The last and final book of the Ananda Ramayana is known as Purna Kanda. This book, consisting of 9 sargas (chapters) and a total of 577 shlokas (verses), is the shortest among the books of the Ananda Ramayana. Despite its brevity, it holds significant spiritual and narrative importance, detailing the final acts of Rama's earthly journey and his return to the divine realm.
Summary of Purna Kanda
1. Ascension to Vaikunta: The Purna Kanda primarily focuses on the events leading to and including Rama’s return to Vaikunta, the heavenly abode of Vishnu. This ascension marks the culmination of Rama's avatar on Earth.
2. Installation of Kusha: Before his departure, Rama ensures the stability and continuity of his kingdom by installing his son Kusha on the throne. Kusha, one of the twin sons of Rama and Sita, is deemed the rightful successor to carry forward the legacy of his father.
3. Final Instructions: Rama provides Kusha with guidance and wisdom necessary for ruling Ayodhya. He advises on governance, the welfare of the subjects, and the principles of dharma (righteousness).
4. Farewell to Earthly Ties: Rama bids farewell to his companions, brothers, and loyal subjects. This emotional departure emphasizes his deep connection to those who have stood by him throughout his life and his reign.
5. Transformation and Return: The narrative describes Rama’s transformation from his earthly form back to his divine form as Vishnu. This metamorphosis underscores the divine nature of his avatar and the temporary nature of his human existence.
6. Vaikunta: Upon ascending to Vaikunta, Rama is welcomed by the celestial beings. This section often includes vivid descriptions of Vaikunta, highlighting its splendor and the blissful existence of those who reside there.
7. Symbolism and Significance: Purna Kanda, although short, encapsulates the essence of Rama’s life and his purpose on Earth. It symbolizes the return of the divine to the divine realm after fulfilling its mission. The installation of Kusha also represents the perpetuation of dharma through successive generations.
Key Themes
- Dharma and Legacy: The emphasis on Kusha's installation as king highlights the importance of ensuring the continuity of dharma and righteous governance.
- Detachment and Transcendence: Rama’s farewell to his earthly ties and his return to Vaikunta illustrate the concepts of detachment from the mortal world and the transcendence to a higher spiritual plane.
- Divine Cycle: The narrative of Rama’s return to Vaikunta completes the divine cycle of descent (avatar) and ascent, a recurring theme in Hindu mythology.
Importance in Hindu Tradition
Purna Kanda, being the concluding part of the Ananda Ramayana, holds a special place in Hindu tradition. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the eternal nature of the divine. Devotees often look to this Kanda for inspiration on living a life of righteousness and for understanding the ultimate reunion with the divine.
In conclusion, the Purna Kanda of the Ananda Ramayana succinctly captures the essence of Rama's journey and his divine mission. Its narrative, though brief, is rich with spiritual lessons and the promise of eternal unity with the divine for those who live a life of dharma.