Ladies of Bharat

i was talking to one of my friend who happen to be a lady and then my mind started thinking about the qualities which we tend to see in ladies.
i remember my nani (maternal grand-mother) used to say about the great five ladies of India. I cannot recall all names but there are few who have been very prominent due to unique qualities. they may have many qualities but each of them stand for something

undisputed leader among then is Sita. Unmatched. she was the ocean of virtues. when it was time for Ram to go to forest, there was no hesitation in her mind. with her logic she even convinced unconvincing Ram. When, Ram had to execute his plan, she readily participated and when Ram wanted to set example for kings to follow, she sacrificed herself at the alter of Dharma. I think Rama is Rama because He got Sita as companion.

Surprisingly another lady in the list was Mandodari, wife of Ravana, who was slayed by Rama. She was an ideal wife. She stood by her husband and always gave good advice. Ravana did not pay any heed to her words that was his fate. She did not forsake him. So i identify her with as a good adviser.

Then Anusooya comes to my mind. I have not gone through all the PuraNas so i have little knowledge about her. One incident is very famous about her. when gods wanted to test her chastity she overcame their test by making them children. To me it appears that if a lady thinks the world as her child she can overcome many problem and confusions.

Another land mark one is that of Draupadi. Her reaction to the ghastly act of Aswathama is an ideal. Aswathama had killed her five sons. when it was asked what should be done to him. She forgave him telling that she does not want to cause pain to mather of Aswathama. The quality of Kshama is highlighted in her character. of course the karma will take care of everybody's act and it took it course in case of Aswathama too. when i Hear a lady plotting for revenge i am very much repelled. i cannot digest it

I have heard Swami talking about the Chandramati, wife of Harishchandra. when Harishchandra was think about the promise, he had given, it was chandramati who supported him to follow the path of truth and even sold herself for it. the story is well known. again striking feature of the lady was her conviction in truth and in her own power. she could even quell the forest fire because she had faith in herself.

there is well known story of savitri who followed death to get back her husband. it goes on to show that even the mighty death becomes weak in front of such power.

list is very long...

they are the guiding lights for ladies of Bharat