Recently, I saw a poster of an animation movie called ‘Sons
of Ram’. I am of the opinion that the title is absolutely inappropriate.
Now, I am a guy who is thrilled about Indian Mythology. Like
almost every other Indian, I have grown up listening to these stories. And I am
trying to become ‘well read’ about this field even. Have read the Ashok Bankers
and Amishes, reading the Devdutt Pattnaiks, even reading the original Sanskrit scripts
and trying to form my own interpretations (although I must admit, progress here
is very slow). Basically, I think I can safely say that I am well aware of the
traditional and the recently come to light contemporary views and takes on our
Mythology.
‘Sons of Ram’ as anyone can understand is obviously the
story about Sita and Ram’s twin sons Luv and Kush. Sita was banished from the
kingdom by Ram almost immediately after he returned from the Van Vaas. She gave
birth to the twins, brought them up, schooled them, fed them, etc all without
the help or involvement of Ram. In fact, Ram was unaware of ‘his’ sons and the
twins were unaware who their father was.
I, for one truly believe that the first few years of a child
are his defining years. How a man turns out depends almost completely on what
his foundation is made of. Considering the fact that Ram had no role in this
crucial part of Luv and Kush’s life, is it fair and justified to call them ‘Sons
of Ram’? Isn’t it a grave injustice to the struggle, determination and
extraordinary success of Sita as a mother?
To me this one simple title highlights a crucial shortcoming
of our society. It brings into spotlight the fact that we are unfortunately
still living in a man dominated world. Maybe it is not a conscious move by the makers
of the movie, but isn’t that a more significant proof that this ‘man domination’
has become so engraved in our mind set that we do not even realise how it is
directing our actions.
Maybe I am making a story out of nothing and the only reason
the movie is named thus is because Ashok Banker already has released a book
called ‘Sons of Sita’. But then, when it has been so long since you’ve written anything,
you will grab onto every small little sliver that shines through. ;)
