“Ram Rajya”, a term popularised by Mahatma Gandhi, embodies an ideal society characterised by equality and the prevalence of justice. This equality and justice are attained through moral and spiritual values rooted in the principles of satya (truth) and dharma (righteousness). Today, the term carries a predominantly political connotation rather than the social context intended by Gandhi.
Ram holds a vital place in the fabric of our country and culture, portraying the ideal ruler, an aspect that is well respected in Indian society always. As a ruler, he never allowed personal or familial interests to take the centre stage. This is evident in his willingness to forsake his own wife in response to a single complaint from one of his subjects, highlighting the profound commitment to righteousness.
Here, Ramayana underscores the potency of Ram Rajya, asserting its superiority over even democracy. While the widely accepted legal maxim that "Caesar's wife must be above suspicion" emphasises the importance of moral integrity in governance, the tales from Ram’s epic often don't receive the recognition they deserve, even within India.
Ram Is A Collective Name For All Virtues
Ram is a collective name for all virtues that Indians expect from politicians and rulers. His willingness to relinquish a royal life to honour his father's promise, even when he had support from his father, mother, and brother to act otherwise, exemplifies his dedication to moral values. Although stronger than his father, he chose not to utilise his strength, a virtue that India has adopted as a principle, a departure from the approach taken by many invaders of the country. For Ayodhya Ram Mandir Live updates click here
In fulfilling his responsibilities, Ram displayed unwavering determination and an unapologetic stance. When faced with the necessity of dealing with Bali, who had transgressed dharmic standards, Ram did not let the conventional course of dharma hinder his actions. He pursued what he believed to be apt and necessary, even if it deviated from the ordinary definition of righteousness.
Despite being a formidable warrior, Ram consistently demonstrated a high level of respect for his rivals. This quality, reminiscent of the values our forces uphold today, involves treating enemies with respect, irrespective of how our own forces are treated elsewhere. Ram exemplified this by according full honour to the slain Bali and Ravana, showcasing a sense of dignity and acknowledgment even in the face of conflict.
Ram Rajya — characterised by inclusivity, the provision of citizens' rights, a non-discriminatory governance apparatus, and the equal treatment of all — aligns closely with the virtues that our Constitution makers aimed to instil in the country. Consequently, they opted for the image of Ram returning to Ayodhya with his wife and brother as a symbolic representation of these qualities, emphasising the aspiration for a just and inclusive society.
Yet, in all these years, we failed as a nation in truly representing his ideals.
Ram Mandir Represents Ram’s Virtues
Many places across the country bear the name of Ram, many temples are dedicated to Ram, and yet, curiously, he did not have a dedicated seat in his own birthplace, Ayodhya. The desire to have a temple for Ram at his birthplace has long been a wish of only Hindus, rooted in religious sentiments. While it would be a misjudgment to characterise it solely as a political agenda, it sadly never became a cultural necessity. With the grand establishment of the Ram Mandir, one gets a feeling that his virtues are formally adopted by the country, and that the seat of the most righteous will transform Ayodhya into the dharmic capital of the country.
Like any other nation, India is continuously evolving, working towards realising the true essence of Ram Rajya. Ram Mandir represents a tangible embodiment of the concept of Ram Rajya, serving as a perpetual reminder for governments and rulers to aspire toward achieving the ideals of justice and fairness. It will offer a timeless compass for guidance, particularly in moments of uncertainty, and will urge the nation to progress on the path of righteousness and equality, akin to the principles associated with Ram's vision of an ideal society.
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The lessons from Ram's life provide invaluable insights, and rather than unlearning anything, there is much to be gained by continually learning from his example. The journey towards realising the ideals of Ram Rajya involves an ongoing process of internalising the virtues exemplified by Ram. The Ram Mandir stands as a reminder of these principles, urging us to strive for justice, fairness, and righteousness in our collective pursuit of a better society.
Sreejith Panickar is a political commentator and an independent researcher. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
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