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
9 (of 45)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
Download the PDF file of the original publication
383
His work, which has eighteen cantos, describes the fight
between Arjuna and Lord Siva and the attainment of
Pasupatastra.
The poet has tried to display his deep
knowledge of erotic science through this simple story.
He imagines many situations to fulfil his desire. Hence
the eighth and ninth cantos of this kavya are full of
erotic sentiment; that eros is depicted according to
the texts of erotic science.
36 37
Bharavi describes the
38 39
ideas of embrace, kiss, congress, the signs of
enjoyment and satisfaction of a woman' and gotra skhalana
41 according to the Kamasutra.
42 According to the instruc-
tions of Vatsy膩yana, Bharavi sketches many beloveds,
who manifest their love towards their lovers by many
gestures.
43 Further he describes, in detail the ten
stages of love-lorn condition of a lover or a beloved
in the tenth canto according to the words of erotic
science.
40 36. Supra III Chapter, Fn.13, p.123; 36, p.130;
44, p.132.
37. Supra III Chapter, Fn. 12, p. 137.
38. Supra III Chapter, Fn.11, p.178.
39. Supra III Chapter, Fn.4, p. 183; Fn. 43, p.193.
40. Supra III Chapter, Fn. 15, p.219.
41. Supra III Chapter, Fn. 12, p.218.
42. Supra IV Chapter, Fn.81,82,83, p.260.
43. Supra IV Chapter, Fn.93, p.263.
