VALMIKI RAMAYANA

One of the greatest Indian
epics of all times, the Ramayana, or ‘The Journey of Rama’, is ostensibly the
story of Rama of Ayodhya – the prince who spent fourteen years in exile to
honour his father’s wish the many battles he valiantly fought to overcome Evil
in various shapes and forms and last but not the least, the heroic choices he
made in order to always remain on the path of righteousness. ‘Adi-Kavi’
Valmiki presents a Rama who is more human than god-like, driven by loss and
sorrow as he loses his beloved Sita first to the evil designs of Ravana, whom
Rama later defeats in a terrible battle and then to Mother Earth, who opens
up to enfold Sita forever after the Agnipariksha she is made to go through to
prove her chastity. While Rama embodies all that is good and honourable, a
vast array of characters ranging from celestial beings to demons to wondrous
talking animals populate the epic, each with its own raison d’etre, adding
complexity to an apparently simple tale of Good vanquishing Evil. Valmiki
Ramayana, multilayered and often symbolic, encompasses the most important
aspects of ancient Indian culture a value system based on honour and duty,
the burdens of kingship, social and filial ideals and has at its heart the
concept of Dharma. With its ample use of quotations, explanations of style,
technique and imagery, this translation by Rajendra Tandon succeeds in
bringing out the beauty and majestic sweep of the Ramayana. Poetry, prose and
illustrations combine to make this volume a book lover’s delight. Key
Features Ageless tale translated lucidly without sacrificing richness Ancient
illustrations taken from museums in India and abroad Explanations of
Valmiki’s style, technique and imagery provided Comprehensive glossary
explaining numerous sub-plots and inter-connections