भर्तृहरिकृत श्रृंगारशतक- Bhartrhari's One Hundred Verses on Love

भर्तृहरिकृत श्रृंगारशतक (Bhartrhari's One Hundred Verses on Love) is a work by the renowned philosopher and poet Bhartrhari, who is best known for his contributions to the Sanskrit tradition, especially in the fields of grammar, philosophy, and poetics. The work Shringara Shataka (one hundred verses on love) is a part of his broader literary output, which also includes the Vairagya Shataka (one hundred verses on renunciation) and Niti Shataka (one hundred verses on ethics).

In his Shringara Shataka, Bhartrhari delves into the complexities of love, passion, and relationships. His verses explore various facets of romantic love, from its pleasures and sorrows to its philosophical implications. Bhartrhari’s exploration of love is not merely about physical attraction; it also includes the emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of love. His work is marked by a deep understanding of human nature and emotions, often expressed through metaphors and rich imagery.

Translation by Harsha V. Dehejia

Harsha V. Dehejia, a noted scholar and translator, has translated Bhartrhari's Shringara Shataka into English. His translation brings out the nuances of Bhartrhari’s verses, providing readers with an understanding of the ancient Indian poetic tradition as well as the philosophical depth embedded in the text.

Dehejia’s translation makes Bhartrhari’s work accessible to a wider audience, offering insights into the delicate balance between love and longing, joy and sorrow, and attachment and detachment. Through this translation, one can appreciate the timeless relevance of Bhartrhari’s observations on the human experience of love.

Key Themes in Shringara Shataka:

1. The Duality of Love: Bhartrhari often speaks of the dichotomy in love—how it can be both a source of great pleasure and deep suffering.
2. Transience of Physical Beauty: He reflects on the fleeting nature of beauty and the impermanence of physical attraction.
3. The Nature of Desire: Bhartrhari often emphasizes how desire, though intense, is ultimately unsatisfying and leads to longing.
4. The Impact of Separation: Many verses explore the pain of separation from a beloved, portraying the emotional toll it takes on the lover.
5. Spiritual Dimension of Love: While Bhartrhari is deeply engaged with the sensual aspects of love, he also sees it as a means of spiritual growth, encouraging the reader to transcend mere attachment and focus on the deeper, eternal truths.

Bhartrhari's work has had a significant influence on Indian literature and philosophy, and his observations on love continue to resonate with readers and scholars alike. If you're interested in classical Sanskrit literature or the philosophy of love in Indian thought, this work provides a rich and insightful perspective.