ear exile. The idea of karma is also represented in Rama's fourteen-year exile to the woods. His entering the woods represents samsara and his return to the kingdom is the maksa or liberation of his life according to the idea of karma.Rama attained several levels of maksa (enlightenment). He attains it when he takes his pilgrimage into the forest. He also attains maksa when he inherits the kingdom and kills Ravana. In the forest he gained valuable attributes that make him a perfect ruler. Hindus celebrate the return of Rama from his exile in a celebration called Dawali. It is celebrated each year and lasts three days. The three days represent the return of Rama, the preparing of the kingship, and the final day represents the day that the kingdom is bestowed to Rama. The people of India light lanterns in the streets and in their houses. They share food with friends and neighbors (Nair). This idea of karma and samsara makes for a rigid caste system in the story of the Ramayana and India as well. There are five social classes. The Brahmins are at the height of the social ladder, then the Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras, and last are the Untouchables. The three highest social classes are called the twice-born class and only they can perform special ceremonies that will insure enlightenment (maksa). The representation of the kingdom and all its social stratification's in the story reinforces this idea (Pandian 68). Modern India has had many social upheavals and political problems in the country. Early in the 1990's Minister V. P. Singh initiated affirmative action against the backward castes. Subsequently, this led to widespread riots and social upheavals (Blank X). The writings of the Ramayana have such a powerful impact on the people in India today, and all throughout the history of India. The political structures that the Ramayana represent are at the core of Hindu philosophy. The Hindu religion believes that all things...
