The Ramayana Book 2 summary notes for the BA English Students Semester 2 of BBMKU University Dhanbad. This is not a detailed note but a summary of the book that can help you to answer your paper at the examination.
The Ramayana Book 2 Summary
The second book of “The Ramayana” is based on the traditional storyline. In Book 2, the narrative delves deeper into the events following Rama’s marriage to Sita and the political turmoil that arises.
After their marriage, Rama, Sita, and Rama’s brothers return to Ayodhya, where they are welcomed by the people with great joy and celebration. King Dasharatha, overwhelmed with happiness, decides to pass the throne to Rama and retire.
However, one of King Dasharatha’s wives, Kaikeyi, influenced by her maid Manthara, develops a malicious plan. She reminds Dasharatha of a promise he made to her years ago, granting her the power to ask for two boons whenever she desires. Exploiting this opportunity, Kaikeyi demands that Rama be exiled to the forest for fourteen years and that her own son, Bharata, be crowned as the king.
Heartbroken, Dasharatha is left with no choice but to fulfil Kaikeyi’s demands. Rama willingly accepts his father’s decree and prepares to leave Ayodhya. Sita, devoted to her husband, insists on accompanying him, and Rama’s loyal brother, Lakshmana, also chooses to join them in their exile.
They venture deep into the forest, facing various challenges and encountering sages, demons, and celestial beings along the way. Ravana, the powerful demon king of Lanka, becomes increasingly envious of Rama’s virtuous life and conspires to abduct Sita.
In Book 2, the stage is set for the subsequent events, including Sita’s abduction by Ravana and the subsequent search for her by Rama and Lakshmana. These events lead to the epic battle between Rama and Ravana, which forms the central narrative of “The Ramayana.”
Please note that the specifics of the story and the style of narration may vary depending on the translation and retelling of “The Ramayana” you are referring to. I recommend consulting R.C. Dutt’s translation or other trusted sources for a detailed account of Book 2.