Tell Children About Ram, Ram Rajya and Indian Epics, Says Andhra Pradesh CM

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday emphasised the importance of introducing children and youth to Indian epics and cultural traditions, stating that they offer strong moral lessons and role models for character development.

Addressing a public meeting in Tirupati, the Chief Minister said children today are more exposed to Western fictional superheroes such as Spider-Man, Batman, Superman and Iron Man, while many remain unfamiliar with India’s own mythological figures and epics. He urged parents, teachers and society to take responsibility for educating young minds about India’s cultural heritage.

Mr. Naidu said epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata present enduring values such as truth, courage, duty, discipline and righteousness. He highlighted characters such as Lord Rama , Hanuman , Arjuna , Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva , saying their lives and actions provide meaningful lessons beyond entertainment.

Drawing comparisons, the Chief Minister said Hanuman symbolises unmatched strength and devotion, while Arjuna is remembered as one of the greatest warriors, guided by discipline and moral struggle. He said Lord Krishna’s teachings reflect wisdom and leadership, and described Lord Rama as an ideal human being whose concept of Ram Rajya represents just and ethical governance.

Mr. Naidu also pointed out that Indian epics clearly portray the difference between good and evil through characters such as Kamsa and Bakasura , helping children understand moral choices and consequences. He said such storytelling can help young people distinguish between right and wrong from an early age.

Education experts note that storytelling traditions, when taught thoughtfully and without compulsion, can support moral understanding, cultural awareness and critical thinking in children. They caution, however, that such lessons are most effective when presented as ethical narratives rather than rigid beliefs, and when combined with modern education, science and open discussion.

The Chief Minister said Indian epics should be taught in an engaging and age-appropriate manner, alongside modern subjects, to ensure balanced learning. He added that preserving cultural knowledge while encouraging questioning and reasoning would benefit future generations.