The Ramayana is one of India's foundational epics, and it demonstrates a continuing power to influence social, religious, cultural, and political life. Brought to textual life in Sanskrit by the legendary "first poet," Valmiki, over the ensuing centuries the tale has been recycled with extraordinary adaptability and diversity through the varied cultural heritages of India and other parts of Asia. The basic tale of the Ramayana is continually adapted to new contexts, forms, and media. It is read, recited, sung, danced, and acted in one form or another, and renewed so constantly by changing times and values that it demands constant revaluation. The Ramayana Revisited presents the latest in Ramayana scholarship. Fourteen leading scholars examine the epic in its myriad contexts throughout South and Southeast Asia. They explore the role the narrative plays in societies as varied as India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia. The essays also expand the understanding of the "text" to include non-verbal renditions of the epic, with particular attention to the complex ways such retellings change the way the narrative deals with gender. This volume will be invaluable to students and scholars interested in mythology, Hinduism, Asian studies, and anthropology.

Rama, Maryada Purushottam, the king of Ayodhya, banished his beloved queen, in whose chastity he had complete faith, simply because his subjects disapproved of his accepting a wife who had spent a year in the house of her abductor. The king submitted to the will of the people though it broke his heart. Was his stand justified? Could Manthara be held solely responsible for the banishment of Rama and the subsequent death of Dasharatha? Was Ahalya an adulteress or a victim of sexual assault? Did the actions of the serial molester Ravana stand legal scrutiny? Was Lakshmana, a prince of Ayodhya, legally justified in mutilating Surpanakha? Was his elder brother Rama an accomplice in that action? It was said in ancient India, a king who, after having sworn to safeguard his subjects, failed to protect should be executed like a mad dog. Such a provision indicated that sovereignty was based on an implied social contract, and if the king violated the traditional pact, he forfeited his kingship. So, a king had to be just as justice trickled down from the crown. What happens though if the events of yore are retold and characters made to stand trial in today's time? Here is an attempt, unexplored so far, to retell the significant happenings narrated in the Ramayana through the legal prism of the Indian Penal Code. Each chapter comprises a prosecution version, citations of relevant provisions from the IPC, deposition of witnesses and the defence argument. Ramayana Revisited succeeds in bringing in all alternative perspectives, leaving the final judgement to the discretion of the reader.

"Rediscovering Ramayana: An Epic Journey through Valmiki's Tale" invites readers to embark on a transformative expedition into the heart of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. This literary voyage is not just a retelling of the classic tale; it's an immersive experience that delves into the essence of Valmiki's narrative, unearthing its layers of wisdom, lessons, and timeless truths. In this exploration, readers are guided through the labyrinthine paths of the Ramayana's intricate plot and multifaceted characters. The journey is enriched by thought-provoking analyses that shed light on the nuances of the epic's themes, moral dilemmas, and ethical choices. The narrative's philosophical depths are plumbed, revealing insights that resonate across cultures and generations. As the pages turn, readers are captivated by the vivid portrayals of Lord Rama, the embodiment of righteousness and virtue; Sita, the symbol of resilience and devotion; Hanuman, the epitome of loyalty and selfless service; and Ravana, the complex antagonist with shades of humanity. Their struggles and triumphs mirror the human experience, inviting readers to reflect on their own lives and moral compass. "Rediscovering Ramayana" isn't just a journey into the past; it's a journey into oneself. The epic's messages are woven into the fabric of modern life, offering guidance on navigating challenges, making ethical decisions, and embracing spiritual growth. The reader is invited to engage with the epic's teachings, finding echoes of its timeless wisdom in their own experiences, relationships, and aspirations. Ultimately, "Rediscovering Ramayana" is an odyssey that bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary living. It's an invitation to reimagine the Ramayana not as a distant tale, but as a living narrative that resonates with the essence of being human. Through this rediscovery, readers are inspired to uncover the universal truths that lie beneath the surface of Valmiki's words and carry them forward on their own epic journey of self-discovery and transformation.

This translation originally published: 1976.

One of the ancient world's great verse epics is retold in energetic English prose in this sparkling volume.

THE RAMAYANA IS NOT A STORY. IT IS A WAY OF LIFE. IT IS THE GAME OF LIFE. How one responds to difficult situations when faced with challenges determines the outcome. The ability of Rama’s army of vanaras to envision building the bridge from the mainland to Lanka to rescue Sita is one of the many lessons on faith. Here are some invaluable lessons on overcoming obstacles. Think big. The tiny squirrels contributed in their small ways to build the mammoth bridge to Lanka. Aim high. Sugriva, leading a vanara army, dared to win a war without any armor or training against a sophisticated demon army. Recognise opportunities and adapt. Hanuman could expand his size or contract, focusing on his goal to serve Rama. Are you thinking big to succeed in life? THINK BIG TO WIN is the sixth book in Ramayana: The Game of Life series. A modern retelling of the Yuddha Kanda of Valmiki’s epic, this book highlights the efforts of the various characters who irrespective of their size, stature or abilities, succeeded in helping Rama rescue Sita from Lanka. Teeming with lessons in self-belief and daring to take up tasks which may seem beyond your capacity and accomplishing them, the book evokes progressive attitudes to help you overcome self-perceived limitations and achieve your dreams.