The Ramayana is a rare Indian epic which is an integral part of the life of this vast country, which despite its uncertain historicity, has a variety of versions in various religious traditions. Dashratha may have been a minor chief who lived in the 7th or 8th centuries B.C., whose life was by chance remembered and, perhaps because of the basic qualities of Rama, his brothers and wife Sita, was elaborated by bards until it acquired the present form, which goes under the authorship of Valmiki. Owing to its inherent values Rama came to be regarded as an avatara and though it did not grow as a widespread cult like the Bhagvata cult of Krishna, the story was written in most Indian languages by poets of great caliber and popularized in all segments of the masses. It also spread in south-east Asia and formed part of their cultural life. In major parts of India it is regularly played every year for a fortnight to inculcate the ideas in human behaviour. Rama is regarded as the embodiment of an obedient son, a gently human being, faithful husband, a leader brave in calamity and a benevolent king. His rule has come to be regarded as the ideal rule-Rama Rajya and is still considered as the highest form of governance.
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