The Kādambarī of Bāṇa. Audiobook, full length

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The Kādambarī of Bāṇa is a Sanskrit romance novel written in the 6th century CE by Bāṇabhaṭṭa and completed by his son Bhūṣaṇabhaṭṭa after his father's death. It is considered one of the masterpieces of Indian classical literature and is known for its intricate plot, vivid descriptions, and elegant style.

The novel tells the story of a love triangle between Kadambari, a beautiful princess with magical powers, Chandrapiḍa, the prince of Ujjayinī, and Pundarīka, a prince from a neighboring kingdom. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa fall in love at first sight, but their relationship is complicated by Pundarīka's jealousy and ambition.

The novel is divided into two parts, the Pūrva-Bhāga (First Part) and the Uttara-Bhāga (Second Part). The Pūrva-Bhāga tells the story of Kadambari's birth, upbringing, and marriage to Chandrapiḍa. The Uttara-Bhāga tells the story of Kadambari's separation from Chandrapiḍa and her eventual reunion with him.

The Kādambarī is a rich and complex novel that explores a variety of themes, including love, loss, fate, and reincarnation. It is also a valuable source of information about Indian culture and society in the 6th century CE.

Here is a more detailed summary of the novel:

Pūrva-Bhāga (First Part)

In the Pūrva-Bhāga, we are introduced to Kadambari, a beautiful princess who is born with magical powers. She is raised in a secret hermitage by her father, the king of the Gandharvas (celestial beings).

One day, Kadambari's father is killed in a battle with the Asuras (demons). Kadambari is forced to flee her home and seek refuge in the kingdom of Ujjayinī.

In Ujjayinī, Kadambari meets Chandrapiḍa, the prince of Ujjayinī. Chandrapiḍa is immediately smitten with Kadambari and they fall in love at first sight. However, their relationship is complicated by the arrival of Pundarīka, a prince from a neighboring kingdom.

Pundarīka is also attracted to Kadambari and he tries to win her hand in marriage. However, Kadambari is only interested in Chandrapiḍa. Pundarīka is consumed by jealousy and he plots to destroy Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa.

Pundarīka's plan backfires and he is eventually killed. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa are finally able to marry and they live happily ever after.

Uttara-Bhāga (Second Part)

In the Uttara-Bhāga, Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa are separated by a misunderstanding. Kadambari believes that Chandrapiḍa has died and she goes into mourning.

Chandrapiḍa, who is actually alive, is also devastated by the loss of Kadambari. He searches for her tirelessly, but he is unable to find her.

Years pass and Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa are finally reunited. They are overjoyed to be back together and they live happily ever after.

Themes

The Kādambarī explores a variety of themes, including love, loss, fate, and reincarnation.

Love: The novel is a celebration of love in all its forms. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa's love is a powerful force that overcomes all obstacles.

Loss: The novel also explores the pain of loss. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa both experience the loss of loved ones and they must find ways to cope with their grief.

Fate: The novel suggests that fate plays a role in human affairs. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa's lives are intertwined in ways that they could never have imagined.

Reincarnation: The novel suggests that the soul is reincarnated after death. Kadambari and Chandrapiḍa are believed to have been lovers in a previous life.

Cultural Significance

The Kādambarī is a valuable source of information about Indian culture and society in the 6th century CE. The novel provides insights into the lives of the nobility, the common people, and the religious and spiritual practices of the time.

Conclusion

The Kādambarī is a beautiful and complex novel that is considered one of the masterpieces of Indian classical literature. It is a story of love, loss, and redemption that has resonated with readers for centuries.


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PART II. 07:17:59
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