A cultural text may be loosely defined as one that is created by a community of people and embodies its value system. This paper explores one of the foundational Indian epics, the Ramayana, as one such text that has permeated deep into the psyche of the people of the Indian subcontinent and has persisted in print and performance over millennia. This is evident through multiple translations in different languages, depiction in performative arts, sculpture, painting, weaving, art and craft – in classical as well as folk tradition. The powerful tropes of the epic have had a deep impact on both thought and action and reinforce human beings’ faith in the power of divinity; additionally and more significantly, they emphasize the affinity felt with fellow human beings through the collective spectacle performed before them. The paper explores the presence of the Ramayana in the collective unconscious of the people of India, irrespective of caste, class, region or religion, as well as its multifarious manifestations. It demonstrates the persistence of the epic as an epitome of unity in the midst of the great diversity of topography, race, language of the vast country. It also interrogates the perception that a single foundational text written by Valmiki is the sole authentic text and argues that it is the numerous translations and transcreations of the text that celebrate the ‘unity in diversity’ of India.

Authors:
Hina Nandrajog, Vivekananda College, University of Delhi, India

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Hina Nandrajog is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at Vivekananda College, University of Delhi in India

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