Essay name: Kamashastra and Classical Sanskrit literature (study)
Author:
Vishwanath K. Hampiholi
Affiliation: Karnatak University / Department of Sanskrit
This essay in English studies the influence of Kamashastra on classical Sanskrit literature by exploring the significance of Kama (sexual desire) within Indian philosophy and literature. It is highlighted tat ancient Indians valued both spiritual and worldly aspects of life. The treatise "Kamasutra" by Vatsyayana is highlighted as a pioneering erotic text, addressing sexual pleasure as an art form.
Chapter 2 - Kamasutra part 1 (Sadharana-adhikarana)鈥擟ritical study
15 (of 48)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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46
The fourth adhyaya gives a picture of the life of
citizens.
Here, a citizen means a civilized or dignified
or educated man and it is not meant only for a dweller in
a city. We see a vivid description of Nagaraka's house,
his diary, his daily duties, occasional duties and his
friends' circle. The Kamasutra directs a Nagaraka "to
build a house in a city or large village or in the vicinity
of good people. This abode should be situated near some
water and surrounded by a lovely garden. It should
contain different compartments for different purposes.
Two parts must be there for dwelling. The inner part
is for females. The outer part, sweet smelling with rich
perfumes, should contain a soft bed which is low in the
middle part with a white clean cloth to cover it. There
should be two pillows one at the top and another at the
bottom. A stool should be at the head on which are placed
pigments, perfumes, garlands, bark of citron, betel and a
box of cosmetics. A spitton should be there on the ground
near the couch. There should be a lute hanging from a
peg, books, a drawing board, a vessel containing perfumes
and some garlands. Not far from the couch and on the
ground there should be a round seat and a board for play-
ing dice. There should be cages of birds outside the room.
Separate places should be left there for spinning, carving
etc. In the garden there should be a whirling swing and
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