Significance of Kamashastra
Kamashastra refers to the ancient Indian science of love and desire, encompassing various texts that delve into the philosophy and practices surrounding love, sexuality, and emotional relationships. It provides guidelines on romantic affairs, eroticism, and the intricacies of human pleasure. Integral to cultural and literary traditions, Kamashastra not only highlights the physical and psychological aspects of love but also examines social dynamics and the roles of individuals, emphasizing its significance in the broader context of Indian society and culture.
Synonyms: Erotic literature, Art of love, Ancient text, Erotic science
In Dutch: Kamashastra; In German: Kamashastra; In Finnish: Kamashastra; In Spanish: Kamashastra
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Kamashastra'
Kamashastra in Hinduism represents an ancient Indian text exploring love, relationships, and sexuality. It emphasizes the importance of erotic practices, societal roles, and the aesthetic experiences related to desire, featuring in various classical literature and cultural discussions.
From: Kamashastra Discourse (Life in Ancient India)
(1) An ancient Indian text that discusses various aspects of love, relationships, and social life, including entertainment and cultural practices.[1] (2) A traditional Indian text that deals with eroticism and the art of love.[2] (3) A traditional Indian text that celebrates and explores the ideas surrounding love, desire, and the enjoyment of material life.[3] (4) An ancient Indian text that outlines the principles of love, relationships, and the structures of society.[4] (5) A traditional Indian treatise on love and sexual practices, encompassing various texts that explore the theory and practice of love.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The science of love, which provides insights on relationships and emotional interactions between individuals.[6] (2) The science of eroticism and love, which includes the teachings on relationships and pleasures of life.[7] (3) An ancient Indian text that provides guidelines on love, desire, and sexuality.[8] (4) The text dealing with desires and amorous relationships, which Candra quotes to justify his actions.[9] (5) The ancient texts related to love and sensual enjoyment that the Apsaras reference in their attempts to seduce Trishira.[10]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Refers to the Erotic Science that includes numerous measures for fascination.[11]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) The study of love and desire, also regarded as a primary component of the Mahabharata.[12]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Details the characteristics and qualities of living beings, focusing on physical and inner traits.[13]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A body of ancient Indian literature that discusses the art of love and sexual pleasure.[14]
From: Natyashastra (English)
(1) An ancient text that deals with the art of love, mentioned as a source of evidence in the study of the Natyashastra.[15]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A text that details various types of romantic and conjugal affairs which Lord Balarama is said to be expert in.[16]
The concept of Kamashastra in local and regional sources
Kamashastra, or Kama Sastra, is an ancient Indian text by Vatsyayana that details principles of love and eroticism. It explores physical and psychological facets, significantly influencing Kshetrayya's understanding of these themes.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A Sanskrit term encapsulating the intricate nuances of love, relationships, and sensuality.[17] (2) Kama Sastra refers to the ancient Indian texts on the science of love and pleasure, which Kshetrayya studied and incorporated in his lyrical expressions.[18] (3) Kama Sastra is the ancient Indian text that outlines the principles of love and eroticism, which Kshetrayya understood deeply.[19] (4) A seminal text authored by Vatsyayana that serves as a standard work on love and sexuality, encompassing both physical and psychological aspects.[20]