{"id":5100,"date":"2025-07-17T19:24:20","date_gmt":"2025-07-17T19:24:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/afflatuscreations.com\/?page_id=5100"},"modified":"2025-07-17T19:32:06","modified_gmt":"2025-07-17T19:32:06","slug":"the-concept-of-true-love-in-kalidasas-abhijnana-sakuntalam-a-critical-study","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/afflatuscreations.com\/index.php\/the-concept-of-true-love-in-kalidasas-abhijnana-sakuntalam-a-critical-study\/","title":{"rendered":"The Concept of True Love in Kalidasa\u2019s Abhijnana Sakuntalam\u201d: A Critical Study"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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The Concept of True Love in Kalidasa\u2019s Abhijnana Sakuntalam\u201d: A Critical Study<\/strong><\/p>\n

(Abhijnana Sakuntalam, translated into English by Arthur W. Ryder)<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dr Rajamouly Katta<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

ABSTRACT<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Abhijnana Sakuntalam<\/em> is a world-famous play to reflect the playwright Kalidasa\u2019s great dramatic element, idyllic description of nature, values and aesthetics, virtues and morality, and remarkable handling of true love as merits achieving universal appeal, coherence of tone and quality, and sublime message.\u00a0 The lovers, Dusyanta and Sakuntala in the play are committed to true love. Sakuntala as a child has grown to be in the union of simplicity and purity, nobility and modesty in her character. She develops love for the sights and sounds of nature. Dusyanta, a prince too is flawless in character, thoughts, actions, and manners, happens to have her glimpse in the hermitage of sage Kanva. They fall in love at first sight after having been impressed by their charms and temperaments of each other. They feel fortunate to have their first meeting at the hermitage when their hearts are open for lovemaking. Due to the curse of Durvasa, their union proves to be temporary as the external evil causes their separation as lovers.\u00a0 They prove to be worthy lovers of pure love for their reunion. Their suffering in separation deepens and strengthens their love. It is a temporary separation to lead the lovers to the goal of their reunion as Dusyanta welcomes Sakuntala to his bosom for their happy reunion, letting no Durvasa appear again in the sojourn of their true love like the storm to disrupt calmness. They learn the fact that the curse is responsible for their separation. It in its course purifies their hearts, leading the lovers ultimately to culminate in their happy reunion after the pangs of separation. The play is the loveliest creation of Kalidasa for the cause and welfare of women especially the character of Sakuntala who dominates the play by attracting the utmost attention of spectators or readers. Their love episode simply starts as a small part of Mahabharata<\/strong> but significantly adds beauty and glory to be a play par excellence.\u00a0 Kalidasa is so successful in writing the play Adhijnana<\/strong> Sakuntalam<\/strong> that it rises high to achieve every spectator\u2019s or reader\u2019s encomiums for universal acclaims as a play of pure love.<\/p>\n

Key words: <\/strong>world-famous, play, Sakuntala, love, nature, simplicity, modesty, flawless, character, Dusyanta, lovemaking, first sight, impressions,<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

As a dramatist of Sanskrit literature, Kalidasa is the Shakespeare of India for his unique dramatic skills, character portrayal, idyllic description of nature, values and aesthetics, virtues and morality, and remarkable handling of true love in his play Abhijnana Sakuntalam<\/strong>. It is known for its universal appeal, coherence of tone and quality, and sublime message. His plays deal with diverse subjects in variety styles. He is a dramatist and poet par excellence in surpassing all other literary giants in the extensive use of similes for magnifying effect to impart the pictorial quality to his felicitous expressions and to draw the attention of the audiences or the readers to the play.\u00a0 The lovers in the play Dusyanta and Sakuntala are committed to true love and so they are ready to face odd and untoward situations during their unexpected separation. Kalidasa depicts the sojourn of their love in a natural stint.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kalidasa undertakes to portray the pure love of Dusyanta and Sakuntala as the focus and fulcrum of the play. Their love reflects the union of sweetness and strength. Sakuntala as the character of tender girl with affable nature is of rare beauty and sensuous charm. She is of her semi-divine stature as she was born to celestial nymph (apsara) Menaka and royal sage Visvamitra. It specially draws the sympathy of all spectators and readers towards the woman character Sakuntala for her intense suffering due to her separation from her husband, Dusyanta for no fault of hers. It marks a clear-cut distinction in depicting the love story of Sakuntala and Dusyanta, the memorable and monumental characters. It with all merits especially the concept of pure love makes a world-famous play.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Every Sanskrit drama of love concept has special salient features. First, the lovers Sakuntala and Dusyanta fall in love at first sight after having been impressed by their charms and temperaments of each other. They feel fortunate to have their first meeting at the hermitage when their hearts are open for lovemaking. Due to unexpected circumstances, their love proves to be a temporary union for temporary separation due to unexpected turn or twist of events. It is the curse of Durvasa that becomes responsible for their separation<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

In Abhijnana<\/strong> Sakuntalam<\/strong>, Dusyanta and Sakuntala as lovers reunite as worthy lovers of pure love when the external evil, the storm of the curse, is blown away to be calm in the way there is calm after the storm. As per the Sanskrit drama, the pain and suffering in separation between the lovers sweetens, deepens, and strengthens their love. They feel the real charm and spirit of love forever even after their separation. There is a belief that suffering purifies the hearts of lovers. It is a temporary separation to lead the lovers to the goal of permanent reunion like two rivers flowing separately for some time for their communion to flow into the ocean.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kalidasa\u2019s dramatic skills excel all others in leading the audiences or readers to the world of romance depicted in lively scenes with life-like characters in the drama of Abhijnana Sakuntalam<\/strong>. The play begins, invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva for the success of both spectators and actors or of readers and characters. The stage director declares the drama open to go on in the pleasant summer, the outset of the year as it is the most convenient time for its staging,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A mid-day plunge will temper heat;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The breeze is rich with foresee flowers;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0To slumber in the shade is sweet.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2018Prologue\u2019<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

In this season, all are in the spirit of joy and many beautiful maids wear Sirisha flowers in their hair-knots. Bees hover round and suck honey from their decked flowers without harming them.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Love Theme in the Play Adds Beauty to Mahabharata:\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The love episode of Dusyanta and Shakuntala simply starts as a small part but significantly adds beauty and glory to Mahabharata <\/strong>to be a drama par excellence.\u00a0 It is the loveliest creation of Kalidasa for the cause and welfare of women especially the character of Sakuntala who dominates the whole play, attracting the utmost attention of spectators or readers.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

It is delightful to know the character of Sakuntala appears on the scene in the play. Kanva adopts her as a baby, found, and looked after by birds, naming the baby Sakuntala. He brings her up in the hermitage, the pious grove of Kanva amidst flora and fauna, the rich treasure trove of lovely nature and she grows into a rare sweet-loving girl in his loving care and concern,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To beauty such as this<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No woman could give birth;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The quivering lighting flash<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is not a child of earth.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

Sakuntala has grown to be in the union of simplicity and purity and that of nobility and modesty, in her character. As a child, she develops love for singing birds, humming bees, fluttering butterflies, gentle breezes, dreaming buds, blooming blossoms, leaping cascades, lovely fawns, dancing peacocks, and others for their charms, lovely sounds and so on in the lap of nature. She \u2018presides, so to speak, as guardian deity\u2019 as per \u2018pious rites\u2019 of the hermitage.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Love at First Sight: Love Union<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

King Dusyanta in his chariot with the charioteer Madhavya appears in the forest for hunting as a king-warrior. He spots a running spotted deer for his hunting expedition. It leads him to \u2018a long chase\u2019. He assesses its speed that its speed is faster than its usual speed,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2018He leaps so often and so high\/ He does not seem to run, but fly.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The chariot enters the Kanva\u2019s hermitage. Dushyanta gets ready to shoot the spotted deer there.\u00a0 Meanwhile, the King heard the voice, \u2018O King, this deer belongs to the hermitage and must not be killed\u2019. He learns that there is a prohibition on hunting in the pious grove of holy sage Kanva. Arrows are meant for killing evil doers but not the innocent deer.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 King Dusyanta respects the prohibition of killing innocent animals and stops hunting the deer in the hermitage. Then a hermitage ascetic blesses the king to be blessed with a warrior-like son with all virtues to rule the world as a sovereign. For the sacrificial fire. the hermit along with his followers is to collect wood on the banks of the river Malini. He invites the king of the Kanva to the hermitage where Sakuntala lives with her foster father Kanva. The king, to respect the hermitage, removes all his royal signs and gives all of them to the charioteer and proceeds to the hermitage as a simple man. Then Kanva is on his tour to Somatirta. Dusyanta finds the hermitage pious, calm and quiet to fill his heart with pleasure,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A tranquil spot! Why should I thrill?<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I cannot enter there<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Yet to inevitable things<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Doors open everywhere.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

Sakuntala waters the plants and creepers in the hermitage. She feels that they are \u2018like a real sister\u2019 to her. She does these works as regular activities on the hermitage with Priyamvada and Anusuya her maids. When they are together, king Dushyanta glimpses Sakuntala. She looks extremely beautiful. He at heart adores her as a maiden in youthful charms. He is struck by her angelic beauty,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She is quite right<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Beneath the barken dress<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Upon the shoulder tied,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In maiden loveliness\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Her young breast seems to hide<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As when a flower amid<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The leaves by autumn tossed\u2014\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

Dusyanta learns the truth that the \u2018bark dress is not an enemy to her beauty. It serves as an added ornament\u2019 to her. Kalidasa uses apt similes in profusion to heighten the intensity of his expressions and draw the rapt attention of his readers.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

King Dusyanta, in boundless rapture, admires Shakuntala\u2019s beauty even in bark dress comparing her to \u2018that of the lotus\u2019 amid the weeds of dull looks. The bark dress covering her bosom, her breasts, maiden looks, hides her real charm as a nubile virgin. The dress, in the other way, looks more beautiful than any fashionable dress,<\/p>\n

Yet more the maiden slender<\/p>\n

Charms in her dress of bark.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

\\King Dusyanta adores Sakuntala\u2019s beauty in elaboration that it reflects in the poet\u2019s choice use of a metaphor,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Her charms are tender shoots, her lips,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ate blossoms red and warm;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bewitching youth begins to flower,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is beauty on her form.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The king ardently admires Sakuntala\u2019s charming face. He compares the lovely face with fully bloomed jasmine flowers. Once a bee hovers round her beautiful face with lovely eyes in its utmost fascination,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As the bee about her flies,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 Swiftly her bewitching eyes<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Turn to watch his flight.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She is practicing to-day<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Coquetry and glances\u2019 play<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Not from love, but fright.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Love\u2019s all a honey-maker.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I know nothing but her name,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Not her caste, nor whence she came–<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You, my rival, take her.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Act-1<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 The king Dusyanta is in the capture of Shakuntala\u2019s \u2018matchless beauty\u2019. He expresses his will to himself in a joyful manner,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 O heart, your wish is won!<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0All doubt at last is done;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

The thing you feared as fire,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1<\/p>\n

Dusyanta learns about Sakuntala\u2019s parentage that she is the daughter of heavenly nymph, Menaka and royal Sage Viswamitra, but she is adopted by Sage Kanva to bring her up in his hermitage. He helps her by doing her duty of watering when she looks tired. She retires from work. She keeps gazing at Dusyanta. He stays close to the pious grove near the hermitage so as to be near her without going back to his capital. He admits the fact that he cannot leave for his capital as he cannot turn his thoughts from her,\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

It is my body leaves my love, not I;<\/p>\n

My body moves away, but not my mind;<\/p>\n

For back to hear my struggling fancies fly<\/p>\n

Like silken banners borne against the wind.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-1\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta is happy by seeing Sakuntala and her emotions and feelings of love towards him. She does not express her love towards him openly, but he has bright hopes about her love for him,\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Although my darling is not lightly won,<\/p>\n

She seemed to love me, and my hopes are bright;<\/p>\n

Though love be balked ere joy be well begun,<\/p>\n

A common longing is itself delight.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-2<\/p>\n

Dushyanta feels soft corner for the fawns of Sakuntala as her fawns offer their soft glances at her with love. He, therefore, does not kill them and hurt her. His decision of not killing and showing concern with the fawns shows that he has deep love for Sakuntala. When he is ready with the bow and arrow, aiming at her fawn, he says to himself,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The bow is strong, its narrow near<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And yet I cannot bend,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That bow against the fawns who share,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Soft glances with their friends.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Act-2<\/p>\n

Love is a supreme emotion as it is the emotion created by the Supreme. Dusyanta admires the greatness of God for creating Sakuntala with flawless beauty when he looks at her first. In the same breath he admires her unsurpassed beauty. She is a flower that no one has smelt it so far. She is not a plucked flower but a flesh flower with fresh honey untasted.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0No man on earth deserves to taste her beauty,<\/p>\n

Her blameless loveliness and worth<\/p>\n

Unless he has fulfilled man\u2019s perfect duty—\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

And is there such a one on earth?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-2\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The Clown advises Dusyanta to marry Sakuntala before \u2018the poor girl falls into the hands of some oily headed hermit\u2019.\u00a0 Dusyanta does not proceed to do so in her father Kanva\u2019s absence.\u00a0 He feels sorry for Sakuntala when she is seriously ill due to summer heat. He shows concern with her and shares her suffering from sickness,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With salve upon her breast,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With loosened lotus-chain,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 My darling, sore oppressed,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Is lovely in her pain<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Though love and summer heat<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 May work an equal woe<\/p>\n

\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 No maiden seems so sweet<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When summer lays her low?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-3<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

When Priyamvada too feels sorry for Sakuntala\u2019s weakness in the wake of her serious illness, \u2018beautiful shadow\u2019. Dushyanta supports the idea, saying she has become very weak and much withered like wine-leaves in the scorching heat,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Priyamvada is right. See!<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Her cheeks grown thin; her breast and shoulders fail;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Her waist is weary and her face is pale:<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 She fades for love, oh pitifully sweet!<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As vine leaves wither in the scorching heat.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-3\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta feels happy for Sakuntala\u2019s feeling of accepting him as her comforter, \u2018The God of Love who was the cause of my affliction, has himself become my comforter.\u2019\u00a0 Priyamvada and Anusuya feel happiness for the positive and affirmative turn of events. They wish that Sakuntala should share her feelings to Dusyanta. They advise her to write a love letter to him. She does so with her nail on the lotus leaf and they pass it on to him. The letter truly states her feelings in flow as she reads,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I know not if I read your heart aright;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Why, pitiless, do you distress me so?<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I only know that longing day and night,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Tosses my restless body to and fro,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That yearns for you, the source of all its woe.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-3<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta expresses that his love for Sakuntala is flawless and knows no failure. His love is not devoted to anybody else. It is devoted to Sakuntala alone. He further says that he has already been slain by the arrow of the god of Love. That is the unquestionable truth of his love,\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bewitching eyes that found my heart,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 You surely see\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

It could no longer live apart,<\/p>\n

Not faithless be,<\/p>\n

I bear Love\u2019s arrows as I can;<\/p>\n

Wound not with doubt a wounded\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act- 3<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

When Anusuya says that kings have many favourites, Dusyanta relies on the thought that there are many wives in his court. He has two, the chief glories of his race: the earth amid the sea, his kingdom and Sakuntala alone. She seeks forgiveness on behalf her and her friends for baseless and rude questions to know his true love. He forgives them all for their questions. He further gives an assurance about his love for her,\u00a0<\/p>\n

When evening comes, the shadow of the tree<\/p>\n

Is cast far forward, yet does not depart;<\/p>\n

Even so beloved, wheresoe\u2019er you be<\/p>\n

The thought of you can never leave my heart.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-3<\/p>\n

Dusyanta says that his love for Sakuntala is for his whole life. Her body is soft like siris flowers, but her heart is as hard as their stacks that guard the flowers. He says he cannot break the body of \u2018this sweet servitude\u2019. His love for her is so deep that there is no need for her fear,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Her sweetly trembling lip<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With virgin invitation<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Provokes my soul to sip<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Delighted fascination.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act- 3<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

When Dusyanta expresses his true and deep love for Sakuntala, she says that she can \u2018see unite well now\u2019.\u00a0 She ascertains her pure love for him.\u00a0 <\/strong>The lovers are in fact in deep love for each other. Their love leads them to their love marriage, the Gandharva mode of union on mutual consent without any ceremony and green signal of parents. \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Separation of Lovers: the curse of Durvasa <\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

While Priyamvada and Anusuya are found collecting flowers in their conversation, they learn that Dusyanta and Sakuntala have been married in the Gandharva mode of union. Dushyanta is permitted to leave the hermitage to go to his capital on the permission of hermits, presenting a signet ring to her as a token of his love and marriage with her.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

There is news about the arrival of quick-tempered sage Durvasa to the hermitage. Sakuntala is lost in deep thought, and so she does not notice his arrival there. All, except Sakuntala, rush to receive him for hospitality. He feels it lapse on her part and curses her in great anger that her husband shall fail to remember her and his love for her like a drunken man who fails to tell the tale he has already told,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Because your heart, by loving fancies blinded<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Has scorned a guest in pious life grown old,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Your lover shall forget you though reminded,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Or think of you as of a story told.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-4<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Priyamvada feels that the curse will result as an ill omen and so she asks Anusuya to appeal to Durvasa to feel pity on Sakuntala and revoke the curse considering her usual good manner of receiving the guest with due respect and hospitality and ignoring it as it is her only present lapse. He says he cannot revoke the curse. After repeated appeals to him, he says that the curse will cease to work when she shows a token of recognition to her husband. The event of being cursed happens against her wish.\u00a0 Subsequently he, the sage Durvasa leaves the hermitage.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kanva hears the divine voice while preparing sacrifice, informing him of Shakuntala\u2019s pregnancy and baby \u2018seed of Dusyanta\u2019 in the womb to be born for the welfare of the earth,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Know Brahmin, that your child<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Like the fire-pregnant tree,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Bears kingly seed that shall be born\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-4<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kanva coming back to hermitage learns all about Sakuntala\u2019s past and present and thinks of her future. He feels that she must be in her in-laws\u2019 royal home as a daughter-in-law,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Shakuntala must go to-day;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I miss her now at heart;\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I dare not speak a loving word<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Or choking tears will start<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0My eyes are dim with anxious thought;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Love strikes me to the life:<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And yet I strove for pious peace–\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I have no child, no wife.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 What must a father feel, when come<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The pangs of parting from his child at home.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-4\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

Sakuntala takes steps around the sacred fire on the command of her father Kanva with a view to averting all evil forces. He, at the same time, blesses her with bright future.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The holy fires around the altar kindle.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And at their margins sacred grass is piled,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Beneath their sacrificial odours dwindle<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0Misfortunes. May the fires protect you, child!\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-4<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kanva announces Sakuntala\u2019s journey in search of her husband Dusyanta to her dear companions, all objects of nature: trees, plants, creepers, birds like peacocks, animals like fawns, pious grove and so on.\u00a0 All including the objects of nature offer their hearty farewell to her, the child of nature. Trees offers gifts to her. Peacocks stop dancing, the deer are reluctant to eat grass. The trees start to weep. Love birds stop their lovemaking as their dear Sakuntala is ready to leave the hermitage.\u00a0 They all offer her their permission to her to leave the hermitage, blessing her a fruitful journey for her reunion with her husband Dusyanta.\u00a0 All from sky to earth seem to bless her with wishes to her for reuniting with Dusyanta.\u00a0 Priyamvada and Anusuya feel like accompanying her in the journey. She is given warm farewell with their wishes to her for all success. Mainly Kanva takes a message with him to be given to the king, reminding him of Sakuntala, married to him. Before starting the journey, Sakuntala prostrates before her father\u2019s feet with tears welled in her eyes. He feels responsibility bestowed by heaven on him to perform it as a parent,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 A girl is held in trust, another\u2019s treasure;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To arms of love my child to-day is given;<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And now I feel a calm and a sacred pleasure\u2019<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I have restored the pledge that came from heaven\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-4<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Sakuntala is advised by her friends to use the signet ring to make Dusyanta recollect his secret marriage with her at the hermitage to the witness of nature. They undertake the journey and have bath in the Ganges at Sakravatara.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Now it is the stage of Dusyanta\u2019s palace at Hastinapura, the capital of his kingdom as per the drama. Vetravati assures the king that the sages have come on a peaceful mission. Kanva presents himself before the palace and sends a message to the king. Meanwhile the king enters while bards go on praising him.\u00a0 When the king gets permission for Kanva, he enters as a group of ascetics with some women. King Dusyanta wonders why Kanva has sent the ascetics to him. Vetravai tells the king that they have a mission to visit him. Sakuntala\u2019s right eye throbs not as a sign of good women. Anyhow, the king refers to Sakuntala asking them who she is,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Who is she, shrouded in the veil,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That dims her beauty\u2019s lustre,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Among the hermits like a flower<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Round which the dead leaves cluster?\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-5<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The king feels as if he had seen another man\u2019s wife. Then Sakuntala\u2019s heart throbs fast in fear. Sarngarava is happy that king Dusyantha has married Kanva\u2019s daughter, Sakuntala as she has womanly virtues. He feels they are of equal virtues, \u2018bride and groom of equal merit\u2019. Kanva\u2019s pupil, sage Sarngarava says that Dusyanta does not remember anything about his marriage with her. She feels sorry for his forgetting her. Then her hermit-mother, Gautami removes Sakuntala\u2019s veil, thinking that he would recognise her as his wife. He watches her angelic beauty but wonders whether he has met her or not so far,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As my heart ponders whether I could ever<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Have wed this woman that has come to me<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 In tortured loveliness as I endeavour<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 To bring it back to mind, then like a bee<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 That hovers round a jasmine flower at dawn,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 While frosty dews of morning still o\u2019er weave it<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 And hesitates to sip ere they be gone,<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I cannot taste the sweet and cannot leave it.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-5<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta tells the disciples of Kanva that he cannot recall his marrying the lady at any time in life. Seeing that she is pregnant, he asks others how he can accept her as his wife.\u00a0 For all are to say that he has married her, but he negatively answers every time, disobeying their views. In that helpless condition, Sakuntala remembers Priyamvada\u2019s advice to produce the signet ring offered to her as a token of his love for her. At that time, she does not find it to her finger. The hermit-mother, Gautami thinks that she must have lost it while offering worship to Indra\u2019s wife at Suchithirta after bathing in the river. She fails to remind him of their love marriage by telling a valid reason nor does he recall it to serve the purpose. All the time she addresses him in polite ways, \u2018your majesty\u2019, \u2018My dear\u2019, \u2018Dear Lord\u2019, \u2018Prince of Purus; and so on. All trials end to result still in their separation. She tries her best impressing him to recognise her as his wife but fails to suffer further in consolable. The people who have tried to remind him of his marriage, feel crest fallen. Kanva\u2019s disciple Sarngarava feels angry with the king for not accepting her as his wife.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Reunion of Lovers: Signet Ring\u2019s Role:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sakuntala\u2019s failure to remind Dusyanta of their love marriage, she feels angry for the king\u2019s response to her pleas, she says angrily,<\/p>\n

\u2018Wretch! You judge all this by your own false heart. Would say any other man do what you have done? To hide behind virtue. Like a yawning well covered with grass!\u2019 (Act-5)<\/p>\n

The king\u2019s police brought the fisherman to the king arresting him for having the signet ring in possession. When enquires about the ring, the fisherman tells them that he has got it from the maw of the carp, the fish he has caught in the river at Sakravatara but the police do not feel convinced by his story. Then the Chief of the police produces him to say it at the king\u2019s palace.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Dusyanta feels convinced and releases the fisherman. The king sights the ring and recalls a person related to it. He feels depressed much at its sight. He repents for his cruel repudiation of his wife when she is pregnant. He slowly recalls his happy life at hermitage and believes in her pleadings. He learns that he loved and married her at that time and left the hermitage, giving her the signet ring.\u00a0 He tells Madhavya that the love story is a fact. He feels like decking his wife, Sakuntala\u2019s finger again with the signet ring again. It is the signet ring which causes their happy reunion, playing the crucial role as a plot, befitting to the play, Abhijnana Sakuntalam.<\/strong> The ring episode, used as a sign of Kalidasa\u2019s extraordinary genius and magnificent imagination serves, as the greatest potential for the drama.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta destroys a brood of demons called Kanemi and receives the highest honour from Indra for that brave act. He enters the abode of Marica, the father of Indra. There he sees a young boy in his looks with royal marks of the Purus on him. Meanwhile Sakuntala appears on the scene. The boy runs to her saying that \u2018he is a man belongs to no other people\u2019. The king addresses her as his darling. Sakuntala responds to him saying, \u2018Oh my heart, believe it. Fate struck hard but its envy is gone, and pity takes its place. It is my husband.\u2019 The king replies stating their plight,\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2018Black madness flies<\/p>\n

\u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u2026<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Light follows soon\/The loving star\/ Draws to the moon.\u2019\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Act-7<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Dusyanta learns the fact and welcomes Sakuntala to his bosom for their happy reunion, letting no Durvasa appear again in the sojourn of their love and no eclipse of the light of their true love.\u00a0 They prove to be model lovers of true love.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Kalidasa is so successful in writing the play Adhijnana<\/strong> Sakuntalam<\/strong> that it rises high to achieve every spectator\u2019s or reader\u2019s encomiums for universal acclaims. It is the play significantly known for its concept of pure love. Both Sakuntala and Dusyanta deserve to enjoy unblemished love as true lovers. But there is a storm created by sage Durvasa to rage in their love a storm that leads them to their separation as lovers.\u00a0 Sage Kashyapa ultimately tells them that Durvasa\u2019s curse was responsible for their separation that in its course purifies their hearts, leading the lovers ultimately to culminate in their happy reunion. There is a calm and quiet reward of the happy reunion after the pangs of separation like calm after the storm. All spectators and readers find the episode of pure love very interesting, involving them into the play. I brand the play, Abhijnana Sakuntalam<\/strong> Kalidasa\u2019s masterpiece and the world\u2019s one of the best plays for its highly merited skills to enrich the literary firmament.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Works cited:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Kalidasa, Abhijnana Sakuntalam<\/strong>, (translated into English by Arthur W. Ryder) Educational publishers, Agra<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\"Dr. Rajamouly Katta<\/strong>, M.A., M. Phil., Ph. D., Professor of English by profession and poet, short story writer, novelist, writer, critic and translator by predilection, has to his credit 64 books of all genres and 638 publications of poems, short stories, articles and translations published in journals, books and anthologies of high repute. He has so far written 3672 poems (including 1512 haiku) and published them in 22 anthologies, 200 short stories in 9 anthologies, 9 novels 27 skits. Creative Craft of Dr. Rajamouly Katta: Sensibilities and Realities is a collection of articles on his works. As a poet, he has won several awards and prizes in Poetry Contests. He is the Editor-in-chief, Creative Crystal Publication, Dallas, America. Email: rajamoulykatta@gmail.com<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

<\/a> Dr. Katta Rajamouly, Professor and Head, Department of English (S.H), Ganapathy Engineering College, Warangal Email: rajamoulykatta@gmail.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

The article was received on 20\/04\/2025 accepted on 13\/07\/2025 and published on 30\/07\/2025<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Concept of True Love in Kalidasa\u2019s Abhijnana Sakuntalam\u201d: A Critical Study (Abhijnana Sakuntalam, translated into English by Arthur W. Ryder) \u00a0 Dr Rajamouly Katta \u00a0 ABSTRACT \u00a0 Abhijnana Sakuntalam is a world-famous play to reflect the playwright Kalidasa\u2019s great dramatic element, idyllic description of nature, values and aesthetics, virtues and morality, and remarkable handling […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_header_footer","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5100","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nThe Concept of True Love in Kalidasa\u2019s Abhijnana Sakuntalam\u201d: A Critical Study - Afflatus Creations<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Abhijnana Sakuntalam is a world-famous play to reflect the playwright Kalidasa\u2019s great dramatic element, idyllic description of nature,\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/afflatuscreations.com\/index.php\/the-concept-of-true-love-in-kalidasas-abhijnana-sakuntalam-a-critical-study\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Concept of True Love in Kalidasa\u2019s Abhijnana Sakuntalam\u201d: A Critical Study - 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