In Hinduism there is a belief that any strong spiritual inclination is a carry forward from one’s past birth. And whatever spiritual progress is made in one’s lifetime is never lost in the next life.
For the occasion of Ram Navami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Ram, and marks the end of the nine-day Chaitra Navratri, we caught up with a young 14-year-old girl, Amaira Jagtiani- A Ram Bhakt- who lives in Mumbai. Her faith in Lord Ram, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, has helped her endure serious health challenges since birth.
Till now Amaira has undergone eight serious surgeries on her legs, and has to do intense physiotherapy daily. However, her spirits remain unwavered. She attributes her mental strength to her devotion to lord Ram. At a young age she has discovered her Ishta Devata; something that can take a lifetime to figure out. Her knowledge of the Ramayan and Mahabharata and Hindu Gods and Goddesses is incredible. We asked her a few questions about her deep devotion and how it helps her navigate challenges.
In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, Amaira shares how her unwavering faith in Lord Ram has given her strength, resilience, and wisdom, helping her overcome challenges and stay committed to righteousness.
Excerpts from the interview
At what age did you become a worshipper of Ram?
I became a devotee of Ram when my Bua (paternal aunt) read the Ramayana to me when I had my first two procedures on my legs at the age of 9. I was in bed in a cast for 6 weeks.
How did reading the Ramayana help you through your recovery?
Though I couldn’t move my legs, my faith in God kept my spirits and motivation uplifted. I thought about Ram and how he was being so calm throughout his 14 year exile, with his wife sita and younger brother Lakshman
Who is your favourite character in Ramayana?
My favourite character is Ram because he is the maryada purshotam or the ideal man.
You know many lesser known facts about Ramayana…
Did you know Lakshman is considered to be the incarnation of Sheshnaag on whom Vishnu reclines on. King Dashrath’s parents were Aja and Indumati.
How do you get your knowledge about Ramayana?
I got my knowledge of the Ramayana through several books and watching it on my iPad and playing various Ramayan memory card games.
Do you believe it is a carry forward from your past life?
Yes, because I believe lord Vishnu imparted this wisdom to me when I was still in his body; living above the cosmic ocean. I like to believe this is true.
What does Ram stand for?
Ram stands for truthfulness, righteousness dharma, justice and honesty.
What’s the biggest lesson you have learned from this epic?
The most important moral of this epic is never judge someone without knowing the truth. You shouldn’t judge the fruits of anyone’s karmic debt. For example we shouldn’t even judge Ravan without knowing the entire truth. Even lord Ram realised that at the end of the battle.
What did Ram do at the end of the battle?
When King Ravan was dying, Ram told his younger brother Laxman to go and seek knowledge or vidya from Ravan. But Laxman stood at his head and Ravan did not teach him. Then Laxman and Ram went back and stood at the feet of the demon king Ravan. And he taught them three most important lessons that a king should do for his subjects.
What were the lessons Ravan imparted to Laxman?
Ravan imparted to Laxman
Ego – a king should not have too much ego towards his subjects.
A king should love his subjects even if they gossip about him
Never feel envy for others. And always be compassionate and empathise. because the minute you do teamwork then you will gain success
Do you believe Lord ram will remove all obstacles in your life?
Lord ram made me realise no matter what happens in life the truth is within you.
What is your ambition for the future?
My ambition for the future is to become a member of parliament from Ayodhya.
