Bala Kanda 1

Valmiki Ramayana: Translation by Uma Sri

Posted: Jul 22, 2026

The Opening

The ascetic Valmiki, eloquent in speech and devoted to austerities, asked Sage Narada:

"Who in this world is truly virtuous, heroic, truthful, and a knower of Dharma? Who is of pristine conduct and untainted by envy or anger? Who remains a well-wisher to all living beings, yet is so formidable in battle that even the gods fear his wrath? Sage, you know the happenings of the three worlds—please tell me about such a man."

Narada smiled. "The virtues you speak of are rare indeed, yet I do know of one such!"

Narada's Narration

Born into the illustrious Ikshvaku dynasty, he is known as Rama. He is a master of his mind and senses—wise, steadfast, eloquent, and unrivaled in statecraft.

Broad-shouldered and wide-chested, with powerful arms, he carries the physical presence of a ruler and the grace of divinity itself. This skilled bowman has well-proportioned limbs and a neck like a conch shell. Equanimous and of a pleasing disposition, his large eyes radiate the grace of Goddess Lakshmi.

He is cherished by all whom he meets. Just as rivers flow toward the ocean, the virtuous naturally seek this noble soul. Adorned with such qualities is Rama, the eternal source of joy for his mother, Kausalya.

Like the ocean in spiritual depth,
Himalayas in firm resolve,
Kala-Agni (Shiva) in wrath against Adharma.

Like the Earth in forbearance,
Dhana-Dena (Lakshmi) in generosity,
Dharmaraja in absolute truthfulness.

Like the moon in a soothing appearance
and Vishnu Himself in valor.

Such is Rama, the beloved eldest son of King Dasharatha.