The Ramayana is one of the two major Sanskrit epics of ancient Indian literature, the other being the Mahabharata. It is attributed to the sage Valmiki and is believed to have been composed around 500 BCE to 100 BCE. The Ramayana is a cornerstone of Hindu mythology and is revered not only for its literary excellence but also for its moral and spiritual teachings.

The epic narrates the story of Lord Rama, an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, and his journey to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. The narrative explores themes of duty, righteousness, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil.

The Ramayana is divided into seven books, known as Kandas, which chronicle various stages of Rama's life. These are:

1. Balakanda: The childhood and youth of Rama.

2. Ayodhyakanda: Rama's exile and his father King Dasharatha's death.

3. Aranyakanda: Rama's life in the forest during his exile.

4. Kishkindhakanda: Rama's alliance with the monkey king Sugriva and the search for Sita.

5. Sundarakanda: Hanuman's journey to Lanka in search of Sita.

6. Yuddhakanda: The battle between Rama and Ravana.

7. Uttarakanda: Rama's return to Ayodhya and his reign as king.