Rama

One-line: Ramayana hero who worships the Goddess before the war with Ravana.

First appears: Book 3, in Book 3 retelling.

Who they are: Rama appears briefly but importantly in Book 3. The text folds the Ramayana into its own theology by having Rama worship the Goddess during Navaratri before crossing to Lanka. Even Rama’s victory is placed inside Devi’s blessing.

What they do that matters:

• Grieves after Sita’s abduction.
• Receives Narada’s instruction to perform Navaratri worship.
• Gets the Goddess’s promise before the war with Ravana.

Other names: Ramachandra

Family / lineage (when relevant): Husband of Sita; brother of Lakshmana.