From Epic to Dramatic Tradition: Literary Contribution of Poet Kalidas – A Critical Study

Nita Bhoir

Department of Marathi

Chhatrapati Shikshan Mandal's Arts and Commerce College, Padgha.

M.A., B.Ed., Maha-SET (Marathi)

Email id: neetabhoir006@gmail.com

Abstract :Poet Kalidas is considered a representative of the Golden Age of Sanskrit literature. His position in the field of literature is regarded as supreme. He has produced excellent literature in both branches: Epic (Mahakavya) and Dramatic Tradition (Natyaparampara). His literary works reflect the theory of Rasa (aesthetic flavor), depictions of nature, love, duty, and Indian culture.

Poet Kalidas achieved artistic perfection in three literary genres: Epics, Short Poems (Khand-kavya), and Drama. In the present research paper, we will conduct a critical study of his contribution to the epic and dramatic traditions.

Through works and plays such as Raghuvamsha, Kumarasambhava, Ritusamhara, Abhigyanashakuntalam, Vikramorvasiyam, and Malavikagnimitram, an attempt has been made to analyze his poetic style, Rasa theory, nature imagery, portrayal of women, and human values.

Keywords: Poet Kalidas, Epic (Mahakavya), Dramatic Tradition, Sanskrit Literature, Great Poet (Mahakavi), Indian Culture.