The Ramayana, an Indian epic, is one of the world's best-loved stories. Made available in English for the first time, this version by a female poet from Bengal is very direct, touching, timely, and accessible. The three-part poem is a highly individual rendition of the ancient epic, and instead of celebrating masculine heroism it laments the suffering of women caught in the play of male ego.

This book presents a translation and commentary on the text, and provides readers with an alternative view of the tale. It expands the understanding both of the history of women's self-expression in India and the cultural potency of the epic tale. The book is of interest to students and researchers of South Asian studies, Ramayäa studies and women's and gender studies.

Mandakranta Bose is Professor Emerita at the University of British Columbia, Canada. She has published widely on the classical performing arts and literature of India, gender studies and Hinduism.

Sarika Priyadarshini Bose is Lecturer in English at the University of British Columbia, Canada. Her research interests and publications include Victorian drama and theatre, children's literature, gender studies and composition.

1. Introduction 2. Candravati Ramayana Part 1 3. Candravati Ramayana Part 2 4. Candravati Ramayana Part 3 5. Appendix 1. Valmiki Ramayana 6. Appendix 2. Krttivasi Ramayana 7. Appendix 3. Narrative Parallels and Omissions 8. Appendix 4. Nayancañd Ghos's Candravati 9. Appendix 5. Glossary