Rama

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Seventh avatar (incarnation) of Vishnu, whose purpose was to ensure that justice and peace (dharma) ruled. He is the hero of the epic Ramayana, and he is regarded as an example of morality and virtue.

Rama is shown with a bow in his hand, symbolizing his strength, because he won the hand of his wife, Sita, using a bow in a contest. He is usually depicted with his brother Lakshmana, his wife Sita, and Hanuman, the monkey king who helped Rama to rescue Sita from the wicked demon Ravana.

The Ramayana tells of the couple's exile from their rightful kingdom, Sita's faithfulness and obedience, Rama's overcoming of Ravana, the ingenious help of Hanuman, Lakshmana's loyalty, and their joyful return to their kingdom. Their adventures are retold and celebrated in different ways at Diwali and Navaratri. The heroes and heroines of the Ramayana are used as role models, who demonstrate the type of behaviour to which Hindus should aspire.

Vaishnavis (worshippers of Vishnu) celebrate Rama's birthday at the festival of Rama Navami.

The temple of Angkor Wat had five towers but often only three are depicted. Red and blue recall the earlier flags of Cambodia. Effective date: 20 June 1993. >>