Sri Ramayana Darshanam is a popular version of Ramayan in
Kannada composed by K.V. Puttapa (Kuvempu). This 20th century, hugely popular, story
of Rama is based on Valmiki Ramayan. Kuvempu’s treatment is different and
unorthodox. The poem is written in free verse.
An important aspect of Sri Ramayana Darshanam is that even
the evil characters do get an opportunity for liberation or moksha. According
to Kuvempu, the demons and other evil characters are pawns in a larger divine
plan. As they help in the divine mission, they too get salvation in the end.
Manthara, a bad character in the Valmiki Ramayan, gets more
space in Sri Ramayana Darshanam and there are scenes where the good qualities
and wisdom of the old lady is put to use.
Another interesting aspect in this popular Kannda version of
Ramayana is the rebirth of Ravana and Kumbhakarna as Mata Sita’s sons, Lava and
Kusha. In this birth, they defeat Rama and take revenge.
Hanuman is represented as Yogi.
The supreme sacrifice of Urmila, wife of Lakshmana, is given
an important place in the poem.