There is a cross section of women who see Sita as the cherished wife of Ram. In such a relationship a woman or a man is willing to sacrifice for each other. They recognize life has its cycles. Everything changes. They do not feel the need to rebel. They have the freedom to express themselves, so rebellion is muted. There is more balance of power. And when hardships come, like Sita, they want the strength to face them honorably. 

Sita is an integral part of Indian womanhood. We either accept her or reject her. We can't ignore her. Ram and Sita, like most human beings, were portrayed as complex characters. Instead of demonizing Ram, we can humanize his weaknesses. I hope we can move beyond the negative stereotyping and see Sita as a woman who dealt with all challenging situations with dignity and grace.

 Just because we have have limited understanding of Indian literature, it does not mean Sita should be made the victim of our own distorted understanding. Let us find the right role models for differing circumstances. Sita and Draupadi are great role models to emulate, each in their own context. We have a plethora of great role models for today's changing society and its values. The 21st century promotes diversity of thoughts. Sita and her qualities, as originally portrayed, need to live. Society needs her. Let us and the media not tarnish her.