The best English translation of The Ramayana?

Question

Namaste

Someone asked me what I would recommend as the best English translation for The Ramayana.

I do not have one to recommend. Since I promised I would get back to him with some information, I am wondering if you have you would recommend. If you would be so kind, would you please say why you like it?

Thank you ever so much
Lakshmi Parimala

Answer 1

I am not aware of any translation of Original Ramayana (there may be) in English, but many persons have written it in various languages and also in English. If would suggest you to get the English Ramayana written by Chakravarthy C. Rajagopalachari (Popularly known as Rajaji), who has adoped and retold from Valmiki Ramayana.

Rajaji was a very popular writer in Tamil and English, Some of his books have a unique place in the world of letters. He has also translated some Kannada stories into Tamil. He has written more than thirty books. His books on the ancient Roman King Marcus Aurelius, on the Bhagavad- Gita, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Upanishads are all very famous. Even a common man can read and understand his writings. Rajaji said, "My books on the Ramayana and the Mahabharata are my greatest service to my people." There is no exaggeration in it. Their simple style is very attractive.

You can read this Ramayana book on line at - http://www.rajaji.net/Rajaji-Original/ramayana/index.htm

You can get this book from any popular book shops in India. If you are living outside India you can order it on line with Amazon and the like is here-http://www.amazon.com/Ramayana-C-Rajagopalachari/dp/8172763654/ref=pd_sim_b_1/103-3659886-0797442 -

Answer 2

Ramayana Translation

Answer 3

I would not say its a translation. But its a new way of telling the Ramayana. If you want to really enjoy it as a story read the Ramayana Series by Ashok K Banker. I am sure you will be hooked.

Answer 4

I'd like to know this too. I read a condensed Ramayana and it was fantastic.