Raghunath Pandit Virchit Damayanti- Swayamvar [Illustrations by M V Dhurandhar]

A K Priyolkar, Raghunath Pandit Virchit Damayanti- Swayamvar, Aundh: Shripad Damodar Satwalekar, 1934-35

20 illustrations by M V Dhurandhar; hardbound
9.75 x 7.5 in (25 x 19 cm)

Signed by the author Shri A K Priyolkar and dated 23-9-45.

Damayanti Swayamvar written by the 17th-century Marathi poet Raghunath Pandit, is a poignant narrative of Damayanti's self-choice ceremony and a cherished episode from Indian mythology. The Pant-Sahitya tradition, which is distinguished by its deep roots in religious narratives and Sanskrit-influenced diction, is epitomized by this classic work. This poetic masterpiece, which draws inspiration from the Mahabharata, tells the poignant and evocative story of Damayanti, the princess of Vidarbha, and her divine union with Nala, the noble king of Nishadha. The work is a prime example of Raghunath Pandit's literary finesse, which is characterized by his mastery of Sanskritized diction, imagery, and cadence. It is also replete with classical allusions and spiritual undertones.

Damayanti Swayamvar is a devotional and courtly narrative that not only demonstrates the poet's mastery of form and language but also reflects the broader cultural and aesthetic milieu of 17th-century Maharashtra. It seamlessly integrates mythological grandeur with lyrical refinement. The work continues to be a cherished jewel in the corpus of medieval Marathi literature.

This literary treasure was meticulously edited by the esteemed scholar A K Priyolkar in 1935, thereby improving its accessibility for modern readers. Shripad Damodar Satwalekar, the founder of the Swadhyay Mandal and a distinguished polymath, undertook the publication. He is recognized for his contributions to Vedic literature. ?

This edition is additionally enhanced by 20 exquisite illustrations created by M V Dhurandhar, a renowned artist who is renowned for his evocative depictions of Indian life and Hindu mythology. The timeless narrative has continued to captivate and inspire readers, bridging the past with the present through art and scholarship, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Priyolkar, Satwalekar, and Dhurandhar.

This lot will be shipped in "as is" condition. For further details, please refer to the images of individual lots as reference for the condition of each book.