Born in British India to an itinerant Sanskrit scholar, Rama defied social boundaries to recite the sacred legends. Eventually, she appeared before a panel of experts in British Calcutta, earned the title Pandita, and became a public lecturer until she married. As a widow, Rama returned to her profession before traveling to England for further education at Cheltenham. While there, Rama accepted Christian baptism. Rama continued on to America where she raised funds for her still-existing ashram near Pune, India.
Rama’s Labyrinth is the true inspirational story of one woman’s quest for self-discovery and spiritual growth.
Sandra writes historical fiction. Her latest book, "Ambition, Arrogance & Pride" focuses on 18th century Salem MA. Sandra also blogs about history, travel, and other topics that catch her attention. For more information about Sandra, visit her website https://www.sandrawagnerwright.com
It took incredible courage for Rama to 'cross the water' to England. It meant complete loss of caste, a hard decision for a Brahmin. I'm struck by Rama's determination to meet her destiny when she had no idea what that meant. A lone single parent with a small child traveling to a land where she has no friends. The decision makes me wonder which was more important to Rama, leaving where she was or arriving at her destination.
Book Excerpt
Rama's Labyrinth: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
Rama stood near the P & O steamship office with Mano close to her side. She’d been to Bombay before, giving lectures for the Noble Women’s Society, but she’d never been to the port. The crowds jostled more than those at train stations. Stevedores wheeled overloaded wagons across the wharf. They paid no attention to pedestrians, let alone a small woman and her child. She hadn’t felt this way since Srinivas had put them on the train from Ahmedabad to Bombay all those years ago. How old was I then? Thirteen? Now I’m twenty-five, and I still don’t know where destiny takes me.
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