"The Ramayana" is a timeless and epic (24,000 verses and seven books/cantos) tale from ancient Indian literature that transcends religious boundaries and offers a captivating narrative for people of all backgrounds. Written by Valmiki in Sanskrit anywhere from 500-100 B.C.E., this Hindu text is a grand adventure story exploring universal themes such as love, duty, honor, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

The epic is a significant marker in the evolution of Hindu religious beliefs and practices. It incorporates elements of devotion to Lord Vishnu, particularly in his incarnation as Rama, which became central to the Bhakti (devotional) movement in later Hinduism.

Centuries ago, King Dasaratha of Kosala, without a child to take over his throne, turns to his trusted mentor for advice. The mentor suggests performing a special ceremony with the help of a wise sage, Viswamithra. After the ritual, the king's three wives each give birth to a son: Rama, Bharatha, Lakshmana, and Sathrugna.

Rama and Lakshmana accompany Viswamithra during a journey to protect the sage during a sacrifice. During this journey, Rama learns valuable knowledge about weapons and warfare from Viswamithra and hears the story of a demoness named Thataka.

Rama defeats the demoness at the site of the sacrifice and meets King Janaka and his daughter, Sita, with whom he falls in love. With the help of Viswamithra, Rama completes a seemingly impossible task and wins Sita's hand in marriage. The wedding is held in Mithila, and Rama and his brothers eventually return to their home in Ayodhya.

As Dasaratha ages, he designates Rama as his successor. Preparations for Rama's coronation begin, causing joy among most, except for Kooni, Kaikeyi's--one of Dasartha's three wives--confidante. Kooni manipulates Kaikeyi into fearing mistreatment by Rama as king. On a particular night, Kaikeyi requests that Dasaratha fulfill two past promises: to send Rama to the forest for 14 years and to bestow the crown upon Bharatha, her son. Despite reluctance, Dasaratha agrees. The following morning, Kaikeyi explains to the ministers, and when Rama arrives, he accepts exile.

Despite efforts to persuade him otherwise, Rama departs, joined by Lakshmana and Sita. Sathrugna helps them escape unnoticed. Dasaratha dies upon hearing of Rama's departure. After returning to the city, Bharatha learns of the situation, dresses in bark, and visits Rama, who remains resolute in exile. Bharatha decides to rule from outside the city.

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita distance themselves from Ayodhya to avoid persuasion. They encounter Jatayu, Dasaratha's eagle friend, who vows to protect Rama. Soon, Soorpanaka, Ravana's demon sister in disguise, approaches and unsuccessfully attempts to seduce Rama. Distraught, she plans to harm Sita. Lakshmana intervenes, disfiguring Soorpanaka. Despite Rama's explanations, she remains hostile, leading to Lakshmana's decision to deal with her.

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita move far away from Ayodhya to avoid interference. They encounter Jatayu, a loyal friend of Dasaratha's, who pledges to safeguard Rama until his return from exile.

One day, Soorpanaka, Ravana's demon sister, attempts to seduce Rama but is rejected. Enraged, she plots to kill Sita. Lakshmana intervenes, disfiguring Soorpanaka. Ravana learns of this and decides to abduct Sita.

Ravana seeks the aid of Mareecha, a reluctant demon. Mareecha transforms into a golden deer to distract Rama, leading him far away from Sita. When Rama shoots the deer, Mareecha imitates Rama's voice, prompting Sita to send Lakshmana to help. Disguised as a Brahmin, Ravana approaches Sita and reveals his true form. Sita cries for help as Ravana abducts her, taking a piece of the earth with her. Jatayu attempts to rescue her but is wounded.

Rama and Lakshmana enter the land of monkeys, meeting...