Magha Mahakavi (Makers of India Literature)

Sanskrit is foremost among world-literatures which have produced poets who attained immortality through their poetical works. Magha is one of the bright stars shining with great luster in the galaxy of eminent poets.

Sisupalavadha, which is well-known as “Magha” being named after the poet, is the only poem which has come down to us. Magha’s great scholarship, his deep knowledge, and the luxurious style of life which he must have led reflect throughout the poem. Tahis work reveals his profound knowledge of the Vedas, Puranas, Mimamsa, Grammar, lexicons, Sankhya and Yoga, Vedanta, Buddhistic philosophy, state-craft, Kamasutra, the science of erotics, music, Asvavidya, the science of horses and Hastividya, the science of elephants. He is akeen observer of the behaviourof not only men but animals also.

Magha is a great devotee of Sri Krishna. His main purpose of composing this great poem is praise Sri Krishna through describing an important aspect of his glittering personality. This poem has received unstinted acclaim of all the literary critics. The influence of this poem on later poets is tremendous.

Prof. Chandika Prasad Shukla’s ,monograph in Hindi which brings out all the important literary traits of this poem is translated into English by Mahamahopadhyaya P. Sri Ramachandrudu, an erudite scholar in Sanskrit, Telugu, English and Hindi and the recipient of many awards and titles. A retired Professor of Sanskrit, he received both the awards from the Sahitya Akademi and has been associated with the Akademi since decades. He is presently, member of Executive Board of the Akademi, in his capacity as the Convener of the Sanskrit Adivsory Board.