Valmiki Ramayana

Over the years I've read a few versions, like Bucks, et al. But I can see this is going to be the definitive version. It has copious notes(not distractingly), an extremely attractive cover for each volume, sturdy slipcase, and extremely meticulous research by Mr. Debroy. How much do I love this set? I've already ordered his 10 volume set of the Mahabharata. This gentleman knows his profession.

Bibek Debroy's translations are excellent and based in scholarly works. They do not lean heavily on doctrine, but instead focus on the meaning of the text. They are very accessible to laymen and people who are new to the concepts of Hinduism, and are also great for those who are exploring Sanatana Dharma more fully. My only issue with his work is that he consistently, in all his translations, eschews the standard IAST diacritical marks to make the books flow more like novels for English speakers. This creates some slight issue wherein you may not know the stressed part of a name or word, or you may have two people who share the same name, which would normally be differentiated by accent marks. Where this has failed us, Debroy comes in with excellent footnotes that clarify any possible confusions due to this or any other translation choices. I also have his translation of the Mahabharata, I would recommend it, as well, just so you have both epics at your fingertips.

When Rama leaves Ayodhya his dad his mum all the people in the kingdom feel sad and cry. What a beautiful person he is . I came from a background where I had a bit aversion for Rama. Yet my grand parents used to have him in our puja room long ago. Nice to know about Lord Ram

Spectacular translation of a world-shaking classic. Beautiful paperback volumes that are easy to hold and read. One setback - in volume 1 at least, pages 31-103 are out of order, so there's some gymnastics jumping from one page to the next to figure out what you're reading. For 30 pages, I survived, but it's a really bizarre problem to have. (To be fair, I also own a Complete Works of Shakespeare that omits the pages including "To be or not to be", and I know things happen in production...) I hope the publishers have addressed this or will soon -- I bought my copy in June 2025 and this issue existed then.

Must read for every one who follows Sanatana Dharma (Hindu religion). This collection of books includes translation in easy to read English of the original text of Ramayana written by sage Valmiki. It is an apt answer to those naysayers who say Ramayana is “Hindu Mythology” whereas it is actually a historical treatise which has been written off as story/ epic by the western world.

The books arrived remarkably quickly considering they shipped from overseas. They were packaged very securely and and look great! I'm very pleased with this service from the seller.

Finally it is a pleasure to read the Ramayana in it’s full. This translation by Bibek Debroy is the next best to the original in Sanskrit. I can only imagine the poetic beauty Iit Sanskrit. The notes that have been provided adds to the value of the book - be i the context. Extra information or certain missing links Bibek Debroy has done a wonderful job in the translation of Ramayana

Best gifting option for someone who is interested to know about it

Best read of all time.

Very beautiful and fast shipping

The Valmiki Ramayana is a majestic and timeless retelling of one of the greatest epics ever composed. Attributed to Maharishi Valmiki, this work stands as the foundational version of the Ramayana, offering readers not just a story, but a profound moral, spiritual, and cultural guide that has shaped Indian thought for millennia. Spread across three well-structured volumes, the box set allows the epic to unfold with depth and continuity. From the ideal kingship of Dasharatha and the divine birth of Rama, to the trials of exile, Sita’s unwavering strength, Hanuman’s boundless devotion, and the ultimate triumph of dharma over adharma, the narrative flows with dignity and emotional resonance. Each kanda carries its own weight, yet contributes seamlessly to the larger philosophical vision of the epic.

If you are looking only for the main storyline—Rama’s birth, his time with Sage Vishwamitra, Rama and Sita’s marriage, the exile, Sita’s abduction, the meeting with Hanuman, Hanuman burning Lanka, the Ram Setu, and Rama killing Ravana—then this book may not be for you. However, if you want to read the Ramayana from the very beginning, in clear and understandable English with good grammar and at an affordable price, this is one of the best options available. Bibek Debroy is a master translator. This is my first book translated by him, and after reading this Ramayana, I have become his fan. Also,the books includes footnotes and it makes the book more easier, because for someone who do not know sanskrit or Hinduism stories, footnotes do an amazing work to let everyone understand the meaning. The overall book quality is excellent, and Penguin Classics has done an amazing job with the publication. The price is absolutely worth it—₹1000 is very reasonable for a complete three-volume set.

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