Bhagavan Sri Ram is often referred to as "Maryada Purushottam" because he is considered the epitome of righteousness, virtue, and adherence to dharma (duty or righteousness). The term "Maryada Purushottam" can be translated to mean "the best among those who follow the path of righteousness."
The title highlights Bhagavan Sri Rama's unwavering
commitment to upholding moral and ethical values in every aspect of his life.
His character is depicted in the epic Ramayana, where he serves as an ideal
king, husband, son, and warrior. Bhagavan Sri Rama strictly adheres to the
principles of dharma, even in the face of challenging situations and personal
sacrifices.
One of the most famous incidents that showcases Bhagavan Sri
Rama's commitment to dharma is his exile to the forest for 14 years to honor
his father's promise and uphold his duty as a son. Additionally, his dedication
to his wife, Sita, and his loyalty to his subjects further emphasize his
exemplary character.
This is not a question that has come up today. It is a
similar question that was asked of Narada by Maharishi Valmiki, over 7100 years
ago too. His question was, “Was there someone on earth who had exemplified all
characteristics that any human can ever bear?”. Out of this question emerged
the answer that it was Shri Ram, who was living then, who possessed all such 16
possible gunas. It is to bring out these 16 gunas that Maharishi Valmiki started
penning the Ramadan as a Itihasa, history in a poetic form. Shri Ram, through
His life has relied on and showcased each of these guna, as He went about His
Dharma in the various roles of a son, a brother, a student, a prince, a
husband, an exile, a warrior, a king and father.
Maryada Purushottam Ram, the torchbearer of the 16 possible
gunas that a human can conduct himself by, hence, also exemplifies the
intertwined bridge between Dharma and Guna in each and every one of us.
It is this innate connection between Dharma and guna, with
Shri Ram as a role model for the same, which has connected Shri Ram to everyone
across Bharat and across the world too. It has kept Shri Ram relevant to the
people of Bharat even across millennia.
In summary, Bhagavan Sri Rama is called "Maryada
Purushottam" because he represents the highest standard of righteousness
and moral conduct, serving as a timeless role model for individuals seeking to
lead a life guided by dharma.