Story of Valmiki for Kids in English

This beautiful story is based on great Indian mythology. It depicts the transformation of a thief named Ratnakar into a great sage Valmiki. This short anecdote is basically about the history of Valmiki. He was one of the most knowledgeable sages alive in Hindu mythology, along with Ved Vyas and others. Most people may know Valmiki, but rarely do any of them know about their past, their transformation from Ratnakar to Valmiki. Therefore, this short story will tell you how a very dangerous thief and the hunter became a very knowledgeable and calm sage.

The Origin of the Story of Valmiki

Valmiki is best known worldwide for his spectacular work of writing, Ramayana. Valmiki was the sage who wrote and narrated the Ramayana to Luv and Kush. Although, there are not many details about Valmiki's early life or personal life. But historians certainly managed to know about him through various Puranas, Ved, and local stories. This legend is also taken from a very old and important Puran named Bala Kanda Puran. Given below is the complete legend in a short form, read to know the full story about who is Ratnakar and how he transformed.

The Story of Valmiki

Thousand years ago, during the Treta Yug, there lived a very dangerous man known as Ratnakar. He used to live on the banks of the holy river Ganga in a small cottage. People used to fear Ratanakar a lot. Not only humans but also animals were afraid of him. Whenever Ratnakar visited a place everyone used to run inside their houses out of fear. While walking through the forest birds and animals used to run back to their nest and caves in fear. This shows how heinous Ratnakar was. On one fine day, Ratnakar hid in the forest near the pathway, waiting for prey. A few hours later a sage called Naradji came through that path. He was very peaceful and composed. The sage was chanting Bhajans, and marveling at the beauty of nature. Suddenly Ratnakar jumped out of the stone and ordered "Hand me everything you are carrying right now or I will harm you".

With love and care in his eyes, Narad replied "My dear, you really think I own something to give you? The only thing I have right now is the old clothes I'm wearing. If you wish to take it, please yourself." Ratnakar was shocked by the answer, he hesitated and looked right into the sage's eyes. On looking at it the filthy and wicked mind of Ratnakar softened. Naradji was aware of this transformation. He smiled and slowly began to describe how killing other living beings is a big sin, and stealing other's belongings earned by hard work is wrong. At last, Naradji said" Your family may enjoy the fruits of your sinful actions, but they will not share any of your sins. At last, you are the one who would be getting punished." Ratnakar realized his mistake and touched Naradji's feet. Ratnakar asked for forgiveness as he cried big tears. Naradji forgave him and taught him how to chant the holy word Ram. Ratnakar began chanting the sacred word Ram from day to night without stopping. Many years passed away as he chanted Ram without sleeping or eating. His concentration level was so high that soon an anthill began to grow over his naked body. Naradji was impressed with his dedication and came back to that place. Naradji carefully removed the Anthill and the soil from Ratanakars body. On that day Naradji announced Ratnakar as a sage from now on. He said, "From now onwards, you will begin your new life with the name Valmiki, as you were reborn through a Val-Miki (Ant-Hill)." Ratnakar burst out in tears and walked away to begin his new life as Valmiki. He created an ashram on the banks of the river Ganga. It was the same ashram where Sita sought refuge and the great sage Valmiki composed Ramayana!

Visual Representation of the Story of Valmiki

Moral of the Story of Valmiki

This very heart-touching legend about the transformation of a criminal into a great sage is full of lessons for humanity. It tells about the importance of knowledge and guidance. How a heinous dacoit turned to a sage by providing knowledge and correct guidance. It also teaches that the consequences of our own sins are borne by us. No family or friends will take part in bearing the consequences. Therefore do good actions and stay away from committing sins. Lastly, it tells us that killing animals and robbery is a big crime that may be unforgivable. So be fair and love every living being.

Interesting Facts About the Story of Valmiki

Did you know Valmiki composed the Ramayana even before it actually happened? That was because Valmiki was given a boon by lord Brahma so that he could see the future of lord Rama. Therefore he wrote the complete Ramayan of 24,000 verses in the same ashram, even before it happened. Isn't that amazing?

Note to Parents

This legend from our sacred book teaches us many life lessons. Therefore it makes the story best for young children. It is advised for parents to tell their children more about mythology, god, and legends as it will give birth to hope in their hearts. Children should be made aware that God is everywhere watching our actions, and he loves those who love him and do good things.