Dandin and The Kavyadarsha
Dandin and His Contribution to Indian Poetics In the rich tapestry of Indian literary criticism, few figures shine as brightly as Dandin (circa late 6th - early 7th century CE). A master of both poetic practice and theoretical formulation, Dandin's seminal work, the Kavyadarsha ("The Mirror of Poetry"), remains a cornerstone of Alamkarashastra (the Science of Literary Embellishment, or Indian Poetics). This discourse, concise yet deeply insightful, systematically explores the nature, structure, and essential qualities of kavya (literature/poetry), providing generations of poets and critics with a guiding light. This newsletter delves into the life, work, and enduring legacy of Dandin, unpacking the intricate technical vocabulary of the Kavyadarsha to illuminate its foundational role in understanding Sanskrit and broader Indian literary aesthetics. Indian Knowledge System Dandin: The Theorist and His Times Life and...