The Birth of the War-God A Poem by Kalidasa   By: Kalidasa

The Birth of the War-God, a Poem by Kalidasa, beautifully captures the essence of ancient Indian mythology and brings to life the legendary origin story of the powerful Hindu deity, Skanda. Kalidasa's poetic skills shine throughout the narrative, painting vivid and captivating descriptions that transport readers into a world of gods, demons, and epic battles.

One of the most striking aspects of this poem is Kalidasa's ability to create a sense of grandeur and majesty in his words. The descriptions of celestial beings and their interactions with mortals are awe-inspiring. The author's mastery of imagery effortlessly immerses readers in an otherworldly realm, where divine beings and their extraordinary powers are brought to life in vivid detail.

The characters themselves are brilliantly portrayed, with complex motivations and emotions. Skanda, the war-god, appears as both a fearsome warrior and a compassionate deity, torn between his divine destiny and his mortal connections. The internal conflict he faces adds depth and relatability to his character, making him much more than a mere deity and turning him into a hero with whom readers can empathize.

The narrative is fast-paced and gripping, filled with intense battle scenes that keep readers at the edge of their seats. Kalidasa's descriptions of the warfare, the cunning strategies used by the gods and demons, and the emotional turmoil experienced by the mortal characters as they navigate this divine conflict are truly captivating. The poem seamlessly weaves action and emotion, creating a tapestry of excitement and intrigue that propels the story forward.

Kalidasa's writing style is also noteworthy. His use of poetic devices such as metaphors, similes, and rhythmic patterns elevates the text, imbuing it with a lyrical quality that enhances the overall reading experience. The translation of the poem, though perhaps not capturing the full essence of the original Sanskrit, retains the beauty and elegance of the language, allowing readers to appreciate the artistry in Kalidasa's words.

One minor drawback of the book is that it assumes some prior knowledge of Hindu mythology, which may be confusing or overwhelming for readers unfamiliar with the subject matter. However, this does not diminish the overall enjoyment of the poem, as the storytelling and character development are strong enough to engage readers regardless of their knowledge in the area.

In conclusion, The Birth of the War-God, a Poem by Kalidasa, is a captivating and enchanting work of mythological literature. It transports readers to a world filled with deities, demons, and mortal heroes, exploring themes of destiny, bravery, and the complexities of divine-human connections. Kalidasa's poetic prowess shines throughout the narrative, ensuring that this ancient poem remains a timeless masterpiece.

First Page:

Of the history of KÁLIDÁSA, to whom by general assent the KUMÁRA SAMBHAVA, or BIRTH OF THE WAR GOD, is attributed, we know but little with any certainty; we can only gather from a memorial verse which enumerates their names, that he was one of the 'Nine Precious Stones' that shone at the Court of VIKRAMÁDITYA, King of OUJEIN, in the half century immediately preceding the Christian era.[A] As the examination of arguments for and against the correctness of this date is not likely to interest general readers, I must request them to rest satisfied with the belief that about the time when VIRGIL and HORACE were shedding an undying lustre upon the reign of AUGUSTUS, our poet KÁLIDÁSA lived, loved, and sang, giving and taking honour, at the polished court of the no less munificent patron of Sanskrit literature, at the period of its highest perfection... Continue reading book >>