Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi Answers: How Can We Truly Know Lord Shri Ram?

In a thought-provoking TV interview, Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi responded to a young girl’s insightful question: “What is the way to truly know Lord Shri Ram?” In today’s era, where media and cinema shape perceptions, his response sheds light on how modern narratives have distorted the image of Sanatan Dharma and Lord Ram, urging the younger generation to rediscover their cultural roots.

The Distorted Portrayal of Culture in Cinema

Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi pointed out how Indian cinema has systematically manipulated cultural identities. In many films, individuals who wear a tilak, a kanthi mala, and a dhoti-kurta are often depicted as villains. Professors are ridiculed, studious students are mocked as fools, while pickpockets are glorified for their so-called generosity. This distorted narrative extends beyond just students and scholars— even soldiers, businessmen, and working professionals are often shown as weak, outdated, or failing in the race of life.

He emphasized how these portrayals have seeped into public consciousness, subtly shaping opinions about Sanatan Dharma. People have unconsciously absorbed these depictions, affecting how they perceive their own traditions and values.

The Larger Conspiracy in Media

Dr. Trivedi further explained that such portrayals are not merely accidental but part of a larger conspiracy. He observed that Bollywood and the larger film industry have systematically avoided showing certain religious figures in a negative light. He questioned why, even in movies about terrorism, certain religious clerics are never depicted negatively. Instead, filmmakers have often reinforced stereotypes against Hindus while subtly promoting other religious symbols and figures in a positive or heroic manner.

Citing an example from the 1970s, he mentioned an Amitabh Bachchan movie where a character rejects Hindu prasad, claiming that he does not believe in a God who cannot feed the poor. However, in the same movie, a badge inscribed with 786 saves the protagonist’s life, reinforcing a biased perspective. Such instances, Dr. Trivedi argues, contribute to the subconscious conditioning of audiences, influencing how they view their own culture versus others.

Breaking Free from Media Manipulation

Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi urged the younger generation to rise above this deception. He encouraged them to seek knowledge from authentic sources rather than relying on movies and popular culture to understand their own religion. He recommended reading the original texts of Hindu philosophy and wisdom, particularly the works of Swami Vivekananda, Sri Aurobindo, and Mahatma Gandhi.

These great thinkers have explored the depth of Sanatan Dharma, emphasizing its liberal and all-encompassing nature. Hindu civilization, he stated, is one of the most tolerant and widely followed traditions in the world. Unfortunately, media distortions have created an entirely different perception, leading many to misunderstand their own heritage.

Understanding the True Essence of Lord Shri Ram

Dr. Trivedi explained that to truly know Lord Shri Ram, one must go beyond the narratives fed by modern media. Lord Ram is not just a mythological figure; he represents the highest ideals of dharma, duty, righteousness, and compassion. He is Maryada Purushottam, the perfect being who upheld justice and truth despite facing immense challenges.

In contrast to how he is portrayed in some modern retellings, Lord Ram is not a passive or weak figure. He is an embodiment of strength, morality, and unwavering devotion to duty. His life, as described in the Ramayana, provides timeless lessons on governance, relationships, and personal integrity.

The Need for Cultural Awareness

Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi’s insights call for a greater awareness among today’s youth. Instead of passively consuming information from biased sources, they should actively engage with their cultural and spiritual heritage. Reading texts like the Ramayana, the Bhagavad Gita, and the writings of great Hindu philosophers can provide a clearer, more authentic understanding of Sanatan Dharma and Lord Shri Ram.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of questioning mainstream narratives. Why is there a consistent pattern in movies portraying certain groups negatively while protecting others from scrutiny? Why are religious and spiritual figures from Sanatan Dharma mocked, while others are given respectful portrayals? These are important questions that every culturally aware individual should ask.

Conclusion

Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi’s response to the young girl’s question highlights a crucial issue facing modern society—the manipulation of cultural narratives through media. His call to action is simple yet powerful: break free from misleading portrayals and seek knowledge from authentic sources.

To truly know Lord Shri Ram, one must delve into the original scriptures and the wisdom of great thinkers rather than relying on modern distortions. Lord Ram’s life is a guiding light that teaches humanity about righteousness, justice, and unwavering commitment to dharma. It is upon the younger generation to rediscover and uphold these values, ensuring that the true essence of Sanatan Dharma is preserved for generations to come.