Why in news
- The Ministry of Culture hosted a seminar and book launch at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) highlighting the depiction of women, nature, and consciousness in the works of classical Sanskrit poet Kalidasa.
Literary Contributions of Kalidasa
- Kalidasa is considered one of the greatest classical Sanskrit poets and dramatists, believed to have flourished during the Gupta period (4th–5th century CE).
- Major Mahakavyas (epic poems) include Raghuvamsha (lineage of Raghu) and Kumarasambhava (birth of Kumara/Kartikeya).
- Famous plays (Nataka) include Abhijnanasakuntalam (recognition of Shakuntala), Malavikagnimitram, and Vikramorvasiyam.
- Lyrical works include Meghaduta (The Cloud Messenger) and Ritusamhara (Medley of Seasons), celebrated for vivid imagery of nature and human emotion.
Significance in Indian Aesthetics and Culture
- Kalidasa's dramaturgical and poetic style deeply influenced classical Indian aesthetic theory, particularly the elaboration of Shringara (romantic/erotic) and Karuna (pathetic) Rasas.
- His works are noted for elevating nature into an active character reflecting human internal states, alongside depicting agency, dignity, and consciousness in female leads.
Key terms
Mahakavya
A genre of Indian epic poetry characterized by ornate descriptions and structured thematic narratives.
Abhijnanasakuntalam
Classical Sanskrit play by Kalidasa recounting the tale of Shakuntala and King Dushyanta.
Prelims facts
- Abhijnanasakuntalam, Meghaduta, and Raghuvamsha were authored by Kalidasa during the Gupta era.
- IGNCA functions under the Ministry of Culture as an autonomous art research center.
Mains discussion
- Role of classical Sanskrit literature in shaping Indian aesthetics, ethical paradigms, and gender depictions.
Source: PIB
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2023 · Q46 · General Studies · 2 marks
With reference to ancient Indian History, * consider the following pairs: Literary work Author 1.Devichandragupta : Bilhana 2.Hammira-Mahakavya : Nayachandra Suri 3.Milinda-panha : Nagarjuna 4.Nitivakyamrita : Somadeva Suri How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?