Rama’s monkey army, as depicted in the manuscripts.

Featuring over 120 intricately painted Indian manuscripts from the 17th century, the British Library in London will explore the Hindu story of the Ramayana, an epic battle between men, demons and an army of monkeys, in its Summer Exhibition this year.

The manuscripts were commissioned by an Indian Rajput prince, Jagat Singh, during the early 1600s and covered seven volumes, four of which were presented to the Library in the early 19th century.

Created during the artistic golden age of the Rajput and Mughal empires, the illustrations depict scenes such as the devastating battle between Rama, the young hero, his ranks of armed monkeys and a mythical King of Sri Lanka.

‘The Ramayana: Love and Valour in India’s Great Epic’ is free to enter and runs from 16th May to 14th September at London’s British Library. For more information telephone 01937 546060.