The author of the Ramayana, one of the two great epics of India. Known as the Adi Kavi (first poet). Composed the Ramayana in Sanskrit. His ashram was where Sita took refuge. Composed the first sloka (verse) spontaneously when he saw a hunter kill a bird.
Depicted as a sage seated in meditation, often with a manuscript. Shown emerging from an anthill (valmika) where he meditated for years.