Pune: “The Ramayana is not merely the life story of Bhagwan Shri Ramchandra; it is the combined life story of Ram and Janaki. Ramayan can never be complete without the mention of Sita. Even today, the character and conduct of both continue to guide us in every sphere of practical and social life. Therefore, the Ramayana should not be read only from the perspective of faith, but with an open mind,” said Bhayyaji Joshi, Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini Member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh at the release of the Marathi translation of American Jewish author Dana Mariam’s book The Untold Story of Sita, titled Na Sangitleli Sitechi Katha, at a programme organised at MIT World Peace University.
The event was jointly organised by Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, Bharatiya Vichar Sadhana, and MIT World Peace University. Bharatiya Vichar Sadhana Karyavah Kashinath Devdhar, MIT World Peace University Vice-Chancellor Dr RM Chitnis, and senior lecturer Sanjay Upadhyay were present on the dais.
Bhayyaji Joshi observed that a woman brought up in a foreign cultural environment writing a book on the life of Sita is itself a form of spiritual pursuit. He said that today’s youth should directly engage with society to understand the challenges faced by the nation and society, an ideal that is reflected in the Ramayana. He added that if human beings fail to observe their limits and responsibilities, destruction becomes inevitable. Bhagwan Shri Ram demonstrated the power of an organised society through the collective efforts of ordinary people, symbolised by the construction of the Ram Setu.
He further stated that today Bharat requires not merely an education system that increases information, but one that stimulates thought and reflection. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj performed the historic task of translating the concept of Ram Rajya into reality. In the present era, weapons in the hands of evil forces are increasingly becoming symbols of destruction across the world.
Sanjay Upadhyay said that Bhagwan Shri Ram was a great personality who harboured no bitterness even towards his enemies. He noted that deliberate attempts are being made today to create indifference towards Shri Ram among Bharatiyas. The role of Sita, he said, has taken deep roots in the civilisational consciousness of society, and the younger generation must understand its essence.
Vice-Chancellor Dr RM Chitnis highlighted the values of environmental conservation discussed in the book. Kashinath Devdhar stated that Bharatiya Vichar Sadhana is working to take ideas to the people in order to keep society united and harmonious. Milind Patre delivered the vote of thanks.
