The Advaitist

The first development phase of classical Sanskrit literature is associated with Kalidasa. This is the beginning of the phase known as the " Golden Age of Classical Sanskrit literature. " Kalidasa (kAlidAsa) lived around 4th century C.E is is regraded as the greatest poet and dramatist in the Sanskrit language. His plays and poetry are primarily based on itihAsa-s and purANa-s. Poetry 1. kumArasambhava 2. raghuvaMsha, based on Padma Purana 3. meghadUta 4. RRitusaMhAra Drama 1. mAlavikAgnimitra 2. vikramorvashiya 3. abhiGYAnAshakuntalam Attributed to Kalidasa but doubtful 1. pushpa vAna vilAsa 2. shRRi~NgAratilaka

Classical Sanskrit literature can be divided into three broad periods: a. Creative Period - Upto 4th century C.E. b. First Development Phase - Works of kAlidAsa c. Second Development Phase - post-kAlidAsa works d. Concluding Phase - 10th century to 18th century C.E. Cultural Glory of Ancient India, Banerji. Page 46