Lakshmana
The Devoted Brother
Rama's devoted younger brother who gave up royal comforts to accompany his brother into the forest for fourteen years. The symbol of brotherhood.
- Sanskrit/Telugu name: లక్ష్మణుడు
- Also known as: Saumitri, Ramanuja, Lakshmana Swamy
- Weapons: Bow and arrows
- Symbols: Bow, Loyal stance beside Rama, Lakshman Rekha
Story
When Rama was exiled to the forest, Lakshmana did not hesitate for even a moment. He left behind his wife Urmila, the comforts of the palace, and his own life as a prince to walk beside his brother through fourteen years of vanavasm. He served Rama and Sita with total dedication, building their kutir (hut), guarding them at night, and standing ready for any danger. During the war in Lanka, it was Lakshmana who fought and defeated Indrajit (Meghanada), Ravana's most powerful son, in one of the fiercest battles in the Ramayanam. When Lakshmana was struck by Indrajit's Shakti Astra and fell unconscious, Hanuman flew all the way to the Himalayas and brought back the entire Sanjeevani Parvatam (mountain of healing herbs) because there was no time to find the right plant. That scene, of Hanuman flying with the mountain to save Lakshmana, is one of the most beloved images in Telugu homes. In Telugu culture, Lakshmana represents the ideal brother. His devotion to Rama is celebrated as the highest form of brotherly love. The phrase "Rama Lakshmana" is used in Telugu to describe any pair of inseparable brothers.
Fun fact
Lakshmana drew the famous "Lakshman Rekha," a protective line around Sita's hut that no evil force could cross. When Sita stepped beyond it, Ravana was able to abduct her. This phrase is still used in Telugu to mean a boundary that must never be crossed.