Differences And Similarities Between The Character Of Bharata And Phra Phrot In Thai Ramakien.
The characters of Bharata from the Indian epic Ramayana and Phra Phrot from the Thai version known as Ramakien share numerous similarities, given that the Ramakien is an adaptation of the Ramayana. However, there are also key differences shaped by cultural interpretations, values, and storytelling traditions of India and Thailand. Let's explore their characterizations, similarities, differences, and broader cultural impact across art, cinema, and daily life.
Character Background
Bharata (Ramayana - Indian Version): Bharata is the younger brother of Rama (the protagonist of the Ramayana). He plays a pivotal role in the epic, showcasing loyalty, duty, and righteousness. When their father, King Dasharatha, is manipulated by Bharata's mother Kaikeyi to exile Rama and crown Bharata as king, Bharata refuses to usurp the throne. Instead, he rules Ayodhya as a caretaker and places Rama's sandals on the throne as a symbol of his rightful authority. Bharata's actions highlight his deep devotion to dharma (righteousness) and his loyalty to his elder brother.
Phra Phrot (Ramakien - Thai Version): Phra Phrot is the equivalent of Bharata in the Ramakien. His character, like Bharata, is deeply loyal to his brother Phra Ram (Rama in the Ramakien). However, there are some differences in emphasis. Thai culture places greater emphasis on the ideals of familial duty and respect for hierarchy, and Phra Phrot exemplifies this by showing utmost reverence to Phra Ram. Phra Phrot also plays a role in safeguarding the kingdom during Phra Ram’s exile, reflecting the Thai values of devotion to monarchy and family.
Similarities Between Bharata and Phra Phrot
Loyalty and Selflessness: Both characters exemplify deep loyalty and selflessness. Neither Bharata nor Phra Phrot desires to claim the throne for themselves, despite having the opportunity. They act as custodians for their brothers and rulers in exile.
Respect for Family Hierarchy: In both epics, Bharata and Phra Phrot represent unwavering respect for elder brothers. Bharata places Rama’s sandals on the throne, symbolizing Rama's authority even in his absence. Phra Phrot similarly upholds the authority of Phra Ram.
Symbol of Ideal Brother: Both are presented as models of ideal brothers who prioritize family duty over personal gain. They are paragons of familial devotion, embodying the values of loyalty, obedience, and support.
Role in Governance: Both Bharata and Phra Phrot take on the role of a temporary ruler or regent during the exile of their elder brothers. They maintain the kingdom’s order while showing deep humility and commitment to rightful rule.
Key Differences Between Bharata and Phra Phrot
Cultural Nuances: Bharata’s portrayal is shaped by the Indian concept of dharma—duty, justice, and righteousness. In contrast, Phra Phrot’s actions are influenced by Thai notions of Buddhist and royal values, where respect for hierarchy, authority, and the divine nature of kingship is paramount. The Ramakien integrates more Buddhist elements into its characters, and Phra Phrot’s devotion is framed as part of the king’s sacred duty.
Influence of Buddhism: In the Thai Ramakien, the influence of Buddhism is more pronounced. Characters like Phra Phrot are expected to act in ways that reflect Buddhist virtues such as compassion, humility, and non-attachment, while in the Ramayana, Bharata's motivations stem from adherence to Hindu concepts like karma and dharma.
Emphasis in Narrative: While Bharata's refusal to accept the throne and his role as a loyal brother is a significant part of the Ramayana, Phra Phrot’s character in the Ramakien is more integrated into the broader narrative of divine kingship. Phra Ram is seen as a manifestation of divine authority, and Phra Phrot’s role emphasizes the duty to uphold that authority as an extension of royal and divine law.
Tone and Heroism: The tone of the Ramakien is generally more heroic and celebratory, often focusing on larger-than-life adventures and exploits. As a result, Phra Phrot's character is sometimes framed in a more glorified, nationalistic light, aligning with the grandeur of Thai mythology and monarchy. Bharata, on the other hand, is often portrayed in a more philosophical and contemplative manner, reflecting the Indian epic’s focus on moral dilemmas and the human condition.
Importance in the Epics
Bharata's Importance (Ramayana): Bharata's actions are vital to the Ramayana’s exploration of dharma and moral integrity. He represents an alternative to the lust for power, embodying a selfless devotion to truth and duty. His story is one of ethical purity, showing that true loyalty transcends personal ambitions.
Phra Phrot's Importance (Ramakien): Phra Phrot's role in the Ramakien reinforces Thai cultural values surrounding monarchy and the divine right of kings. His character promotes respect for authority, family loyalty, and the preservation of social order. In the Thai context, he reflects the ideal of loyalty to the monarchy, which is a key cultural principle.
Modern-Day Relevance
Bharata's Relevance in Modern India: Bharata remains a symbol of sibling devotion, loyalty, and sacrifice in Indian culture. His story is often invoked to teach moral lessons about duty, ethics, and selflessness. Bharata is celebrated during religious festivals and continues to be a figure of respect in modern retellings of the Ramayana.
Phra Phrot's Relevance in Modern Thailand: Phra Phrot holds a significant place in Thai culture, where the monarchy is highly revered. His devotion to Phra Ram echoes Thai values of loyalty to the king and family. The Ramakien, including characters like Phra Phrot, is taught in schools and forms a major part of Thai national identity. Phra Phrot's character is a model of duty and reverence, closely associated with the Thai Buddhist and royal traditions.
Cultural Impact
Art and Literature: In Indian art and literature, Bharata has been portrayed in various Ramayana retellings, paintings, and temple sculptures. His character symbolizes dharma, making him a central figure in Hindu philosophical discussions.
In Thailand, Phra Phrot is depicted in murals, traditional puppet plays, and classical dance forms like Khon. The Ramakien is a foundational epic in Thai literature, and Phra Phrot features prominently in various forms of artistic expression, including temple murals at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
Cinema and Performing Arts: In Indian cinema, Bharata’s character is often portrayed in Ramayana adaptations, emphasizing his righteousness and sacrifice. Similarly, Phra Phrot appears in Thai films and television adaptations of the Ramakien, where his role in safeguarding the kingdom and his loyalty to Phra Ram is celebrated.
Influence in Day-to-Day Life: The values embodied by Bharata and Phra Phrot—duty, loyalty, and selflessness—are still revered in both India and Thailand. Their stories continue to influence family dynamics, where respect for elder siblings, loyalty to family, and moral duty are emphasized.
Teachings and Influence
Duty and Self-Sacrifice: Both characters teach the lesson that true duty often involves personal sacrifice. They embody the virtues of loyalty, humility, and unwavering dedication to justice and family.
Respect for Authority: In both the Ramayana and the Ramakien, respect for authority—whether it be the authority of an elder brother or a king—is a central theme. Bharata and Phra Phrot serve as models of how one should honor legitimate authority without seeking personal power.
Moral Integrity: Bharata’s and Phra Phrot’s steadfast moral compasses provide a framework for ethical behavior. Their stories inspire individuals to adhere to principles of right action, even in the face of personal adversity or temptation.
The characters of Bharata in the Ramayana and Phra Phrot in the Ramakien are powerful symbols of loyalty, duty, and moral righteousness. While they share many similarities due to the shared heritage of their stories, the cultural contexts of India and Thailand have shaped them in unique ways. In both cultures, their influence continues to be felt in art, literature, performance, and daily life. Their stories serve as timeless examples of how familial loyalty and moral duty can transcend personal ambition, reinforcing cultural values that remain relevant even in contemporary times.