Ramayana (1649-53)

Rama's quest for his wife Sita, kidnapped by Ravana the demon king of Lanka, is the basis of the ancient Sanskrit epic Ramayana. After a long search, Rama and his allies killed Ravana, and rescued Sita. After his triumphant return to Ayodhya, Rama's rule inaugurated a golden age. Rama became identified with Vishnu, the Preserver of the World. It is difficult to exaggerate the influence of this story on Indian and South-east Asian culture. This magnificent manuscript was made in Udaipur for Rana Jagat Singh.