Kathasaritsagar (कथासरित्सागर) | Bharatiya Lok Kathayein, Dantkathayein Aur Paramparik Kathao Ka Anokha Sagar

Kathasaritsagar, literally associated with an “ocean of streams of stories,” is a major Sanskrit narrative work traditionally attributed to Somadeva of Kashmir. The original work is an extensive collection of legends, folktales, adventures and interconnected narratives, with the adventures of Naravahanadatta forming an important central thread.

One of the distinctive features of the work is its layered storytelling. A story often leads into another story, creating a fascinating network of characters, adventures, moral situations, romances, clever schemes and extraordinary events. The collection also preserves versions of well-known Indian story traditions, including the Panchatantra and Vetala Panchavimshati (Baital Pachisi).

Key Message:Stories preserve the imagination, wisdom and cultural heritage of generations. Kathasaritsagar offers readers an opportunity to discover the richness of India's classical storytelling tradition through a remarkable collection of timeless tales.

• Book Title: Kathasaritsagar
• Hindi Title: (कथासरित्सागर)
• Author: Radhavallabh Tripathi
• Original Work: Somadeva
• ISBN-13: 9788123714318
• Publisher: National Book Trust, India
• Language: Hindi
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 248
• Publication Year: 2019
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Country of Origin: India

Q1. What is Kathasaritsagar about?

Kathasaritsagar is a vast collection of interconnected Indian stories, legends, adventures, folk narratives and traditional tales originating from the classical Sanskrit literary tradition.

Q2. Who wrote Kathasaritsagar?

The original Sanskrit Kathasaritsagar is traditionally attributed to Somadeva, a scholar and poet associated with Kashmir. The Hindi edition is by Radhavallabh Tripathi.

Q3. What does Kathasaritsagar mean?

Kathasaritsagar is commonly understood as an “ocean of the streams of stories,” reflecting the enormous variety and interconnected nature of the tales contained in the work.

Q4. What types of stories are found in Kathasaritsagar?

The work includes legends, adventures, romances, folk tales, supernatural narratives, humorous episodes, moral situations and stories involving cleverness, destiny and human relationships.

Q5. Is Kathasaritsagar suitable for readers interested in Indian literature?

Yes. It is particularly suitable for readers interested in classical Indian literature, mythology, folklore, traditional storytelling and the development of India's narrative heritage.

Q6. Is this edition written in Hindi?

Yes. This edition is a Hindi rendition by Radhavallabh Tripathi and is published by National Book Trust, India.

Q7. What is the ISBN of Kathasaritsagar?

The ISBN-13 of this edition is 9788123714318.