Manasollasa

Sri Somesvara Bhupati Viracito Manasollasa, is a Sanskrit text, authored by the Western Chalukya King, Bhulokamalla Somesvara, a powerful ruler and an illustrious musician-poet king, who ruled the region of Karnataka (1127-1138 C.E.). Manasollasa, also named by the author as Jagadacarya Pustakah, a book which teaches the universe, deals with a vast range of subjects from polity to administration to education to entertainment and fine arts to the most intricate nuances of music, dance, literature and sports. The text depicts the grandeur and paraphernalia attached with Royal courts and lifestyles.

The Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan, Delhi Kendra, since its inception, has been striving earnestly in nurturing values, deeply rooted in Indian culture, by providing opportunities to young and the impressionable minds, of knowing Indian heritage through learning of Indian languages, traditions and all Indian Arts. In its earnest effort to promote Sanskrit and Sanskriti has taken up the challenging task of bringing forth several Sanskrit texts on music, dance and drama through the publication of Bhavan's series .

The series which have received wide acclaim, include articles written by eminent as well as young research scholars who have redefined several concepts given in the texts of different periods of time and established their importance in the contemporary scenario. These texts include Natyasastra, Silappatikaram, Brhaddesi, Sangitaratnakara, Sangitadarpana, Sangitaparijata and Manasollasa .

Manasollasa, is a Sanskrit text authored by King Somesvara of Chalukya Dynasty, who reigned around the 12th century. This text is an encyclopedic work that vividly covers almost all socio-cultural aspects that prevailed during that period .

Besides providing important details about music, dance and other arts, it gives considerable details about the ethics and governance adopted by the ruler Somesvara. Giving prime importance to the good health of his subjects, which in turn strengthened his kingdom, reflected an admirable mental quality of the ruler.

The Bhavan is thankful to all the eminent scholars and researchers who have contributed through their articles, towards the publication of this book on Manasollasa. The book is aimed at satisfying the readers who have a deep interest in Indian performing arts and also benefit those who seek in-depth knowledge about music and arts detailed in texts like the Manasollasa.

**Contents and Sample Pages**