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The Valmiki Ramayana (Penguin edition) #1
The Valmiki Ramayana Vol. 1
The Valmiki Ramayana remains a living force in the lives of the Indian people. A celebration of the victory of good over evil, this timeless epic recounts the legend of Rama, the exiled prince of Ayodhya, and his battle to vanquish the demon king Ravana.
Exiled on the eve of his coronation, Rama enters the forests of Dandaka with his beautiful wife Sita and devoted brother Lakshmana. When Sita is abducted by Ravana, who takes her to his isolated kingdom on the far side of the southern ocean, the two brothers set out to rescue her. What follows is a heroic tale filled with intrigue and adventure, gods and demons, colossal battles and ancient wisdom.
But the Ramayana is also an intensely personal story of love and loss, duty and honour, petty jealousies and destructive ambitions.
Exiled on the eve of his coronation, Rama enters the forests of Dandaka with his beautiful wife Sita and devoted brother Lakshmana. When Sita is abducted by Ravana, who takes her to his isolated kingdom on the far side of the southern ocean, the two brothers set out to rescue her. What follows is a heroic tale filled with intrigue and adventure, gods and demons, colossal battles and ancient wisdom.
But the Ramayana is also an intensely personal story of love and loss, duty and honour, petty jealousies and destructive ambitions.
381 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2017
About the author
Vālmīki
374 books118 followersValmiki is celebrated as the poet harbinger in Sanskrit literature. He is the author of the epic Ramayana, based on the attribution in the text of the epic itself.He is revered as the Adi Kavi, which means First Poet, for he discovered the first śloka i.e. first verse, which set the base and defined the form to Sanskrit poetry. The Yoga Vasistha is attributed to him. A religious movement called Valmikism is based on Valmiki's teachings as presented in the Ramayana and the Yoga Vasistha.
At least by the 1st century AD, Valmiki's reputation as the father of Sanskrit classical poetry seems to have been legendary. Ashvagosha writes in the Buddhacarita,
"The voice of Valmiki uttered poetry which the great seer Chyavana could not compose."
This particular verse has been speculated to indicate a familial relationship between Valmiki and Chyavana, as implied by the previous and subsequent verses.
At least by the 1st century AD, Valmiki's reputation as the father of Sanskrit classical poetry seems to have been legendary. Ashvagosha writes in the Buddhacarita,
"The voice of Valmiki uttered poetry which the great seer Chyavana could not compose."
This particular verse has been speculated to indicate a familial relationship between Valmiki and Chyavana, as implied by the previous and subsequent verses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 19, 2019
I always wanted to read Valmiki Ramayana. This is the one i got which is purely translated from Sanskrit. The translation is very well done and readable. Foot notes is really helpful in giving more context regarding the Sanskrit words, people, explaining various relationships within the story. This book is quite different and the language author has used is different too. You need patience to read this kinda book because its unabridged version. You should be careful when you pick translated version because most of author literally changed the meaning while translating. I have read so many retelling, adaptation, narration, abridged version i have always find some kind of agenda or ideology in such book. Its okay to have freedom but changing the context is the issue. Anyway, this book is true to Sanskrit one.
This book is the first volume which consist of two Kanda.
1) Bala Kanda
2) Ayodhya Kanda.
Looking forward for 2nd and 3rd volume too.
This book is the first volume which consist of two Kanda.
1) Bala Kanda
2) Ayodhya Kanda.
Looking forward for 2nd and 3rd volume too.
December 9, 2020
I believe this excerpt from the introduction is the best way to start this review.
"रामायण = राम + अयण. अयन means to travel or progress. Thus, Ramayana means Rama’s progress. There is a minor catch though. अयन means travel or progress and अयण is a meaningless word. The word used in Ramayana is अयण, not अयन. This transformation occurs because of a rule of Sanskrit Grammar known as 'internal sandhi'. This is the reason रामायन becomes रामायण."
Bibek Debroy’s translation of the Valmiki Ramayana (in three volumes) is an endeavour at bringing before English readers the uncut story of Rama. The translation is based on the critical edition produced by Oriental Institute, Baroda that came out consequently between 1958 and 1975. Other than being a profoundly engaging read, the book utilizes a wealthy dialect that neither overwhelms the story and nor does it pointlessly complicate things. This first volume contains Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda.
The impression that people have of Ramayana is usually from the 1987 tv series of the same name, which is mostly based on Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas and other versions of Ramayana. There is also an impression that Ancients did not consume meat and non-veg delicacies were given by Mughals, however, several instances from the book demonstrate the contrary. Take this shloka for instance:-
तौ तत्र हत्वा चतुरः महा मृगान् |
वराहम् ऋश्यम् पृषतम् महा रुरुम् |
आदाय मेध्यम् त्वरितम् बुभुक्षितौ|
वासाय काले ययतुर् वनः पतिम् |
(Ayodhya Kanda - Chapter/Sarga 52 - Verse 102)
Having hunted there four deer, namely Varaaha, Rishya, Prisata; and Mahaaruru (the four principal species of deer) and taking quickly the portions that were pure, being hungry as they were, Rama and Lakshmana reached a tree to take rest in the evening.
Kshatriyas used to consume meat as it is also stated in Mahabharata and Markandeya Purana though some animals were forbidden to consume.
Similarly, there are some important takeaways from the epic.
1- the word "Ayodhya" means something that cannot be attacked or fought against.
2 - The word Rama means someone who is lovely, charming and delightful. Rama is also referred to as Kakutstha.
3 - Rama had a complexion of a dark lotus. Sometimes, the complexion has also been described as that of a blue lotus.
4 - The word Sita means the furrow caused by a plough. She was not born from the womb. She was found when king Janaka was ploughing and purifying his field.
5 - Sita is also referred to as Maithilee and Vaidehi (The kingdom was Videha and capital was Mithila).
6 - Sita is compared and equated to “Shri” i.e. Lakshmi.
तस्य भूयो विशेषेण मैथिली जनकात्मजा |
देवताभिः समा रूपे सीता श्रीरिव रूपिणी ||
(Bala Kanda - 77 Sarga/Chapter - Verse 28 b/c)
In her mien Sita is identical with goddesses, and she is like personified Goddess Lakshmi, thus she is the reshaped Divine Prosperity, and as she hails from Holy Mithila she shall be held Holy, and since she is the daughter of Janaka, a loftiest sagacious and invincible king, she is sagely and stately, besides being shapely, and she with all these heaps of natural traits and characteristics, Seetha is rejoicing the heart of Rama.
Therefore, Shri means Sita in the slogan “Jai Shri Ram”
7 - Sumantra was Dashratha’s supreme/chief minister. He was a Suta. Sutas were charioteers and bards, but were sometimes, advisors to kings. This also implies Jatis moving up and down in the Varna matrix.
8 - Varuna’s daughter, Varuni (goddess of liquor) arose during the Samundra Manthan. Aditi’s son accepted her while Diti’s son did not. Thereby, Daityas came to be known as Asuras (the one without the liquor and Aditi’s sons came to be known as Suras) Sura means liquor.
Drinks were divided into 2 categories
Maireya - Made from molasses of grain
Asava - Made through distillation, not mere fermentation.
9 - 6 categories of food according to the taste - Caustic, Acidic, Sweet, Salty, Bitter and Alkaline.
4 categories of food according to the way it is eaten
Chavya - That which is chewed
Choshya or Chushya - That which is sucked
Lehya - That which is licked
Peya - That which is drunk
10 - Yamuna river is referred to as Kalindi and Amshumati. The Yamuna was the daughter of the sun god and Amshumati means Amshumat’s (sun god’s) daughter.
11 - A son is called Putra because he saves his ancestors from the hell known as pum.
Pumnama - Something that is known as pum
Trayate - The one who saves
Therefore, the one who saves from pum is Putra.
"रामायण = राम + अयण. अयन means to travel or progress. Thus, Ramayana means Rama’s progress. There is a minor catch though. अयन means travel or progress and अयण is a meaningless word. The word used in Ramayana is अयण, not अयन. This transformation occurs because of a rule of Sanskrit Grammar known as 'internal sandhi'. This is the reason रामायन becomes रामायण."
Bibek Debroy’s translation of the Valmiki Ramayana (in three volumes) is an endeavour at bringing before English readers the uncut story of Rama. The translation is based on the critical edition produced by Oriental Institute, Baroda that came out consequently between 1958 and 1975. Other than being a profoundly engaging read, the book utilizes a wealthy dialect that neither overwhelms the story and nor does it pointlessly complicate things. This first volume contains Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda.
The impression that people have of Ramayana is usually from the 1987 tv series of the same name, which is mostly based on Tulsidas's Ramcharitmanas and other versions of Ramayana. There is also an impression that Ancients did not consume meat and non-veg delicacies were given by Mughals, however, several instances from the book demonstrate the contrary. Take this shloka for instance:-
तौ तत्र हत्वा चतुरः महा मृगान् |
वराहम् ऋश्यम् पृषतम् महा रुरुम् |
आदाय मेध्यम् त्वरितम् बुभुक्षितौ|
वासाय काले ययतुर् वनः पतिम् |
(Ayodhya Kanda - Chapter/Sarga 52 - Verse 102)
Having hunted there four deer, namely Varaaha, Rishya, Prisata; and Mahaaruru (the four principal species of deer) and taking quickly the portions that were pure, being hungry as they were, Rama and Lakshmana reached a tree to take rest in the evening.
Kshatriyas used to consume meat as it is also stated in Mahabharata and Markandeya Purana though some animals were forbidden to consume.
Similarly, there are some important takeaways from the epic.
1- the word "Ayodhya" means something that cannot be attacked or fought against.
2 - The word Rama means someone who is lovely, charming and delightful. Rama is also referred to as Kakutstha.
3 - Rama had a complexion of a dark lotus. Sometimes, the complexion has also been described as that of a blue lotus.
4 - The word Sita means the furrow caused by a plough. She was not born from the womb. She was found when king Janaka was ploughing and purifying his field.
5 - Sita is also referred to as Maithilee and Vaidehi (The kingdom was Videha and capital was Mithila).
6 - Sita is compared and equated to “Shri” i.e. Lakshmi.
तस्य भूयो विशेषेण मैथिली जनकात्मजा |
देवताभिः समा रूपे सीता श्रीरिव रूपिणी ||
(Bala Kanda - 77 Sarga/Chapter - Verse 28 b/c)
In her mien Sita is identical with goddesses, and she is like personified Goddess Lakshmi, thus she is the reshaped Divine Prosperity, and as she hails from Holy Mithila she shall be held Holy, and since she is the daughter of Janaka, a loftiest sagacious and invincible king, she is sagely and stately, besides being shapely, and she with all these heaps of natural traits and characteristics, Seetha is rejoicing the heart of Rama.
Therefore, Shri means Sita in the slogan “Jai Shri Ram”
7 - Sumantra was Dashratha’s supreme/chief minister. He was a Suta. Sutas were charioteers and bards, but were sometimes, advisors to kings. This also implies Jatis moving up and down in the Varna matrix.
8 - Varuna’s daughter, Varuni (goddess of liquor) arose during the Samundra Manthan. Aditi’s son accepted her while Diti’s son did not. Thereby, Daityas came to be known as Asuras (the one without the liquor and Aditi’s sons came to be known as Suras) Sura means liquor.
Drinks were divided into 2 categories
Maireya - Made from molasses of grain
Asava - Made through distillation, not mere fermentation.
9 - 6 categories of food according to the taste - Caustic, Acidic, Sweet, Salty, Bitter and Alkaline.
4 categories of food according to the way it is eaten
Chavya - That which is chewed
Choshya or Chushya - That which is sucked
Lehya - That which is licked
Peya - That which is drunk
10 - Yamuna river is referred to as Kalindi and Amshumati. The Yamuna was the daughter of the sun god and Amshumati means Amshumat’s (sun god’s) daughter.
11 - A son is called Putra because he saves his ancestors from the hell known as pum.
Pumnama - Something that is known as pum
Trayate - The one who saves
Therefore, the one who saves from pum is Putra.
July 4, 2022
4 stars to the author for the effort on this unabridged translation and making it so accessible to the non-Sanskrit, English reading junta.
3 stars to the actual text and story so far. The Ramayana is way too poetic and overly descriptive - I am sure it reads better in its original form - as the author says, "it is impossible to capture the beauty of chhandd in English." But even so, the multi-descriptive phrases to drive a point home or to give the reader a sense of the grandeur of a thing or person can get cumbersome. That is my only lament about the text.
Volume 1 covers two Kandas - Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda - which are essentially the foundation and backdrop of the events that lead to Ram's departure to Dandakaranya.
The USP of this translation is that it is almost a word-to-word rendering of the original text. The author claims that if one were to compare it to the Sanskrit original, there would almost be a word to word match. As an English reader, I appreciate being able to have this close a translation to the original.
Because it is translated in this way, the structure of the language cannot be changed, and the prose doesn't feel smooth, even though grammatically it is fine. This too has been addressed by the author upfront, and is appreciated.
A lot of effort has gone into making sure that the emphasis of even the smallest of words or references is maintained. Many many footnotes (on every page I think) have been included to clarify references and explain concepts. 447 across 381 pages.
The print is quite dense and tight, so even in under 400 pages, there is a lot of text to get through.
The Author's Introduction is a very interesting and informative piece to read as well.
All in all, glad to have gotten through Book 1, and looking towards Book 2.
3 stars to the actual text and story so far. The Ramayana is way too poetic and overly descriptive - I am sure it reads better in its original form - as the author says, "it is impossible to capture the beauty of chhandd in English." But even so, the multi-descriptive phrases to drive a point home or to give the reader a sense of the grandeur of a thing or person can get cumbersome. That is my only lament about the text.
Volume 1 covers two Kandas - Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda - which are essentially the foundation and backdrop of the events that lead to Ram's departure to Dandakaranya.
The USP of this translation is that it is almost a word-to-word rendering of the original text. The author claims that if one were to compare it to the Sanskrit original, there would almost be a word to word match. As an English reader, I appreciate being able to have this close a translation to the original.
Because it is translated in this way, the structure of the language cannot be changed, and the prose doesn't feel smooth, even though grammatically it is fine. This too has been addressed by the author upfront, and is appreciated.
A lot of effort has gone into making sure that the emphasis of even the smallest of words or references is maintained. Many many footnotes (on every page I think) have been included to clarify references and explain concepts. 447 across 381 pages.
The print is quite dense and tight, so even in under 400 pages, there is a lot of text to get through.
The Author's Introduction is a very interesting and informative piece to read as well.
All in all, glad to have gotten through Book 1, and looking towards Book 2.
November 30, 2018
A great journey takes a bit intermission. Going to 2nd volume. My knowledge of Ramayan was limited only to textbook given in school while studying in class 3rd standard and of-course repeated reading of Amar Chitra Katha. however, till date do not get chance to read original Valmiki Ramayan. A dream achieved. Hopefully, by blessing of Shri Rama, will able to complete 2nd volume.
March 10, 2018
🌻🌻🌷🌷🌷🙏🙏🙏JAI SHREE RAM JAI SHREE HANUMAN...
THIS IS THE MOST COMPLETE AND ACCOMPLISHED ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF THE HINDU EPIC "VALMIKI RAMAYANA "...
THIS IS THE FIRST PART WHICH INCLUDES 2 KANDAS
1ST KANDA: BALA KANDA
2ND KANDA: AYODHYA KANDA...
THIS IS THE MOST COMPLETE AND ACCOMPLISHED ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF THE HINDU EPIC "VALMIKI RAMAYANA "...
THIS IS THE FIRST PART WHICH INCLUDES 2 KANDAS
1ST KANDA: BALA KANDA
2ND KANDA: AYODHYA KANDA...
Read
July 25, 2020In regard to Lord Rama, the point about ancient history is that the farther you go back in time, the fewer references you can use that actually refer to the incident in history. There may be many commentaries, but few quotations to the actual events. There are also numerous places that are indicated as the locations where various events happened in reference to the pastimes of Lord Rama and Seeta. Thus, they are accepted as historical sites.
Many people accept these sites as the locations for the events described in the Ramayana. So, how can this be unless there are not some reality behind it?
However, why is there not more archaeological evidence that points towards Rama’s existence? Because such an effort has not been made in India and systematic excavations have never been carried out. There is little archaeological or epi-graphic evidence for either Jesus Christ or Prophet Mohammed, who are known only from the Bible and Koran respectively. Does it mean they did not exist?
The Ramayana is geographically very correct. Every site on Rama's route is still identifiable and has continuing traditions or temples to commemorate Rama's visit. Around 1000 BC or earlier, no writer had the means to travel around the country inventing a story, fitting it into local folklore and building temples for greater credibility.
Many people accept these sites as the locations for the events described in the Ramayana. So, how can this be unless there are not some reality behind it?
However, why is there not more archaeological evidence that points towards Rama’s existence? Because such an effort has not been made in India and systematic excavations have never been carried out. There is little archaeological or epi-graphic evidence for either Jesus Christ or Prophet Mohammed, who are known only from the Bible and Koran respectively. Does it mean they did not exist?
The Ramayana is geographically very correct. Every site on Rama's route is still identifiable and has continuing traditions or temples to commemorate Rama's visit. Around 1000 BC or earlier, no writer had the means to travel around the country inventing a story, fitting it into local folklore and building temples for greater credibility.
August 11, 2020
I don't know if this is the whole or authentic version-- This is a beautiful tale, moving, full of moral lessons that goes straight to the Soul--You simply cannot put it down once you start reading it.....
This is my second time through it after reading it five years after losing loved ones.
This tale brought up parallel sentiments from other books I have read
"Pleasure lovers lose every night in seeking pleasures. but the Joy that comes to the gods, and those who imitate them is unbroken and never ceases " Seneca Epistles
"Arjuna, I am Brahman within the body, life eternal that never ceases, I am the truth and the Joy forever " Bhagavad Gita
"The Soul unfolds itself like a lotus of a thousand petals " Khalil Gibran
This is my second time through it after reading it five years after losing loved ones.
This tale brought up parallel sentiments from other books I have read
"Pleasure lovers lose every night in seeking pleasures. but the Joy that comes to the gods, and those who imitate them is unbroken and never ceases " Seneca Epistles
"Arjuna, I am Brahman within the body, life eternal that never ceases, I am the truth and the Joy forever " Bhagavad Gita
"The Soul unfolds itself like a lotus of a thousand petals " Khalil Gibran
December 22, 2016
It took a whole year for me to read the first 4 Kandas of this epic. Though the ideas are ancient and not suitable to my taste, the poetry is near perfection. Probably the most influential literature in India across thousands of years, it is a tedious but rewarding read.
August 9, 2023
Good Read
May 15, 2021
Valmiki Ramayana is not just about Rama, it is about the land, the people and knowledge that evolved in a certain period of Indian history.
The author has presented Valmiki Ramayana in prose form. He has made sure that footnotes provide explanations to the implicit details in the text. The reader doesn't feel lost while reading the multitude of names of Gods, important personalities, weapons and geographies.
The author puts things in perspective in the introduction. He explains the reasons behind some inconsistency in the English translation and the original Sanskrit literature. The author's analysis of Ramayana as a text in the beginning gives a insight into what the story of Rama is all about. It also tells us that how various interpretations and retellings have enriched the compendium of Ramayana as a story.
In an Indian household the stories of Rama are referred to on a daily basis. Children are named after Rama. Major festivals are celebrated to commemorate the life and ventures of Rama. Indian ethos has Ramayana ingrained in it.
In an Indian house, at birth and naming ceremonies Rama is worshipped. And Rama name is chanted during death processions as well. The rituals as performed in an Indian household are evident in Valmiki Ramayana. It gives a feeling of being a part of this long lineage of people. It gives a sense of being part of a civilization that has endured and still continues strong.
The Valmiki Ramayana presents the details of events that are usually missed out in the famous folklore about Ramayana. It gives insights into the geography of ancient India. It provides valuable lessons on behavior in society and with family members. It teaches the reader about restraint in words and actions. There are important pointers on governance. It presents the layered concept of Dharma through stories and events among important personalities in Ramayana.
Ramayana originally being a poem, the prose form certainly robs it of its true literary quality. Also the reader can have some notions going in while starting Ramayana as the stories ae told so many times and in so many different ways.
I am writing this review on the day of Akshay Tritiya. Today my mother prepared delicacies and offered it to ancestors on a plate made of palash leaves. Rama also offered respect to his ancestors on palash leaves. It just goes on to show the continuance of a way of life and the contemporary relevance of Ramayana.
The author has presented Valmiki Ramayana in prose form. He has made sure that footnotes provide explanations to the implicit details in the text. The reader doesn't feel lost while reading the multitude of names of Gods, important personalities, weapons and geographies.
The author puts things in perspective in the introduction. He explains the reasons behind some inconsistency in the English translation and the original Sanskrit literature. The author's analysis of Ramayana as a text in the beginning gives a insight into what the story of Rama is all about. It also tells us that how various interpretations and retellings have enriched the compendium of Ramayana as a story.
In an Indian household the stories of Rama are referred to on a daily basis. Children are named after Rama. Major festivals are celebrated to commemorate the life and ventures of Rama. Indian ethos has Ramayana ingrained in it.
In an Indian house, at birth and naming ceremonies Rama is worshipped. And Rama name is chanted during death processions as well. The rituals as performed in an Indian household are evident in Valmiki Ramayana. It gives a feeling of being a part of this long lineage of people. It gives a sense of being part of a civilization that has endured and still continues strong.
The Valmiki Ramayana presents the details of events that are usually missed out in the famous folklore about Ramayana. It gives insights into the geography of ancient India. It provides valuable lessons on behavior in society and with family members. It teaches the reader about restraint in words and actions. There are important pointers on governance. It presents the layered concept of Dharma through stories and events among important personalities in Ramayana.
Ramayana originally being a poem, the prose form certainly robs it of its true literary quality. Also the reader can have some notions going in while starting Ramayana as the stories ae told so many times and in so many different ways.
I am writing this review on the day of Akshay Tritiya. Today my mother prepared delicacies and offered it to ancestors on a plate made of palash leaves. Rama also offered respect to his ancestors on palash leaves. It just goes on to show the continuance of a way of life and the contemporary relevance of Ramayana.
November 7, 2020
Needless to say that this review concerns only the translation and not the content.
While I expect one day to learn Sanskrit to read the original manuscript used for this translation, this present effort is a great sit-in. Just a note, this is not recommended for first-time readers of the Ramayana.
To just focus on the criticism, it would be the verbosity. Some is unavoidable, and there's no finger-pointing for that. I can't count on all my fingers and toes the number of time the phrase "bull among men", "he who knows dharma"and such are peppered in, and it's a necessary burden for translators who strive to stick to the source minutely and don't summarise preferentially, though there are some succinct descriptors for some which could have been employed for the benefit of all(though in all likelihood I'd have been here complaining about the overuse of "goosebumps" rather than "the hairs on the arms rose up")
Bal and Uttara Kand (first and last) are commonly believed to be later additions to the core Ramayana, with a noticeably lower quality, and that shows for the Bal Kand at least. It's almost like novellas created later to provide the backstory to the characters which were eventually copied to the front. So the pacing is off, the jumps are jarring, and it is difficult to muddle through. It took me a month to get past that and only a couple of days for the second half, so yeah.
Another potential source of concern is in the footnotes, which while immensely helpful, can be seen as potential sources for introducing a "non-Critical Edition" bias by borrowing from future texts that may not be canon. I only suspect this because of some differences in how something is written and how it is interpreted in the footnotes, and there's no clear guide to how they are sourced.
But still it's a wonderful wonderful work.
While I expect one day to learn Sanskrit to read the original manuscript used for this translation, this present effort is a great sit-in. Just a note, this is not recommended for first-time readers of the Ramayana.
To just focus on the criticism, it would be the verbosity. Some is unavoidable, and there's no finger-pointing for that. I can't count on all my fingers and toes the number of time the phrase "bull among men", "he who knows dharma"and such are peppered in, and it's a necessary burden for translators who strive to stick to the source minutely and don't summarise preferentially, though there are some succinct descriptors for some which could have been employed for the benefit of all(though in all likelihood I'd have been here complaining about the overuse of "goosebumps" rather than "the hairs on the arms rose up")
Bal and Uttara Kand (first and last) are commonly believed to be later additions to the core Ramayana, with a noticeably lower quality, and that shows for the Bal Kand at least. It's almost like novellas created later to provide the backstory to the characters which were eventually copied to the front. So the pacing is off, the jumps are jarring, and it is difficult to muddle through. It took me a month to get past that and only a couple of days for the second half, so yeah.
Another potential source of concern is in the footnotes, which while immensely helpful, can be seen as potential sources for introducing a "non-Critical Edition" bias by borrowing from future texts that may not be canon. I only suspect this because of some differences in how something is written and how it is interpreted in the footnotes, and there's no clear guide to how they are sourced.
But still it's a wonderful wonderful work.
July 17, 2021
The first part covers - Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda, two of the seven Kandas in The Ramayana. I don’t think I need to describe these events as the stories are all too well known at this point. I’d like to instead describe how Bibek Debroy’s translation adds to the experience.
On the face of it, the translation is too literal and it seems to be a very deliberate choice by the translator, his use of nouns is very infrequent but describes them as a conjunction of verbs for e.g. Kakapaksha (crow’s wings) would’ve been described elsewhere as rounded side-locks to mark them as a sign of beauty, but the use of Crow’s Wings adds a layer of nuance as to how the word came to be rather than what it means.
This makes the story a bit taxing to read at times as you might miss the important for the mundane, but then again that is what the text is designed as. The events don’t matter as the story progresses, there is not much time is spent on important events like King Dasharatha’s passing which in the story’s perspective is an important event but it’s not built upto it as a modern novel would. This in my opinion adds to the story as the story is very lyrical , description heavy and utterly readable.
The characters are very well described and their motivations don’t seem out of character a bit, be it the new meme lord Lakshman or the agent provocateur Kubja/Manthara. Raghava Rama is very charming throughout the story with Bharatha being the best character till this part of the story.
On the face of it, the translation is too literal and it seems to be a very deliberate choice by the translator, his use of nouns is very infrequent but describes them as a conjunction of verbs for e.g. Kakapaksha (crow’s wings) would’ve been described elsewhere as rounded side-locks to mark them as a sign of beauty, but the use of Crow’s Wings adds a layer of nuance as to how the word came to be rather than what it means.
This makes the story a bit taxing to read at times as you might miss the important for the mundane, but then again that is what the text is designed as. The events don’t matter as the story progresses, there is not much time is spent on important events like King Dasharatha’s passing which in the story’s perspective is an important event but it’s not built upto it as a modern novel would. This in my opinion adds to the story as the story is very lyrical , description heavy and utterly readable.
The characters are very well described and their motivations don’t seem out of character a bit, be it the new meme lord Lakshman or the agent provocateur Kubja/Manthara. Raghava Rama is very charming throughout the story with Bharatha being the best character till this part of the story.
October 2, 2013
Slightly different from what I have read.
August 23, 2020
Amazing translation by Bibek Debroy. Recommend strongly if anybody is looking to read the unabridged translation of this ithihasa.
May 27, 2021
El texto es angustiosamente repetitivo, melodramático en exceso, formulaico a vicio. Bueno, qué se puede hacer, es un poema épico. Parece que en la antigüedad la gente sentía las emociones mucho más intensamente antes de los smartphones o algo así.
El esfuerzo de la traducción de Bibek Debroy es uno de gran valor. De las 500 páginas, como 100 son dedicadas a las notas al margen, detallando todo tipo de cuestiones desde geografía, mitología, versiones alternas del texto, costumbres, términos intraducibles, entre otras cuestiones. Para quien le interese de verdad leer este texto, puedo decir hasta ahora al menos que el primer volumen mantiene el interés (imposiblemente) bastante consistentemente y estoy ansioso por continuar con el próximo. La lectura no es una difícil, solo es una sumamente larga.
El esfuerzo de la traducción de Bibek Debroy es uno de gran valor. De las 500 páginas, como 100 son dedicadas a las notas al margen, detallando todo tipo de cuestiones desde geografía, mitología, versiones alternas del texto, costumbres, términos intraducibles, entre otras cuestiones. Para quien le interese de verdad leer este texto, puedo decir hasta ahora al menos que el primer volumen mantiene el interés (imposiblemente) bastante consistentemente y estoy ansioso por continuar con el próximo. La lectura no es una difícil, solo es una sumamente larga.
October 25, 2021
This is a translation of the actual Valmiki Ramayana. I cannot comment on the quality of translation, but it looks good with all the footnotes and explanations.
The basic story is the same, ending with Bharat going to meet Rama after Bharat realizes that Kaikeyi had sent Rama for exile.
The translation is much more boring than the shorter versions I have read before. It seems that the people of that time used to talk very formally and with a lot of exaggerated respectful words. It has been my go-to book for sleeping in the nights. But I have finally finished it. I am really happy that I read it. Rishi Valmiki is much less hell-bent to show his religious dedication compared to TulsiDas ji. Now I will start the next volume.
The basic story is the same, ending with Bharat going to meet Rama after Bharat realizes that Kaikeyi had sent Rama for exile.
The translation is much more boring than the shorter versions I have read before. It seems that the people of that time used to talk very formally and with a lot of exaggerated respectful words. It has been my go-to book for sleeping in the nights. But I have finally finished it. I am really happy that I read it. Rishi Valmiki is much less hell-bent to show his religious dedication compared to TulsiDas ji. Now I will start the next volume.
September 15, 2022
Enchantingly poetic, deeply emotional, narratively intriguing. Onward to volume 2! ☺️
January 1, 2020
A comprehensive translation of the unabridged version of Ramayana. Reading it gives new perspectives not only from the mythological point of view but also from the historical point of view. The details of the sacrifices, the details of the version, the lineage etc are also present. Must read to understand the epic completely
April 5, 2020
Beautiful rendition by Bibek Ji
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this version by Bibek Debroy Ji. It seems very authentic and very well researched and the footnotes just does the trick. Looking forward to reading the other works by the author. Thank you for this. Beautiful and fast read.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this version by Bibek Debroy Ji. It seems very authentic and very well researched and the footnotes just does the trick. Looking forward to reading the other works by the author. Thank you for this. Beautiful and fast read.
November 16, 2019
Being raised in a Hindu family, I had a staple diet of Hindu mythological epics right from the childhood. Countless Sundays were spent glued to the telly watching Ramayana and Mahabharata back-to-back. The festivals kept them rooted in consciousness. And there was nary a child, at least in my generation, who didn't know Rama's story. Reading Ramayana now was as much an act of reminiscence as it was a discovery of new facts.
The whole triumph of good over evil is far off, as far as this volume goes. The plot progresses slowly. At times trudging through ten chapters with different characters lamenting or going back and forth on their interpretations of "dharma" (specially post exile in Ayodhya Kanda). But my experience this time around had some saving graces. Frankly, I was surprised to find just how many nuanced details are lost in TV adaptations. And getting to know these was a delight in itself.
There is quite a bit in here that relates to events unrelated to the main characters:
- The story of sage Vishwamitra and his attaining the title of brahmarishi
- The story of king Sagara and his sons
- The events that led to Ganga's arrival on Earth
- The story of Kartikeya's birth
- The story of the birth of Maruts
- The story of Indra's killing of a brahmana
- The story of Vamana
- The story of Brahmadatta and his 100 wives
Then there are things that confounded me:
- The practice of consuming and sacrificing animals (this is hardly ever mentioned in screen adaptations or popular media)
- The wives of other brothers (the whole exile thing goes down and they are somehow nowhere to be found for comment or a decent cry)
- The sheer amount of hatred dumped on Kaikayee. (Not that she didn't have it coming. But other characters lay it on her at every opportunity to lament.)
- Lakshmana's trigger happy nature (the portrayal of a cool headed brother is a far cry from what's written here)
Will I recommend this to someone entirely new to Hindu mythology?? No. There is just too much to digest in here. The same characters at times are mentioned by different names (depending on lineage, some myth/event, different facets of their nature). It will definitely be an uphill task to keep track of these. There are ample footnotes providing context and meaning of words transliterated from Sanskrit. While they do help to some extent, background knowledge of Hindu mythology would definitely help the reader more. I would recommend new readers to go for an abridged version first. And only then pick this one up.
This book covers the first two of the seven Kandas in Ramayana (Baal Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda). The new bits were quite entertaining and fleshed out the plot so much more for me. At times the events got quite stretched out for my liking. But it turned out well enough in the end. I hope to cover the other two volumes soon.
The whole triumph of good over evil is far off, as far as this volume goes. The plot progresses slowly. At times trudging through ten chapters with different characters lamenting or going back and forth on their interpretations of "dharma" (specially post exile in Ayodhya Kanda). But my experience this time around had some saving graces. Frankly, I was surprised to find just how many nuanced details are lost in TV adaptations. And getting to know these was a delight in itself.
There is quite a bit in here that relates to events unrelated to the main characters:
- The story of sage Vishwamitra and his attaining the title of brahmarishi
- The story of king Sagara and his sons
- The events that led to Ganga's arrival on Earth
- The story of Kartikeya's birth
- The story of the birth of Maruts
- The story of Indra's killing of a brahmana
- The story of Vamana
- The story of Brahmadatta and his 100 wives
Then there are things that confounded me:
- The practice of consuming and sacrificing animals (this is hardly ever mentioned in screen adaptations or popular media)
- The wives of other brothers (the whole exile thing goes down and they are somehow nowhere to be found for comment or a decent cry)
- The sheer amount of hatred dumped on Kaikayee. (Not that she didn't have it coming. But other characters lay it on her at every opportunity to lament.)
- Lakshmana's trigger happy nature (the portrayal of a cool headed brother is a far cry from what's written here)
Will I recommend this to someone entirely new to Hindu mythology?? No. There is just too much to digest in here. The same characters at times are mentioned by different names (depending on lineage, some myth/event, different facets of their nature). It will definitely be an uphill task to keep track of these. There are ample footnotes providing context and meaning of words transliterated from Sanskrit. While they do help to some extent, background knowledge of Hindu mythology would definitely help the reader more. I would recommend new readers to go for an abridged version first. And only then pick this one up.
This book covers the first two of the seven Kandas in Ramayana (Baal Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda). The new bits were quite entertaining and fleshed out the plot so much more for me. At times the events got quite stretched out for my liking. But it turned out well enough in the end. I hope to cover the other two volumes soon.
May 19, 2021
The chronicle of two lovers and one brother that's prevalent since unknown BCE. But ever thought how beautiful and great Valmiki Ramayana would have been if not for the interpolations?
Valmiku! oh adikavi! oh pioneer of poets! Don't know samskrit but the line by line translation of the poem by Bibek Debroy implicitly exposes the greatness of the critical edition of your magnum opus (there're many editions and this is said to have more fidelity to the original ramayana than others). Debroy has done a great job and his foot notes are very interesting and is comprehensive, they impart everything one needs to know. With that and the beautiful translation which is so effortless to read make it more captivating and unputdownable.
Now on to the chronicle. Welp there's only one word to expound how good or bad it is - EPIC! Take it as a mythology or fantasy or whatever you prefer, it's great in every single way. The characters, conflicts, storyline everything is so vehement even though it's known. I'd rather be silent than incessantly talk about just how good sita, lakshmana and if not for the interpolations rama are and vex you all on about loyalty, perseverance, faith etc or how good the story evolved from the beginning to the end.
There are 7 kandas and it's said that the first and the last - Bala Kanda and Uttara Kanda are incorporated later to Rama's journey or Ramayana. The manifestations of these claims are evident when we observe the narration and characterization in these 2 kandas, especially in the yuddha kanda (sita's ordeal by fire, indra dasharatha et al visiting earth, rama slaying a shuddra etc). What I'm saying is that the insertions may have underlying meanings and are important but they made the epic more depressing, tragic and vague.
The incoherencies bestowed upon this itihasa by later sages is something that is incomprehensible to my simple mind. These for me really ruined what Rama, the conflicts and the personalities stood for. Yes it is expounded in its entirety in multitude of ways and the 2 kandas enhances the beauty of those explanations but only with a cost.
Anyways I loved it. (Especially Lakshmana)
Valmiku! oh adikavi! oh pioneer of poets! Don't know samskrit but the line by line translation of the poem by Bibek Debroy implicitly exposes the greatness of the critical edition of your magnum opus (there're many editions and this is said to have more fidelity to the original ramayana than others). Debroy has done a great job and his foot notes are very interesting and is comprehensive, they impart everything one needs to know. With that and the beautiful translation which is so effortless to read make it more captivating and unputdownable.
Now on to the chronicle. Welp there's only one word to expound how good or bad it is - EPIC! Take it as a mythology or fantasy or whatever you prefer, it's great in every single way. The characters, conflicts, storyline everything is so vehement even though it's known. I'd rather be silent than incessantly talk about just how good sita, lakshmana and if not for the interpolations rama are and vex you all on about loyalty, perseverance, faith etc or how good the story evolved from the beginning to the end.
There are 7 kandas and it's said that the first and the last - Bala Kanda and Uttara Kanda are incorporated later to Rama's journey or Ramayana. The manifestations of these claims are evident when we observe the narration and characterization in these 2 kandas, especially in the yuddha kanda (sita's ordeal by fire, indra dasharatha et al visiting earth, rama slaying a shuddra etc). What I'm saying is that the insertions may have underlying meanings and are important but they made the epic more depressing, tragic and vague.
The incoherencies bestowed upon this itihasa by later sages is something that is incomprehensible to my simple mind. These for me really ruined what Rama, the conflicts and the personalities stood for. Yes it is expounded in its entirety in multitude of ways and the 2 kandas enhances the beauty of those explanations but only with a cost.
Anyways I loved it. (Especially Lakshmana)
October 16, 2020
This book covers first 2 kandas of total Ramayana (Bala Kanda & Ayodhya Kanda). To make you notify that Ramayana has total 7 kandas. Starting with conversation between Narada and Valmiki and how Valmiki start writing this epic. And ended with Rama leaving Chitrakut Mountain.
A big question, why does it call “Valmiki Ramayana”? Well, we know that Ramayana is written by Valmiki as same as Mahabharata by Ved Vyas. But Mahabharata is not called “Ved Vyas Mahabharata”. Unlike Mahabharata, Ramayana has many versions. Probably more than 300+. And this ancient epic was also popular in far eastern countries like: Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Tibet etc. Even within Indian sub-continent it has many versions. And some versions are significantly different.
So which one is the original one? Valmiki’s version is most reliable one at least for Hindu religious people. But you have to remember that every version has significant influence in its own region. Like: some parts of “Thai Ramayana” are in their national curriculum. “Jain Ramayana” is described as non-violent version and so on. Honestly it’s a matter to describe for expertise in this subject. But that book was a revolution in literature of ancient era.
Last of all about the book. The writer is great. Excellent easy English, excellent description, nice reading experience and a lot of footnotes to understand every details. Footnotes are too informative. I just love him. He is a boss. I always wished that I would read an unabridged version of Ramayana. And here it is. Just awesome reading experience.
A big question, why does it call “Valmiki Ramayana”? Well, we know that Ramayana is written by Valmiki as same as Mahabharata by Ved Vyas. But Mahabharata is not called “Ved Vyas Mahabharata”. Unlike Mahabharata, Ramayana has many versions. Probably more than 300+. And this ancient epic was also popular in far eastern countries like: Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Tibet etc. Even within Indian sub-continent it has many versions. And some versions are significantly different.
So which one is the original one? Valmiki’s version is most reliable one at least for Hindu religious people. But you have to remember that every version has significant influence in its own region. Like: some parts of “Thai Ramayana” are in their national curriculum. “Jain Ramayana” is described as non-violent version and so on. Honestly it’s a matter to describe for expertise in this subject. But that book was a revolution in literature of ancient era.
Last of all about the book. The writer is great. Excellent easy English, excellent description, nice reading experience and a lot of footnotes to understand every details. Footnotes are too informative. I just love him. He is a boss. I always wished that I would read an unabridged version of Ramayana. And here it is. Just awesome reading experience.
September 18, 2021
So grateful to the author for going that extra mile to get us an unabridged translation of this epic. The translation certainly seems to be authentic and there's no doubt that a lot of research has gone into it. Add to this the detailed footnotes, and you have a winner!
I looked for recommendations of accurate translations of this epic and this is the one recommendation that seemed to be purely translated from Sanskrit.
I looked for recommendations of accurate translations of this epic and this is the one recommendation that seemed to be purely translated from Sanskrit.
August 17, 2019
A classic work of Indian culture. It's probably too hard to make a proper verse translation. Here, the translator has done the noble task of rendering it into prose. I find it a useful look into an old culture with all its peculiarities.
March 18, 2021
Really good translation of the original Valmiki Ramayan by Dr. Bibek Debroy. He has also provided meaning of certain events and terminology with the reference from various other Hindu Scriptures and given as extra note. Really must read collection of all 3 volumes.
March 29, 2021
Its a stupendous effort by Mr. Bibek Debroy to translate the original into English. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this. An original translation lends itself to getting that touch & feel factor of the events that transpired.
March 18, 2021
One who wants to know VALMIKI ramayana should go with this version. Written in easy language and changing ta meaning of sanskrit words as little as possible bibek sir has done a great job.
May 31, 2021
Jai Shri Ram 🙏🙏🙏
Listing or watching Ramayana is one thing but reading it self is a whole new experience.
Listing or watching Ramayana is one thing but reading it self is a whole new experience.
October 28, 2021
Not sure what my intentions were, when I picked this book. I am completely aware that this one is an epic mythological saga. Would I then be inclined to like it by default? I can’t help but feel a little influenced by the weight this book carries.
Most kids in an Indian household grow up hearing stories of Rama, Lakshman, Sita, Hanuman and Ravana. It’s all very interesting and fun. As an adult, I wanted to be a little more aware of storyline and what transpired between the main characters. Would rather be informed before talking on certain topics per se.
For the literal translation from Sanskrit, it is very clearly explained. Every page has a footnote of some kind detailing a word or a sentence, so kudos to the author for his bit of research.
From a fiction novel standpoint alone, the English version gets a little repetitive in terms of how the characters are addressed (Indra among men, conquerer of the enemies, one who is radiant like the sun, destroyer of xyz etc.) and excessively praising Rama’s traits. I get it, he is amazing! And he is the centre of the world. There are a lot of family values described and every auspicious ceremony begins with animal sacrifices. Women in the era of course served their husbands and that’s that. Sita is completely devoted to her husband in an innocent and naive way. Kaikeyi is portrayed to be quite selfish and vile. All of Rama’s brothers love him. Dasaratha loves Ram. His many wives love Ram. Valmiki was quite a talented being to weave it all together in an interesting manner and I wouldn’t even attempt to critique him.
For me, personally, it felt a bit meh in this day and age. It took some time to wrap my head around how their world functions. It got funny in places. Very detailed in other.
I am glad I finished the first part and will hopefully read up the next two soon.
Most kids in an Indian household grow up hearing stories of Rama, Lakshman, Sita, Hanuman and Ravana. It’s all very interesting and fun. As an adult, I wanted to be a little more aware of storyline and what transpired between the main characters. Would rather be informed before talking on certain topics per se.
For the literal translation from Sanskrit, it is very clearly explained. Every page has a footnote of some kind detailing a word or a sentence, so kudos to the author for his bit of research.
From a fiction novel standpoint alone, the English version gets a little repetitive in terms of how the characters are addressed (Indra among men, conquerer of the enemies, one who is radiant like the sun, destroyer of xyz etc.) and excessively praising Rama’s traits. I get it, he is amazing! And he is the centre of the world. There are a lot of family values described and every auspicious ceremony begins with animal sacrifices. Women in the era of course served their husbands and that’s that. Sita is completely devoted to her husband in an innocent and naive way. Kaikeyi is portrayed to be quite selfish and vile. All of Rama’s brothers love him. Dasaratha loves Ram. His many wives love Ram. Valmiki was quite a talented being to weave it all together in an interesting manner and I wouldn’t even attempt to critique him.
For me, personally, it felt a bit meh in this day and age. It took some time to wrap my head around how their world functions. It got funny in places. Very detailed in other.
I am glad I finished the first part and will hopefully read up the next two soon.
April 5, 2024
This translation of the Ramayana is perfect for that peculiar type of reader who wants to read the Ramayana as the engaging story it was meant to be, but whose knowledge of Sanskrit does not make for a quick read through. The translator has provided enough footnotes for historical and linguistic context without getting drowned in pedantic drudgery. In some parts, the English is terse and perhaps less accessible as an engaging read - particularly in the Bala Kanda. But, people familiar with the overall outline of the story will find it entertaining. This is particularly true for the emotional parts of the Ayodhya Kanda, where the translation truly shines.
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