Ratnakar

Ratnakar, a Sanskrit name meaning "jewel-bearing" or "one who possesses jewels," is used as a given name in India and among Indian communities abroad. It is also the name of a legendary figure in Hindu literature.

In traditional accounts, Ratnakar was a bandit who roamed the forests and robbed travelers. His life changed after he met the sage Narada, who asked him about the consequences of his violence and urged him to seek a higher path. Moved by Narada's words, Ratnakar renounced his criminal life and devoted himself to spiritual practice. He became a sage and, under divine inspiration, composed a long narrative recounting the story of Rama. This work came to be known as the Ramayana, and the author is revered as Valmiki. The name Valmiki is sometimes linked to the story of an anthill (valmi) near his hermitage, which is said to have sheltered him while he narrated the epic.

The tale of Ratnakar is often cited as a parable of potential for redemption and transformation. In modern use, Ratnakar remains a common given name in Indian communities, separate from the historical figure Valmiki. It is important not to confuse Ratnakar with Karna, whose birth name in the Mahabharata is often given as Radheya, or with other similarly named figures.