rama

Rama is a major figure in Hinduism, revered as the hero of the Ramayana and in many traditions regarded as the seventh avatar of the god Vishnu. He is honored as maryada purushottama, the ideal man who upholds dharma in the face of adversity.

According to the Ramayana, Rama is the prince of Ayodhya, son of King Dasharatha, and brother to Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna. After being forced into a 14-year exile, he travels with Sita, his wife, and Lakshmana. Sita is abducted by the demon king Ravana, leading Rama to ally with Hanuman and the monkey army to rescue her in Lanka. Rama defeats Ravana, and after the exile ends, returns to Ayodhya and is crowned king, bringing about a period of peace known as Rama Rajya. Rama’s brother Bharata rules in his stead from a distance, keeping Rama’s sandals on the throne.

The Ramayana, traditionally ascribed to the sage Valmiki, narrates Rama's life, ideals, and journey to uphold dharma. It exists in numerous languages and traditions, and is among the most influential works of Indian literature, with many regional renderings and retellings, such as adaptations in Southeast Asia.

Rama is widely worshiped across Hinduism and in parts of Southeast Asia. Festivals such as Ram Navami celebrate his birth. He is often depicted with a bow and arrow, and his wife Sita is regarded as an incarnation of Lakshmi. The name Rama is common in Indian and neighboring cultures and appears in many cultural and devotional contexts.

Beyond India, the Ramayana inspired regional epic cycles such as the Ramakien in Thailand and the Kakawin Ramayana in Java and Bali, reflecting the character's enduring cultural influence.