A Note on Murari’s version of the Rama‑Story

Summary

Charulata Verma examines Murāri’s Sanskrit play Anargharāghava, focusing on how it retells the Ramayana. The article begins by situating Murāri in the world of classical Sanskrit drama and noting that his work is characterised by intricate language and philosophical allusions. Verma outlines the main episodes of the play and contrasts them with Valmiki’s epic. She shows that Murāri omits the well‑known svayamvara (self‑choice ceremony) of Sita and instead highlights her marriage to Rama, while still retaining the condition of breaking Śiva’s bow. The play introduces Ravana’s envoy Sauṣkala, who argues on his master’s behalf and accuses Janaka of insulting Ravana by setting a bow‑breaking condition. Verma analyses Murāri’s characterisation of Ravana, noting how the demon king’s pride and rhetoric differ from other retellings. The article discusses several innovations: the treatment of Sita’s swayamvara, the portrayal of secondary characters, and the use of philosophical dialogue to explore themes of dharma. Verma also examines Murāri’s dramatic technique, including his use of messenger scenes and poetic descriptions to heighten tension. She argues that Anargharāghava enriches the Ramayana tradition by offering fresh perspectives while maintaining reverence for the original. Murāri’s changes invite readers to reflect on the moral and emotional nuances of familiar episodes. In conclusion, Verma suggests that such retellings demonstrate the dynamism of Sanskrit literature, where poets re‑imagine canonical narratives to address new aesthetic and philosophical concerns.