(Image Information: Sita and Rama in Forest
Nina Paley Source: Flickr)
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This week in both this course, and my Intro to Hinduism course, we have discussed a lot about the Ramayana, the various version, and the various interpretations. In my Intro to Hinduism class today, we talked about Narayana's version of the Ramayana. This discussion opened my eyes to a different outlook on the Ramayana and what its mean to each person.
I decided to take on a planning post this week as I would like to look into more about what happened in the Ramayana in different versions, and also research more about Sita and her point of view during this Epic journey. Nina Paley's Sita Sings the Blues brings both elements of the past and present together to bring about a narration that allows viewers to understand that different versions of the Ramayana exist. Bringing the element of Blues music as a back story was so amazing. This has inspired me to think about how the Ramayana would be like in the 21st century.
My plan right now is to bring the Ramayana to the 21st century present day, and maybe consider the setting as Norman, Oklahoma. I would like to think about how the story might be different if this Epic took place today, and what that means for each character.
The story would definitely be different, but would still have the underlying themes presented in the Ramayana as well as still have the same characteristics presented in the designated characters. The scene that I specifically want to focus on is the ending. There is a lot of controversy about the test by Sita with Agni and Sita's exile. There is controversy on whether Rama did that out of dharma, and why Rama was so cold to Sita.
For different versions of the Ramayana, this ending meant different things, and even some versions the ending was presented differently. After researching, and seeing all the interpretations, I will incorporate elements from Sita Sings the Blue's ending and bring it into the 21st century setting. I feel like changing the story like this might also help people like me who can't imagine the lessons being taught through this epic because of such a controversial ending.
I think I will also try to incorporate some of my beliefs into my story about the significance of this ending and make sure to note that in the author's notes. I will definitely be researching throughout the rest of the week, and plan to have this story done by the time Week 5 starts!
I am excited to see what I come up with!
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Bibliography: Nina Paley's Sita Sings the Blues Reading Guide
Sonali, I think it's really great that you're planning this story out. I have yet to post a "planning" blog, or even come across someone's for that matter. I really like your idea of not only bringing the Ramayana to the 21st century, but also setting it in Norman. I'd love to read it once you're finished! Also, I think it's super cool that you're in this class in addition to Intro to Hinduism. I bet it really gives you a lot of insight on the stories that we'll be reading throughout the semester!
ReplyDeleteSonali, I really enjoyed your story planning post! I have not written one like this yet this semester but definitely might after reading through yours. I like your idea of bringing the Ramayana into the 21st century. It is always so interesting to read modern twists on old stories. I also like that you want to incorporate some of your own beliefs into your twist on the story. It is always cool to read something that has a personal aspect! I can't wait to see what else you come up with this semester!
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