I reverence the dust on the feet of Brahma, creator of this ocean-like world whence arose the saints, like nectar, the moon and the cow of plenty, and also the wicked, like poison and strong drink.

With folded hands I do homage to the feet of gods, Brahmans, philosophers, and planets, and pray, ‘Be gracious to me and fulfil all my fair desires!’

Again, I do homage to Sarasvati and the Ganga, both of whom are holy and perform enchanting roles; the latter washes away the sin of him who bathes in it and drinks of its holy waters; the former dispels the ignorance of him who speaks or hears of her glory.

I adore Shiva and Parvati, who are my preceptors and parents, friends to the forlorn and daily givers of good things, servants, lords and companions of Sita’s spouse and true benefactors of Tulasidasa in every way.

(I adore) Shiva, too, and Parvati, who for the good of the world and with regard to the evil of this age evolved a string of spells in a barbarous tongue, incoherent syllables, meaningless matterings, whose efficacy is manifest by the power of Mahesha.

That lord of Uma, favourable as he is to me, shall make my story a source of blessing and joy; so, invoking Parvati and Shiva and receiving their grace, I tell the story of Rama with loving zeal.

It is only by Shiva’s grace that my composition can be beautified, as is the night by the moon and her company of stars. Those who hear and repeat this story with love and understanding will be purged of the defilement of the Kaliyuga and, loving the feet of Rama, shall enjoy heavenly felicity.