Reading Notes A: Sita Stolen

I chose to read Sister Nivedita’s retelling of the Ramayana.  I picked Sita Stolen for reading A of this week.

The description of everything is so beautiful.  My favorite part is when, although Ravana is disguised as a wandering yogi, the forest knows him.  The trees stop sways, the winds no longer blows, and even the flowers stop opening out of fear.  I also like how strongly she resents his attempt to make her his wife.  Her description of Rama is wonderful, full of great metaphors and wonderful imagery.  She describes her husband as such a powerful force of nature, and yet Ravana takes her anyway.

Sita drops things from the chariot as Ravana drives her to Lanka.  She drops jewelry and her veil, which could be interesting to look into the items’ significance.  All the characterization of the characters is well done, and I really enjoy how descriptive everything is.  The gentleness of Sita, the morality of Jatayu in his attempt to stop Ravana, the strength of Rama, and the good intentions of Lakshman.


It is very prophetic, including how this deed seals the deadly fate of Ravana at the hands of Rama.  The Gods are pleased, though sad that Sita must endure the company of Ravana’s wickedness.

Image Source: Exotic Indian Art

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