How Much Do You Really Know About Lord Rama? Quiz

1. Who is the father of Lord Ram?

Indra

Dasharath

Surya

Chandra

Dasharath is the father of Lord Rama. He was the king of Ayodhya, a significant figure in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Dasharath had three wives and four sons, of whom Rama was the eldest. His deep desire for a son led him to perform a sacred ritual, which eventually granted him four sons: Rama, Bharata, and the twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Rama's adventures and his adherence to dharma (duty) deeply reflect the values and responsibilities instilled in him by his father, King Dasharath.

Explanation

Dasharath is the father of Lord Rama. He was the king of Ayodhya, a significant figure in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Dasharath had three wives and four sons, of whom Rama was the eldest. His deep desire for a son led him to perform a sacred ritual, which eventually granted him four sons: Rama, Bharata, and the twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna. Rama's adventures and his adherence to dharma (duty) deeply reflect the values and responsibilities instilled in him by his father, King Dasharath.

2. Whose incarnation or avatar is Lord Rama?

Shiva

Brahma

Vishnu

Ganesha

Lord Rama is considered an incarnation, or avatar, of Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism known as the preserver of the universe. Rama is one of Vishnu’s most admired and followed avatars, embodying the ideal hero and a righteous king. His incarnation is celebrated for upholding dharma (cosmic order and duty) through his actions, decisions, and life events narrated in the Ramayana. This avatar's role was to restore moral order at a time when the world was overrun by demonic forces and injustice, epitomized by the demon king Ravana.

Explanation

Lord Rama is considered an incarnation, or avatar, of Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism known as the preserver of the universe. Rama is one of Vishnu’s most admired and followed avatars, embodying the ideal hero and a righteous king. His incarnation is celebrated for upholding dharma (cosmic order and duty) through his actions, decisions, and life events narrated in the Ramayana. This avatar's role was to restore moral order at a time when the world was overrun by demonic forces and injustice, epitomized by the demon king Ravana.

3. Who is the author of Ramayana?

Sage Vasishta

Sage Valmiki

Sage Vyasa

Sage Vishwamitra

Sage Valmiki is recognized as the author of the Ramayana, one of the major Sanskrit epics of ancient India. The epic narrates the life of Prince Rama of Ayodhya, his exile, the abduction of his wife Sita by the demon king Ravana, and her rescue. Valmiki is revered as the first poet, or Adi Kavi, and the Ramayana is often referred to as the first epic poem, describing Valmiki’s role in detailing the virtues and adventures of Rama in a poetic narrative.

Explanation

Sage Valmiki is recognized as the author of the Ramayana, one of the major Sanskrit epics of ancient India. The epic narrates the life of Prince Rama of Ayodhya, his exile, the abduction of his wife Sita by the demon king Ravana, and her rescue. Valmiki is revered as the first poet, or Adi Kavi, and the Ramayana is often referred to as the first epic poem, describing Valmiki’s role in detailing the virtues and adventures of Rama in a poetic narrative.

4. Who is the father-in-law of Lord Rama?

Janaka

Shantanu

Vibhishana

Sumantra

Janaka, the king of Mithila, is the father-in-law of Lord Rama. He was not only a wise and respected king but also a great scholar and devotee of righteousness. Janaka's daughter, Sita, is a central figure in the Ramayana and was married to Rama after he successfully completed the challenge of stringing and breaking the divine Bow of Shiva during the swayamvara. This event linked Janaka and Rama not only through marital ties but also through a deep mutual respect and admiration that is highlighted in various episodes of the epic.

Explanation

Janaka, the king of Mithila, is the father-in-law of Lord Rama. He was not only a wise and respected king but also a great scholar and devotee of righteousness. Janaka's daughter, Sita, is a central figure in the Ramayana and was married to Rama after he successfully completed the challenge of stringing and breaking the divine Bow of Shiva during the swayamvara. This event linked Janaka and Rama not only through marital ties but also through a deep mutual respect and admiration that is highlighted in various episodes of the epic.

5. What is the name of the bird that tried to stop Ravana when he was kidnapping Mata Sita?

Sambhali

Vali

Jatayu

Kabandha

Jatayu, a noble and divine bird, attempted to rescue Sita when Ravana was kidnapping her. Jatayu fought valiantly against Ravana but was mortally wounded in the battle. This incident occurred as Ravana was forcibly carrying Sita away in his chariot, and Jatayu intervened out of loyalty and courage, trying to protect her. Despite his valiant efforts, Jatayu was overpowered and severely injured. Later, Rama and Lakshmana found the dying Jatayu, who informed them of Sita's abduction before succumbing to his injuries. Jatayu's act is remembered as one of bravery and sacrifice in the Ramayana.

Explanation

Jatayu, a noble and divine bird, attempted to rescue Sita when Ravana was kidnapping her. Jatayu fought valiantly against Ravana but was mortally wounded in the battle. This incident occurred as Ravana was forcibly carrying Sita away in his chariot, and Jatayu intervened out of loyalty and courage, trying to protect her. Despite his valiant efforts, Jatayu was overpowered and severely injured. Later, Rama and Lakshmana found the dying Jatayu, who informed them of Sita's abduction before succumbing to his injuries. Jatayu's act is remembered as one of bravery and sacrifice in the Ramayana.

6. Who is the mother of Lord Ram?

Kausalya

Kaikeyi

Sumitra

Mandodari

Kausalya is recognized as the mother of Lord Rama. She was the first wife of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, making her the queen. Kausalya is depicted as a figure of virtue and dignity in the Ramayana. She played a crucial role in nurturing Rama and supporting him throughout his life, including during his exile. Her character embodies patience and fortitude, and she is revered for her dedication to her duties as a queen and a mother in Hindu tradition.

Explanation

Kausalya is recognized as the mother of Lord Rama. She was the first wife of King Dasharath of Ayodhya, making her the queen. Kausalya is depicted as a figure of virtue and dignity in the Ramayana. She played a crucial role in nurturing Rama and supporting him throughout his life, including during his exile. Her character embodies patience and fortitude, and she is revered for her dedication to her duties as a queen and a mother in Hindu tradition.

7. In which part of Lanka did Hanuman find Mata Sita?

Asohaka Vana

Kanda Vana

Shimshupa Vana

Danda Vana

Hanuman found Mata Sita in Ashoka Vana, a beautiful and lush garden in Lanka. According to the Ramayana, after a strenuous search, Hanuman located Sita in this garden where she was held captive by Ravana, the demon king. Ashoka Vana, named after the Ashoka trees that filled the garden, was where Sita was sorrowful yet steadfast in her resolve to remain faithful to Rama. Hanuman, disguised as a tiny monkey, revealed his identity to Sita by giving her Rama’s ring as a token, providing her with hope and assurance of Rama’s efforts to rescue her.

Explanation

Hanuman found Mata Sita in Ashoka Vana, a beautiful and lush garden in Lanka. According to the Ramayana, after a strenuous search, Hanuman located Sita in this garden where she was held captive by Ravana, the demon king. Ashoka Vana, named after the Ashoka trees that filled the garden, was where Sita was sorrowful yet steadfast in her resolve to remain faithful to Rama. Hanuman, disguised as a tiny monkey, revealed his identity to Sita by giving her Rama’s ring as a token, providing her with hope and assurance of Rama’s efforts to rescue her.

8. Who wanted to sent Lord Ram on Exile?

Kaushaliya

Kaikeyi

Sumithra

Mandodari

Kaikeyi wanted to send Lord Ram on exile. In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Kaikeyi was one of King Dasharatha's wives and the mother of Bharata. Due to her maid Manthara's influence, Kaikeyi asked Dasharatha to fulfill two boons she had been granted earlier. She used these boons to request that her son Bharata be made the king and that Ram be sent into exile for fourteen years. This act of Kaikeyi led to Lord Ram's exile and set the events of the Ramayana in motion.

Explanation

Kaikeyi wanted to send Lord Ram on exile. In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Kaikeyi was one of King Dasharatha's wives and the mother of Bharata. Due to her maid Manthara's influence, Kaikeyi asked Dasharatha to fulfill two boons she had been granted earlier. She used these boons to request that her son Bharata be made the king and that Ram be sent into exile for fourteen years. This act of Kaikeyi led to Lord Ram's exile and set the events of the Ramayana in motion.

9. For how many years did Lord Ram go on exile?

13

14

15

16

Lord Ram went on exile for 14 years. This is mentioned in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the story, Lord Ram's father, King Dasharatha, granted his stepmother's request to exile Lord Ram for 14 years. During this time, Lord Ram, along with his wife Sita and his loyal brother Lakshmana, lived in the forests, facing various challenges and eventually defeating the demon king Ravana. The exile period is a significant part of Lord Ram's life and is celebrated during the festival of Diwali.

Explanation

Lord Ram went on exile for 14 years. This is mentioned in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the story, Lord Ram's father, King Dasharatha, granted his stepmother's request to exile Lord Ram for 14 years. During this time, Lord Ram, along with his wife Sita and his loyal brother Lakshmana, lived in the forests, facing various challenges and eventually defeating the demon king Ravana. The exile period is a significant part of Lord Ram's life and is celebrated during the festival of Diwali.

10. Which brother of Ravana joined and helped Lord Rama?

Vibhishana

Kumbhakarna

Indrajit

Nagapasa

Vibhishana, a younger brother of Ravana, joined and helped Lord Rama in the epic Ramayana. Unlike his other brothers who were loyal to Ravana despite his misdeeds, Vibhishana disapproved of Ravana's abduction of Sita and his refusal to return her honorably. After Ravana rejected his advice to return Sita to Rama, Vibhishana defected to Rama's side, seeking refuge and offering his allegiance. Rama accepted him, and Vibhishana played a crucial role in the battle against Ravana by providing strategic insights into Lanka's defenses. His actions are often cited as examples of righteousness and loyalty to dharma over familial ties.

Explanation

Vibhishana, a younger brother of Ravana, joined and helped Lord Rama in the epic Ramayana. Unlike his other brothers who were loyal to Ravana despite his misdeeds, Vibhishana disapproved of Ravana's abduction of Sita and his refusal to return her honorably. After Ravana rejected his advice to return Sita to Rama, Vibhishana defected to Rama's side, seeking refuge and offering his allegiance. Rama accepted him, and Vibhishana played a crucial role in the battle against Ravana by providing strategic insights into Lanka's defenses. His actions are often cited as examples of righteousness and loyalty to dharma over familial ties.

11. Where did Lord Rama first meet Mata Sita?

Ayodhya

Lanka

Mithila

Hastinapur

Lord Rama first met Mata Sita in Mithila, where her father, King Janaka, was hosting a swayamvara, a ceremony to find a suitable husband for Sita. The challenge was to string a massive bow, known as Shiva's bow, to win her hand in marriage. Rama not only strung the bow but also broke it, demonstrating his extraordinary strength and virtue. This event marked the beginning of their fabled relationship, which is central to the Ramayana. Mithila, thus, holds significant importance as the meeting place of Rama and Sita, setting the stage for the subsequent events of the epic.

Explanation

Lord Rama first met Mata Sita in Mithila, where her father, King Janaka, was hosting a swayamvara, a ceremony to find a suitable husband for Sita. The challenge was to string a massive bow, known as Shiva's bow, to win her hand in marriage. Rama not only strung the bow but also broke it, demonstrating his extraordinary strength and virtue. This event marked the beginning of their fabled relationship, which is central to the Ramayana. Mithila, thus, holds significant importance as the meeting place of Rama and Sita, setting the stage for the subsequent events of the epic.

12. Which Vamsha or lineage did Lord Rama belong to?

Chandra Vamsha

Surya Vamsha

Hari Vamsha

Sagara Vamsha

Lord Rama belonged to the Surya Vamsha, also known as the Solar Dynasty. This lineage is named after Surya, the sun god, indicating that the family claims descent from this celestial deity. The Solar Dynasty is one of the most celebrated lineages in Hindu mythology, known for its noble kings and significant historical and mythical figures, including King Dasharatha, Rama’s father. Rama's heritage as a descendant of the Solar Dynasty is a key aspect of his character, symbolizing his role as a bringer of light and righteousness, much like the sun itself.

Explanation

Lord Rama belonged to the Surya Vamsha, also known as the Solar Dynasty. This lineage is named after Surya, the sun god, indicating that the family claims descent from this celestial deity. The Solar Dynasty is one of the most celebrated lineages in Hindu mythology, known for its noble kings and significant historical and mythical figures, including King Dasharatha, Rama’s father. Rama's heritage as a descendant of the Solar Dynasty is a key aspect of his character, symbolizing his role as a bringer of light and righteousness, much like the sun itself.

13. What did Lord Rama lift and break to win Sita in marriage?

Rock of Vayu

Bow of Shiva

Mountain of Mithila

Trishul of Shiva

To win Sita in marriage, Lord Rama lifted and broke the Bow of Shiva during the swayamvara arranged by King Janaka in Mithila. This bow was a divine and formidable weapon, gifted to Janaka by the sage Parashurama, and it was so heavy and powerful that none other than Rama could handle it. By stringing and subsequently breaking this celestial bow, Rama not only showcased his extraordinary strength and heroism but also fulfilled a condition of the marriage, proving himself worthy of Sita. This act is celebrated as a testament to Rama’s divine nature and his destined role as Sita’s husband.

Explanation

To win Sita in marriage, Lord Rama lifted and broke the Bow of Shiva during the swayamvara arranged by King Janaka in Mithila. This bow was a divine and formidable weapon, gifted to Janaka by the sage Parashurama, and it was so heavy and powerful that none other than Rama could handle it. By stringing and subsequently breaking this celestial bow, Rama not only showcased his extraordinary strength and heroism but also fulfilled a condition of the marriage, proving himself worthy of Sita. This act is celebrated as a testament to Rama’s divine nature and his destined role as Sita’s husband.

14. Who came in the guise of a golden deer to the Ashrama of Rama?

Maricha

Ravana

Indrajit

Kumbhakarna

Maricha, a demon and an associate of Ravana, came in the guise of a golden deer to the ashrama (hermitage) where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana were residing during their exile. This event is a significant plot twist in the Ramayana, as it was a ploy by Ravana to lure Rama and Lakshmana away from Sita. Maricha's enchanting appearance as a mesmerizing golden deer captivated Sita, who requested Rama to capture it for her. The pursuit of the golden deer led to Rama and Lakshmana being drawn away, paving the way for Ravana to kidnap Sita, thus escalating the epic's central conflict.

Explanation

Maricha, a demon and an associate of Ravana, came in the guise of a golden deer to the ashrama (hermitage) where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana were residing during their exile. This event is a significant plot twist in the Ramayana, as it was a ploy by Ravana to lure Rama and Lakshmana away from Sita. Maricha's enchanting appearance as a mesmerizing golden deer captivated Sita, who requested Rama to capture it for her. The pursuit of the golden deer led to Rama and Lakshmana being drawn away, paving the way for Ravana to kidnap Sita, thus escalating the epic's central conflict.

15. In what guise did Hanuman first meet Lord Rama?

Bear

Demon

Brahmachari

Woman

Hanuman first met Lord Rama in the guise of a Brahmachari, or a celibate ascetic. This initial encounter is pivotal in the Ramayana. Hanuman was sent by Sugriva, the exiled monkey king, to ascertain Rama’s intentions when Rama and Lakshmana entered Kishkindha during their search for Sita. Disguised as a Brahmachari, Hanuman approached them with humility and respect, engaging in conversation to gauge their character and purpose. This meeting marked the beginning of a profound and enduring alliance between Rama and Hanuman, with Hanuman later becoming one of Rama’s closest and most devoted allies.

Explanation

Hanuman first met Lord Rama in the guise of a Brahmachari, or a celibate ascetic. This initial encounter is pivotal in the Ramayana. Hanuman was sent by Sugriva, the exiled monkey king, to ascertain Rama’s intentions when Rama and Lakshmana entered Kishkindha during their search for Sita. Disguised as a Brahmachari, Hanuman approached them with humility and respect, engaging in conversation to gauge their character and purpose. This meeting marked the beginning of a profound and enduring alliance between Rama and Hanuman, with Hanuman later becoming one of Rama’s closest and most devoted allies.

16. Which yagna did King Dasharatha perform to beget children?

Ashwamedha

Ganapati Homam

Putrakaamesti

Shiva Mahapuja

King Dasharatha performed the Putrakaamesti Yagna to beget children. This ancient Vedic ritual was conducted to invoke divine blessings for having offspring. According to the Ramayana, Dasharatha was childless and deeply desired heirs to continue his lineage. Therefore, he performed this specific yagna under the guidance of Sage Rishyasringa. As a result of the yagna, he received a divine offering (payasam or sacred pudding) from the gods, which he shared among his three wives, leading to the birth of his four sons: Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna. This event marks a significant moment in the epic, setting the stage for the birth of its hero, Rama.

Explanation

King Dasharatha performed the Putrakaamesti Yagna to beget children. This ancient Vedic ritual was conducted to invoke divine blessings for having offspring. According to the Ramayana, Dasharatha was childless and deeply desired heirs to continue his lineage. Therefore, he performed this specific yagna under the guidance of Sage Rishyasringa. As a result of the yagna, he received a divine offering (payasam or sacred pudding) from the gods, which he shared among his three wives, leading to the birth of his four sons: Rama, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna. This event marks a significant moment in the epic, setting the stage for the birth of its hero, Rama.

17. Who was the first demon that Lord Rama killed?

Ravana

Indrajit

Kumbhakarna

Tataka

Tataka was the first demon killed by Lord Rama, marking his first major act of heroism narrated in the Ramayana. Tataka was a demoness who wreaked havoc in the forest region, disrupting the lives of ascetics and sages. Sage Vishwamitra, who was mentoring young Rama and his brother Lakshmana at the time, directed Rama to eliminate this threat. This act not only demonstrated Rama’s prowess and readiness to uphold dharma but also served as a significant step in his journey towards becoming a heroic leader. Killing Tataka established Rama's role as a protector of the righteous and the upholder of order.

Explanation

Tataka was the first demon killed by Lord Rama, marking his first major act of heroism narrated in the Ramayana. Tataka was a demoness who wreaked havoc in the forest region, disrupting the lives of ascetics and sages. Sage Vishwamitra, who was mentoring young Rama and his brother Lakshmana at the time, directed Rama to eliminate this threat. This act not only demonstrated Rama’s prowess and readiness to uphold dharma but also served as a significant step in his journey towards becoming a heroic leader. Killing Tataka established Rama's role as a protector of the righteous and the upholder of order.

18. With which arrow did Lord Rama kill Ravana?

Pashupastra

Nagastra

Vajrastra

Brahmastra

Lord Rama used the Brahmastra, a supremely powerful celestial weapon, to kill Ravana during the climactic battle in the Ramayana. The Brahmastra, bestowed upon Rama by the sage Agastya, is believed to be a divine weapon capable of causing massive destruction, created by Lord Brahma himself. Rama, adhering to the principles of righteousness, initially refrained from using this weapon due to its devastating effects. However, as the battle intensified and it became evident that no other means could defeat Ravana, Rama deployed the Brahmastra, which ultimately targeted and killed the demon king, ending his tyranny and rescuing Sita.

Explanation

Lord Rama used the Brahmastra, a supremely powerful celestial weapon, to kill Ravana during the climactic battle in the Ramayana. The Brahmastra, bestowed upon Rama by the sage Agastya, is believed to be a divine weapon capable of causing massive destruction, created by Lord Brahma himself. Rama, adhering to the principles of righteousness, initially refrained from using this weapon due to its devastating effects. However, as the battle intensified and it became evident that no other means could defeat Ravana, Rama deployed the Brahmastra, which ultimately targeted and killed the demon king, ending his tyranny and rescuing Sita.

19. Who is the guru of Lord Ram?

Sage Vasishta

Sage Valmiki

Sage Vishwamitra

Parashurama

Sage Vasishta served as the guru and royal priest to Lord Rama. He was one of the principal royal sages of Ayodhya and is highly revered in Hindu scriptures for his wisdom and spiritual guidance. Vasishta not only provided Lord Rama with his initial education and training but also imparted spiritual teachings and moral guidance, which were pivotal in shaping Rama's character and kingship. Vasishta's role as Rama’s guru underscores the importance of the guru-disciple relationship in Hindu tradition, emphasizing the transmission of knowledge and values from the wise to the young ruler.

Explanation

Sage Vasishta served as the guru and royal priest to Lord Rama. He was one of the principal royal sages of Ayodhya and is highly revered in Hindu scriptures for his wisdom and spiritual guidance. Vasishta not only provided Lord Rama with his initial education and training but also imparted spiritual teachings and moral guidance, which were pivotal in shaping Rama's character and kingship. Vasishta's role as Rama’s guru underscores the importance of the guru-disciple relationship in Hindu tradition, emphasizing the transmission of knowledge and values from the wise to the young ruler.

20. What is the nakshatra in which Sri Ramachandra was born?

Revathi

Rohini

Uttara Phalguni

Punarvasu

Sri Ramachandra was born under the Punarvasu nakshatra. In Hindu astrology, nakshatras are lunar mansions or sectors along the ecliptic through which the moon passes in its orbit. Punarvasu is considered one of the auspicious nakshatras, symbolizing renewal, revival, and benevolence. The birth of Lord Rama during this nakshatra is seen as an auspicious moment, reflecting his characteristics of righteousness, virtue, and his role in restoring dharma. This celestial alignment is often highlighted in descriptions of Rama's divine qualities and his destined role as a great king and a protector.

Explanation

Sri Ramachandra was born under the Punarvasu nakshatra. In Hindu astrology, nakshatras are lunar mansions or sectors along the ecliptic through which the moon passes in its orbit. Punarvasu is considered one of the auspicious nakshatras, symbolizing renewal, revival, and benevolence. The birth of Lord Rama during this nakshatra is seen as an auspicious moment, reflecting his characteristics of righteousness, virtue, and his role in restoring dharma. This celestial alignment is often highlighted in descriptions of Rama's divine qualities and his destined role as a great king and a protector.