The Seduction of Shiva- Tales of Life and Love (Penguin Classics)

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The tales presented here have been translated directly from the original Sanskrit. The ancient language is mainly associated in modern popular perception with religion and philosophy. That it is of course much more, and its vast literature also ranges over worldly life, love and human relations like that of all great languages, is an aspect this presentation endeavours to highlight.

The stories in this collection have been drawn together, perhaps on a first occasion, from a cross section of Sanskrit literature spread over a considerable time span with a wide variety in its nature, form and content. Their settings vary from the mundane to the celestial, but each touches in its own way on emotions, unparalleled beauty like a young lion. This was none other than Dhanvantari, the expounder of the Ayurveda.' In his hands was the pitcher filled with amrit.

The demons had been waiting for this moment. At once they seized the pitcher of amrit from Dhanvantari's hands. The gods were dismayed and sought refuge with Sri Hari' who is a wish-fulfilling tree for his devotees. 'Gods,' he said to them, 'do not be distressed. I will help you and sow dissension among the demons with my power of illusion.'

Then, as the demons fought among themselves for the nectar, the all-wise Hari assumed the form of a young woman, marvellous beyond all description. This was Mohini, the enchantress. Her complexion was the colour of a blue lotus flower and all her limbs were exquisite. Rings glittered in her perfectly matched ears, set on either side of a lovely face with charming temples and a chiselled nose.

**Contents and Sample Pages**