{"product_id":"the-ramayana-new-retelling-valmiki-0143111809","title":"The Ramayana: A New Retelling of Valmiki's Ancient Epic--Complete and Comprehensive (Tarcher Cornerstone Editions)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview of the Ramayana\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ramayana is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient India, attributed to the sage Valmiki. It narrates the story of Prince Rama, who embarks on a quest to rescue his beloved wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. This timeless tale explores themes of duty, devotion, courage, and the triumph of good over evil. The epic is divided into seven books (kandas) and contains approximately 24,000 verses, making it a cornerstone of Indian literature and philosophy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAbout This Edition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis edition presents a new retelling of Valmiki's ancient epic, described as complete and comprehensive. It aims to make the vast narrative accessible to modern readers while preserving the essence of the original. The retelling is presented in a single volume, allowing readers to experience the full arc of the story without abridgement. It is designed for both those new to the Ramayana and those familiar with the epic who seek a fresh perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eThemes and Significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Ramayana addresses universal questions about righteousness, loyalty, and the nature of good and evil. Central characters include Rama, the ideal prince and embodiment of dharma; Sita, his devoted wife; Hanuman, the loyal monkey god; and Ravana, the complex antagonist. The epic has influenced countless works of art, literature, and culture across South and Southeast Asia. Its teachings on duty and devotion continue to resonate with readers today.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho Will Enjoy This Book\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis retelling is suitable for a wide audience. Beginners will appreciate the clear narrative and engaging style, while those already acquainted with the Ramayana will find a rendition that highlights the epic's emotional depth and philosophical insights. It is also a valuable resource for students of comparative religion, philosophy, and South Asian studies, offering a gateway to the rich tradition of Indian mythology.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Choose This Retelling\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe retelling aims to balance fidelity to the original with readability. It presents the epic in a fluid, novel-like style without sacrificing the grandeur of the source material. The structure is designed for easy reading, with chapters that allow readers to dip in and out as desired. Whether for personal enrichment or academic study, this edition brings the timeless wisdom of the Ramayana to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this retelling faithful to Valmiki's original?\u003c\/strong\u003e The retelling is described as complete and comprehensive, adhering to the major episodes and themes of the classic text.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it suitable for young readers?\u003c\/strong\u003e While the Ramayana contains episodes of violence, this retelling is generally appropriate for teenagers and adults.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it include scholarly notes?\u003c\/strong\u003e The focus is on the story itself, making it a straightforward retelling without extensive academic commentary.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tarcher Cornerstone Editions","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48337861968110,"sku":null,"price":60.43,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0816\/1158\/7822\/files\/71e1BLNyKpL._SL1500_bed7fbf4-3f95-4b43-9689-ac650dee0bf1.jpg?v=1784298270","url":"https:\/\/vitamin4ca.com\/products\/the-ramayana-new-retelling-valmiki-0143111809","provider":"vitamin4ca","version":"1.0","type":"link"}