Who is Sita-Rama
Sita-Rama represents the combined divine form of Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, and his consort Sita, an incarnation of Lakshmi. This syncretic form embodies the ideal of righteousness (dharma), unwavering devotion (bhakti), and the perfect royal couple. The primary scriptural source is Valmiki's Ramayana, which narrates Rama's life as the prince of Ayodhya, his exile, Sita's abduction by Ravana, and their eventual reunion. The Ramayana (Yuddha Kanda) describes Rama's victory over Ravana and the establishment of Ramarajya, a kingdom of justice and prosperity.
The later vernacular epic Ramcharitmanas by Tulsidas (16th century) further popularized the worship of Sita-Rama, emphasizing devotion and the divine couple's grace. In iconography, Rama is depicted with a bow and arrow, symbolizing his role as a protector of dharma, while Sita holds a lotus, representing purity and prosperity. They are often seated together on a throne, flanked by Lakshmana and Hanuman. The Skanda Purana (Ayodhya Mahatmya) extols the glory of Ayodhya and the worship of Rama and Sita.
Regional traditions vary: in North India, Rama Navami celebrates Rama's birth, while Vivaha Panchami commemorates the marriage of Rama and Sita. In South India, the Srirangam temple holds Sita-Rama in high esteem. Diwali, the festival of lights, marks Rama's return to Ayodhya and is celebrated with lamps and fireworks. In Hindu cosmology, Sita-Rama represent the ideal householder life, balancing worldly duties with spiritual goals.
Their story teaches that dharma must be upheld even in adversity, and that devotion to the divine couple leads to liberation. The combined form is worshiped for marital harmony, progeny, and spiritual upliftment.
Names by which the divine is addressed
What they hold
Form, mudras, weapons & vahana
Rama with Sita seated beside him. Rama holds bow and arrow, Sita holds a lotus. Often depicted with Lakshmana and Hanuman.