New Delhi: Maharishi Valmiki, the writer of the Hindu epic Ramayana, holds an unparalleled and unique place in India’s cultural and literary history. Renowned as the Adi Kavi or India’s first poet, the sage transformed the spiritual and philosophical wisdom of ancient times into lyrical verse. His Ramayana, a magnum opus, is not just a religious scripture but also the earliest example of Sanskrit poetry, composed in the shloka metre that Valmiki himself is credited with inventing. Through his valuable words, Valmiki immortalised the ideals of truth, righteousness, devotion, and human values, making him a pioneer of Indian literature.

The transformation of Valmiki, from a forest-dwelling bandit named Ratnakar to a revered sage and poet, adds to his exceptional legacy. On Valmiki Jayanti 2

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