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The Ramayana: A New Retelling of Valmiki's Ancient Epic
A delightfully straightforward and lyrical retelling of the ancient Indian epic of loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and insight into the true nature of life -- one of history's most sacred ethical works, rendered with completeness and sterling accuracy for the modern reader.
Here is one of the world's most hallowed works of sacred litearture, the grand, sweeping epic of the the divine bowman and warrior Rama and his struggles with evil, power, duplicity, and avarice. The Ramayana is one of the foundations of Hindu literature and one of humanity's most ancient and treasured ethical and spiritual works.
"This new version is so simply and beautifully written -- it will stir the soul!" --David Lynch
Here is one of the world's most hallowed works of sacred litearture, the grand, sweeping epic of the the divine bowman and warrior Rama and his struggles with evil, power, duplicity, and avarice. The Ramayana is one of the foundations of Hindu literature and one of humanity's most ancient and treasured ethical and spiritual works.
"This new version is so simply and beautifully written -- it will stir the soul!" --David Lynch
400 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2016
99 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 26, 2018
Sorry if this is sacrilegious to some but this is my honest opinion as someone who did not grow up knowing either story:
(deep breath)
I feel that the story of the Ramayana pales in comparison to that of the Mahabharata. First of all I don’t like the good vs evil narrative, it’s simplistic compared with the Three Kingdoms or Mahabharata models. If you know the one-line summary of this story, “The exiled prince Rama rescues Sita from the demon king Ravana, with the help of the monkey Hanuman”, then I feel that very little happens in the full text that will really surprise you.
Perhaps it's most similar to Journey to the West, where I was also pretty annoyed by the fact that all the gods and deities sided with the pilgrims, it was never a fair fight, and there were innumerable occasions where some deus ex machina came to the heroes' rescue. But the characters in Journey to the West were also hilariously flawed: Monkey and Pigsy and even Tripitaka were continually called out for their arrogance, violence, laziness, debauchery, and cowardice. I don’t find either Rama or Sita to be likeable nor interesting characters because they are (supposedly) so perfect in every way.
I know I'm probably “missing the point”, because both stories are about a spiritual journey and it's about looking at the bigger picture or whatever, but the conflicts were repetitive and not compelling enough in the Ramayana. The only saving grace in this story was There were often false dichotomies, and the “wrong” courses of action were often quite obviously stupid. For example, a too-large proportion of the Ramayana is spent contemplating suicide, in this template: “O [name of brother / son / father / wife / husband], do not leave me! Without you I cannot live, not even for an hour! I will surely die of grief and go to join [name of deceased father / mother / etc]. Then what will happen to my poor [mother / father / wife] without me to care for them? They will surely die too.”
That being said, I might have enjoyed the story more if I liked the translation better. The writing in this Egenes/Reddy translation manages to somehow be both childish and stiffly melodramatic at the same time, not terribly pleasing to the ear.
Anyway, I might consider revisiting the Ramayana with the Ramesh Menon translation in future, but my final verdict is that if you're a modern reader just looking for an adventure story, with no interest in the spiritual aspect of this epic, then I would recommend you read the Mahabharata for the interesting stories or just pick up one of those gigantic-tome contemporary fantasy novels instead.
(deep breath)
I feel that the story of the Ramayana pales in comparison to that of the Mahabharata. First of all I don’t like the good vs evil narrative, it’s simplistic compared with the Three Kingdoms or Mahabharata models. If you know the one-line summary of this story, “The exiled prince Rama rescues Sita from the demon king Ravana, with the help of the monkey Hanuman”, then I feel that very little happens in the full text that will really surprise you.
Perhaps it's most similar to Journey to the West, where I was also pretty annoyed by the fact that all the gods and deities sided with the pilgrims, it was never a fair fight, and there were innumerable occasions where some deus ex machina came to the heroes' rescue. But the characters in Journey to the West were also hilariously flawed: Monkey and Pigsy and even Tripitaka were continually called out for their arrogance, violence, laziness, debauchery, and cowardice. I don’t find either Rama or Sita to be likeable nor interesting characters because they are (supposedly) so perfect in every way.
I know I'm probably “missing the point”, because both stories are about a spiritual journey and it's about looking at the bigger picture or whatever, but the conflicts were repetitive and not compelling enough in the Ramayana. The only saving grace in this story was There were often false dichotomies, and the “wrong” courses of action were often quite obviously stupid. For example, a too-large proportion of the Ramayana is spent contemplating suicide, in this template: “O [name of brother / son / father / wife / husband], do not leave me! Without you I cannot live, not even for an hour! I will surely die of grief and go to join [name of deceased father / mother / etc]. Then what will happen to my poor [mother / father / wife] without me to care for them? They will surely die too.”
That being said, I might have enjoyed the story more if I liked the translation better. The writing in this Egenes/Reddy translation manages to somehow be both childish and stiffly melodramatic at the same time, not terribly pleasing to the ear.
Anyway, I might consider revisiting the Ramayana with the Ramesh Menon translation in future, but my final verdict is that if you're a modern reader just looking for an adventure story, with no interest in the spiritual aspect of this epic, then I would recommend you read the Mahabharata for the interesting stories or just pick up one of those gigantic-tome contemporary fantasy novels instead.
January 4, 2021
4.5
The writing is beautiful, but still simple and clear. This was a pleasure to read. My only complaint was the language. Truly just the fact that it is a translation and just because I am an English speaker, I got confused by names-- distinguishing people and some Hindu terminology. The beauty easily overcame this though. Highly recommend.
The writing is beautiful, but still simple and clear. This was a pleasure to read. My only complaint was the language. Truly just the fact that it is a translation and just because I am an English speaker, I got confused by names-- distinguishing people and some Hindu terminology. The beauty easily overcame this though. Highly recommend.
June 25, 2020
I was looking for a book in contemporary language, which this one is. But it is still able to tell the story that we all watched or read as kids without any loss in its spiritual meaning.
October 18, 2024
a systematic analysis of misogyny is in order ... so fun to read and to think with ... not a bit troublesome if we think of Sri Lanka back then was already a Buddhist country ... hard not to make that reference why ramayana considers Sri Lanka a land of demons
June 27, 2017
"From Dharma flow wealth, From Dharma flows happiness,
The only thing is meant to uphold and implemented in Life i.e. Dharma. " Aranya Kand (Valmiki Ramayana).
I have only one single word for This finest and unaltered English version of "Valmiki Ramayana" is - Splendid.
Generally, each year I read almost two and three books based on Ramayana from different writers. But this one will be on my Bookshelf for most honest interpretation of Lord Rama Life. Ramayana itself a story of men who uphold Dharma and implemented it in the very practice of his life that he becomes upholder of Dharma. He raised his stature even above than Gods of Heaven. A mere human who upholds dharma is most practical way can become God, an ideal human for societies. Irrespective of Great commentary on Valmiki Ramayana, I loved the ways its hold you. I am not pleased with myself for completing such wonderful book in 20 days (because of my work schedule). Moreover, Kumdua Reddy has done fair justice with this book by not indulging her own interpretation for Ramayana.
Rama, The young prince of Ayodhya upholds dharma above than any mere earthly relation. For him, His father and Old age person from his state are held equal values. For Him, Dharma is the only thing which guides human for an ultimate goal of salvation with the divine. For him, Dharmasastra is only guided to live righteous way. He is a prince who upholds honor over luxuries, Righteousness over greed, Rule over Love, Kindness over politics and Dharma over humans. He was the men of High Vedic principle. The Rama, itself took the vow of ascetic along with his wife and brother due to a single promise was given by his father to his stepmom. He has overthrown the greed, Kingdom, Power, Luxuries, and relations for holding the highest Vedic principle of righteousness.
Many of westerners misguided by thinking that Ramayana is the story of Rama victory over Ravana. But actually, Ramayana is the story of righteous emotions, action, advice, logic, and lifestyle. It is a story of a devoted husband who fights for her wife at last corner of Bharata. The story of a brother who throws everything for serving his elder brother in Jungle. The story of Servent who has given/worshiped more than Rama itself. A story of King, who (after having knowledge of Vedas and Power) loses to mere men for his ego and stealing his wife. It is a story of a human struggle who live in a righteous way in this world.
The only thing is meant to uphold and implemented in Life i.e. Dharma. " Aranya Kand (Valmiki Ramayana).
I have only one single word for This finest and unaltered English version of "Valmiki Ramayana" is - Splendid.
Generally, each year I read almost two and three books based on Ramayana from different writers. But this one will be on my Bookshelf for most honest interpretation of Lord Rama Life. Ramayana itself a story of men who uphold Dharma and implemented it in the very practice of his life that he becomes upholder of Dharma. He raised his stature even above than Gods of Heaven. A mere human who upholds dharma is most practical way can become God, an ideal human for societies. Irrespective of Great commentary on Valmiki Ramayana, I loved the ways its hold you. I am not pleased with myself for completing such wonderful book in 20 days (because of my work schedule). Moreover, Kumdua Reddy has done fair justice with this book by not indulging her own interpretation for Ramayana.
Rama, The young prince of Ayodhya upholds dharma above than any mere earthly relation. For him, His father and Old age person from his state are held equal values. For Him, Dharma is the only thing which guides human for an ultimate goal of salvation with the divine. For him, Dharmasastra is only guided to live righteous way. He is a prince who upholds honor over luxuries, Righteousness over greed, Rule over Love, Kindness over politics and Dharma over humans. He was the men of High Vedic principle. The Rama, itself took the vow of ascetic along with his wife and brother due to a single promise was given by his father to his stepmom. He has overthrown the greed, Kingdom, Power, Luxuries, and relations for holding the highest Vedic principle of righteousness.
Many of westerners misguided by thinking that Ramayana is the story of Rama victory over Ravana. But actually, Ramayana is the story of righteous emotions, action, advice, logic, and lifestyle. It is a story of a devoted husband who fights for her wife at last corner of Bharata. The story of a brother who throws everything for serving his elder brother in Jungle. The story of Servent who has given/worshiped more than Rama itself. A story of King, who (after having knowledge of Vedas and Power) loses to mere men for his ego and stealing his wife. It is a story of a human struggle who live in a righteous way in this world.
"Ramayana is a gift to Humanity by Ancient India. It's a tale of a prince who upholds the principle of righteous living by adhering dharma"- Mahatma Gandhi
July 30, 2017
This is my second time reading this great religious epic of India. Several years ago, I read Krishna Dharma's version, but I like this version by Egenes & Reddy better. The language is contemporary, yet lyrical, and the narrative is highly readable, yet maintains the profundity of its allegorical and spiritual meanings.
The Ramayana is truly epic is both the modern and ancient sense. There are thousands of mythological beings, numerous enchanted locations, harrowing adventures, mammoth battles, magical powers and weapons, political intrigue, heroic and villainous characters, multiple plotlines, and romance. It is a classic story of good versus evil, and of good triumphing over evil. But unlike other epics, the Ramayana is a sacred text.
The central protagonist, Rama, is an incarnation of Vishnu, come into the world to vanquish the demon Ravana. Rama is perfect in every way, and worthy of both praise and emulation. His main purpose in life is to uphold Dharma. But this isn't easy, either for him or for the other characters in the story: indeed, much of the narrative conflict arises because characters either deviate from Dharma, or must sacrifice greatly to adhere to Dharma. Thus, the Ramayana serves a guide to living according to Dharma, and of finding divine aide in doing so through Rama.
The Ramayana is truly epic is both the modern and ancient sense. There are thousands of mythological beings, numerous enchanted locations, harrowing adventures, mammoth battles, magical powers and weapons, political intrigue, heroic and villainous characters, multiple plotlines, and romance. It is a classic story of good versus evil, and of good triumphing over evil. But unlike other epics, the Ramayana is a sacred text.
The central protagonist, Rama, is an incarnation of Vishnu, come into the world to vanquish the demon Ravana. Rama is perfect in every way, and worthy of both praise and emulation. His main purpose in life is to uphold Dharma. But this isn't easy, either for him or for the other characters in the story: indeed, much of the narrative conflict arises because characters either deviate from Dharma, or must sacrifice greatly to adhere to Dharma. Thus, the Ramayana serves a guide to living according to Dharma, and of finding divine aide in doing so through Rama.
March 21, 2024
It may be the fault of the translation, but I was really underwhelmed despite starting with very high expectations.
The battles sounded like kids having imaginary fights on a playground: "Oh your Brahma arrow doesn't work on me because I have a super mega shield from fasting for 1000 years!" "I'll just use this magic plant I found in the woods to revive my entire monkey army instantly!"
Maybe Brahma shouldn't give everyone boons that end up screwing everyone else over.
Maybe Dasharatha should have looked Kaikeyi in the face and said "nah bitch."
Maybe Rama shouldn't have abandoned his supposedly beloved pregnant wife by the side of a river just because some asshole on a street corner in Ayodhya started a rumor.
Yeah yeah yeah. *Dharma.* I get it.
But what's the point of right action without nuance and judgement? If the proper dharma of a husband is to immolate his wife because she got kidnapped, if that of a king is to knowingly punish the innocent for the sake of his reputation, then maybe it's a stupid system.
It's undoubtedly important to make personal sacrifices for the sake of virtue and justice, but I'm unconvinced that morality is mechanically following a set of rules without questioning their purpose or considering the effect that doing so will have on the people around you.
The battles sounded like kids having imaginary fights on a playground: "Oh your Brahma arrow doesn't work on me because I have a super mega shield from fasting for 1000 years!" "I'll just use this magic plant I found in the woods to revive my entire monkey army instantly!"
Maybe Brahma shouldn't give everyone boons that end up screwing everyone else over.
Maybe Dasharatha should have looked Kaikeyi in the face and said "nah bitch."
Maybe Rama shouldn't have abandoned his supposedly beloved pregnant wife by the side of a river just because some asshole on a street corner in Ayodhya started a rumor.
Yeah yeah yeah. *Dharma.* I get it.
But what's the point of right action without nuance and judgement? If the proper dharma of a husband is to immolate his wife because she got kidnapped, if that of a king is to knowingly punish the innocent for the sake of his reputation, then maybe it's a stupid system.
It's undoubtedly important to make personal sacrifices for the sake of virtue and justice, but I'm unconvinced that morality is mechanically following a set of rules without questioning their purpose or considering the effect that doing so will have on the people around you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2017
No comment necessary on the source material, it is one of the unquestioned great epics of human civilisation. I enjoyed this version by Egenes and Reddy; I appreciated their effort to punctuate the story with the source verse material. I am not able to comment on the Sanskrit translation, but I have read a great deal of epic verse in translation and this seems to follow high-quality convention. As a first-time reader of the tale I liked the clear storytelling voice which retained many of the hallmarks of epic in translation, such as recurring descriptive rhetorical devices - it makes the reader feel connected to the source material. The retelling conveys a vibrant sense of wonder, which is a great credit to Egenes and Reddy. Highly recommended.
September 30, 2016
This book is a new favorite. The writing is beautiful and in no way intimidating, making it an enjoyable story for people of all ages. There is no dull moment and has rich imagery. Once you start reading, it is hard to put the book down once you get started. I definitely recommend the book to anyone who enjoys a gripping story.
March 30, 2019
The word epic does not seem to do this cosmic tale justice. While it is likely you have heard similar stories, the beautiful prose and moral teachings of this tale will lift you high. The story follows the rise of Rama, a hero who is at once more and yet exactly as he appears. Being forced into exile he finds his purpose in war with the Rakshasas and upholding Dharma.
January 2, 2020
My first reading of this great story, I really enjoyed. Filled with quotes in Sanskrit and a handy glossary, it is one of the most enjoyable read I have had in a long time.
May 24, 2024
I was getting worried when we reached the halfway mark and all the violence was happening off screen leaving only moral lesson after moral lesson, but the second half isn't pulling any punches. I'm here for the arms getting chopped off, and The Ramayana doesn't disappoint. Although, I don't love the way a lot of the non sentient animals are killed off so nonchalantly. It's not their fault that they're there or literally just living in the ocean.
I did really love the descriptions of the food, plants, and animals and the way that people are being compared to crying elephants and things of that nature. It really paints the scene and lends weight to the emotions of the characters.
Concerning gender roles:
I'm actually of two minds about this topic.
We've got our women who are either bashful little babies fully devoted to what the fuck ever their husbands do and then the manipulative bitches who ruin their own lives and the lives of their families. Those are your choices ladies. Although, Sita does spit in Rama's face a little in the epilogue. You go girl!
But then, Sita is really cherished, ya' know. And it's not tied to her ability to have children at all.
Also, a boon to woman is taken just as seriously as a boon to a Rishi in the case of Kaikeyi.
The men are part of the problem in that they run the society that expects women to be devoted in this way even to the point of killing themselves.
But otherwise, the men were gentle, devoted (except the times Rama acted like a dick)*, they openly felt deep feelings and had deep emotional connections with others. I honestly wouldn't say that their masculinity was toxic in the same way we see currently at least in the western world.
*This is for the good of the kingdom apparently. I think the gossipers should have been cursed instead. How were the gossipers not even in the wrong a little bit. They went on to live sickness and poverty free lives for thousands of years. Sita literally did nothing wrong possibly besides manipulating Lakshmana. That wasn't a very bashful baby thing to do.
Switching gears a bit:
The introduction goes on a bit about the first evil step-mother and expulsion into the wilderness.
But could it also be the first isekai?**
and the first climactic anime fight that lasts far far too long?
**I can't take credit for this thought, one of my kids said it.
Additionally, the betrayal from Kaikeyi actually feels similar in a way to Judas Iscariot in that she is manipulated by fate in order to bring about the salvation of the kingdom.
Also:
Just how many mountain peaks were there around the final battle? How did someone have arms like tree trunks, legs like mountains, and a mouth that can swallow hundreds of monkeys at once? Possibly giant monkeys? The math here is super fishy.
Ultimately, I'm glad we read this. It got too long in some places, sure.
Did it feel like we were continually retconning super animals into the story? Yes. Though, honestly these guys are some of the best characters in the epic. Shout out to my guy, Hanuman! You rock!
It really is a beautiful poem, and the inside look into the lives and beliefs of the people living in this time and place was really fascinating even if you know I gotta dissect it through a western modern feminist lens.
I did really love the descriptions of the food, plants, and animals and the way that people are being compared to crying elephants and things of that nature. It really paints the scene and lends weight to the emotions of the characters.
Concerning gender roles:
I'm actually of two minds about this topic.
We've got our women who are either bashful little babies fully devoted to what the fuck ever their husbands do and then the manipulative bitches who ruin their own lives and the lives of their families. Those are your choices ladies. Although, Sita does spit in Rama's face a little in the epilogue. You go girl!
But then, Sita is really cherished, ya' know. And it's not tied to her ability to have children at all.
Also, a boon to woman is taken just as seriously as a boon to a Rishi in the case of Kaikeyi.
The men are part of the problem in that they run the society that expects women to be devoted in this way even to the point of killing themselves.
But otherwise, the men were gentle, devoted (except the times Rama acted like a dick)*, they openly felt deep feelings and had deep emotional connections with others. I honestly wouldn't say that their masculinity was toxic in the same way we see currently at least in the western world.
*This is for the good of the kingdom apparently. I think the gossipers should have been cursed instead. How were the gossipers not even in the wrong a little bit. They went on to live sickness and poverty free lives for thousands of years. Sita literally did nothing wrong possibly besides manipulating Lakshmana. That wasn't a very bashful baby thing to do.
Switching gears a bit:
The introduction goes on a bit about the first evil step-mother and expulsion into the wilderness.
But could it also be the first isekai?**
and the first climactic anime fight that lasts far far too long?
**I can't take credit for this thought, one of my kids said it.
Additionally, the betrayal from Kaikeyi actually feels similar in a way to Judas Iscariot in that she is manipulated by fate in order to bring about the salvation of the kingdom.
Also:
Just how many mountain peaks were there around the final battle? How did someone have arms like tree trunks, legs like mountains, and a mouth that can swallow hundreds of monkeys at once? Possibly giant monkeys? The math here is super fishy.
Ultimately, I'm glad we read this. It got too long in some places, sure.
Did it feel like we were continually retconning super animals into the story? Yes. Though, honestly these guys are some of the best characters in the epic. Shout out to my guy, Hanuman! You rock!
It really is a beautiful poem, and the inside look into the lives and beliefs of the people living in this time and place was really fascinating even if you know I gotta dissect it through a western modern feminist lens.
March 21, 2020
This is my new favorite ancient epic, even above Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. It is one that Western readers are probably less familiar with, though, as it forms the foundation of Sanskrit literature, but it is still beloved and sacred to Hindu readers all over the world today.
I love how passionate and human this story is, revolving around the love of family members and spouses. At the same time, it is grand and epic, dealing with gods and immortals and terrible demons no one (well, almost no one) can slay.
Sure, it has its goofy, over-the-top moments, but that kind of comes with the genre. When you're reading a story like this, you just have to accept rules like "there are talking monkeys who can swell to giant sizes and hurl mountain tops at their enemies." If you can't, you'll be missing out on a lot of fun. 😉
Perhaps the most interesting thing about this story is it's not just an epic; it is also a revered religious text imbued with thought-provoking moral messages.
And this had an impact on me while reading it. More than once I was stirred to consider my own moral stances: What did I believe about this or that? What were issues I would never compromise on? I found myself confronting some of my own cognitive dissonance, merely as a result of reading this story. I think the experience has made me a slightly better person. That's pretty powerful!
I also want to give a special shout out to the character of Sita. She is, in my view, a stellar archetype of feminine strength. She's a damsel in distress who never once felt "weak" to me. She chooses to be pursued, which I found interesting. Sita has autonomy and an iron will; she never compromises on her values or betrays the one she loves. And yet, there is also something so sweet and gentle about her. I couldn't help feel both respect and affection for this character.
Admittedly, the feminist in me would critique a number of the messages this story gives to women. There are some super unfair things that happen to Sita, as a result of "purity"-esque cultural attitudes, that had me saying out loud: "What! That's fucked up!" But even still, Sita takes everything that happens to her with a divine, queenly grace that's hard not to admire.
I know I'll be treasuring this story for a while, and I expect I'll read it again!
I love how passionate and human this story is, revolving around the love of family members and spouses. At the same time, it is grand and epic, dealing with gods and immortals and terrible demons no one (well, almost no one) can slay.
Sure, it has its goofy, over-the-top moments, but that kind of comes with the genre. When you're reading a story like this, you just have to accept rules like "there are talking monkeys who can swell to giant sizes and hurl mountain tops at their enemies." If you can't, you'll be missing out on a lot of fun. 😉
Perhaps the most interesting thing about this story is it's not just an epic; it is also a revered religious text imbued with thought-provoking moral messages.
And this had an impact on me while reading it. More than once I was stirred to consider my own moral stances: What did I believe about this or that? What were issues I would never compromise on? I found myself confronting some of my own cognitive dissonance, merely as a result of reading this story. I think the experience has made me a slightly better person. That's pretty powerful!
I also want to give a special shout out to the character of Sita. She is, in my view, a stellar archetype of feminine strength. She's a damsel in distress who never once felt "weak" to me. She chooses to be pursued, which I found interesting. Sita has autonomy and an iron will; she never compromises on her values or betrays the one she loves. And yet, there is also something so sweet and gentle about her. I couldn't help feel both respect and affection for this character.
Admittedly, the feminist in me would critique a number of the messages this story gives to women. There are some super unfair things that happen to Sita, as a result of "purity"-esque cultural attitudes, that had me saying out loud: "What! That's fucked up!" But even still, Sita takes everything that happens to her with a divine, queenly grace that's hard not to admire.
I know I'll be treasuring this story for a while, and I expect I'll read it again!
August 15, 2021
"Even for the virtuous, the laws of Dharma are subtle and difficult to grasp. Only the soul, residing in the heart of all beings, knows what is right and what is wrong." Sri Ram
A powerful and poetic work filled with wisdom and teachings. I don't want to give too much away, but the indifference Ram shows in the face of the loss a kingdom rightfully his, his steadfast devotion to the path, or Dharma, his pure selflessness, and his grief in losing his love, cuts to the heart. The translation is immaculate; incredibly beautiful without losing the original meaning (I think, I can't read Sanskrit but I compared translations and the content still remained the same). Reading this book is a spiritual experience.
"Perseverance is the source of success and happiness." Hanuman
"Everyone reaps the consequences of their actions. No one can escape their own destiny."
"You must set aside your doubts, just as an ascetic sets aside the thoughts that do not help him attain his goal."
"Man cannot escape change. It is our fate on earth."
"The ruler who is not master of himself brings ruin to his kingdom."
"The wise say that happiness comes to everyone, even if they must wait a hundred years."
"Constant in pleasure and pain, nothing can harm you, not even the most fearful calamity."
"Without you, I will be like the moon without the sun to light it."
"Follow in the footsteps of your noble ancestors, and may you surpass them in glory."
A powerful and poetic work filled with wisdom and teachings. I don't want to give too much away, but the indifference Ram shows in the face of the loss a kingdom rightfully his, his steadfast devotion to the path, or Dharma, his pure selflessness, and his grief in losing his love, cuts to the heart. The translation is immaculate; incredibly beautiful without losing the original meaning (I think, I can't read Sanskrit but I compared translations and the content still remained the same). Reading this book is a spiritual experience.
"Perseverance is the source of success and happiness." Hanuman
"Everyone reaps the consequences of their actions. No one can escape their own destiny."
"You must set aside your doubts, just as an ascetic sets aside the thoughts that do not help him attain his goal."
"Man cannot escape change. It is our fate on earth."
"The ruler who is not master of himself brings ruin to his kingdom."
"The wise say that happiness comes to everyone, even if they must wait a hundred years."
"Constant in pleasure and pain, nothing can harm you, not even the most fearful calamity."
"Without you, I will be like the moon without the sun to light it."
"Follow in the footsteps of your noble ancestors, and may you surpass them in glory."
January 8, 2024
I read this epic in college and decided that after two decades, it was time to revisit this tale.
I was very pleased with this particular version because of the forward. It outlined the history of this ancient text and shed light on how it has influenced humans for centuries. I also like that the tone of the forward was carried through the text itself. Having seen "creative" reenactments of The Ramayana during Diwali, I was happy that the forward also proposed how some have interpreted the text.
To me, the experiences of Rama, Sita, and their allies shows us that while goodness can prevail, one must be skilled on many levels of human nature. The final battle between Rama and Ravana does not disappoint. It was easy to see how this influenced popular, modern stories, like the original Star Wars series from the 1970s and 1980s.
I had forgotten many details from when I first read this story over 20 years ago. One that stood out to me was the topic of the treatment of women. At one point, when Ravana consults his advisors, rape is mentioned. However, the overall tone is that seeing or causing these abuses upon women is more likely to have bad results on the soul level as well as in this life.
When Hanuman was frustrated, he used his skills in mental health to return his thoughts to a place of equanimity. When Rama was exiled by a greedy wife of his father, Sita and Lakshmana followed him without question. The epic struggle of good and evil, light and dark, pious and impious, are ever present for every character in this epic tale. Using the forward to better understand their choices made the reading of The Ramayana a wonderous, thrilling, and educational experience.
I was very pleased with this particular version because of the forward. It outlined the history of this ancient text and shed light on how it has influenced humans for centuries. I also like that the tone of the forward was carried through the text itself. Having seen "creative" reenactments of The Ramayana during Diwali, I was happy that the forward also proposed how some have interpreted the text.
To me, the experiences of Rama, Sita, and their allies shows us that while goodness can prevail, one must be skilled on many levels of human nature. The final battle between Rama and Ravana does not disappoint. It was easy to see how this influenced popular, modern stories, like the original Star Wars series from the 1970s and 1980s.
I had forgotten many details from when I first read this story over 20 years ago. One that stood out to me was the topic of the treatment of women. At one point, when Ravana consults his advisors, rape is mentioned. However, the overall tone is that seeing or causing these abuses upon women is more likely to have bad results on the soul level as well as in this life.
When Hanuman was frustrated, he used his skills in mental health to return his thoughts to a place of equanimity. When Rama was exiled by a greedy wife of his father, Sita and Lakshmana followed him without question. The epic struggle of good and evil, light and dark, pious and impious, are ever present for every character in this epic tale. Using the forward to better understand their choices made the reading of The Ramayana a wonderous, thrilling, and educational experience.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2022
After reading a review, I wanted to read Kaikeyi, an apparently feminist retelling of the story of the original wicked stepmother (Rama's), but decided that this would be like getting a sense of the Oz books by reading Wicked. So I took this on. I had some familiarity with bits and pieces -- we have a big batik rendering of the monkey demigod Hanuman in our home -- but I had never attempted the full story. I am glad I finally did. Given how old this is -- it is a story of a human incarnation of a god that predates the Christian mythos by about 6th centuries -- it feels oddly familiar in its relationships, passions, outcomes. Rama is too good to be true, but he does have his human qualities (despair can make him suicidal). Still, it's the secondary and tertiary characters that are compelling, Hanuman above all, but also Rama's loyal but impetuous brother Lakshmana, his pure but also invincibly headstrong wife Sita, et al. Sita is really important because she gives the story its tragic edge. When she is stolen by the demon king Ravana, the heartbreak only begins. Even after (and it is a long time after) Ravana is defeated, Rama refuses to take her back, not once but twice, because others (not Rama) doubt her purity. Talk about a story due for a feminist retelling.
November 3, 2018
The Journey of Rama. Since I was reading a scrolling electronic version of the book, I don't know if it was 100, 500 or 1,000 pages long, and it didn't matter. Every page was like strolling along flower-lined and fragrant paths; one doesn't easily become bored by beauty. The story is that of Rama, the seventh avatar of Hindu supreme God Vishnu. Vishnu agrees to be born as a human so that the invincible demon Ravana can finally be defeated and mankind returned to the path if Dharma. If, like me, you have a very sketchy idea of what the Hindu concept of dharma is, by the end of the book it will be made pretty clear.
In my Western mind I think of it as Right Action. Situational Ethics, if you will, since life is a series of situations, each presenting a choice. Every page of this book shows the consequences of right and wrong choices. Rama, as the Perfect Man, is the model. Some right choices are painful. All right choices include kindness, compassion for the weak and unwavering love and support between brothers, spouses and true friends.
There are many retellings of Ramayana available. This is a good one.
In my Western mind I think of it as Right Action. Situational Ethics, if you will, since life is a series of situations, each presenting a choice. Every page of this book shows the consequences of right and wrong choices. Rama, as the Perfect Man, is the model. Some right choices are painful. All right choices include kindness, compassion for the weak and unwavering love and support between brothers, spouses and true friends.
There are many retellings of Ramayana available. This is a good one.
April 11, 2020
This is a superb telling of this classic Ancient Hindu tale. The language is poetic, casting hypnotic rhythms into a clear and readable prose that shimmers with radiance like the arrival of a celestial intervention from the Devas. So sincere at times, it’s corny to my innate GenX cynicism, yet it also is unfathomable that such joyful and kind hearted humans could have existed ever. Well, Rāma wasn’t really a human as much as the god Vishnu playing human to give the humans a good story. Plot twists are full of Deus Ex Machina devices at every turn, but still the story is way more engaging than any animal poaching Netflix atrocity. Sitā surely suffered far more than those imbued with celestial weapons and magical herbs, but hey, the caste system is rigid. Hanumān and his Vānara brethren stole the show for me, and I will certainly reread this work and will seek to read some everyday from now on. Shri Hanumān! Shri Rāma!
May 2, 2018
Works of historical importance get three stars. They are "good."
I'm viewing this story from a modern, Western point of view of course. With that context, there are things in here that don't really resonate -- Rama being flawless and what happens to Sita, notably. But other elements in the structure really have aged well. I like that Rama is forced to ally with monkeys to defeat the demons... the guy is overpowered, but at least he has to make some less-overpowered alliances. The main character being cast into the woods has clearly influenced tons of stories that came later. And the fighting here is also kind of fun, although everybody is invincible and can shoot ten thousand arrows with the blink of one of their million eyes. Sort of hard to picture, sometimes.
I'm viewing this story from a modern, Western point of view of course. With that context, there are things in here that don't really resonate -- Rama being flawless and what happens to Sita, notably. But other elements in the structure really have aged well. I like that Rama is forced to ally with monkeys to defeat the demons... the guy is overpowered, but at least he has to make some less-overpowered alliances. The main character being cast into the woods has clearly influenced tons of stories that came later. And the fighting here is also kind of fun, although everybody is invincible and can shoot ten thousand arrows with the blink of one of their million eyes. Sort of hard to picture, sometimes.
August 28, 2018
This is my new favorite retelling of the classic Ramayana. It’s accessible, eloquent, respectful and accurate. If English is your first language, this is the version for you.
If you want to know more about India, her people, Dharma, and enjoy a good story - this epic about Rama has it all. Even Mark Twain noted that the Ramayana (Journeys of Rama) is a world literature classic.
Only one nitpick - there were two aspects to the story that were left out and they’re two of my favorites: 1. When Balarama confronts Rama upon breaking Shiva’s bow. That’s an epic scene where two avatars face each other. 2. The story of Hanuman’s heart and what���s in it.
Loved the cheeky part where the chaste Sita sits on Rama’s lap (they’re married, but still it’s cute).
Great book - you’ll enjoy it.
If you want to know more about India, her people, Dharma, and enjoy a good story - this epic about Rama has it all. Even Mark Twain noted that the Ramayana (Journeys of Rama) is a world literature classic.
Only one nitpick - there were two aspects to the story that were left out and they’re two of my favorites: 1. When Balarama confronts Rama upon breaking Shiva’s bow. That’s an epic scene where two avatars face each other. 2. The story of Hanuman’s heart and what���s in it.
Loved the cheeky part where the chaste Sita sits on Rama’s lap (they’re married, but still it’s cute).
Great book - you’ll enjoy it.
August 10, 2021
Personally I hated this story, but I'm very much not a spiritual person, so maybe I missed the point. I received this as a gift.
Also, I think Linda and Kumuda have done a great job with this, it is very easy to read and I think they've made the content much more accessible.
I just couldn't take the complete lack of stakes in this story. How can I care if a person is injured/killed, if one paragraph later they sniff a magic herb and are fully healed? How can I care if a character disguises themselves only to reveal themselves immediately afterwards?
Added to that you have the usual ancient epic stuff of "the best thing a woman can do is obey her husband" etc etc.
Also, I think Linda and Kumuda have done a great job with this, it is very easy to read and I think they've made the content much more accessible.
I just couldn't take the complete lack of stakes in this story. How can I care if a person is injured/killed, if one paragraph later they sniff a magic herb and are fully healed? How can I care if a character disguises themselves only to reveal themselves immediately afterwards?
Added to that you have the usual ancient epic stuff of "the best thing a woman can do is obey her husband" etc etc.
March 21, 2020
When I was growing up (around age 10), the Indian gardener who worked for my family brought a book of one of the Hindu epics that he had just acquired. I don't know if it was the 'Ramayana', the 'Bhagavad Gita' or the 'Mahabharata'. All I remember is the glossy pages that contained gorgeous images of blue-skinned deities riding magnificent chariots, and that it was [frustratingly] written in a script that I could not read -- it was either Hindi or Tamil.
Since then I have always wanted to read the Hindu epics, but I had no access to the English translation. Also, I wanted to find as complete and unabridged a version as I could get, and that added to the complexity of the search. This is a prose version, and it seems to be quite thorough and faithful to the (Valmiki's) original.
I listened to the audiobook, and although the narrator did not use different voices for the large cast of characters, I very much enjoyed the oral rendition of this classic.
Since then I have always wanted to read the Hindu epics, but I had no access to the English translation. Also, I wanted to find as complete and unabridged a version as I could get, and that added to the complexity of the search. This is a prose version, and it seems to be quite thorough and faithful to the (Valmiki's) original.
I listened to the audiobook, and although the narrator did not use different voices for the large cast of characters, I very much enjoyed the oral rendition of this classic.
June 6, 2021
Doesn't seem so much like a retelling, unless you're being literal, as it seems pretty much the same as the original to me. It hasn't been updated to meet modern sensibilities and seems patriarchal, consumerist, and judgmental. My own judgment here is preventing me from really listening to this although if it were more concise I probably would have hung on longer
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December 8, 2023I wanted to read this because it is the source material for some stories related to yoga and yoga asana. For example, the pose Hanumanasana is named for the leap that the brave monkey Hanuman took to cross the ocean to save the kidnapped Sita. That leap is a small but important part of the Ramayana as a whole. I'm glad to finally have read the entire epic journey!
November 27, 2017
A wonderful adaptation of the classic Valmiki poem.
February 26, 2018
I loved the Mahabharata but this was not nearly as engaging for me. The story was too fractured, the characters where flat and overly celestial.
March 4, 2018
Very enjoyable odyssey!!! I loved the monkeys!!! Hanuman is the best!! 🙌🏻🐵🙌🏻
October 1, 2018
Relived childhood memories. So many valuable lessons to learn from the great Ramayana. A must read for those who follow or wish to follow the path of dharma.
December 25, 2019
The devil is in the details and this book is a good example of it. Amazing read.
January 3, 2020
Fascinating read!
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