This is the first of seven volumes of a translation of the Valmiki Ramayana, the great Sanskrit epic of the life of Rama, ideal man and incarnation of the great god Visnu. This renowned work of ancient India has profoundly affected the literature, art, religions, and cultures of countless millions of people in South and Southeast Asia -- an influence that is perhaps unparalleled in the history of world literature. Balakanda, the opening portion of this first translation to be based on the critical edition (Oriental Institute, Baroda), is presented here in a compact volume Without the section of notes."His name is Rama and he was born in the House of Iksyaku. All men know of him, for he is self-controlled, mighty, radiant steadfast, and masterful.... Eloquent and majestic, he annihilates his, enemies. His shoulders are broad and his arms mighty.... His brow is noble and his gait full of grace. His proportions are perfect and his limbs well-formed and symmetrical. Dark is his complexion, and he is valorous.... He is renowned, learned, pure, disciplined, and contemplative... the protector of all living things and the guardian of righteousness.... He is the fie is the constant resort of good men, as is the ocean of rivers... The delight gifted with every virtue. For he is deep as the ocean and as unyielding as the Himalayas.... Moved by affection for him, Dasaratha, lord of the earth, wished to appoint this Rama, his beloved eldest son, as prince regent...."