Tamil Edition of Kamba Ramayanam Kiskindha Canto, 1961 (Mahamahopadhyay V Swaminathan Iyer Series 25) Published by Satyam Press in Chennai

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Kamba Ramayanam is an epic Tamil poem attributed to the saint poet Kamban. It is a retelling of the Hindu mythological epic, Ramayana, originally written in Sanskrit by Valmiki. Kamba Ramayanam has been widely recognized as one of the greatest literary works in the Tamil language and has been praised for its profound spiritual teachings and vivid depiction of characters and events.

Among the various cantos of Kamba Ramayanam, the Kiskindha Canto holds a special place. It narrates the story of the pivotal events that took place in the forest of Kiskindha, where Lord Rama and his loyal devotee Hanuman meet for the first time. This canto showcases the remarkable bond between Rama and Hanuman and elaborates on the journey of friendship, trust, and devotion that they embark upon.

The 1961 edition of Kamba Ramayanam’s Kiskindha Canto, penned by Mahamahopadhyay V Swaminathan Iyer, is widely acclaimed for its scholarly translation and annotations. Satyam Press Chennai has published this edition, making it accessible to a wider audience. The book not only unveils the profound meaning of each verse but also provides invaluable historical and cultural context, enlightening readers about the rich tapestry of ancient Tamil society.

In the Kiskindha Canto, Kamban showcases the divine and selfless character of Hanuman through his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. The canto begins with Hanuman’s introduction, highlighting his immense strength and knowledge. Hanuman’s loyalty to his king, Sugriva, and his unwavering dedication to serve the greater cause are prominent themes throughout the narration.

The Canto reaches its peak when Hanuman leaps across the ocean to reach the kingdom of Lanka in search of Sita, who had been kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. Hanuman’s adventures in Lanka, the act of finding Sita, and the subsequent interactions with the mighty demons exemplify his bravery and intelligence. The canto beautifully captures the essence of Hanuman’s devotion, and his constant thoughts about Rama’s well-being and welfare of his people.

What separates Kamba Ramayanam from other retellings of the Ramayana is the utilization of the Tamil language’s rich poetic tradition. Kamban’s mastery of language results in captivating verses that effortlessly bring the characters and events to life. Mahamahopadhyay V Swaminathan Iyer, in his translation and annotations, successfully captures the essence of Kamban’s majestic poetry, ensuring that the reader can experience the verses with the same depth and beauty intended by the original author.

The 1961 edition of Kamba Ramayanam Kiskindha Canto, published by Satyam Press Chennai, is a valuable addition to any literature enthusiast’s collection. Whether one is well-versed in Tamil literature or merely curious about the remarkable epic, this edition offers a comprehensive and enriching reading experience.

The Mahamahopadhyay V Swaminathan Iyer Series, of which this edition is a part, is highly regarded for its diligent research and attention to detail. It is an authoritative translation that provides valuable insights into the cultural and historical aspects of Kamba Ramayanam. Satyam Press Chennai has done an excellent job of bringing this edition to the masses, ensuring that the profound wisdom embedded within Kamba Ramayanam Kiskindha Canto reaches readers far and wide.

In conclusion, the 1961 edition of Kamba Ramayanam Kiskindha Canto Tamil, translated by Mahamahopadhyay V Swaminathan Iyer, holds immense value for Tamil literature enthusiasts. Satyam Press Chennai’s efforts in making this edition accessible to a wider audience deserve commendation. Kamban’s timeless epic comes alive through the words of Iyer, captivating readers with its beauty, wisdom, and spiritual teachings.