Kālidāsa

The Kalidas Smarak at Ramtek

Kālidāsa (Devanāgarī: कालिदास) was a Sanskrit poet and dramatist, his title Kavikulaguru (Preceptor of All Poets) bearing testimony to his stature. Known to be an ardent worshipper of Shiva, he wrote his plays and poetry largely based around Hindu mythology and philosophy. His name means, literally, "Kali's servant." His life cannot be dated with precision, but most likely falls within the Gupta period, probably in the 4th or 5th century.

Quotes

• अनुभवति हि मूर्ध्ना पादपस्तीव्रमुष्णं ।
  शमयति परितापं छायया संश्रितानाम् ॥
  • The tree bears the intense heat on its head while it lessens the heat for those who take shelter under it.
    • Abhijñānaśākuntalam (The Sign of Śākuntalā)

• स्रजमपि शिरस्यन्धः क्षिप्तं धुनोत्यहिशंकया
  • One who is blind throws away even a garland of flower placed on his head, thinking it is a snake.
    • Abhijñānaśākuntalam (The Sign of Śākuntalā)

• न रत्नमन्विष्यति मृग्यते हि तत्
  • A jewel is sought after and has not to seek.
    • Kumārasambhava, Canto V, 45; translated by M. R. Kale