The odyssey of Rama, a great king of ancient India—a literary epic of romance, adventure, and philosophy.

On the eve of his enthronement, Rama, the beloved prince of Ayodhya, is banished to the forest as a result of a sinister plot. Along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, Rama accepts his destiny and departs as the kingdom mourns his loss. His exile, however, proves to have a deeper meaning as Rama becomes the protector of the forest sages and sparks the fury of Ravana, the seemingly invincible demon who terrorizes humans and gods alike. In a vengeful act, Ravana kidnaps Sita, taking her across the ocean to Lanka. Now Rama, with the help of an army of fantastical creatures, must fight to reclaim his dear bride and his honor.

Despite its popularity in Eastern cultures, and though Eastern and Western scholars alike recognize it as a literary masterpiece, the Ramayana is unknown to most in the West. This edition gives English-speaking readers the best opportunity yet to discover and enjoy this ancient classic, revered throughout the ages for its moral and spiritual wisdom.