Ayodhya Kand Part 1

by Harini Gopalswami Srinivasan, Sabu Sarasan (Illustrator), Reena Ittyerah Puri (Editor)

Ayodhya Kand is the second book in Valmiki's Ramayana. It tells the story of Lord Rama's exile from Ayodhya and the grief that grips, not just his family, but the entire city. In the first part of this book, Ayodhya Kand I, we find out how and why King Dasharatha is forced by Queen Kaikeyi to banish his son Rama. Even though the people condemn her for her cruelty and the broken-hearted king tries to appeal to her better sense, Kaikeyi is unmoved. Determined to protect his father's honour, Rama accepts the harsh decision and prepares to leave. He is joined by Sita and Lakshmana, who decide to follow him during his exile. We trace the beginning of their journey from Ayodhya, even as the people of the city sink into despair. Ayodhya Kand I continues Valmiki’s story from the first book in the series, Bala Kand, which tells us of Rama’s childhood. It will be followed by Ayodhya Kand II

Genres: Mythology, Comics

104 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2014

About the author

I'm excited by geography, ancient history and mythology: in a nutshell, the romance of place! As a reader, I enjoy humour, action, nature, animals, and happy endings. Like most writers, I try to write the kind of book I like reading.

I'm also an aspiring permaculturist, and right now this takes up all my mind space. My heroes are natural farmers like Fukuoka and Bhaskar Save. Our farm is near the elephant corridor. This, along with our innocence in matters agricultural, makes for uncertain outcomes and a lot of adventures - in my head, at least. My farming blog is here: https://thelongview2016.wordpress.com/

Reviews

[Namratha]

The insecure and easily-swayed stepmother, Kaikeyi decides to put her two long-standing boons to nefarious purposes. The good king Dasharatha is shocked when his wife demands that her son, Bharata should be crowned king, and Prince Rama, the true heir, should be exiled for fourteen years to lead the life of a hermit.

The Ayodhya Kand follows the heartbreaking despair of a doting father, the unfailing grace of Lord Rama as he accepts his father’s orders without anger or hostility, the steady support of Sita and Lakshmana, and the love and loyalty that comes from a shocked Bharata.

We also get a glimpse into the early days of Rama’s exile.

[Hriday]

Gets a little draggy as multiple episodes of trying to convince Ram to return from exile takes place. But I appreciate ACK for retaining it probably in the interest of a very honest portrayal of Valmiki's work.

A delightful read.

[KK]

Loved the stunning artwork. Excellent narrations and true to Valmiki ramayana. Beautiful book to read and gift kids. My friend Zubair gifted me this book on my birthday.

[Amritesh Mukherjee]

Book 2 of the Valmiki Ramayana Series by ACK.

"Ayodhya Kand" depicts the events leading to Rama's exile for 14 years. The illustrations were gorgeous as always. But somewhere along the line, I miss the way the old ACK illustrations used to be.