Ram's Secret

by Devdutt Pattanaik

Both Manavas and Rakshasas are grandchildren of Brahma, indicating that they are two different frames of mind.

Prithu is described as the first responsible king of earth. This is why the earth is called Prithvi.

Ashrama ensures that not more than two generations utilised the earth’s resources at any one time.

It is said that the bull of dharma stands on four legs in the Krita yuga, on three legs in Treta yuga, two in Dvapara yuga and one in Kali yuga.

An avatar does not restore the ideal dharma, because there is no ideal dharma. An avatar redefines dharma for a particular age. Dharma of Krita yuga is not the dharma of Treta yuga; times are different, needs are different, hence the code of civilisation is different.

Pralaya is an eventuality, but an avatar prevents it from happening prematurely.