The Ramayana Translated from the Original of Valmiki

Book Description

The Ramayana Translated from the Original of Valmiki: A Modernised Version in English Prose (Three Volumes Bound in One) by Makhanlal Sen presents a contemporary retelling of one of India's most revered epics. This translation not only preserves the essence of Valmiki’s original narrative but also adapts it for modern readers, making the timeless themes of love, duty, and morality accessible to a new audience.

Introduction

In exploring this monumental text, Sen emphasizes the intricate relationship between the epochs of human life and the vast stretches of time. The philosopher’s insight that we cannot escape the past rings particularly true in the context of India, where the historical narrative deeply influences contemporary society, politics, and religion.

Understanding modern India requires a thorough appreciation of its epic heritage. The Ramayana serves as a crucial lens through which one can examine the national psyche, revealing the grandeur and complexities that shape Indian identity. Sen asserts that these epics are not mere stories; they encapsulate the lives of remarkable heroes whose deeds and virtues illuminate the path of national consciousness and aspiration.

As articulated by Professor Max Müller, true history is often measured by the extraordinary rather than the ordinary. The Ramayana stands as a testament to this perspective, allowing readers to grasp the deeper currents of Indian thought and culture through the lives of its legendary figures. This work invites us to engage with the past to better understand the present, illuminating the enduring legacy of the great epics in shaping India's moral and ethical landscape.

By modernizing this classic tale, Makhanlal Sen offers not just a translation, but a bridge connecting ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives in light of these timeless teachings.