Mathrubhumi Books launches special Ramayana collection ahead of Karkitakam month

Kochi: Mathrubhumi Books has unveiled a specially curated collection of Ramayana publications ahead of Kerala's Malayalam month of Karkitakam, beginning July 17, 2026, offering readers a diverse range of devotional, literary, scholarly and children's editions of the epic.

Traditionally observed as Ramayana Month, Karkitakam is a period when households across Kerala engage in the reading and recitation of the Adhyathma Ramayanam, seeking spiritual reflection, peace and renewal during the monsoon season. The tradition is deeply rooted in the Malayalam translation of the Adhyathma Ramayanam by revered poet Thunchaththu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, whose work played a significant role in making the epic accessible to people across generations. Mathrubhumi Books' latest collection brings together several editions of the Ramayana to cater to readers with varied interests, including devotional texts, literary interpretations, scholarly works and books designed for younger audiences. A key offering in the collection is the Adhyathma Ramayanam (Malayalam), a widely read edition during Karkitakam and an integral part of Kerala's spiritual and cultural traditions.

The collection also features interpretations of the epic by noted scholar and writer Prof. M. K. Sanu.

To support elderly readers, Mathrubhumi Books has introduced a Large Print Edition of the Adhyathma Ramayanam with enhanced typography for a more comfortable reading experience while retaining the essence of daily recitation. Another highlight is the 30-Day Guided Ramayana, prepared by Ramayana scholar Gopalkrishna Vaidhik. The book divides the epic into daily reading segments, helping readers complete the Ramayana during the traditional thirty-day observance. The collection also includes children's titles such as Kuttikalude Ramayanam by Cherkkil Govindan Kutty Nair and Ramayanam Kuttikalkku by Ashitha.

These simplified retellings aim to introduce younger readers to the values, stories and cultural significance of the epic.

Mayura Shreyams Kumar[/caption] Speaking about the newly launched collections, Mayura Shreyams Kumar, Director Digital Business, Mathrubhumi Group, said, "At Mathrubhumi Books, we believe publishing is not only about preserving literary treasures but also about keeping meaningful traditions alive for future generations. As Kerala welcomes the sacred month of Karkitakam, we are proud to present this specially curated Ramayana collection that brings together devotional classics, scholarly interpretations, accessible editions for senior readers, and engaging retellings for children. Through this initiative, we hope to make the timeless wisdom of the Ramayana more accessible and inspire families across Kerala to continue the cherished tradition of Ramayana reading during Karkitakam." Mathrubhumi Books said the initiative will be supported through a comprehensive multimedia campaign leveraging the Mathrubhumi Group's media ecosystem to expand awareness and reach among readers. Through the Karkitakam collection, Mathrubhumi Books aims to strengthen its role in preserving Kerala's literary and spiritual heritage while making the timeless teachings of the Ramayana accessible to readers across age groups.