The Story of Rama and Sita

The tale of Rama and Sita is an Indian love story. Their story began in a time of many gods and magic. Rama was the son of King Ayodya, and next in line for the throne. However, one day his evil stepmother banished him into exile with Sita, his new wife. She did this so her son may take the throne.

While in the forest, the beautiful Sita came across a white deer and asked Rama to catch it for her. While Rama was chasing it, a demon god appeared and kidnapped Sita and flew her back to his island, Lanka. For many months, her husband searched frantically for her and then finally asked the king of the monkey army to help him because the king of the monkeys could fly and would be able to go rescue her.

He found Sita, who was imprisoned, and helped her escape. Knowing it would bring a great battle upon them, they prepared for war. It was one of the greatest battles ever, lasting 10 long days. Just when they thought the demon king was going to win, Rama borrowed a bow and arrow from a god and shot the demon, winning the battle. After winning, Rama and Sita traveled back to their kingdom. On the way, the local villagers lit clay oil lamps, known as diyas, in their windows to guide the lover’s home where Rama and Sita ruled.

It is custom now that every year, the people remember their story by lighting diyas inside their homes and setting off fireworks.

After students listen to or read the story and (optional) fill out a note-taking sheet or graphic organizer, they can create a storyboard that highlight the key events from the story! This is a great way for students to combine social studies with literature and have the opportunity to explore stories that they may not be aware of.

There are many other engaging books that introduce students to the traditional folktales and stories from Ancient India. Here are some suggestions:

• Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali by Malachy Doyle
• The Story of Diwali: Rama & Sita. The Ramayana Adapted for Children by Jay Anika
• The Elephant's Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India by Marcia Williams
• Classic Tales from India: How Ganesh Got His Elephant Head and Other Stories by Vatsala Sperling
• Indian Children's Favorite Stories: Fables, Myths and Fairy Tales by Rosemarie Somaiah

Due Date:

Objective: After listening to the story of Rama and Sita, create a narrative storyboard that includes important details from the beginning, middle, and end of the story.

Student Instructions:

1. In about 3-5 cells, write the major details of the story in order of occurrence.
2. Add appropriate scenes, characters and items to illustrate each cell. The Creator has each animal from the story.

Requirements: Beginning, Middle, and End of the story.