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 3 - Kamasutra part 2 (Samprayogika)—Critical study
153 (of 155)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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necessity of reverse posture. Poets like Śrīharṣa, Bhāravi,
Bilhana and Jayadeva have shown keen interest in describing
Purusavita. Poets have pictured it according to the words
of sexology. This adhyāya further narrates the signs of
satisfaction of a woman in love-sport. All the gestures
which are narrated by Kamasastra are picturesquely sketched
by the poets in their kavyas.
Mouth congress or fellatio, though it is prohibited
by Hindu religion, is discussed by Vatsyāyana. He states
which category of people will do it and explains it in
detail. But the poets have not described this type of
congress as it is forbidden by the religion and as it
looks unaesthetic.
The tenth and the last adhyaya instructs how to
begin and how to end the sex-sport. Vätsyāyana has not
advised about it in detail as he discusses it in the
Kanyavisṛmbhana adhikarana with every step. This adhyaya
also deals with love-quarrels which are more important
for the dramatists than the poets. Well-known dramatists
like Kālidāsa and Sriharṣa have sketched it in an attrac-
tive manner. The poets have also referred to gotraskhalana
and pādapatana, which are mentioned in this adhvaya.
