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Book Discussion “Ramayana: Footprints in Southeast Asian Culture and Heritage” by Anita Bose
21 November, 2019 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
The ancient Indian mythological tale of Ramayana has had, together with the other major epic in Sanskrit of Mahabharata, a deep influence in Southeast Asia. The story line is apparently simple with the good king Ram who fights and is victorious over the evil Ravana, but it conveys complex messages of dharma, karma, loyalty, devotion to parents and duty towards citizens.
Originally written by sage Valmiki, the Ramayana has been interpreted and adapted in different ways it according to the different local cultures fostering a multitude of context-specific representations in literature, dance, theatre and also temple architecture.
At present, Ramakien and Knon are widely recognized as Thailand’s cultural heritage while the puppets of the main characters of Rama and Laxman are always in high demand for tourists at local Cambodian souvenir markets. In Indonesia’s Java and Bali, the Kakawin Ramayana is considered the pinnacle of artistic expression among both Muslim and Hindu communities. In most other Southeast countries too plays based on Ramayana are a regularity.
The book discussion to be held at SEA Junction on 21 November at 6PM will explore the prominent impact of Ramayana in various aspects of lives across Southeast Asia. The author, Kolkata-based artist Anita Jose will present her recently-published book “Ramayana: Footprints in Southeast Asian Culture and Heritage”. There will also be limited copies of the book available for sale and she will be glad to sign them if so desired.
Author’s Bio
Anita Bose
Anita is a self-taught artist, equipped with professional experiences in traditional art of various Indian states, and is capable of developing her own contemporary style. With her educational background in Literature, Appreciation of Indian Art and Indology along with Textile Designing, she has conducted many solo and group exhibitions in India and Thailand. Plus, she is a National Museum Volunteer Bangkok Guide and regularly contributes research-based articles to various magazines in Thailand, Bali and India. Recently, Anita is actively involved with the Ramakrishna Mission Movement as well as other Indian and Thai charities and social services.
Book Description
Title: “Ramayana: Footprints in Southeast Asian Culture and Heritage
Author:
Year: 2019
Language: English
Hardcover: 206 pages
Publisher: BEE Books
ISBN-10: 8194153697
ISBN-13: 978-8194153696
See also a blog post related to this book on Siam Society website:
http://www.siam-society.org/lectures/1910Ramayana.html
Source: Book cover
For Information/reservation for our events please email southeastasiajunction@gmail.com or phone/wa +669700024140
Please note that the event is free, but donations are most welcome to enable SEA Junction to continue its activities and keep events accessible to the public.
Organizer
SEA-Junction, Our Venue to Connect on Southeast Asia
SEA Junction aims to foster understanding and appreciation of Southeast Asia in all its socio-cultural dimensions from arts and lifestyles to economy and development. Conveniently located at Room 408 of the Bangkok Arts and Culture Center or BACC (across MBK, BTS National Stadium). SEA Junction facilitates public access to knowledge resources and exchanges among students, practitioners and Southeast Asia lovers. For more information see www.seajunction.org, join the Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/1693058870976440/ and follow us on twitter and instangram @seajunction
