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K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Monkey god Hanuman in tree approaches Rama and Laksman (Thai Ramayana mural)

About this photograph

Creator
Margery H. Freeman
Date created
Unknown
Location
Bangkok, Thailand
License
This photograph copyright ©2006. Terms of use

See this photograph in context

  • The Ramayana: The Hindu epic The Ramayana is retold through the mural, painting, and dance of Southeast Asia. (Page 3.2)

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Monkey god Hanuman in tree approaches Rama and Laksman (Thai Ramayana mural at Emerald Buddha Temple)

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The monkey god Hanuman climbing in a tree recognizes Rama and Laksman resting below, as seen on a mural at the Emerald Buddha Temple.

The green-skinned Rama is lying dejected, propped up on one elbow below the tree. He is still grief-stricken from the kidnapping of his wife Sita. With just his faithful brother Laksman to help, Rama has no idea how he can enter Ravana’s demon kingdom and rescue his wife. Laksman, more alert, sits up and points to Hanuman’s arrival.

Hanuman comes to help Rama. He suggests recruiting monkey kings and monkey armies to assist the rescue mission. In this scene, Hanuman looks just like a small white monkey, wearing a loincloth and no crown. Rama and Laksman wear golden Thai royal attire and carry golden bows.