Name: Richelle Jeanne P.

Quiambao Subject: EL 114

Section: BSED-ENG 3 Occasional Paper

The Perception of Karma in the Mahabharata and Ramayana within Indian Literature and Its Contemporary
Relevance to the Modern Notion of Karma.

The portrayal of Karma in the Ramayana is shown through the actions of Prince Rama and Ravana, the
hero and villain. However, the way Karma is applied to these characters differs. From what I understand,
Prince Rama's virtuous deeds and commitment gained him the respect of his people, who admired his good
actions and took him as a role model. This inspired them to develop good values and act rightly. This cycle led
the community and future generations to embrace kindness and stick to their moral duties, their "dharma." To
put it differently, Prince Rama's actions had a positive impact, influencing many people and future generations
to do good—a result of his Karma.

On the other hand, Ravana's wicked actions brought him a failure. His bad intentions resulted in
problems, showing a negative form of karma that serves as a moral lesson in the story—an example of how
bad deeds can come back to haunt someone. The perception of Karma in the Mahabharata revolves around
the events of the Kurukshetra War. As per my understanding, the concept of karma in this epic entails fulfilling
one's duty righteously, without harboring expectations of rewards in return. It emphasizes humility and
contentment derived from conscientiously discharging responsibilities, and entrusting the outcomes to fate or
universal forces.

The relationship between the idea of Karma in the aforementioned epics and modern Karma lies in
their shared focus on the consequences of an individual's actions. In Indian Literature, Karma is believed to be
determined by the cumulative actions in one's present life, which will subsequently impact their next life,
interwoven with the cycle of life belief. Conversely, the contemporary notion of Karma is typically situated
within a shorter timeframe—days, weeks, or years—but confined to one's present life. Moreover, from my
perspective, Karma entails notions of "payback" or "revenge" for wrongdoings. However, through this exercise,
I've come to realize that Karma is fundamentally about the results or repercussions of one's actions, whether
favorable or adverse.

In conclusion, this highlights that regardless of differing perspectives due to various religions and
beliefs, Karma revolves around taking responsibility for our actions. When we do good, positive outcomes
follow, and when we do wrong, there are negative consequences. Karma acts as a thoughtful guide for
everyone, serving as both a warning and a lesson to be cautious in our behavior. While we have freedoms and
rights, the idea of consequences remains essential. This encourages society to follow rules and be morally
upright individuals.

REFERENCES:
Carol. (2022, October 14). Ramayana and Mahabharata: Stories, Similarities and Differences. Ramayana and
Mahabharata: Stories, similarities and differences. https://www.asiahighlights.com/india/ramayana-vs-
mahabharata.
Tull, H. (2017, April 18). Karma. obo. https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-
9780195399318/obo-9780195399318-0029.xml