The abduction of Sita by Ravana from Panchvati; The bird Jatayu tries to save Sita, late 18th century, Chamba style, Pahari miniature exhibited at NGA; Courtesy Collection National Museum, New Delhi, India
For centuries past, the many countries, ethnic groups and religions of South and Southeast Asia have enjoyed rich storytelling traditions. Most common are the stories of the Ramayana, Mahabharata and folk ballads, epic tales that have been relayed by exotic coloured miniatures, cloths, wall paintings,and puppet shows.