2024, Vol. 10, Issue 3, Part D

Kumarasambhava included in the Panchamahakavyas is one of the best works of the ‘Kavikula guru’ Kalidasa. This work is composed in eight Sargas. The main theme of this is the love of Śiva and Pārvati. The event behind the name Kumarasambhava is the birth of Kumara or Muruga (Skanda). But there are some who consider this an incomplete work as it does not mention Skanda’s birth anywhere. The poet has tried to beautifully describe the greatness of married life. According to scholars, the story was completed due to the circumstances of Skanda’s birth. Parvati’s penance is often depicted as rigorous, involving physical and mental discipline. It highlights her determination and devotion. This act of tapas is believed to have pleased Lord Śiva who eventually accepts her as his consort. At the beginning of the fifth sarga, readers can see Parvati preparing to achieve what beauty cannot (to please Lord Śiva) with tapas. The fifth sarga is crucial as it marks the union of two powerful divine entities and sets the stage for the birth of their son, Kartikeya, who plays a significant role in Hindu mythology. Additionally, the fifth sarga showcases Kalidasa’s poetic prowess through vivid descriptions of the lyrical beauty, intricate descriptions, devotion, cosmic forces, wedding rituals, celestial celebrations and the divine beauty of Shiva and Parvti. My paper also tries to discuss the uniqueness of Parvati’s penance, concept of divine love, Alankaraprayoga, Nature illustration etc.