Sanskrit Literary Tradition: (Re) reading the Canon

Ravi Shankar Kumar and Dr. Manish Kumar Gaurav

1. Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of English Literature, The English and Foreign Language University, Regional Campus, Lucknow.

2. Assistant Professor, Department of English Literature, The English and Foreign Language University, Regional Campus, Lucknow.

Abstract:

Sanskrit literature is widely acknowledged as one of the oldest, prosperous and philosophically significant literary traditions in the world. This study elaborates these rich and enduring literary traditions. It emphasizes its antiquity. It dates back to the Vedic period and it has evolved naturally throughout time in a variety of forms, including religious hymns, epics, classical poetry, Drama and prose. This article examines the representation of the four purushaarthas – dharma (duty), artha (wealth), kama (desire) and moksha (liberation) – as the core of literary traditions. The analysis encompasses a variety of genres, including sacred writings, artistic works, and empirical research. Particular emphasis is placed on the period of secular literature and its various forms, such as Mahakavya (epic poetry), Muktakas (lyric poetry), Champu kavya (a combination of prose and poetry), and Roopaka (drama). This genre boasts the rich literary traditions of Sanskrit. Furthermore, the study highlights the global impact of Sanskrit storytelling and prose, especially through influential works such as Panchatantra. Further, this paper concludes that Sanskrit literature is not merely an artefact of history; rather, it represents a vibrant and evolving intellectual tradition that continues to shape cultural and literary perspectives across generations.

   

Full Text:

Sanskrit Literary Tradition: (Re) reading the Canon

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