📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ramesh Lalwani
Religion
Susmita Mukherjee Criticizes Ramayana Glorification, Highlights Ravana's Dark Traits
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 08 Nov 2026, 09:46 AM
👁 9
Susmita Mukherjee has voiced concerns that the popular depiction of Ravana in the Ramayana emphasizes negative traits, suggesting that such portrayals reflect the darker aspects of human nature. She urges a more nuanced understanding of the epic.
Susmita Mukherjee, a noted commentator, recently expressed her view that the widespread glorification of the Ramayana often overlooks the negative aspects embodied by the character of Ravana. She argues that focusing solely on the heroic elements of the epic can lead to a distorted perception of its moral lessons.
According to Mukherjee, Ravana’s portrayal as a villain highlights traits such as arrogance, obsession, and moral ambiguity—qualities that resonate with the darker side of human behavior. She believes that acknowledging these traits is essential for a balanced interpretation of the narrative.
The commentator further suggested that a more comprehensive approach to the Ramayana would encourage readers to reflect on both the virtues and vices presented in the story, fostering a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Her remarks come amid ongoing discussions about how traditional epics are taught and celebrated across India, with some educators advocating for a critical examination of all characters.
Mukherjee’s stance has sparked conversations among scholars and the general public about the role of epic literature in shaping contemporary moral perspectives.
According to Mukherjee, Ravana’s portrayal as a villain highlights traits such as arrogance, obsession, and moral ambiguity—qualities that resonate with the darker side of human behavior. She believes that acknowledging these traits is essential for a balanced interpretation of the narrative.
The commentator further suggested that a more comprehensive approach to the Ramayana would encourage readers to reflect on both the virtues and vices presented in the story, fostering a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Her remarks come amid ongoing discussions about how traditional epics are taught and celebrated across India, with some educators advocating for a critical examination of all characters.
Mukherjee’s stance has sparked conversations among scholars and the general public about the role of epic literature in shaping contemporary moral perspectives.