TELUGU
Scholar-poet of 16th century
SAROJINI PREMCHAND
TENALI RAMAKRISHNA KAVI: Muthevi Ravindranath; Peacock Books, G14, Pragati Enclave, Bhagyanagar Colony, Kukatpally, Hyderabad-500072. Rs. 500.
THOUGH KNOWN more for his humour and repartee, Ramakrishna was an erudite scholar-poet of the 16th century. His "Panduranga Mahatmyam" is reckoned among the five Andhra maha kavyas. Born in a learned Saivite family, Garlapati Ramalingam mastered Sanskrit and Telugu languages and started writing poetry at an early age.
Seeking recognition for his talents, he embraced Vaishnavism to gain entry intoKrishnadevaraya's court. With his literary prowess, ready-wit, spontaneity in composing poems, and practical wisdom, he established himself as a confidant of the king.
It is only rarely that a non-academician takes up a work of this nature and Ravindranath with a strong scientific spirit and keen historic perspective has come up with an excellent analysis of his chosen subject.
There are six chapters with meaningful sub-titles and 10 appendices. In a conversational style, the author takes us on a fascinating trip back to the times of the poet, portraying a delightful picture of the social and cultural mosaic. The way of life of the common people, their food, mode of dress, and festivities as also the luxuries the rich indulged in have been described interestingly. The poet's love for Nature is brought out graphically and the flowers, herbs, plants and trees found in his writings have been identified, with their botanical names meticulously recorded. The origins and etymology of place names and family names such as Tenali and Vykhanasa, are dealt with in detail. But the author is not uncritical of the poet. Ramakrishna had his own vanities and was dogmatic at times, he says.
Competent editing would have enhanced the value of the work. Overall, there is little doubt, the book, with its approach, stands out as an example in the study of old classics.
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