Ravan was destroyed by his ego, that is, a strong identification with his self-interests. He was a king with a responsibility to govern his kingdom in the best interest of his subjects and a husband and also a father. But Ravan failed because he allowed himself to be surrounded by courtiers who were self-serving and did not have the moral strength to speak truth to power.
While Mandodari, the wife of Ravan, courageously told him that he had breached dharma and should return Sita, Ravan’s courtiers were no end in praise for his actions. They were constantly reminding him of his strength as a warrior and the many battles he had won against the gods. His brother, Vibhishan, also spoke out against Ravan’s action and for this he was banished from Lanka.
Courtiers litter the corridors of power across the world. A wise leader would cautiously go about selecting his advisors and ministers, thus ensuring that they have high respect for truth more than personal ambitions. Failure to trust advisors who speak truth has been a major contribution for the fall of governments across the world.
Self-interest and not wanting to appear foolish keeps many silent in the midst of wrongs. The story of the king who was conned to wearing no clothing, were told that only the fools would say that his suit was not beautiful. Self-conceited, the king walked around his kingdom naked with no one daring to tell him that he was naked until a little boy accompanied by his mother shouted: “Mother! Mother! The king is not wearing any clothes.” This was the rude awakening that the king needed but the adults could not have done it because of fear and self-interest. The little boy, in his innocence, simply said what was the truth – the king was wearing no clothes.
All of us have a choice – speak the truth or be a courtier singing the praises of the king. If truth is replaced by flatteries in the short run, one would find one self well respected and loved by egotistical people. Just pretend to agree whole hearted with all that is said and you would be admired and loved. Armed yourself with words such as ‘brilliant’, ‘you are so right’, ‘that makes a lot of sense,’ etc. Don’t ever point out any flaws or inconsistencies in anyone, just pretend to agree and you would be held in high esteem.
Ramkumar said that he is very careful to point out any flaws in any one ‘and not even my wife or daughter.’ He told me that he prefers to tell a person who is overweight that ‘you are losing weight – are you in a diet?’ He said that with that approach he would hope that ‘my wife may be motivated to going on a diet and exercise routine.’ Mala said that her friend Joan speaks non-stop but she would always praise her for being a ‘great listener.’
Dealing with Ravan or Duryodhan is no small task. The two characters were bent on their goals at all cost and did not tolerate even their love ones coming on their path. Vibhishan, the brother of Ravan, had to flee Lanka to save his life. King Dritharastra, the father of Duroyodhan could not muster the courage to disappoint his son that ‘you are not the natural heir to the throne.’ Social relationship today can be very challenging because Duryodhan-like characters are all among us at every turn. Not surprisingly we are engrossed in so many mini-mahabharaths that have condemned us to poverty and political opposition.
As conscious Hindus we need to stop being courtiers singing for our suppers. This cap in hand minstrel-like existence should not characterize us. Our aspiration should not be to wear a balishier tie and sing the praises of the PNM but to speak the truth within our homes and community. We need to stop providing shelter and cover to leaders who have been failing us. It is about time that we awaken the Rama & Krishna spirit in us and destroy the Ravans and Putnas that are holding us in bondage.