Hindu Ideals of Men and Women

Keith Ann G. De Villa II-11 BSE English

Hindu Ideals of Men and Women

One of the most important parts of life of Hindu people is marriage. In making this successful reunited life between two people, their ideals must be followed. It is obvious that the harmony of a relationship depends on the compatibility and idealism towards each other of the two people involved. As I have studied in our Indian Literature class, there are some Hindu ideals of men and women that were shown by the characters from their two great epics: the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Rama and Lakshman from the epic, Ramayana, and King Dushyanta from the story of Shakuntala, were referred to be as ideal men for Hindus. Rama had shown excellence in his duties. It is clearly seen in the story that he is a brave and courageous man. He is an obedient son to his father because he still followed the orders of his parents instead of the honor to be the king. He is a very thoughtful man to his family and wife. He is very devoted to Sita, his wife, and a very strong man. His brother, Lakshman is also considered to be an ideal man because of his faithfulness to him. He had disregarded the wealthy life in the palace and chooses to protect Sita and join Rama in a dangerous journey in the woods. He is also considered to be brave and strong. Another idealistic man for Hindus is King Dushyanta. Most of his characteristics thatwere shown in the story are like Rama. He had shown courage and bravery in fighting the off the demons that were threatening Indra. He also had a deep devotion to his wife Shakuntala. He still tried his best to find Shakuntala and his son although he knew that it might be dangerous for him. He is also obedient and a very loving man. He is a protective ruler to his people and also considered to be physically fit and strong.

On the other hand, female characters in some stories in Indian Literature had also possessed some characteristics of ideal women for Hindus. Sita of...