Whenever there is talk of Ramayana, there is definitely discussion about the exile of Lord Ram, Mother Sita and Lakshman. But there is also a character in this story whose sacrifice is considered equally great, yet his name is taken less. This character is Urmila, who was the wife of Lakshman and younger sister of Mother Sita.
According to folklore, Lakshmana gave up sleep during his exile so that he could protect Rama and Sita at all times. It is said that then Laxman’s share of sleep was taken over by his wife Urmila. This is the reason why Urmila’s name is taken among the most sacrificial women of Ramayana.
Who was Urmila?
Urmila was the daughter of King Janak and Queen Sunayana of Mithila. She was the younger sister of Mother Sita. The four daughters of King Janak were married to the four princes of Ayodhya. Urmila was married to Laxman. After marriage, their life was about to be filled with happiness when Ram got exile for 14 years.
When Laxman chose the path of duty
While deciding to go to the forest with Lord Rama, Lakshman decided that he would serve his elder brother and sister-in-law all the time. Therefore he decided not to take Urmila with him. Urmila could have protested against this if she wanted, but she understood her husband’s duty and decided to live in Ayodhya without any complaint.
What was Urmila’s sacrifice?
According to folklore, during his exile, Lakshmana took a vow that he would not sleep for 14 years so that he could protect Ram and Sita. Then Nidra Devi appeared and said that if Lakshman would not sleep then someone else would have to take his share of sleep. It is said that Urmila accepted her husband’s share of sleep and rested for 14 years, so that Lakshman could remain firm on his resolve.
Note: This information is based on mythological stories. Read Hindi does not claim its complete authenticity or authenticity.
Comments are closed.