Significance of the title of Kalidasa'a play, Abhijnanashakuntalam

Significance of the title of Kalidasa'a play, Abhijnanashakuntalam

Q. Comment on the significance of the title of Kalidasa'a play Abhijnanashakuntalam

Answer: "Abhijnanashakuntalam" is widely regarded as one of the greatest works of Sanskrit literature, and has been praised for its lyrical language, complex characterization, and evocative use of imagery. The title itself is a marker of the play's significance and cultural importance, and has become synonymous with the genre of Indian classical drama as a whole.

The title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" is significant in several ways for Kalidasa's play. Firstly, "Abhijnana" means recognition or identification, and "Shakuntalam" refers to the heroine of the play, Shakuntala. Thus, the title can be translated to mean "The Recognition of Shakuntala."

The title highlights the use of nature imagery in the play. The name "Shakuntala" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "shakunta," which means bird. Throughout the play, nature imagery is used to describe Shakuntala's beauty and innocence, and to depict her emotional state. For instance, in one scene, she is compared to a doe in distress, and in another, she is described as a bird separated from its mate. The title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" thus draws attention to the play's use of nature imagery as a key element in the portrayal of Shakuntala's character.

The theme of recognition is central to the play, as the plot revolves around King Dushyanta's recognition of Shakuntala as his wife and the mother of his child. This scene is often regarded as one of the most memorable moments in Indian literature, and has been the subject of numerous adaptations and retellings. The title also alludes to the fact that Shakuntala is a woman of extraordinary beauty and grace, and her story is known far and wide, even outside the palace walls. By foregrounding the theme of recognition in the title, Kalidasa emphasizes the pivotal role that this scene plays in the play's narrative and emotional arc.

Additionally, the use of the word "Shakuntala" in the title reinforces the importance of the character in the play. Shakuntala is portrayed as a virtuous and innocent woman who faces various trials and tribulations, including separation from her husband and rejection by her own father. Through the course of the play, she is ultimately recognized by Dushyanta as his true love and queen.

Another significant aspect of the title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" is its poetic quality. The combination of the Sanskrit words "Abhijnana" and "Shakuntalam" creates a musical and alliterative effect that is characteristic of Sanskrit literature. The title's poetic nature reflects the play's style, which is marked by its lyrical language and use of poetry and music.

Furthermore, the title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" is significant in the context of Indian mythology and literature. Shakuntala is a well-known figure in Indian mythology, and her story has been told in various texts over the centuries. Kalidasa's play is a re-telling of this ancient story, and the title acknowledges its roots in Indian literary tradition.

The title's significance also extends beyond the play itself. "Abhijnanashakuntalam" has become a well-known and influential work in Indian literature, and its title has become a byword for the recognition of true love and the triumph of virtue over adversity. The play has been translated into many languages and adapted for stage and screen, further cementing its place in Indian cultural heritage.

In summary, the title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" is significant for its alliterative and poetic quality, its connection to Indian mythology and literature, and its representation of the central themes and characters of Kalidasa's play. It has become a symbol of Indian cultural heritage and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

Overall, the title "Abhijnanashakuntalam" encapsulates the central themes and characters of Kalidasa's play, and emphasizes the importance of recognition and the character of Shakuntala in the story.

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