Understanding the Author of Kumarasambhavam

The question asks to identify the author of the renowned literary work "Kumarasambhavam". This is a famous epic poem in Sanskrit literature.

Identifying the Author from the Options

Let's look at the provided options and their association with famous literary works:

• Mahakavi Kalidasa: A classical Sanskrit writer, widely regarded as the greatest poet and dramatist in the Sanskrit language. His works include epics, plays, and lyrical poems.
• Kalhan: A Kashmiri historian and the author of "Rajatarangini", a chronicle of the kings of Kashmir.
• Mahadevi: This name is too general and could refer to several historical or literary figures. However, none are primarily known for authoring "Kumarasambhavam". Assuming this refers to Mahadevi Varma (a modern Hindi poet), she is not associated with classical Sanskrit epics.
• Bharavi: Another classical Sanskrit poet, known for his epic "Kiratarjuniya".

Kumarasambhavam and its Author

"Kumarasambhavam" (meaning 'The Birth of Kumara') is a celebrated epic poem (Mahakavya) in Sanskrit. It describes the courtship of Shiva and Parvati and the birth of their son Kartikeya (Kumara), who is destined to defeat the demon Taraka.

This magnificent work is universally attributed to Mahakavi Kalidasa. Kalidasa is famous for several other masterpieces as well, including "Raghuvamsa" (another epic poem), and plays like "Abhijnanasakuntalam", "Vikramorvasiyam", and "Malavikagnimitram".

Conclusion on the Author

Based on literary history and attribution, "Kumarasambhavam" is definitively the work of Mahakavi Kalidasa.

Revision Table: Famous Sanskrit Authors and Works

Additional Information on Kalidasa and Kumarasambhavam

Kalidasa's exact period is uncertain, but he is generally believed to have flourished during the Gupta period, possibly in the 4th or 5th century CE. His poetry is known for its elegant language, rich imagery, and exploration of human emotions and nature.

"Kumarasambhavam" is structured into 17 cantos. The first eight cantos are widely accepted as Kalidasa's work, depicting the love story of Shiva and Parvati, their marriage, and initial union. The later cantos, describing the birth of Kumara and his victory, are sometimes debated by scholars regarding their authorship, but the entire work is traditionally attributed to Kalidasa.

Studying works like "Kumarasambhavam" provides valuable insights into classical Indian culture, mythology, and the refined state of Sanskrit literature during that era.