressive. The city of Ayodhya chooses to live like him for the 14 years he is in exile just to honor the guy.

I find it commendable that Sita attempts to dissuade Rama from going into Dandaka looking for battles. She does a good job of keeping him grounded.

Why was it that Agastya was so eager to provide Rama with a new bow? Possibly foreshadowing the encounters to come in Dandaka?

                                                                  Well-equipped Rama