Lakshmana
Early Life
Lakshmana is a significant character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He is the younger brother of Rama and also the son of King Dasharatha and Queen Sumitra of Ayodhya. Lakshmana is the twin brother of Shatrughna. According to the Ramayana, Lakshmana is considered to be an avatar of Sesha, the serpent associated with the god Vishnu.
Role in the Ramayana
In the Ramayana, Lakshmana serves as Rama's faithful companion throughout the epic. When Rama is exiled for fourteen years on the insistence of Kaikeyi, Lakshmana leaves his wife Urmila and joins Rama and Sita in the forest. He spends his time protecting Sita and Rama, during which he fights the demoness Surpanakha. He also plays a vital role during Rama's war with Ravana, the king of Lanka.
Characteristics and Attributes
Lakshmana is known for his loyalty and devotion to Rama. His life symbolizes the duties of a man to his elders and superiors, and how a man should lead his life under the shadow of his elders. He is also known for his wrath. His anger is considered equivalent to that of Lord Shiva’s wrath.
Depiction in other Scriptures and Cultures
Lakshmana's character has been explored in many scriptures and cultures. In Jain texts, Lakshmana is depicted as an incarnation of the god Narayana. In Thai culture, he is known as Phra Lak Phra Lam and is seen as a deity of righteousness.
Legacy and Worship
Lakshmana is worshipped as a deity in many parts of India. There are several temples dedicated to him, including the Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, and the Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita temple in Nashik, Maharashtra.