The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse

The epic recounts the story of Prince Ráma, who faces exile from his kingdom and confronts various challenges involving loyalty, bravery, and morality. It is a poetic retelling of an ancient Indian narrative attributed to the sage Válmíki, composed during an early period of Indian literary tradition. The narrative elaborates on Ráma's adventures, along with his loyal brother Lakshman and his wife Sítá, as they contend with treacherous enemies and divine beings. Central themes include honour, devotion, righteousness, and the ongoing struggle between good and evil.

The work is significant within the mythology and folklore of India, serving both as a religious text and as a cultural legend. The English translation by Ralph T. H. Griffith captures the poetic style of the original and preserves its moral and spiritual themes. The poem begins with an invocation praising Válmíki and sets the tone for the epic's exploration of duty and virtue.