The fifth book of Ananda Ramayana is named Shubha Janma Kanda or Janma Kanda, comprising 9 sargas (chapters) and 804 shlokas (verses). This section narrates significant events following the exile of Sita, including the birth of her sons, Lava and Kusha.
Key Events and Themes:
Deliberate Banishment of Sita:
- Unlike other versions of the Ramayana, where Sita's banishment is portrayed as a response to societal pressure, the Ananda Ramayana suggests that Rama deliberately plans and enacts this drama. This perspective highlights a deeper, possibly symbolic meaning behind Sita's exile, indicating Rama's adherence to dharma (righteousness) and the unfolding of destiny.
Birth of Lava and Kusha:
- Kusha's Birth: Kusha is born to Sita through natural means. His birth signifies the continuity of Rama and Sita's lineage and the embodiment of their virtues.
- Creation of Lava: Lava's creation is unique in this narrative. Valmiki, the sage and author of the original Ramayana, creates another baby out of ‘lava’ seeds (cloves or nutmeg) and infuses it with life. Sita accepts this child as her own, reflecting her boundless maternal love and the mystical elements of her story.
Samyogakarana Vrata:
- A special religious rite called ‘Samyogakarana Vrata’ is performed by Sita at the behest of Valmiki. This rite symbolizes the union and harmony between the natural and the mystical, reflecting the integration of Lava and Kusha into Sita's life and their acceptance as Rama's sons.
Rama Raksha Stotra:
- The famous Rama Raksha Stotra, a powerful hymn invoking the protection of Lord Rama, is included in the 5th sarga (chapter) of this book. This stotra is revered for its protective and auspicious qualities, often recited by devotees for safety and peace.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance:
Rama's Adherence to Dharma:
- The narrative emphasizes Rama's commitment to dharma, portraying his actions, including Sita's banishment, as part of a divine plan. This interpretation offers a philosophical view of Rama's character, emphasizing his role as a paragon of virtue and righteousness.
Maternal Devotion and Mysticism:
- Sita's acceptance of Lava, a child created through mystical means, underscores her boundless maternal devotion and the theme of unconditional love. The inclusion of mystical elements like the creation of Lava and the performance of religious rites adds a layer of divine intervention and supernatural significance to the story.
Integration of Stotras:
- The incorporation of hymns like the Rama Raksha Stotra within the narrative enriches the spiritual tapestry of the text, providing devotees with sacred verses for recitation and meditation, thus deepening their engagement with the epic.
Overall, the Shubha Janma Kanda or Janma Kanda in the Ananda Ramayana presents a unique and enriching version of the story, blending elements of dharma, mysticism, and maternal devotion, and contributing to the rich tapestry of Ramayana literature.