By Pratibha, CNBC-TV18

A group of people in Chennai are using the Ramayana to create awareness about social issues like AIDS and communal harmony.

Shanthi Vaidyanathan spends at least half an hour a day reading out the Ramayana to her kids. Several other families in her semi-urban locality in Chennai have also taken to reading the epic. That is the effect the small group of volunteers from the Rama Samiti are having on people here. The group's aim is to popularise the Ramayana.

“Reading Ramayana helps children understand the value of filial bonding, affection, respect and discipline,” said Shanthi Vaidyanathan, Homemaker.

The idea is also to create awareness about issues affecting today's society. It is a door-to-door campaign for these volunteers.

"Rama preaches monogamy. If everyone lives like him, there's no need for the government to spend over Rs 750 crore for AIDS awareness. There will be no political feuds if people are like Bharath and Rama. Also Ramayana preaches against untouchability and casteism,” said C Parameswaran, South Co-ordinator, Rama Samiti.

This group has already sold about 4 lakh copies of this simplified version of the book in the past six months. Members say it's got more to do with the social message the book contains than the religious aspect itself.