The Adhyatma Ramayana, like the original Valmiki Ramayana, is divided into seven sections or books known as "kandas." These are Balakanda (Book of Childhood), Ayodhya Kanda (Book of Ayodhya), Aranyakanda (Book of the Forest), Kishkindha Kanda (Book of Kishkindha), Sundarakanda (Book of Beauty), Yuddhakanda (Book of War), and Uttarakanda (Book of the Aftermath). The key difference in naming is found in the sixth book, Yuddhakanda, which is occasionally referred to as Laakakanda in the Adhyatma Ramayana.
Lankakanda in Adhyatma Ramayana
The Lankakhanda or Laakakanda is essentially an alternate designation for the Yuddhakanda, focusing on the war between Rama's forces and Ravana's army in Lanka. This portion of the epic recounts the intense battles that take place, culminating in the defeat of Ravana and the rescue of Sita. The Lankakhanda also highlights the virtues of Lord Rama, the devotion of Hanuman, and the loyalty of Rama’s allies.
The Context of the Adhyatma Ramayana
The Adhyatma Ramayana is a spiritual rendition of the Ramayana story, embedded within the Brahmanda Purana. It is said to have been composed between the 14th and 15th centuries CE, and its authorship is often attributed to an unknown sage. The text is believed to have been composed in the Tantra style, which involves a dialogue form, particularly between the deities Shiva Mahadeva and Goddess Parvati. In this version, Lord Rama is portrayed not merely as a heroic figure but as the Supreme Brahman (the ultimate reality or God), emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical aspects of his character.
The Significance of the Lankakhanda
In the Lankakhanda, the battle between Rama and Ravana is not just a physical war but also a symbolic struggle between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness). This portion of the epic highlights the themes of divine justice, the importance of devotion, and the eventual triumph of good over evil. The emphasis on bhakti (devotion) in the Adhyatma Ramayana is particularly strong, with the text offering a more devotional interpretation of the events compared to the more narrative-driven Valmiki Ramayana.
Influence and Legacy
The Adhyatma Ramayana, including its Lankakhanda, has been influential in shaping the devotional traditions in India, particularly in the Bhakti movement. The text’s portrayal of Rama as the supreme deity has made it a central scripture for many devotional sects, particularly those devoted to Rama and Hanuman. Its spiritual interpretations have also inspired various other texts and adaptations, contributing to the rich tapestry of Ramayana literature in Indian culture.