The Kamasutra and Its Interpretations
First Online: December 15, 2001
Introduction to Kamasutra
The Kamashastra is the ancient Indian treatise governing the relationship of humans and the sexes. Its origins can be traced to very first rules of conduct (along with the Dharmashstra and the Athrashastra) in Hinduism. Numerous saints and sages wrote commentaries on the treatise for the common man, known as the Kamasutra (kaa-ma-soo-tra, meaning Aphorisms on Love), but as Dr. Kamat points out in his Introduction to Erotic arts of India, most of these works have been lost.
Fortunately one such guide by sage Vatsyayana (a.k.a. Vatasayana) written in the early part of the Christian era (see a note on dating of the Kamasutra) is available today in its full form and beauty, and is generally referred to as The Kamasutra of Vatsyayana or simply the Kamasutra.
The various editions of Kamasutra have inspired the Indian art, dance, and music for centuries and artists have interpreted the the sensuality in their own skills, imagination, and art forms. In this section we look at art and literature inspired by the Kamasutra.
These interpretations and their marriage to ancient works of literature is by me, and the tongue-in-cheek commentary may be pardoned.
- Vikas Kamat
Kamasutra Sex Positions
Merchandise and Link Suggestions