Indian Classical Literature
Kalidasa: An Overview
Unit 2
Check your progress 1
1. What makes Kalidas a secular humanist? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans. Kalidasa is considered a secular humanist because his works focus on human emotions,
values, and experiences rather than religious themes or divine interventions. He portrayed
characters from all walks of life—kings, queens, and common people—with deep sensitivity and
understanding. His writing celebrates nature, beauty, love, and the richness of human
relationships. Kalidasa also critiques rigid ideas of duty and decorum that suppress personal
feelings, showing his concern for individual freedom and emotional truth. This focus on human
life, rather than religion, reflects a secular and humanist outlook.
Check your progress 2
1. How was the story of Shakuntala narrated in the Mahabharata? How who was the
central figure in that narrative?
Ans. In the Mahabharata, the story of Shakuntala is narrated as part of the lineage of the
Bharata dynasty. The focus is mainly on King Duhsanta, who while hunting in the forest, comes
across the hermitage of sage Kanva and meets Shakuntala there. Impressed by her beauty and
noble background, he enters into a secret Gandharva marriage with her. He promises that their
son will be the heir to his throne. After returning to his kingdom, Duhsanta forgets Shakuntala,
and when she comes to his court with their son, he denies knowing her and insults her.
Shakuntala reminds him of his promise and speaks proudly of her lineage. Eventually, a divine
voice confirms the truth, and Duhsanta accepts Shakuntala and their son. The central figure in
this version is Duhsanta, with the narrative highlighting his journey and royal legacy.
Check your progress 3
1. Write a comparative note on the Epic and the drama keeping in my their specific
features.
Ans. The epic and the drama differ mainly in form and style of presentation. In the epic, the
story is narrated, with the narrator guiding the reader through the events and often giving
judgments or interpretations. It focuses more on action and grand events, with less space for
the inner thoughts of characters. The characters serve the larger narrative purpose.
In contrast, the drama is meant to be performed on stage. It shows the story through dialogues
and actions of characters, without a narrator. This allows characters' emotions, motivations, and
inner conflicts to be explored more deeply. The audience experiences the events directly,
through what is shown, not told.
Indian Classical Literature
Kalidasa: An Overview
Unit 2
Kalidasa's play Abhijnana Shakuntalam changes the focus of the story by using the dramatic
form. While the epic centers on King Duhsanta, the play shifts the focus to Shakuntala, showing
her emotions, struggles, and strength. This change in form leads to new emphases and a
deeper engagement with the characters.
Check your progress 4
1. Q. What was the purpose of dramatic art in the ancient period as discussed by
Bharat Muni in his natyashastra?.
Ans. According to Bharat Muni in his Natyashastra, the purpose of dramatic art in the ancient
period was both to teach and to entertain. He believed drama should guide people toward duty
(dharma), wealth (artha), and good conduct, while also bringing joy. He called it the "fifth Veda"
and wanted it to be accessible to all, including those excluded from other Vedas, making it a
powerful tool for education and enjoyment.
2.7. LET US SUM UP
This unit discussed ancient Indian drama, focusing on Kalidasa’s time, culture, and literary
background. It gave an overview of his works and introduced Bharata’s Natyashastra and its
key ideas. It also compared the forms of epic and drama, using the story of Shakuntala from the
Mahabharata and Kalidasa’s play to show how the form changes the focus and style of the
story.
2.9 Glossary
Topography – The physical features or characteristics of a specific region or place.
Yaksha – An ancient nature spirit worshipped as a guardian of groves, forests, and water
sources.
