A history of Telugu literature; - Cristo Raul

hava. A pious Brahmin of Arunaspada, on the banks
of the Varuna, visits the heights of the Himalayas, tradition-
ally reputed to be the abode of a higher order of beings
than men, with the aid of a mantra imparted to him by a
sidha. In his wanderings he attracts the attention of
a Gandharva damsel, who falls in love with him, but
he does not reciprocate her feelings. A male Gandharva,
taking advantage of the situation, assumes the
form of the Brahmin, consoles the love-lorn maiden and
lives with her. Out of the union was born Svarochisha,
who in time becomes a ruler and meets many an adventure,
in each of which he rescues a maiden whom he weds. The
son of Svarochisha is the second Manu, ruler of Jambudvipa.
The story, as will be seen, is slight, but the main
interest lies in the varied descriptions of the natural beauty
of the Himalayas, and the delineations of character.
In literary form, Manucharitra is of composite structure.
The poem reveals in many places the characteristic touch
of Srinatha, for whom Peddana seems to have entertained
great respect. In the description of the hunt, Pillalamarri
Pinavirabhadriah is followed. In the conception of situations,
Marana's inspiration is traceable. In the development
of the theme, Krishnadevaraya sets the model. Manucharitra
well illustrates what we may call 'eclecticism in
composition,' a very noticeable feature in latter-day poetry.
Peddana 's learning in Sanskrit and Telugu was prodi-
gious and his flow of inspiration sustained. In the weaving
of words his skill was extraordinary, as Kakamani Murti
justly observed. And yet one or two defects are noticeable.
Unities are lacking, and the various parts of the story do
not properly articulate. Sweet imagery is meagre, though
descriptions
managed.
are delightful, and conversations cunningly
Peddana followed the royal example of laying under
tribute foreign words, especially Kanarese, whenever
necessary. This practice, though condemned by purists, is
a welcome departure, as it adds to the beauty and symphony
of the verse. Hari Kathd Sara, which is attributed to
Peddana, is not extant.
Manucharitra was dedicated to Krishnadevaraya, who