Hinduism: Details about 'The Recognition Of Sakuntala'
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The Recognition of Sakuntala is a Sanskrit play by Kalidasa. Its date is uncertain, as Kalidasa may have lived during either the first or the fourth centuries AD. It is based on a story in the Mahabharata, though Kalidasa makes some minor changes to the plot. SynopsisThe play depicts the legendary King Dushyanta, who falls in love with Shakuntala, the adopted daughter of the sage Kanva (Maharshi Kanva) in the forest. Dushyanta woos and marries her. But Shakuntala is then cursed by an old sage, so that Dushyanta is bewitched into forgetting her existence. The only cure is for Shakuntala to show him the signet ring that he gave her, but Shakuntala loses the ring while crossing a river and Dushyanta cannot be persuaded that she is his wife. A goddess then whisks Shakuntala away. Fortunately, the ring is discovered by a fisherman in the belly of a fish, and Dushyanta realises his mistake - too late. The newly wise Dushyanta defeats an army of Titans, and is rewarded by Indra with a journey through the Hindu heaven. Returned to Earth years later, Dushanta finds Shakuntala and their son by chance, and recognises them. TranslationsEnglish translations of this work include:
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