Several filmmakers have adapted the epic for the big screen: Reports
CHENNAI: With Ramayana: Rise of the Legend scheduled for theatrical release next week, ahead of Deepavali, this columnist is reminded of watching Ramanand Sagar’s television series Ramayan, which aired on DD National in the late 1980s. The Hindi series captivated the entire family and kept audiences across Tamil Nadu hooked, transcending language barriers.
Several filmmakers have adapted the epic for the big screen, with considerable success. This columnist fondly remembers watching Sampoorna Ramayanam, a Tamil film, in a theatre as a little girl, decades ago. She has also read portions of Chakravarthi Thirumagan, Rajaji’s retelling of the Ramayana. She grew up reading Amar Chitra Katha, which brought the epic alive through several editions featuring its diverse stories and characters.
The Ramayana has shaped ethical, spiritual and cultural values across India and other parts of South Asia. The epic has captivated generations with its tales of heroism, devotion and moral values.
Deepavali is closely associated with the Ramayana, as the festival is traditionally linked to the return of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and Rama’s victory over Ravana. Lighting diyas on Deepavali night symbolises the joyous homecoming and, more broadly, the victory of good over evil.
The enduring appeal of the Ramayana lies in its ability to remain relevant across generations. From television series and films to books and comic strips, the Ramayana has found different ways to reach audiences, young and old. As a new cinematic adaptation prepares to hit the screens, it remains to be seen how it will capture the imagination of today’s viewers. Probably that is why even decades after her first encounter with the epic, this columnist is looking forward to returning to the epic’s familiar yet ever-inspiring world.
