Provoked by the harsh words of Hanuman, Ravana orders him to be put to death. Vibhishana, however, exhorts the latter to desist from this dastardly act, pointing out that the killing of an envoy is forbidden by the Shastras.Recitation: 00:00 - 05:53Translation: 05:57 - 13:52

Sundarakanda Sarga 53, "Ravana orders Hanuman's tail to be set on fire", Book 5 Canto 53

This podcast includes an authentic Sanskrit recitation and the reading of a genuine translation in English by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, India. This is not a western translation of the Valmiki Ramayana, nor a re-telling in any form. It is translated by Hindus from within the tradition, and it is thereby recommended as the most authentic recitation and English reading available.

The Ramayana recitation by Sriram-ghanapaathi HariSitaramamurti-ghanapathi is taken from archive.org. The reading is from the English version of Srimad Valmiki Ramayan translation by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, India.