First told by the poet Valmiki in 24,000 Sanskrit verses more than 20,000 years ago, and then memorized and retold by Valmiki's disciples and passed down from generation to generation, the Ramayana has been central to Indian life. It has been the basis for understanding morality and spirituality for millennia.

'Probably no other work of world literature has produced so profound an influence in the life and thought of a people as the Ramayana.' - A. A. Macdonell, Literary Historian.

'For anyone who has no previous acquaintance with the Ramayana, this translation provides an accessible form of its basic narrative, free of most of the accretions that have surrounded it over the centuries. This translation is more than a reworking, though, since it stays so close to the Valmiki Ramayana, and is rather a vivid retelling, with the religious message that it has acquired presented in a way adjusted to our times. Above all, it is to be commended for the way it brings the story to life.' - Professor J. L. Brockington, Ph.D., Department of Sanskrit, University of Edinburgh.

Krishna Dharma is a Hindu theologian and broadcaster. Initiated into the 5000 year old Vaishnava tradition that began with Lord Krishna, he specialises in making the ancient Sanskrit writings of the Vedas accessible to contemporary audiences through books, lectures, seminars and workshops. He currently lives with his wife and three children in Hertfordshire, England. Visit his personal website for more information.