In the epic Ramayana, Sugriva, the king of the Vanaras (monkey warriors), ordered his troops to embark on a mission to search for Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, who had been abducted by the demon king Ravana. As part of his detailed instructions, Sugriva gave specific directions to a group of his troops to head eastwards, describing the lands and regions they would encounter on their journey. Mention of the land of Kiratas is found in the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana.
Sugriva’s Directions
Sugriva instructed his troops to search meticulously in
every land and place they came across. He emphasized the importance of
thoroughness and vigilance in their search for Sita. The journey eastward
involved crossing several significant rivers, each marking a stage in their
quest. The rivers mentioned include:
Ganga: One of the most sacred rivers in Hinduism,
symbolizing purity and spiritual significance.
Sarayu: Another sacred river, closely associated with the
ancient city of Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama.
Gomati: A tributary of the Ganges, known for its religious
and cultural importance.
Brahmaputra: A major river flowing through the eastern part
of the Indian subcontinent, significant for its vastness and powerful currents.
After crossing these rivers, Sugriva described the land of
the Kiratas.
The Land of the Kiratas
Sugriva’s description of the Kiratas presents them as a
unique and formidable people. The Kiratas are depicted with:
Golden-colored bodies: This suggests a distinctive and
striking appearance.
Copper-colored hair: Adding to their extraordinary and
unusual look.
Huge ears: This feature might symbolize their keen sense of
hearing or their unusual physiology.
Aquatic lifestyle: The Kiratas are said to live in the water
and sustain themselves by eating fish. This indicates a close relationship with
their aquatic environment.
The Kiratas were not just different in appearance but also
posed a danger to others. Any beings that ventured too close to them risked
being eaten. This underscores the potential peril the Vanaras might face in
this region.
Instructions for Interaction
Despite the potential danger, Sugriva advised his troops to
remain courteous and polite if they encountered the Kiratas. He instructed them
to inquire about Sita’s whereabouts with respect and diplomacy. This highlights
the importance of maintaining decorum and politeness even in hostile or
unfamiliar territories.
Sugriva’s detailed and vivid description of the journey and the land of the Kiratas reflects the rich tapestry of cultures, geographies, and beings in the Ramayana. It also underscores the immense effort and challenges faced by those searching for Sita, showcasing the epic’s themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the quest for justice.