Description
One of the six great mahakavyas of classical Sanskrit literature, Bharavi’s Kiratarjuniyam is a poetic masterpiece that showcases the finest linguistic artistry of ancient India. This volume presents the first three cantos of the epic, which narrates the dramatic encounter between Arjuna and Lord Shiva disguised as a kirata (mountain hunter). The story, drawn from the Mahabharata’s Vana Parva, follows Arjuna’s penance in the Himalayas to obtain divine weapons. What makes Bharavi’s treatment exceptional is his mastery over complex meters, intricate wordplay, and profound philosophical insights woven into narrative poetry. This Motilal Banarsidass edition offers students, scholars, and enthusiasts of Sanskrit literature an accessible entry point into one of India’s most celebrated kavyas. Ideal for those studying classical Indian poetics, comparative literature, or seeking to understand the sophisticated literary traditions that shaped Sanskrit aesthetics. The detailed annotations and careful presentation make this dense text approachable for serious readers ready to engage with one of Sanskrit’s literary jewels.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers (1 January 2008); Motilal Banarsidass Publishers
- Language : English
- Paperback : 265 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120805739
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120805736
- Item Weight : 118 g
- Dimensions : 14 x 2 x 22 cm
- Country of Origin : India
- Importer : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers
- Packer : Motilal Banarsidass Publishers
- Generic Name : Book
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kiratarjuniyam about?
Kiratarjuniyam narrates the story of Arjuna’s encounter with Lord Shiva disguised as a kirata (mountain hunter) during his penance in the Himalayas. The epic poem describes Arjuna’s quest to obtain divine weapons, culminating in a battle with Shiva and the granting of the Pashupatastra weapon.
Who was Bharavi and why is Kiratarjuniyam important?
Bharavi was a 6th-century Sanskrit poet renowned for his linguistic virtuosity. Kiratarjuniyam is considered one of the six great mahakavyas of Sanskrit literature, celebrated for its complex meters, intricate wordplay, and mastery over Sanskrit poetics. It remains a benchmark for studying classical Indian literary aesthetics.
Is this Kiratarjuniyam edition suitable for beginners in Sanskrit?
This volume presents Cantos I-III with English translation and annotations, making it accessible to serious students and scholars. While some familiarity with Sanskrit literature is helpful, the Motilal Banarsidass edition provides enough context for dedicated readers interested in classical Indian texts.
How many cantos are there in the complete Kiratarjuniyam?
The complete Kiratarjuniyam consists of 18 cantos. This volume covers only the first three cantos, serving as an introduction to Bharavi’s epic poem. Readers can explore subsequent volumes to read the full narrative.
Where can I buy Kiratarjuniyam by Bharavi in India?
You can buy this Motilal Banarsidass edition of Kiratarjuniyam (Cantos I-III) online at The Bookish Owl for ₹295 with delivery across India. This paperback edition contains 265 pages and is ideal for students and enthusiasts of Sanskrit literature.
