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.
Concluding Remarks
29 (of 45)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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403
Description of kiss on lips, on cheeks, on breasts and on
hips is seen many times.
159 According to the words of Kama-
sutra the poet sketches nail-prints on breasts, on
161 160
In the same
shoulders, on hips and on cheeks. Further he describes
Rekha, Ardha-candra, May奴ra-pada and Sa艥a-plutaka types
of nail-scars described by erotic authors.
way the poet refers to Bindumala which is a type of biting.
The opinion of Vatsyayana, who says that love-sport is
164 like a quarrel,
describes striking, squeezing, dragging etc. Descriptions
of sitk膩ra, purusayita, signs of enjoyment and satisfac-
163 is accepted by the poet.
Hence he
tion are witness to the influence of Kamasutra on the
165 poet.
science.
Thus Ratnakara has showed the knowledge of erotic
The Yasastilaka campu of Somadevasuri, written in
the 10th century, is one of the land mark in campu
159. Supra III Chapter, Fn.2, p.147.
160. Supra III Chapter, Fn.11, 12, p.149; 28, p. 154;
31, p.154; 55, p.161.
161. Supra III Chapter. Fn.39, p.157.
162. Supra III Chapter, Fn.40, p. 172.
163. Supra III Chapter, Fn.1, p.182.
164. Supra III Chapter, Fn.6, p.184.
165. Supra III Chapter, Fn.44, p.193.
162
