Sriharsha

It is said that Sriharsha lived in the second half of the twelfth century A.D. He was supported by Vijayachandra and Jayachandra of Kanauj. He was the son of Hira and Mamalladevi. His poetry Naishadhacharitam is one of the master works of the ornate court epic. In twenty-two cantos it narrates the story of Nala and Damayanti.

This epic poem of Sriharsha is considered to be a tonic for the scholars (niashadham vidvadaushadham). Here one finds a poetry presenting all systems of philosophy, all the sciences and other currents of thought knit around a simple and familiar story. There are elaborate descriptions of Nature and human emotions. The language of the epic is lucid and grand. One can read and enjoy verses with alliterations, with double or triple meanings. But no where one can find any artificial use of words. There is always an effortless ease with which Sriharsha handles all the devices in language, exhibits all his skills. The poem makes it clear that Sriharsha simply exerted much of his talents for bringing in linguistic niceties.

In the thirteenth canto of Naishadacharitam, there is verse which has got five different meanings. Sriharsha has used his talent at a very right place. It is in the context of the Svayamvara ceremony of Damayanti. She has decided to select Nala as her husband. In the Svayamvara she finds five princes sitting in the form of Nala. It is goddess Sarasvati who has to introduce one by one all the princes sitting. Being the goddess of Speech Sarasvati will not lie. If she speaks the truth then there is no need of four gods assuming the form of Nala to confuse Damayanti. It is in this context Sriharsha has composed a verse with five different meanings. Goddess Sarasvati recites the same verse in front of all but she is conscious of the different meanings. This is beautiful instance of Sriharsha’s poetic skill.

All the factors that make a poem good and great are found in Sriharsha’s Naishadha-charitam. There is a majestic style, full of music in its flow. There is lucid language with chaste words and expressions. There are embellishments that give a special glow to the beautiful language and ideas. There is theme that is really grand. There are beautiful descriptions decorating the story. Human emotions and intellect both are taken care of in this poem.