Ramayana of Valmiki
Making of Ramayans
“Seeing Shri Rama occupying the throne, the people were happy and satisfied, virtuous and free from sickness, sorrow, famine or danger. None witnessed the death of his son; no woman became a widow and all were devoted to their husbands; there was no danger from tempests; none perished by water; nor was there any cause of fear from fire; fever and plague were unknown; there was no want, and no danger from thieves. Cities and villages were rich and prosperous; all lived happily as in the Satya Yuga.
Shri Rama and Sita observed countless Vedic sacrifices and gave much gold, and hundreds of thousands of cows in charity, thus preparing for themselves a place in the divine regions. Shri Rama added incalculably to the prosperity of the dynasty, and bestowed immense wealth on the brahmins. He employed his subjects in the duties of their respectives castes and ruled for eleven thousand years, after which he returned to his celestial abode, Vaikuntha.
He who reads the story of Rama, which imparts merit and purity, is freed from all sin. He who reads it with faith and devotion is ultimately worshipped together with his sons, grandsons and servants at his death.
A brahmin reading this becomes proficient in the Vedas, and philosophy; a kshatriya becomes a king; a vaishya grows prosperous in trade; a shudra, on reading this will become great in his caste”.
The history of Shri Rama, which confers righteousness, worldly prosperity and delight on the reader, which does not degrade the mind and grants release from sorrow, that story which charms the heart and is as full of lovely gems as is the sea, was rendered by Shri Valmiki, in the form in which Shri Narada had related it to him.
While Shri Rama was still King of Ayodhya, the great Sage Valmiki composed this beautiful classic.
The holy rishi composed twenty-four thousand verses and divided them into five hundred chapters and six books. In addition, he composed the epilogue. The work being completed, he reflected thus: “To whom shall I teach this classic?”
While the sage was reflecting on the matter, the two princes, Kusha and Lava, the offspring of Rama and Sita approached him and touched his feet in reverence. The great sage studied these two virtuous princes of mellifluous speech, who dwelt with him in his hermitage at that time. Knowing them to be wise and full of faith in the teachings of the Vedas, the great sage, who had expounded the meaning of the scriptures in his verses, taught the classic to them.
The great Valmiki taught them the classic describing the deeds of Rama and Sita and all that relates to the incidents leading to the slaying of Ravana named “The Slaying of the Grandson of Paulastya”. This historical classic is pleasant to sing and adapted to the three measures of time, it is contained within the seven notes and can be sung to the vina. It expresses the various moods of love, courage, disgust, anger, terror, compassion, wonder, laughter and serenity.
The two princes were skilled musicians, proficient in rhythm and melody and had sweet voices; they were as comely to look at as Gandharvas. Endowed with god-like beauty, the two sweet singers, the reflected images of Shri Rama himself, constantly repeated the holy classic and committed it to memory. The two adorable and charming princes skilfully recited the holy classic, the Ramayana, which extols virtue, before the sages, the learned brahmins and the ascetics, as they had been instructed to do.
On a particular occasion, the two princes, great-souled, fortunate, and equipped with all good qualities, chanted the great epic in Shri Rama’s assembly. The listening sages were visibly moved and shed tears of delight. Being overcome with wonder, they cried “Excellent! Excellent”, and praising the two singers, the virtue-loving sages experienced great joy. Showering praises on the brothers, they cried, “How melodiously you sing! How exquisite is the divine poem, the story of Rama!”
Being pleased with the sweet singers, one sage presented them with lotus, another with delicious fruits, a third with robes of bark and another with antelope skins; some gave sacrificial thread, some vessels for collecting alms, others gave loin cloths, kusha grass, garments of yellow cloth, scarves and thread for binding the hair, sacrificial vessels, rosaries and axes. Others bestowed their blessings upon them, saying “May you live long” and all acclaimed the author of the marvellous poem.
They said: “This metre will be the foundation of the verse of future poets; it is composed according to specific rules; the two princes have sung this wonderful poem with great art; it will promote wisdom in those who listen to it and grant them longevity and health; it is truly able to charm the heart.”
While the sages were thus praising the two princes, Shri Ramacandra, passing that way, took them to his royal palace. Occupying his golden throne, Shri Rama, the destroyer of his foes, offered hospitality and reverence to the two worthy princes. In the assembly, surrounded by his ministers and brothers, Shri Rama looked approvingly on those handsome and learned youths, and addressed the Princes Lakshmana, Shatrughna and Bharata saying: “Hear the historical poem, which these two celestial and brilliant minstrels sing, this poem which portrays incidents of wonderful meaning.”
Then Shri Rama commanded the two musicians to sing and the princes tuned their vinas and chanted the poem they had learned, sweetly and clearly. The whole assembly listened to the music which was wholly gratifying to the mind and heart.
Shri Rama said: “I admire the music and the verse sung by these two minstrels who appear to be endowed with royal attributes.”
In this way, praised and encouraged by Shri Ramacandra, the two brothers demonstrating their skill in music, sang on. Listening to them in the royal assembly, Shri Ramacandra was charmed.
Index of Ramayana
The birth of Rama,
his valour,
his benevolence to all men,
his universal goodwill,
his clemency,
his pleasing looks,
his sweet disposition,
his love of truth,
his humility,
his helpful services to the Sage Vishwamitra,
the instruction given by the Sage Vishwamitra to him and his patient hearing of it;
his breaking of the great bow;
his marriage to Princess Sita;
his controversy with Parasurama;
the preparations for his coronation;
a description of his great qualities;
the opposition offered by Queen Kaikeyi to the coronation;
his departure to the forest;
the lament and death of King Dasaratha,
the grief of the people of Ayodhya;
Rama’s speech with the ferryman;
his farewell to Sumantra;
his crossing of the Ganges;
his visit to the holy Sage Bharadvaja;
his departure for Cittrakuta on the instance of the sage;
his dwelling in the leaf-thatched hut on Mount Cittrakuta;
the grief of the king on Sumantra’s return and the monarch’s departure to heaven;
the arrival of Shri Bharata at Cittrakuta to persuade Rama to return to his kingdom;
his stay at the hermitage;
his interview with Rama;
the funeral rites of his sire;
Rama’s refusal to return;
the receiving of Rama’s sandals by Bharata as a symbol of authority;
Bharata’s installation of the symbol and his ruling of Ayodhya from Nandigrama;
Shri Rama’s visit to the Dandaka forest;
his slaying of the wicked Virodha;
his interview with the Sage Sharabhanga;
his arrival at the hermitage of Sutikshna;
the meeting of Anasuya with Shri Sita and the imparting of teachings to her;
the visit of the Sage Agastya;
his residence at Pancavati;
the meeting with Jatayu;
the appearance of Shurparnakha;
the conversation of Rama and Lakshmana with her;
Shuparnakha’s mutilation;
the slaying of Khara, Dusana and Trishira;
the arrival of Ravana;
the slaying of Marica;
the abduction of Sita;
Rama’s lament on his separation from Sita;
the slaying of Jatayu by Ravana;
the meeting with Kabandha;
the arrival at Lake Pampa;
Rama’s interview with Shabari;
his arrival at the Rishyamukha mountain;
his meeting with Hanuman;
Rama’s seal of friendship with Sugriva;
his promise to destroy Bali;
the combat between Bali and Sugriva;
the slaying of Bali;
the mourning of Tara;
the installation of Sugriva;
Shri Rama’s sojourn on the mountain in the rainy season;
Sugriva’s exceeding of the stated time for his mission,
Rama’s anger against him;
Lakshmana’s delivery of the message to Sugriva;
Sugriva’s visit to Rama;
his propitiation of Rama;
the organising of the monkey army;
the dispatch of the monkeys to find Sita’s abode;
the description of the earth given to them;
the giving of Rama’s ring to Hanuman;
the monkeys entry into the dark cave;
their fasting on the seashore in preparation for death;
their interview with Sampati, the king of the vultures;
his information respecting Lanka;
Hanuman’s leap and his crossing of the sea;
the emergence of the Minaka hill from the ocean;
the slaying of the wicked female demon Singhika who imprisoned her victims by capturing their shadow;
the appearance of Lanka by night;
the entry of Hanuman into Lanka and his lonely reflections;
his seeing of the wicked Ravana and his aerial chariot Pushpaka;
Hanuman’s entry into the inner apartments, where Ravana is drinking surrounded by women;
Hanuman’s search for Sita and his beholding of the princess in the ashoka garden;
Ravana’s entry into the garden and his solicitation of Sita;
her reproaches;
the threatening of Sita by the female asuras;
Trijata’s description of her dream concerning the delivery of Shri Rama’s ring to Sita by Hanuman;
the conversation on this matter;
the gift of the jewel to Hanuman by Sita;
the destruction of the grove by Hanuman;
the flight of the women asuras;
the slaying of Ravana’s guards by Hanuman;
the capture of Hanuman and the burning of Lanka by him;
the re-crossing of the sea;
the eating of the fruits of the Madhu forest;
the words of consolation offered to Shri Rama by Hanuman and the delivery of Shri Sita’s jewel to him;
the arrival of Shri Rama at the seashore and the bridging of the sea by Nala and Nila;
the siege of Lanka;
the arrival of Ravana’s brother Vibishana to take refuge with Shri Rama;
the disclosure by him of the design to destroy Ravana;
the slaying of Kumbhakama and Meghanada;
the destruction of Ravana;
the reunion with Sita;
the crowning of Vibishana, King of Lanka;
the offer of the aerial chariot Pushpaka by Vibishana to Rama;
the return of Shri Rama to Ayodhya;
the reunion with Prince Bharata;
the crowning of Shri Rama as king;
the farewell to the monkey army;
the rejoicings of his subjects at the coronation;
Time of Ramayana
The great sage and his disciple were filled with amazement and reading the stanzas of Ramayana again and again, their delight grew. Repeatedly reciting the couplet, composed by Valmiki, they realised that the holy sage had expressed lbs sorrow in poetic form. Then Shri Valmiki meditated on the Lord within his atman and it occurred to him to relate the story of Rama in similar verse. For the good of the world, the illustrious and holy sage, therefore, began composing the life of Shri Rama in verse; that Rama, worthy of world-wide renown, who is both generous and charming. Shri Valmiki composed the story of the life of Rama and of the slaying of Ravana in beautiful and measured stanzas, a work of infinite merit.
Six Books of Ramayana
Book 1 – Bala-kanda
Book 2 – Ayodhya-kanda
Book 3 – Aranya-kanda
Book 4 – Kishkindha-kanda
Book 5 – Sundara-kanda
Book 6 – Yuddha-kanda
Western culture is only just beginning to look beyond the Roman and Greek civilizations for new inspiration. Even so, it is a little surprising that, although the mighty epics of the Iliad and the Odyssey are widely known and loved, only a few scholars have studied their Hindu counterparts known as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. In fact no good complete modern English translation of the Ramayana exists, and the best of those made in the last half of the 19th century are unobtainable outside the larger libraries.
Unfortunately we know very little about the Rishi Valmiki, whose title ‘Adikavi’ (First poet) and pre-eminence in Sanskrit verse has never been seriously challenged to this day. He was a robber chief in a forest in Northern India and on one occasion waylaid two ascetics for the purpose of plundering them. The travellers, however, spoke to him with kindness, and offered him the spiritual truth in lieu of the gold and silver which they did not possess. Convinced of their sincerity and on their advice, Valmiki changed his mode of life and became a devotee of Shri Ramacandra, the Seventh Incarnation of God (Vishnu) on earth. After a long period of meditation on the form and virtues of Shri Rama, it is said that he was granted a vision of Rama’s life from beginning to end.
He gave expression to this unique experience, in Sanskrit verse, in the 24,000 slokas (48,000 lines) known as the Ramayana. The sloka is a specific metre which the poet himself discovered, as is told in a beautiful passage in the first book.
The poem is divided into six books (Kandas) of unequal length, which may be very briefly summarised as follows:—
Book I. (Bala-Kanda)
King Dasaratha of Ayodhya (Oudh), performs a sacrifice in the hope of obtaining a son. At this time the Gods (Devas) are alarmed at the power acquired by the mighty Titan named Ravena, who, by the practice of black magic had conquered almost all of the known world. King Dasaratha’s prayer is answered and his three wives bear four sons, Rama, Bharata and the twins Lakshmana and Shatrughna, who are all partial incarnations of Shri Vishnu. Vishnu, however, manifests himself more fully in Shri Rama than in the other brothers. The boys grow up and Shri Rama wins as his bride, Sita, the daughter of King Janaka of the neighbouring kingdom of Videha.
Chapter 1 – Shri Narada relates to Valmiki the story of Rama
Chapter 2 – Sage Valmiki creates the metrical form for the story
Chapter 3 – The deeds of Rama that will be described in the sacred poem
Chapter 4 – Shri Rama’s sons chant the poem
Chapter 5 – King Dasaratha’s kingdom and capital
Chapter 6 – The city of Ayodhya
Chapter 7 – The administration of the kingdom (Ayodhya)
Chapter 8 – King Dasaratha desires to perform a sacrifice for the birth of a son
Chapter 9 – Sumantra relates a tradition that a son will be born
Chapter 10 – How Rishyasringa was brought to King Lomapada’s court
Chapter 11 – Rishyasringa comes to Ayodhya
Chapter 12 – Rishyasringa agrees to assist in the sacrifice
Chapter 13 – The Sacrifice is commenced
Chapter 14 – The Ceremonies are performed with the appropriate rites
Chapter 15 – Shri Vishnu resolves to incarnate
Chapter 16 – Shri Vishnu decides to incarnate as the four sons of King Dasaratha
Chapter 17 – Celestial beings incarnate as warriors of the monkey tribe
Chapter 18 – King Dasaratha’s sons are born and grow to manhood
Chapter 19 – Vishvamitra’s request
Chapter 20 – Dasaratha’s reluctance
Chapter 21 – Dasaratha acquiesces
Chapter 22 – Ramachandra and Lakshmana set forth with Vishvamitra
Chapter 23 – Ramachandra and Lakshmana reach the hermitage of Kama
Chapter 24 – The dark forest of Taraka
Chapter 25 – Vishvamitra seeks to convince Rama
Chapter 26 – How the Yakshini Taraka was slain
Chapter 27 – Shri Rama is given the celestial weapons
Chapter 28 – Shri Rama is instructed in their use
Chapter 29 – Vishvamitra relates the story of his hermitage
Chapter 30 – Maricha and Suvahu obstruct the sacrifice and are slain by Rama
Chapter 31 – Vishvamitra starts out
Chapter 32 – Vishvamitra tells of his ancestors and the dynasty of King Kusha
Chapter 33 – King Kushanabha’s hundred daughters
Chapter 34 – Gadhi is the father of Vishvamitra
Chapter 35 – The origin of the holy river Ganga
Chapter 36 – The story of the king of Himalayas’ younger daughter Uma
Chapter 37 – The king’s elder daughter, Ganga
Chapter 38 – The story of King Sagara, Shri Rama’s ancestor
Chapter 39 – The horse with which Sagara performs a sacrifice is stolen
Chapter 40 – Sagara’s sons search for the horse
Chapter 41 – Amshuman finds the horse and the ashes of his uncles
Chapter 42 – Bhagiratha performs austerities
Chapter 43 – Lord Shiva lets loose the sacred river
Chapter 44 – King Bhagiratha completes the funeral rites for his ancestors
Chapter 45 – The city of Vishala and the churning of the ocean
Chapter 46 – Diti undergoes severe austerities for the birth of a son
Chapter 47 – The holy sage and the princes arrive at Vishala
Chapter 48 – Gautama’s hermitage
Chapter 49 – Shri Rama liberates Ahalya from Gautama’s curse
Chapter 50 – The place of sacrifice by King Janaka
Chapter 51 – Gautama’s son Shatananda
Chapter 52 – King Vishvamitra visits Shri Vasishtha’s hermitage
Chapter 53 – King Vishvamitra king desires to possess Shabala
Chapter 54 – King Vishvamitra attempts to carry Shabala away by force
Chapter 55 – Shabala creates an army which annihilates Vishvamitra’s forces
Chapter 56 – Shri Vasishtha conquers Vishvamitra
Chapter 57 – Shri Vasishtha refuses to help King Trishanku
Chapter 58 – Vasishtha’s sons curse Trishanku
Chapter 59 – Vishvamitra seeks the help of the sons of Vasishtha and Mahodeva
Chapter 60 – King Trishanku ascends to a specially created heaven
Chapter 61 – King Ambarisha’s sacrificial horse is lost
Chapter 62 – Shunashepha obtains help from Vishvamitra
Chapter 63 – Vishvamitra is proclaimed a Maharishi
Chapter 64 – Indra sends Rambha
Chapter 65 – Vishvamitra performs another thousand years’ austerities
Chapter 66 – King Janaka relates the story of the great bow and the birth of Sita
Chapter 67 – Rama breaks the bow and is given the Princess Sita in marriage
Chapter 68 – King Janaka sends messengers to invite King Dasaratha to the capital
Chapter 69 – King Dasaratha sets out
Chapter 70 – Vishvamitra relates the descent of the dynasty
Chapter 71 – King Janaka gives an account of the succession and his dynasty
Chapter 72 – The marriage of the four sons of King Dasaratha
Chapter 73 – The marriage ceremonies are completed
Chapter 74 – Parasurama appears amidst inauspicious signs
Chapter 75 – Parasurama challenges Rama to combat
Chapter 76 – Parasurama is vanquished and deprived of his glory and power
Chapter 77 – King Dasaratha returns to Ayodhya
Book II. (Ayodhya-Kanda)
King Dasaratha intends to proclaim Shri Rama heir-apparent, but the jealousy of his second queen, Kaikeyi, is aroused and she holds the king to a promise made formerly, that he would grant her two boons. The boons she now secures are the banishment of Shri Rama to the forest for fourteen years, and the installation of her own son Bharata as Yuvaraja. According to the law of righteousness (dharma) a vow must be honoured, and Shri Rama calmly accepts the sentence of exile. He travels south to Cittrakuta in the Dandaka Forest with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana. King Dasaratha dies of grief and Bharata implores Shri Rama to return to the throne, but the latter adheres firmly to the vindication of his father’s honour and the fulfilment of his vow.
Chapter 1 – King Dasaratha desires to see Prince Rama made regent
Chapter 2 – The elders and councillors willingly accept Shri Rama as regent
Chapter 3 – The king resolves Shri Rama shall be installed
Chapter 4 – Shri Rama and Princess Sita prepare for the ceremony
Chapter 5 – On Vasishtha’s advice Shri Rama and Sita observe a fast
Chapter 6 – The city of Ayodhya is decorated for the proclamation
Chapter 7 – Shri Rama’s coming installation
Chapter 8 – Manthara persuades the queen
Chapter 9 – Queen Kaikeyi is resolved upon her evil design
Chapter 10 – King Dasaratha is deeply afflicted
Chapter 11 – Kaikeyi asks for the two boons promised her by Dasaratha
Chapter 12 – King Dasaratha suffers bitterly
Chapter 13 – Kaikeyi disregards the king’s immeasurable distress
Chapter 14 – Dasarata is overcome by grief; Kaikeyi summons Shri Rama
Chapter 15 – Sumantra hurries to Prince Rama’s palace
Chapter 16 – Shri Rama in his chariot drives swiftly to the king
Chapter 17 – Shri Rama Advances To The Palace Amidst The Plaudits Of His Friends
Chapter 18 – Shri Rama sees the king full of anguish and speechless
Chapter 19 – Shri Ramachandra betrays no sign of distress and prepares for exile
Chapter 20 – Queen Kaushalya is afflicted and helpless with sorrow
Chapter 21 – Shri Rama prepares for departure
Chapter 22 – Shri Rama appeals to Shri Lakshmana not to grieve
Chapter 23 – Shri Lakshmana and Shri Rama’s installation
Chapter 24 – Shri Rama’s resolution
Chapter 25 – Kaushalya gives her blessing
Chapter 26 – Shri Rama acquaints Princess Sita of his resolution
Chapter 27 – Princess Sita entreats Rama to allow her to accompany him
Chapter 28 – Shri Rama seeks to dissuade her Sita
Chapter 29 – Sita continues her entreaties
Chapter 30 – Seeing Sita’s fixed resolve Shri Rama grants her request
Chapter 31 – Shri Lakshmana is resolved to accompany Rama and Sita
Chapter 32 – Shri Rama bestows his wealth
Chapter 33 – Shri Rama goes with Sita and Lakshmana to King Dasaratha’s palace
Chapter 34 – King Dasaratha gives his blessing
Chapter 35 – Sumantra arraigns Queen Kaikeyi
Chapter 36 – Queen Kaikeyi disregards the words of the chief minister and the king
Chapter 37 – Shri Sita still desires to enter the forest
Chapter 38 – Shri Rama requests the king to protect his mother during his absence
Chapter 39 – The palace resounds with grief
Chapter 40 – All Ayodhya is distressed to see Shri Rama’s chariot depart
Chapter 41 – The whole world grieves for Prince Rama
Chapter 42 – Without Rama the king’s heart finds no rest
Chapter 43 – The lament of Queen Kaushalya
Chapter 44 – Queen Kaushalya finds peace in the consolation of Queen Sumitra
Chapter 45 – The lament of the brahmins who follow Shri Rama
Chapter 46 – Shri Rama drives on the forest
Chapter 47 – Those who have followed Prince Rama find themselves alone
Chapter 48 – Ayodhya without Shri Ramachandra is bereft of beauty
Chapter 49 – The chariot crosses the boundary of Koshala
Chapter 50 – Guha, the chief of ferrymen
Chapter 51 – The night is spent on the bank of the sacred river
Chapter 52 – Sumantra is ordered to return
Chapter 53 – Rama, Sita and Lakshmana enter upon exile
Chapter 54 – The hermitage of the Sage Bharadvaja
Chapter 55 – Shri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana cross the Yamuna and travel on
Chapter 56 – Shri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana reach Chittrakuta
Chapter 57 – Sumantra returns to the stricken city of Ayodhya
Chapter 58 – Sumantra delivers Shri Rama’s message to the king
Chapter 59 – The king bewailing the absence of Rama
Chapter 60 – The charioteer attempts to console Queen Kaushalya
Chapter 61 – Queen Kaushalya reproaches the king
Chapter 62 – The king is overcome with grief
Chapter 63 – The king recalls a former evil deed
Chapter 64 – Overborne by grief the king yields up his life
Chapter 65 – The palace is filled with the sound of distress
Chapter 66 – The inhabitants of Ayodhya mourn for their lord
Chapter 67 – The elders recommendation
Chapter 68 – Messengers are sent to Prince Bharata
Chapter 69 – Prince Bharata’s inauspicious dream
Chapter 70 – The message is delivered; Bharata and Shatrughna leave the palace
Chapter 71 – Prince Bharata sees Ayodhya filled with unhappy people
Chapter 72 – Queen Kaikeyi begins to relate what has occurred
Chapter 73 – Prince Bharata reproaches his mother
Chapter 74 – Prince Bharata laments
Chapter 75 – Prince Bharata seeks to console Queen Kaushalya
Chapter 76 – Prince Bharata commences the performance of the funeral rites
Chapter 77 – The ceremonies are continued
Chapter 78 – The hunchback, Manthara, incurs Prince Shatrughna’s displeasure
Chapter 79 – Prince Bharata decides to go to the forest and bring back his brother
Chapter 80 – A royal highway is constructed for the prince
Chapter 81 – Vasishtha summons the royal assembly
Chapter 82 – The chiefs of the army prepare for departure
Chapter 83 – The whole army reaches the river Ganges
Chapter 84 – Guha, chief of the ferrymen, is filled with apprehension
Chapter 85 – Guha is filled with joy on hearing of Prince Bharata’s intention
Chapter 86 – Guha tells of Shri Rama’s stay by the sacred river
Chapter 87 – How Shri Rama spent his first night of exile
Chapter 88 – Prince Bharata sleeps on the same spot where Shri Rama had rested
Chapter 89 – The army crosses the holy river
Chapter 90 – Prince Bharata visits Sage Bharadvaja’s hermitage
Chapter 91 – Sage Bharadvaja entertains the whole army
Chapter 92 – Prince Bharata with the army departs for Mount Cittrakuta
Chapter 93 – The hermitage of Shri Rama
Chapter 94 – Shri Rama decides to spend his exile on the mountain
Chapter 95 – Shri Rama points out the beauties of nature to Sita
Chapter 96 – Shri Rama and Sita see the army approaching
Chapter 97 – Shri Rama cannot believe Prince Bharata comes as an enemy
Chapter 98 – Prince Bharata goes on foot to meet Shri Rama
Chapter 99 – The four brothers meet with tears of joy
Chapter 100 – Shri Rama enquires Prince Bharata
Chapter 101 – Shri Rama hears the account of his father’s death
Chapter 102 – They are all afflicted with grief
Chapter 103 – Shri Rama greets the queens
Chapter 104 – Shri Rama requests Prince Bharata to ascend the throne
Chapter 105 – Prince Bharata appeals to Shri Rama to return and rule the kingdom
Chapter 106 – Shri Rama remains steadfast in his vow
Chapter 107 – Shri Rama instructs Prince Bharata to return and be installed
Chapter 108 – A brahmin utters words contrary to dharma
Chapter 109 – Shri Rama replies in words based on the Vedas
Chapter 110 – Vasishtha calls upon Rama to return
Chapter 111 – Shri Rama is resolved to follow his father’s command
Chapter 112 – Prince Bharata is reconciled to becoming Shri Rama’s deputy
Chapter 113 – Prince Bharata commences the return journey
Chapter 114 – Prince Bharata finds Ayodhya desolate
Chapter 115 – Prince Bharata retires to Nandigrama
Chapter 116 – The holy men of Cittrakuta depart
Chapter 117 – Shri Rama comes to the Ashrama of the Sage Atri
Chapter 118 – Princess Sita receives gif ts of love from the sage’s wife
Chapter 119 – The holy ascetics bless the exiles who enter the forest
Book III. (Aranya-Kanda)
After about ten years in the forest with her husband, Princess Sita is kidnapped by the Titan Ravana, and taken by him to his capital, Lanka (the modern Ceylon).
Chapter 1 – Rama is welcomed by the Sages of the Dandaka Forest
Chapter 2 – The Demon Viradha carries off Sita
Chapter 3 – The Struggle between Viradha and the two Brothers
Chapter 4 – Rama and Lakshmana slay the Demon Viradha
Chapter 5 – The Meeting with the Sage Sharabhanga
Chapter 6 – The Sages seek the protection of Rama
Chapter 7 – The Meeting between Rama and Sutikshna
Chapter 8 – Rama takes leave of Sutikshna
Chapter 9 – Sita implores Rama not to attack the Titans
Chapter 10 – Rama reminds Sita of his Promise to the Ascetics
Chapter 11 – Rama visits the different Retreats and hears of Agastya
Chapter 12 – Agastya receives Rama into his Hermitage
Chapter 13 – Rama goes to Pancavati on the advice of Agastya
Chapter 14 – Jatayu reveals his Lineage to Rama
Chapter 15 – Rama takes up his Abode in Pancavati
Chapter 16 – Description of Winter by Lakshmana
Chapter 17 – The arrival of Shurpanakha at the Hermitage
Chapter 18 – The Mutilation of Shurpanakha
Chapter 19 – Shurpanaka tells her brother Khara of her disfigurement
Chapter 20 – Rama slays the Demons sent by Khara
Chapter 21 – Shurpanakha urges Khara to fight Rama
Chapter 22 – Khara and his fourteen thousand Demons march against Rama
Chapter 23 – The Titan Army advances amid evil Portents
Chapter 24 – The Combat opens between Rama and the Titans
Chapter 25 – The Combat between Rama and the Titans continues
Chapter 26 – Rama destroys the Titans and slays Dushana
Chapter 27 – Rama and Trishiras meet in Combat: Trishiras is slain
Chapter 28 – The Combat between Rama and Khara
Chapter 29 – Rama and the Demon Khara taunt one another
Chapter 30 – The Death of Khara
Chapter 31 – Ravana hears of the Death of Khara and determines to slay Rama
Chapter 32 – Shurpanakha upbraids Ravana and urges him to destroy Rama
Chapter 33 – Shurpanakha’s Words to Ravana
Chapter 34 – Shurpanakha urges Ravana to slay Rama and wed Sita
Chapter 35 – Ravana visits the Demon Marica once more
Chapter 36 – Ravana reveals his Project to the Demon Marica
Chapter 37 – Marica seeks to persuade Ravana from his Purpose
Chapter 38 – Marica describes his first Encounter with Rama
Chapter 39 – Marica again seeks to dissuade Ravana from pursuing his Design
Chapter 40 – Ravana’s Wrath
Chapter 41 – Marica counsels Ravana further
Chapter 42 – Marica assuming the form of a Deer goes to the Hermitage
Chapter 43 – Sita is enamoured of the Fawn
Chapter 44 – Rama slays Marica
Chapter 45 – Sita sends Lakshmana to Rama’s Assistance
Chapter 46 – Ravana approaches Sita
Chapter 47 – The Conversation of Ravana and Sita
Chapter 48 – Sita defies Ravana
Chapter 49 – Sita’s Abduction by Ravana
Chapter 50 – Jatayu attacks Ravana
Chapter 51 – The Combat between Jatayu and Ravana
Chapter 52 – Jatayu being slain, Ravana resumes his Flight
Chapter 53 – Sita censures Ravana
Chapter 54 – Ravana reaches Lanka with Sita
Chapter 55 – Ravana implores Sita to become his Consort
Chapter 56 – Sita is guarded by the Titan Women
Chapter 57 – Rama sees Terrible Portents
Chapter 58 – Rama’s Lament
Chapter 59 – Rama reproaches Lakshmana
Chapter 60 – The Search for Sita
Chapter 61 – Rama’s Plaint
Chapter 62 – Rama’s Despair
Chapter 63 – Rama continues to lament
Chapter 64 – Rama’s Wrath
Chapter 65 – Lakshmana seeks to pacify Rama
Chapter 66 – Lakshmana seeks to inspire Rama with Courage
Chapter 67 – Rama encounters Jatayu
Chapter 68 – Jatayu’s Death
Chapter 69 – Rama and Lakshmana meet Ayomukhi and Kabandha
Chapter 70 – Rama and Lakshmana sever the Arms of Kabandha
Chapter 71 – Kabandha tells his Story
Chapter 72 – Kabandha tells Rama how to find Sita
Chapter 73 – Kabandha’s Counsel to Rama
Chapter 74 – Rama visits Shabari
Chapter 75 – Rama reaches the Lake Pampa
Book IV. (Kishkindhya-Kanda)
Rama and Lakshmana in pursuit of Ravana and to rescue Sita, enlist the aid of King Sugriva, leader of the monkey tribe, whose chief minister Hanuman becomes the foremost devotee and servant of Shri Rama. Help also comes from Vibishana, brother of Ravana, who has openly disapproved of the Titan king’s conduct, and warned him of the retribution he may expect for his unrighteous actions.
Chapter 1 – Rama describes the Spring and the Sentiments it evokes in him
Chapter 2 – Sugriva sends Hanuman to interview Rama
Chapter 3 – Hanuman’s Meeting with Rama
Chapter 4 – Hanuman bears Rama and Lakshmana into the presence of Sugriva
Chapter 5 – The Alliance of Rama and Sugriva
Chapter 6 – Sugriva shows Rama Sita’s Cloak and Jewels
Chapter 7 – Sugriva consoles Rama
Chapter 8 – Sugriva implores Rama to help him against Bali
Chapter 9 – The Story of Bali and Mayavi
Chapter 10 – The Origin of Bali’s Hatred of Sugriva
Chapter 11 – Sugriva tells Rama of Bali’s Exploits
Chapter 12 – The Fight between Sugriva and Bali
Chapter 13 – The Hermitage of Saptajanas
Chapter 14 – Sugriva again challenges his brother to fight
Chapter 15 – Tara’s Advice to Bali
Chapter 16 – Rama inflicts a mortal Wound on Bali
Chapter 17 – Bali reproaches Rama
Chapter 18 – Rama answers Bali
Chapter 19 – Tara’s Grief
Chapter 20 – Tara’s Lamentations
Chapter 21 – Hanuman’s Speech
Chapter 22 – Bali’s last Words
Chapter 23 – Tara weeps over the Body of Bali
Chapter 24 – Sugriva’s Remorse
Chapter 25 – Bali’s Funeral Rites
Chapter 26 – Sugriva is installed as King
Chapter 27 – Rama describes Prasravana
Chapter 28 – Rama describes the Rainy Season
Chapter 29 – Hanuman urges Sugriva to honour his Promise
Chapter 30 – Description of Autumn
Chapter 31 – Lakshmana goes to Kishkindha
Chapter 32 – Hanuman’s Speech
Chapter 33 – Tara pacifies Lakshmana
Chapter 34 – Lakshmana reproaches Sugriva
Chapter 35 – Tara defends Sugriva
Chapter 36 – Lakshmana is reconciled to Sugriva
Chapter 37 – Sugriva assembles his Troops
Chapter 38 – Sugriva goes to meet Rama
Chapter 39 – The Arrival of Sugriva’s Forces
Chapter 40 – Sugriva sends his Monkeys to the East in search of Sita
Chapter 41 – Sugriva sends out other Monkeys to explore the Southern Region
Chapter 42 – Other Monkeys are sent to explore the Western Region
Chapter 43 – Searchers are sent to the Northern Region
Chapter 44 – Rama gives his Ring to Hanuman
Chapter 45 – The Departure of the Monkeys
Chapter 46 – Sugriva narrates his Travels through the World
Chapter 47 – The Return of the Monkeys
Chapter 48 – Angada slays an Asura
Chapter 49 – The Monkeys search the Southern Region in vain
Chapter 50 – Hanuman and his Companions enter the Rikshdbila Cavern
Chapter 51 – The Tale of the Ascetic
Chapter 52 – Swayamprabha frees the Monkeys from the Cave
Chapter 53 – Angada and his Companions consider what Course to take
Chapter 54 – Hanuman seeks to discourage Angada from his Design
Chapter 55 – The Monkeys decide to die of Hunger
Chapter 56 – The Intervention of Sampati
Chapter 57 – Angada’s “Narrative
Chapter 58 – Sampati tells the monkeys of Sita’s Place of Concealment
Chapter 59 – He encourages them to pursue their Quest
Chapter 60 – The Story of the Ascetic Nishakara
Chapter 61 – Sampati tells his Story to the Sage Nishakara
Chapter 62 – Sampati learns where Sita is from the Sage Nishakara
Chapter 63 – The Wings of Sampati grow once more
Chapter 64 – The Monkeys are disconcerted at the sight of the Ocean
Chapter 65 – The Leaders of the Monkeys
Chapter 66 – Jambavan appeals to Hanuman to sacrifice himself for the good of all
Chapter 67 – Hanuman prepares to go to Lanka
Book V. (Sundara-Kanda)
The monkey armies reach the south coast of India, and, bridging the straits, gain entry into Lanka.
Chapter 1 – The Departure of Hanuman
Chapter 2 – Hanuman’s Arrival in Lanka
Chapter 3 – Hanuman enters the City
Chapter 4 – Hanuman observes the City and its Inhabitants
Chapter 5 – Hanuman ranges the City without finding Sita
Chapter 6 – Hanuman explores Ravana’s Palace
Chapter 7 – Description of the Aerial Chariot Pushpaka
Chapter 8 – Further Description of the Aerial Chariot Pushpaka
Chapter 9 – Hanuman searches the Harem
Chapter 10 – Hanuman sees Ravana surrounded by his Wives
Chapter 11 – Description of the Banqueting Hall
Chapter 12 – Hanuman becomes despondent
Chapter 13 – Hanuman’s Dilemma
Chapter 14 – The Ashoka Grove
Chapter 15 – Hanuman sees Sita
Chapter 16 – Hanuman’s Reflections on seeing Sita
Chapter 17 – Description of the Female Titans who guarded Sita
Chapter 18 – Ravana goes to the Ashoka Grove
Chapter 19 – Sita’s Grief
Chapter 20 – Ravana begs Sita to wed him
Chapter 21 – Sita rejects Ravana’s Advances with disdain
Chapter 22 – Ravana’s Threats
Chapter 23 – The Female Titans seek to persuade Sita to wed Ravana
Chapter 24 – Menace of the Female Titans
Chapter 25 – Sita gives way to Despair
Chapter 26 – Sita prophesies the Titan’s Destruction
Chapter 27 – Trijata’s Dream
Chapter 28 – Sita’s Lament
Chapter 29 – Sita observes auspicious Portents
Chapter 30 – Hanuman’s Reflections
Chapter 31 – Hanuman praises Rama
Chapter 32 – Sita sees Hanuman
Chapter 33 – Hanuman’s Converse with the Princess Sita
Chapter 34 – Sita’s Uncertainty on seeing Hanuman
Chapter 35 – Hanuman makes himself known to Sita
Chapter 36 – Sita questions Hanuman
Chapter 37 – Sita refuses to be rescued by Hanuman
Chapter 38 – Sita gives Hanuman her Jewel
Chapter 39 – Hanuman calms Sita’s Fears
Chapter 40 – Hanuman takes leave of Sita
Chapter 41 – Hanuman destroys the Ashoka Grove
Chapter 42 – Hanuman destroys the Kinkaras
Chapter 43 – Hanuman burns the Temple and Monument
Chapter 44 – The Death of Jambumalin
Chapter 45 – Hanuman slays the Sons of Ravana’s Ministers
Chapter 46 – Hanuman annihilates five Generals and their Forces
Chapter 47 – The Death of Aksha
Chapter 48 – Hanuman allows himself to be taken captive by the Titans
Chapter 49 – Hanuman’s astonishment on beholding Ravana
Chapter 50 – Hanuman is questioned by the Titans
Chapter 51 – Hanuman’s words
Chapter 52 – Bibishana pleads for Hanuman
Chapter 53 – Hanuman is led bound through the City
Chapter 54 – Hanuman sets fire to Lanka
Chapter 55 – Hanuman’s Anxiety concerning Sita
Chapter 56 – Hanuman’s takes leave of Sita
Chapter 57 – The Return of Hanuman
Chapter 58 – Hanuman recounts his Experiences
Chapter 59 – Hanuman appeals to the Monkeys to rescue Sita
Chapter 60 – mbavan rejects Angada’s Project
Chapter 61 – The Devastation of Madhuvana
Chapter 62 – The Fight Between Dadhimukha And The Intruders
Chapter 63 – Dadhimukha relates how Madhuvana has been laid waste
Chapter 64 – Sugriva consoles Rama
Chapter 65 – Hanuman tells Rama of his Meeting with Sita
Chapter 66 – Rama’s Grief
Chapter 67 – Hanuman describes his Interview with Sita
Chapter 68 – Hanuman repeats his Words of Consolation to Sita
Book VI. (Lanka/Yuddha Kanda)
After a series of pitched battles, Lanka is captured and Ravana is slain by Shri Rama. Sita demonstrates her purity and faithfulness to her husband, by successfully undergoing the ordeal by fire. The period of fourteen years’ exile is by now completed, and Shri Rama returns with his consort, his brothers and allies, to the capital Ayodhya, where he begins a long and glorious reign.
Chapter 1 – Rama felicitates Hanuman: His Perplexities
Chapter 2 – Sugriva consoles Rama
Chapter 3 – Hanuman describes the Strength of Lanka to Rama
Chapter 4 – The Army reaches the Shores of the Sea
Chapter 5 – Rama is afflicted when thinking of Sita
Chapter 6 – Ravana consults his Subjects
Chapter 7 – The Titans persuade Ravana
Chapter 8 – The boasting of Ravana’s Generals
Chapter 9 – Bibishana advises Ravana to send back Sita
Chapter 10 – Bibishana insists that Sita should be given back to Rama
Chapter 11 – Ravana summons his Assembly
Chapter 12 – The Discourse between Ravana and Kumbhakarna
Chapter 13 – Ravana tells the Story of the Nymph Punjikasthala
Chapter 14 – Bibishana blames the Attitude of Ravana’s Courtiers
Chapter 15 – Bibishana reproaches Indrajita for his boasting
Chapter 16 – Ravana rebukes Bibishana who takes his Departure
Chapter 17 – Words of the leading Monkeys regarding Bibishana
Chapter 18 – Rama listens to the Advice of the Monkeys about receiving Bibishana
Chapter 19 – Bibishana is brought before Rama
Chapter 20 – Ravana sends Shuka to Sugriva
Chapter 21 – Rama looses his Arrows on Sagara
Chapter 22 – The Army crosses the Sea
Chapter 23 – Rama sees diverse Portents
Chapter 24 – Shuka describes his Reception by tne Monkeys to Ravana
Chapter 25 – Ravana sends out Shuka and Sarana to spy on the Monkeys
Chapter 26 – Sarana tells Ravana of the principal Leaders of the Monkeys
Chapter 27 – Sarana continues his Deposition
Chapter 28 – Shuka in his turn enumerates the Enemy
Chapter 29 – Ravana sends out fresh Spies
Chapter 30 – Shardula gives an Account of his Mission to Ravana
Chapter 31 – Ravana deceives Sita about the Death of Rama
Chapter 32 – Sita’s Despair
Chapter 33 – Sarama consoles Sita
Chapter 34 – Sarama spies on Ravana’s Plans
Chapter 35 – Malyavan advises Ravana to make peace
Chapter 36 – Ravana directs Lanka’s Defences
Chapter 37 – Rama makes his Plans for the Attack
Chapter 38 – The Ascent of Mount Suvela
Chapter 39 – Description of Lanka
Chapter 40 – The extraordinary Combat between Sugriva and Ravana
Chapter 41 – Rama sends Angada to Ravana
Chapter 42 – The Titans make a Sortie
Chapter 43 – The Conflict between the Monkeys and Titans
Chapter 44 – Angada’s Exploit
Chapter 45 – Rama and Lakshmana are struck down by Indrajita
Chapter 46 – The despair of Sugriva and his Army
Chapter 47 – Sita sees Rama and Lakshmana lying on the Battlefield
Chapter 48 – Sita’s Lamentations
Chapter 49 – Rama returns to consciousness and weeps over Lakshmana
Chapter 50 – Garuda liberates Rama and Lakshmana
Chapter 51 – Dhumraksha goes out to fight the Monkeys
Chapter 52 – Dhumraksha fights and is slain by Hanuman
Chapter 53 – Vajradamshtra enters the Lists
Chapter 54 – Angada slays Vajradamshtra
Chapter 55 – Akampana goes out to fight against the Monkeys
Chapter 56 – Akampana is slain by Hanuman
Chapter 57 – Prahasta goes out to fight
Chapter 58 – The Death of Prahasta
Chapter 59 – Ravana’s Prowess
Chapter 60 – The Titans rouse Kumbhakarna
Chapter 61 – The Story of Kumbhakama
Chapter 62 – The Meeting between Kumbhakarna and Ravana
Chapter 63 – Kumbhakarna consoles Ravana
Chapter 64 – Mahodara’s Speech
Chapter 65 – Kumbhakama enters into Combat
Chapter 66 – Angada reproaches the Monkeys for flying from Kumbhakarna
Chapter 67 – Kumbhakarna’s Exploits
Chapter 68 – Ravana weeps for Kumbhakarna
Chapter 69 – Narantaka is slain by Angada
Chapter 70 – The Death of Devantaka, Trishiras, Mahodara and Mahaparshva
Chapter 71 – Lakshmana slays the Titan Atikaya
Chapter 72 – Ravana, overcome by anxiety, makes further Plans
Chapter 73 – Indrajita making himself invisible puts the Monkey Army out of action
Chapter 74 – Hanuman goes to the Mountain of Medicinal Herbs
Chapter 75 – Lanka is set on fire by the Monkeys
Chapter 76 – The Prowess of Angada and Kumbha: Kumbha is slain
Chapter 77 – The Fight between Nikumbha and Hanuman
Chapter 78 – Maharaksha goes out to meet Rama and Lakshmana
Chapter 79 – Maharaksha falls under Rama’s Blows
Chapter 80 – Indrajita sets out to fight once more
Chapter 81 – Indrajita’s Stratagem and Sita’s Apparition
Chapter 82 – Hanuman rallies his Forces: Indrajita’s Sacrifice
Chapter 83 – Lakshmana’s Speech
Chapter 84 – Bibishana consoles Rama
Chapter 85 – Lakshmana goes to the Nikumbhila Grove to fight Indrajita
Chapter 86 – Indrajita breaks off his Sacrifice to fight with Lakshmana
Chapter 87 – Indrajita and Bibishana denounce each other
Chapter 88 – The Combat between Lakshmana and Indrajita
Chapter 89 – Lakshmana and Indrajita continue to fight
Chapter 90 – Indrajita loses his Charioteer, Chariot and Horses
Chapter 91 – The Death of Indrajita
Chapter 92 – Lakshmana is cured of his Wounds
Chapter 93 – Ravana’s Grief on hearing of his Son’s Death
Chapter 94 – Rama’s Exploits
Chapter 95 – The Lamentations of the Titan Women
Chapter 96 – Ravana goes out to fight and encounters ill Omens
Chapter 97 – The Fight between Virupaksha and Sugriva
Chapter 98 – Mahodara is slain by Sugriva
Chapter 99 – The Combat between Angada and Mahaparshva
Chapter 100 – Rama and Ravana fight with magic Weapons
Chapter 101 – Ravana flees from Rama
Chapter 102 – Lakshmana’s miraculous Recovery
Chapter 103 – Rama and Ravana renew their Combat
Chapter 104 – Rama and Ravana renew their Combat (Continued)
Chapter 105 – Rama arraigns Ravana and reproaches him for his Misdeeds
Chapter 106 – Ravana reproaches his Charioteer
Chapter 107 – The Hymn to the Sun (Aditya-hridaya)
Chapter 108 – Sinister Portents appear
Chapter 109 – The Fluctuations of Combat
Chapter 110 – The Duel continues
Chapter 111 – The Death of Ravana
Chapter 112 – The Lamentations of Bibishana
Chapter 113 – The Lamentations of Ravana’s Consorts
Chapter 114 – The Lamentations of Mandodari: Ravana’s Funeral Rites
Chapter 115 – Bibishana is installed as King of Lanka
Chapter 116 – Hanuman carries Rama’s Message to Sita
Chapter 117 – Rama sends far Sita
Chapter 118 – Rama repudiates Sita
Chapter 119 – Sita undergoes the Ordeal by Fire
Chapter 120 – Brahma’s Praise of Rama
Chapter 121 – Sita is restored to Rama
Chapter 122 – Dasaratha appears to Rama
Chapter 123 – On Rama’s request Indra restores the Army
Chapter 124 – Bibishana places the Chariot Pushpaka at Rama’s disposal
Chapter 125 – Rama sets out for Ayodhya
Chapter 126 – Rama tells Sita of the Places over which they are passing
Chapter 127 – Rama’s Meeting with the Sage Bharadvaja
Chapter 128 – Rama sends Hanuman to seek out Bharata
Chapter 129 – Hanuman tells Bharata of all that befell Rama and Sita during their exile
Chapter 130 – Bharata sets out to meet Rama
Chapter 131 – Rama is installed as King
This renowned and sacred epic, the foremost of all, granting long life and victory to kings, was composed by the Rishi Valmiki, and he who hears it constantly in this world is delivered from evil; if he desires sons he obtains them, if wealth he acquires it.
He who, in this world, listens to the story of Rama’s enthronement, if he be a king, will conquer the earth and overcome his enemies. Women will obtain sons as Sumitra and Kaushalya obtained Rama and Lakshmana and Kaikeyi, Bharata.
The hearing of the ‘Ramayana’ grants longevity and victory equal to Rama’s, he of imperishable exploits. The one who, mastering his anger, listens with faith to this epic, formerly composed by Valmiki, overcomes all obstacles and those who hear this story set forth by Valmiki will return from their journeys in foreign lands and rejoice the hearts of their kinsfolk. They will obtain fulfilment of all the desires they conceive in this world from Raghava, and its recitation will bring delight to the Celestials; it pacifies the adverse forces in those houses where it is to be found.
Hearing it, a king will conquer the earth; if he be a stranger he will fare well; women who hear this sacred epic in their pregnancy, will give birth to sons who are unsurpassed. He who recites it with reverence will be freed from all evil and live long. Warriors should listen to it recited by the Twice-born with bowed heads in order to achieve prosperity and obtain sons.
Rama is ever pleased with the one who hears this epic or who recites it in its entirety and he who does so will obtain a felicity comparable to Rama’s, who is Vishnu, the Eternal, the Primeval God, the Long-armed Hari, Narayana, the Lord. Such are the fruits produced by this ancient narrative. May prosperity attend you! Recite it with love and may the power of Vishnu increase!
The Celestial Beings rejoice in the understanding and hearing of ‘Ramayana’ and the Ancestors are gratified. Those who, in devotion, transcribe this history of Rama, composed by the Rishi Valmiki, attain to the region of Brahma.
The hearing of this rare and beautiful poem in this world brings prosperous families, wealth and grain in abundance, lovely wives, supreme felicity and complete success in all undertakings.
This narrative which promotes long life, health, renown, brotherly love, wisdom, happiness and power should be heard in reverence by virtuous men desirous of felicity.
The End of Ramayana
› Forums › Ramayana of Valmiki – English Translation by Hari Prasad Shastri (1952)
Tagged: 1952CE, Ramayana
› Forums › Ramayana of Valmiki – English Translation by Hari Prasad Shastri (1952)
© Advocatetanmoy Law Library
› Forums › Ramayana of Valmiki – English Translation by Hari Prasad Shastri (1952)
© Advocatetanmoy Law Library