Ramayanam

The Ramayanam is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, the other being the Mahabharata. It is attributed to the sage Valmiki and is a foundational text in Hinduism, revered for its philosophical teachings, ethical dilemmas, and depiction of dharma (righteous duty).

The epic narrates the life of Rama, the prince of Ayodhya, who is exiled to the forest for fourteen years due to his father King Dasharatha's promise to his stepmother Kaikeyi. Rama's devoted wife Sita and loyal brother Lakshmana accompany him into exile. The central conflict arises when Sita is abducted by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. The remainder of the epic details Rama's quest to rescue Sita, his alliance with the monkey king Sugriva and his valiant general Hanuman, and the epic war against Ravana and his demon army.

Key themes explored in the Ramayanam include the ideal king, the ideal wife, filial devotion, loyalty, justice, and the triumph of good over evil. The characters, particularly Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, are seen as embodiments of virtues and are widely worshipped. The Ramayanam has had a profound and lasting influence on Indian culture, art, literature, and religious practices, inspiring countless adaptations and interpretations across various languages and regions.