Rama (or Ramacandra) is the seventh avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu. His adventures, notably the slaying of the demon king Ravana. Ravana recounted in the Vana Parva of the Mahabharata and in the Ramayana. These are the oldest Sanskrit epic, written sometime in the 5th century BCE but with some later additions. Lord Rama, considered by many Hindus to be based on an historical figure. Raama is perhaps the most virtuous hero from Hindu mythology. Specially in Hinduism, Raama along with his wife Sita, are a picture of purity and marital devotion. Further, the adventures of Rama illustrate above all the importance and rewards of fulfilling one’s pious duty or dharma.