“Jai Shree Ram Tattoo: The Profound Chant Reverberating Through Indian Culture, and the Essence of Lord Rama – captured for Life and beyond through the Sacred Tattoo”

Jai Shree Ram Tattoo Introduction

 The phrase “Jai Shree Ram” has resonated in the Indian Subcontinent for over 5000 years. Transcending mere words and becoming a powerful symbol of faith, identity, and Sanatani Hindu pride. This article delves into the significance of “Jai Shree Ram” in Indian culture while exploring the popularity of the “Jai Shree Ram tattoo.” We’ll shed light on what this phrase represents to Hindus and Indians, taking into account its historical and cultural context, offering an in-depth look into the profound essence of Lord Rama, and exploring the ancient practice of Ram tattoos within the Ramnami Samaj.

The Significance of “Jai Shree Ram TATTOO”

Custom Jai Shree Ram Tattoo by Veer Hegde of Eternal Expression Bangalore

“Jai Shree Ram” is an expression in various Indic languages (Sanskrit, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Bhojpuri, etc.), signifying “Glory to Lord Rama” or “Victory to Lord Rama.” This proclamation holds deep historical and cultural significance. It’s used as an informal greeting, a symbol of unwavering Hindu faith, and to express a large spectrum of faith-centred emotions.

Historical and Cultural Roots: “Jai Shree Ram” draws its roots from the epic tale of the Ramayana, where Lord Rama, a revered deity in Hinduism, embodies the values of righteousness, devotion, and the victory of good over evil. This chant represents the age-old cultural and spiritual heritage that has shaped India’s identity.

Who is Lord Rama? what does he represent?

Lord Rama, often referred to simply as “Rama” or “Ram”, holds a central and revered position in Hinduism. He is considered an avatar of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity. He is known for his exemplary life and divine qualities.

• The Embodiment of Dharma: Lord Rama is the embodiment of dharma or righteousness. His life is a moral compass, demonstrating the importance of fulfilling one’s duties, even in the face of great adversity. Rama’s adherence to dharma reflects a commitment to ethical conduct and personal responsibility.
• Devotion and Love: Lord Rama’s devotion to his wife, Sita, is a cornerstone of the Ramayana. His unwavering love and commitment to Sita symbolize the importance of love and respect within the framework of Hindu relationships.
• The victory of Good over Evil: The epic journey of Lord Rama, his alliance with Hanuman and the Vanara army, and the eventual triumph over the demon king, Ravana, are seen as the ultimate victory of good over evil. This resonates with Indians as a symbolic representation of the triumph of righteousness over malevolence.
• Ram Rajya: “Ram Rajya” is a term popularized by Mahatma Gandhi, referring to a Utopian system where society is run based on the principles of Lord Rama. It is a democratic system where rulers govern with the consent of the people and uphold moral authority over realpolitik. Some key features of “Ram Rajya” include:

1. Democracy: It is a democratic system where the ruler governs with the pleasure of the people, reflecting the values of Sanatan Dharma.
2. Equal Rights: In “Ram Rajya,” there are equal rights for everyone, promoting justice and inclusivity.
3. Non-Violence: Violence is not the means to achieve justice, aligning with the principles of Lord Rama’s unwavering commitment to non-violence.
4. Swift and Accessible Justice: Justice is swift, accessible even by the poorest, and at the lowest possible cost, emphasizing the values of accessibility and affordability.
5. Moral Principles: The rules are based on moral principles, with an emphasis on moral authority rather than realpolitik.
6. Upholding Truth: The government should uphold truth in its own actions and also expect the same from others, promoting transparency and honesty.
7. Limited Role of the Military: The military doesn’t have a major role to play in governance, reflecting a commitment to peaceful coexistence.
8. Respect for All Religions: “Ram Rajya” respects all religions and faiths, fostering a harmonious society.

Sage Valmiki’s Description of “Rama Rajyam”

Sage Valmiki, in the Yuddha Kanda of the Ramayana, describes the attributes of “Rama Rajyam”:

न पर्यदेवन्विधवा न च व्यालकृतं भयम् |

न व्याधिजं भयन् वापि रामे राज्यं प्रशासति ||

While Rama was ruling the kingdom, there were no widows to lament, no danger from wild animals, and no fear of diseases.

सर्वं मुदितमेवासीत्सर्वो धर्मपरोअभवत् |

राममेवानुपश्यन्तो नाभ्यहिन्सन्परस्परम् ||

Every creature felt pleased. Everyone was intent on virtue. Turning their eyes towards Rama alone, the creatures did not kill one another.

आसन्वर्षसहस्राणि तथा पुत्रसहस्रिणः |

निरामया विशोकाश्च रामे राज्यं प्रशासति ||

While Rama was ruling the kingdom, people survived for thousands of years, with thousands of their progeny, all free of illness and grief.

रामो रामो राम इति प्रजानामभवन् कथाः |

रामभूतं जगाभूद्रामे राज्यं प्रशासति ||

While Rama ruled the kingdom, the talks of the people centred around Rama, Rama and Rama. The world became Rama’s world.

नित्यपुष्पा नित्यफलास्तरवः स्कन्धविस्तृताः |

कालवर्षी च पर्जन्यः सुखस्पर्शश्च मारुतः ||

The trees there were bearing flowers and fruits regularly, without any injury by pests and insects. The clouds were raining in time and the wind was delightful to the touch.

सर्वे लक्षणसम्पन्नाः सर्वे धर्मपरायणाः ||

All the people were endowed with excellent characteristics. All were engaged in virtue.

Many societies had such a version of utopia and this is the Indian version of it.

The “Jai Shree Ram Tattoo” Phenomenon

The “Jai Shree Ram tattoo“, a relatively recent addition to Indian culture, has garnered immense popularity, particularly among Proud Sanatani Hindus. Although getting Ram’s name inked is an Ancient Practice within the Ramnami Samaj. The Jai Shree Ram Tattoo is relevant in the Eternal Land of the Hindus, whose culture and ideals are deeply influenced by Lord Ram. This tattoo usually features the phrase “Jai Shree Ram”, artistically inked on the forearm, arm or back, symbolizing more than mere body art. From an Indian’s perspective, it serves as a medallion, a testament to faith, identity, and belief in the Lord.

1. Expression of Cultural Identity: The “Jai Shree Ram” tattoo is seen as a bold assertion of one’s cultural and religious identity. It proudly declares one’s faith and allegiance to the values exemplified by Lord Rama.
2. Celebrating Individual Freedom: From a Sanatan Hindu standpoint, the tattoo is a celebration of Individual freedom and the right to express one’s beliefs openly. It echoes the principles of personal autonomy, free expression, and rejection of oppression in any form.
3. Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The tattoo represents a commitment to preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. It reflects the liberal ideals of embracing and conserving age-old values in a modern context.
4. Tolerance and Unity: The “Jai Shree Ram tattoo” symbolizes Tolerance, promoting respect for all faiths and beliefs. It signifies an expression of one’s belief in the virtues of Lord Ram and Hindutva without disparaging other’s belief systems.

Who gets full body tattoos of only the name of the Lord Rama inked all over their body and face?

The Ramnami Samaj, a religious sect that emerged centuries ago, holds a unique practice of permanently tattooing the name of Lord Rama on their bodies as a symbol of devotion. This tradition reflects an unwavering commitment to the deity and a testament to their faith. This practice exemplifies the freedom of religious expression and the commitment to preserving and passing on cultural traditions.

Conclusion

“Jai Shree Ram” isn’t just a chant; it is more a symbol of faith, culture, and values that have deeply influenced India for centuries. The “Jai Shree Ram” tattoo encapsulates these sentiments, highlighting individual freedom, cultural pride, and the spirit of inclusivity. In a diverse and ever-evolving India, it represents an ongoing commitment to upholding the principles of “Ram Rajya,” with Lord Rama as the eternal source of inspiration and guidance, striving for a society based on justice, respect, and non-coercion. Sage Valmiki’s vision of “Rama Rajyam” reflects a utopian ideal that continues to inspire and guide Indian society towards prosperity, dharma, and happiness. Get your custom Jai Shree Ram Tattoo by Veer Hegde at One of India’s Best Tattoo Studios in Bangalore – Eternal Expression!