RAMAYANA AND MAHABHARATA: THE ROLE MODEL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF LIFE

Abstract

The two great epics, The Ramayana and The Mahabharata are most likely the best known and dominant epics in Indian Literature, they are embedded in the spiritual, cultural, and ethical DNA of the Indian subcontinent. Both texts serve as both moral and spiritual guides, and they provide a lasting legacy on the ideal way of living through dharma, governance, family, and the constant duality of good versus evil. Objective: The aim of the study has tried to explore the role model of Ramayana and Mahabharata for the development of life.  Methodology: We take a directed (interpretive) qualitative research approach, analyzing our data in a textual way, and interpreting the far-reaching philosophical, ethical, and socio-political teachings in both of the great Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Our intent is to critically assess the values, ethics, and social-cultural paradigms found in these two epics and how their values and teachings are meaningful for the development of character. Results and Discussions: Basic principles of the Ramayana and Mahabharata are sought in context of character building of persons. We have observed that there are many directions discussed in these two epics for making noble persons, which are the wealth of a nation.  Conclusion: The epics contain all the very relevant lessons, not as museum pieces or prosaic story-telIing of past generations that only exist in self-indulgent contemporary discussions but as documents that provide illumination about the path for individuals and societies alike. The lessons they provide, and the push towards doing one’s duty, self-control, principled leadership, following the advice of mentors in learning, imparting justice, acting with compassion, and striving towards spirituality provide an integrated basis for development of a purposeful, ethical, and meaningful life.