Ramayana, one of the most revered and epic Hindu texts, is filled with many love stories. This epic was first written by Sage Valmiki and later by Goswami Tulsidas. Some of the most famous love stories are:
Ram and Sita
The love story of Ram and Sita is perhaps the most well-known love story in Ramayana. Ram, the prince of Ayodhya, falls in love with Sita, the daughter of King Janaka, when he sees her for the first time. After overcoming various obstacles, including the abduction of Sita by the demon king Ravana, Ram and Sita are finally reunited, and their love story becomes an eternal symbol of devotion and loyalty.
Lakshman and Urmila
Lakshman, Ram’s younger brother, falls in love with Urmila, the younger sister of Sita. Despite Urmila’s insistence that she accompany Lakshman and Sita into exile, Lakshman refuses, knowing the dangers that lie ahead. Instead, he promises to remain loyal to her and return to her after their exile is over. Some legends say that Urmila slept for 14 years and Lakshman did not sleep at all (Gudakesh), i.e. she slept in place of him. Whereas other legends say she waited for him by lighting diyas every year for his protection and safety.
Ravana and Mandodari
Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, is married to Mandodari, who is known for her beauty and wisdom. Despite his love for Mandodari, Ravana is unable to control his desire for Sita and abducts her, leading to his downfall. His wife, Mandodari, was a virtuous and pious queen who tried to dissuade Ravana from his evil ways but was unsuccessful. She remained loyal to him until the end and mourned his death. Mandodari is also known for her wisdom and compassion, and she is often depicted as a symbol of feminine strength and resilience. She is one of Panchkanyas.
Shiva and Parvati
Although not a direct part of the Ramayana story, the love story of Shiva and Parvati is often referenced in the text. Shiva, the god of destruction, falls in love with Parvati, the goddess of love and devotion, and their love story becomes a symbol of the union of opposites and the power of true love.
Overall, the love stories in Ramayana serve as powerful reminders of the transformative power of love and the importance of loyalty, devotion, and sacrifice in relationships.