REWRITING RAAVAN: UNMASKING THE VILLAIN IN AMISH TRIPATHI’S LITERARY UNIVERSE

Abstract

The epic Ramayana has been repeatedly composed over centuries, surpassing its earlier dimensions. In the Ramayana, Raavan is mentioned in parallel with Ram. The character Raavan is inspired in Amish's Ram Chandra Series, who presented Raavan in an alternative manner in contrast to the customary one.   Amish's Raavan is not simply a one-dimensional villain. His strong desire for justice and his abiding love for his kingdom drive him to be a man of many paradoxes. He is a formidable opponent for Ram because he is also a brilliant corporate and a skilled warrior.  This paper investigates Amish's reworking of Raavan, looking at the elements that help him change from a demonic king to a complex and lovable character.  It also examines Amish’s crafting of Raavan's character, drawing inspiration from various sources, including the Mahabharata, and other Hindu scriptures.

Keywords: Rewriting, Raavan, Ramayana,  good and evil.