Reexamining the Ramayana: A Comparative Analysis of Valmiki’s Ramayana and Anand Neelakantan’s Asura: Tale of the Vanquished

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the contrasting portrayals of the character Ravana in two different narratives. The one depicted in Valmiki's Ramayanathat contrasts sharply with the Ravana in Anand Neelakantan's Asura: Tale of the Vanquished.  The Ramayana presents Ravana solely as a demon, a ruthless king, and a villain, Asura offers a more nuanced view of him that is absent from the Ramayana. Anand Neelakantan, inspired by the temples and environment of his village, sought to rewrite mythological stories from the perspectives of traditionally negative characters. Although there has been considerable research on this topic from various angles, Ravana's portrayal in both the Ramayana and Asura reflects differences while retaining some similarities. Ultimately, Asura succeeds in presenting a comprehensive tale of Ravana and his life.