A Journey of Dharma, Devotion, and Victory
This exquisite Pattachitra painting is a visual masterpiece that narrates the divine journey of Lord Rama as described in the Ramayana. At its center, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita are seated on an ornate throne, adorned in royal splendor. They are surrounded by Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna, Hanuman, and celestial beings who bless this divine union. The intricate details of their garments, expressions, and surroundings reflect the grandeur of Rama’s legacy as an upholder of Dharma (righteousness).
The borders surrounding this central depiction intricately narrate pivotal moments from Lord Rama’s life:
Top Border: Rama’s Birth and Early Life
    •    Rama’s Birth: The joyous moment when Lord Vishnu incarnated as Rama in Ayodhya to King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya is celebrated here. Celestial beings rejoice at this divine event.
    •    Childhood Adventures: Young Rama is seen with his brothers Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna under Guru Vashishta’s guidance. These scenes highlight their early training in Dharma and weaponry.
    •    Sita Swayamvara: Depicts Rama lifting Shiva’s mighty bow to win Sita’s hand in marriage during King Janaka’s challenge.
Left Border: Exile and Trials
    •    Rama’s Exile: Shows the poignant moment when Rama leaves Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana to honor King Dasharatha’s promise.
    •    Meeting Hanuman: Hanuman recognizes Rama as his lord during their first meeting and vows eternal devotion. This marks the beginning of Hanuman’s pivotal role in the Ramayana.
Right Border: Conflict with Ravana
    •    Sita’s Abduction: Ravana abducts Sita in his Pushpaka Vimana while Jatayu valiantly attempts to save her but is gravely injured.
    •    Victory Over Ravana: Depicts Rama leading an epic battle against Ravana with Hanuman, Lakshmana, and the Vanara Sena (monkey army), symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Bottom Border: Return to Ayodhya
    •    Rama’s Return: After 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana, Rama returns to Ayodhya amidst grand celebrations during Deepavali (the festival of lights).
    •    Rama’s Coronation: Concludes with the crowning of Lord Rama as King of Ayodhya during the golden era known as “Rama Rajya,” symbolizing justice, peace, and prosperity.
The Dashavataram – Guardians of Righteousness
Flanking both sides of the central scene are depictions of Vishnu’s ten avatars (Dashavataram), each symbolizing a critical phase in restoring cosmic balance:
    1.    Matsya (The Fish): Rescues sacred scriptures during a cosmic flood.
    2.    Kurma (The Tortoise): Supports the churning of the ocean for divine nectar.
    3.    Varaha (The Boar): Lifts Earth from chaos.
    4.    Narasimha (The Lion-Man): Slays Hiranyakashipu to uphold justice.
    5.    Vamana (The Dwarf): Reclaims cosmic balance from King Bali.
    6.    Parashurama (The Warrior Sage): Eradicates corruption among warriors.
    7.    Rama (The Ideal King): Embodies duty and morality while defeating Ravana.
    8.    Krishna (The Divine Strategist): Guides humanity through love and wisdom in Mahabharata.
    9.    Buddha (The Enlightened One): Teaches compassion and non-violence.
    10.    Kalki (The Future Warrior): Foretells cosmic renewal at Kaliyuga’s end.