King Rama II translated the Indian version into Thai language and made it part of Thai culture. King Rama II, , also called Phraphutthaloetla Naphalai, (born Feb. 24, 1768, Rat Buri—died July 21, 1824, Bangkok), the second ruler (1809–24) of the present Chakkri dynasty, under whose rule relations were reopened with the West and Siam began a forward policy on the Malay peninsula. A gifted poet and dramatist, Rama II wrote episodes of the Ramakien and popular dance dramas such as Sang Thong.
In Thailand, this epic in its written form, dating from the 18th century, is called “Ramakien” or “Ramakrti” and Rama is presented as very Siamese.
Thai art and architecture, the story is in the form of mural paintings in the cloisters of the Royal Temple. The statues of enormous Asuras stand around the temple with their clubs to protect the place.
