Eponymous phrases from the Raamayana

The word Raamayana itself is synonymous with any long-drawn story or anecdote.

Some characters of the Raamayana have become phrases laden with meaning based on their qualities or acts.

Lakshman-rekha:

This literally refers to the line (rekha) of protection that Lakshmana drew around the dwelling when Sita urged him to leave her alone and go to Raama’s aid (when Raama had gone in pursuit of the golden deer).

Raavana was able to kidnap her only after she crossed the line. This act of Lakshmana does not find mention in Valmiki’s Raamayana, and is said to be an interpolation. The phrase is used to describe any symbolic boundary crossing which one would lose protection/ be exposed to danger. The phrase is sadly used today by a popular pesticide brand.

Maaya-mriga:

This phrase describes the magical golden deer (the demon Maaricha in disguise) which enticed Sita and ultimately led to her abduction. The phrase refers to any illusory temptation that lures a person into its futile pursuit and ultimate doom.

Sugreevagne:

Literally the order (aagne) issued by Sugreeva to search for Sita. It is to an ordinance passed by the Government (valid for six months) without the usual route of presenting the bill in Parliament to get it passed.

Hanumanthana baala:

When Hanuman allowed himself to be captured in Lanka, the tail grew endlessly necessitating additional rags and oil to set it afire. Thus a is referred to as Hanuman’s tail.

Raambaana:

The arrow (baana) released by Raama never missed its target. This phrase is used to mean a sure-fire remedy or an effort that is bound to yield the desired outcome.

Urmila nidre:

When Lakshmana accompanied Raama and Sita into the forest, he wanted to maintain vigil through the days and nights. It is said that Lakshmana stayed without sleep (nidre) for 14 years while Urmila, his wife, slept his share too. Hence, the phrase refers to continuous sleep. Yet, it is not commonly used, as excess sleep is associated with sloth and here the connotation is not negative.

Urmila snaana:

The origin of this phrase, though popularly used, is not clear. It refers to a very long/ leisurely bath. Mr Amitabh Tiwari, milking the idea, is selling polyester towels for a couple of dollars :-)

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/urmila-sitas-sister-amitabh-tiwari.html?product=bathtowel

Allilu seve:

When the Vaanaras were busy carrying rocks to build a bridge across the ocean to Lanka, a squirrel was seen scurrying with pebbles to lend help. While most onlookers scoffed at the squirrel’s inconsequential attempts, Raama acknowledged the squirrel’s efforts. He is supposed to have caressed the squirrel’s back, thereby giving the Indian palm squirrel its distinguishing stripes. Thus, the phrase “allilu seve” is used by a person rendering help to indicate the insignificance of the help, thereby reflecting one’s humility.

Sanjeevini:

The magical herb found on Dronagiri, carried by Hanuman twice, once to revive free Raama and Lakshmana from Indrajit’s sorcery, and again to revive Lakshmana, during the battle. Sanjeevini is a popular term for healing solutions indicating plant based, herbal products/ services/ medicines.

Raamaraajya:

Raama, the ideal king, ruled Ayodhya in an ideal manner. An ideal rule accounted for peace and prosperity of its subjects; timely, adequate rainfall and plentiful crops, no son predeceased his father, trees always bore fruit, people spoke no falsehoods, no one suffered from disease, no one was sad, there was no fear of animal attacks. Every subject was happy and contented. Thus, a utopian ideal of administration is referred to as “Raamaraajya”.

Kumbhakarna:

Any person who is lazy and sluggish given to excessive sleep, especially if he is also physically unfit, is called “Kumbhakarna”, a term that is derogatory. While Kumbhakarna was righteous, talented and intelligent, the only quality that is associated with him is his sleep.

Any additions to this list is most welcome :-)