Valmiki

The Sage Valmiki is the reputed author of the most popular Sanskrit epic-Ramayana. He is stated to be a contemporary of Rama, the hero of his epic. Ramayana is called the Adikavya-the first portry in classical Sanskrit and in its present form is dated variously by scholars like Prof. Jacobi as 6th Century B.C., by Dr. Keith as 4th Century B.C. and by Dr. Winternitz as 3rd Century B.C.   

The date of Valmiki existence is unknown and uncertain. There are several anecdotes narrated about his life. One of them states that he was a bandit in his early life and repented his actions when it was pointed out to him that he alone would answer for his misdeeds, since none of those sharing in his earnings would share his misfortunes, when they would inevitably arrive. The origin of this fable cannot be ascertained, though it finds a place in a later composition called the 'Adhyatma-Ramayana'. His very name is said to be a later acquisition and not his original name. Practising penance for his misdeeds, he became enveloped by an ant-hill(Valmika) from which he had to be dug out and hence he came to be known as Valmiki--born from Valmika.

Valmiki's Ramayana will always be one of the world's greatest epics.

The Posts and Telegraphs Department brought out a special commemorative stamp in honour of Maharsi Valmiki, on the occasion of his Jayanti Celebration on the 14th October, 1970. The design of the stamp depicts Maharsi Valmiki and the main characters of Ramayana, "Rama, Sita and Lakshman".