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Sanskrit poetry -- Translations into English Books
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The Song Celestial; Or, Bhagavad-Gîtâ (from the Mahâbhârata) Being a discourse between Arjuna, Prince of India, and the Supreme Being under the form of Krishna
"The Song Celestial; Or, Bhagavad-Gîtâ (from the Mahâbhârata)" by Sir Edwin Arnold is a poetic translation published in 1885. This English rendering of the ancient Sanskrit text presents a dialogue between Krishna, an incarnation of the Divine, and Prince Arjuna. Krishna instructs Arjuna on duty and liberation through right action as they face an eternal battle between right and wrong, wisdom and ignorance. This translation profoundly influenced Mahatma Gandhi, who called it the best English version he encountered.
Kālidāsa
The Birth of the War-God: A Poem by Kálidása
"The Birth of the War-God: A Poem by Kálidása" by Kālidāsa is an epic poem thought to have been composed in the 5th century. When the demon Taraka terrorizes the gods, only a son of Shiva can defeat him—but the ascetic god has withdrawn from the world. Parvati must win Shiva's love through intense penance while the gods desperately scheme to unite them. This classical Sanskrit work blends romance, divine drama, and heroic destiny as it chronicles the fateful birth of the war-god Kartikeya.
Kālidāsa
Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works
"Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works" by Kalidasa is a collection of classical Indian poetry and drama likely written in the fifth century AD. This compilation showcases Kalidasa's renowned works, which include his famous play "Shakuntala," along with lesser-known dramas and poems that explore themes of love, nature, and divine intervention. The main character, Shakuntala, is presented as a strong yet tender figure who embarks on a romantic journey that intertwines with the divine and the earthly. The opening of the collection introduces readers to Kalidasa, providing insight into his life, the legends surrounding him, and his unparalleled influence on Sanskrit literature. It narrates a captivating legend about his rise from an uneducated ox-driver to a celebrated poet through divine intervention, revealing his deep connection to nature and the feminine spirit. The beginning also sets the stage for "Shakuntala," highlighting her beauty and innocence against the backdrop of a hermitage where the king first encounters her. The contrast between the natural beauty of the hermitage and the complexities of human emotions is deftly introduced, hinting at the unfolding drama of love and destiny.
Henry Hart Milman
Nala and Damayanti and Other Poems
"Nala and Damayanti and Other Poems" by Henry Hart Milman is a collection of narrative poems translated from Sanskrit, crafted in the 19th century. The central theme unfolds the poignant tale of Nala, a king beset by misfortune, and his devoted wife Damayanti, whose love and loyalty face trials from divine and earthly forces alike. The work provides insights into Indian mythology, intertwining the magnificent lifestyles of legendary characters with deep emotional currents. At the start of this collection, Milman outlines the tale of Nala, the mighty king of Nishadha, and his beloved Damayanti. The opening chapters depict their backgrounds and the blossoming of their love, stirringly illustrated through a meeting facilitated by celestial swans who praise Nala’s virtues to Damayanti. As the couple's fate intertwines, the narrative prepares for the challenges they will soon encounter, with themes of love, sacrifice, and the capricious nature of fortune already beginning to emerge, setting the stage for their epic journey.
Edwin Arnold
Indian Poetry Containing "The Indian Song of Songs," from the Sanskrit of the Gîta Govinda of Jayadeva, Two books from "The Iliad Of India" (Mahábhárata), "Proverbial Wisdom" from the Shlokas of the Hitopadesa, and other Oriental Poems.
"Indian Poetry" by Sir Edwin Arnold is a collection of translations and adaptations of classic Indian works, likely written in the late 19th century. This anthology includes significant pieces such as "The Indian Song of Songs," which draws from the Sanskrit text of the Gita Govinda, along with selections from the Mahabharata and various Oriental poems. The collection explores themes of love, devotion, and mythological narratives, prominently featuring the divine love story of Krishna and Radha. The opening of this poetic collection begins with an introduction, paying homage to the poet Jayadeva, who richly depicts the adventures and emotional struggles of Krishna in relation to his beloved Radha. It illustrates Krishna's playful yet tumultuous interactions with other maidens, setting the stage for themes of longing and love. The verses weave vivid imagery of the natural world, intertwined with human emotions, as Radha awaits Krishna's presence. The translations echo the lyrical quality of the originals while capturing the essence of divine romance, setting a tone of yearning and spiritual depth that invites readers into the intricate tapestry of Indian poetic tradition.
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