Manthara is the hunchbacked maid who serves Queen Kaikeyi, the second wife of King Dasharatha. In the Ramayana, she is responsible for instigating Kaikeyi to demand that her son Bharata be crowned as king instead of Rama, who was the rightful heir. Manthara's cunning and manipulative actions result in Rama's exile and set the stage for the events that follow.
The symbolism of Manthara in the Ramayana can be interpreted
in various ways:
Jealousy and Envy: Manthara's hunchback is often seen as a
physical representation of her inner malice, jealousy, and envy. Her desire for
Bharata to become king stems from her resentment towards Rama.
Destructive Influence: Manthara serves as a negative and
destructive force in the narrative. Her actions lead to a chain of events that
bring about suffering and separation within the royal family.
The Power of Manipulation: Manthara's ability to manipulate
Kaikeyi highlights the destructive power of scheming and conniving behavior.
This can be seen as a cautionary tale about the consequences of allowing
oneself to be influenced by negative forces.
Lesson on Dharma: Manthara's role underscores the importance
of adhering to dharma (righteousness) and the consequences of deviating from
it. Her actions disrupt the natural order and bring about chaos in the kingdom.
Symbol of Internal Conflicts: Manthara's hunchback can also
be symbolic of internal conflicts within individuals. Her character reflects
the internal struggles that arise when personal desires clash with moral
principles.
In summary, the symbolism of Manthara in the Ramayana is
multifaceted, representing themes of jealousy, manipulation, the consequences
of deviating from dharma, and the internal conflicts that individuals may face.