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What are the 64 Kama Kalas?
The 64 Kama Kalas mentioned in this world famous temple located in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, reflect a holistic view of human life. These arts encompass a wide range of skills and practices of both sexes, which were considered essential for a cultured and accomplished man and woman in ancient India. Described in detail in the Kama Sutra of Maharishi Vatsyayana, these arts go beyond just sexual acts, these arts include music, dance, painting, cooking and many other subjects that promote personal refinement and social etiquette. I believe that the 64 elaborate carvings on the walls of the temple emphasize the holistic nature of human life.
Whenever you see the artworks of Khajuraho temples, you will feel that they are a reflection of a society that gave great importance to the development of diverse skills and whose aim was to live a balanced and pleasant life. These paintings on the temples were meant to keep the individuals educated and motivated to achieve excellence in different spheres of life. These images also reinforce the idea that sexuality and spirituality are intertwined elements of the human experience.
Who created the 64 Kama Kalas?
The 64 arts are primarily mentioned in Vatsyayana’s Kama Sutra. It is an ancient text that is an important piece of literature on sexuality as well as deeply discusses aspects of social conduct, philosophy and art. The Kama Sutra was composed between the third and fifth centuries AD. It contains detailed descriptions of these 64 arts, underlining their importance for a cultured person. Mastery in these arts, especially for people of higher social status, was considered essential for a fully developed and cultured personality.
The “64 arts” described in Vatsyayana’s Kama Sutra provide a glimpse into the diverse and rich cultural practices of ancient India. These arts were not limited to practical skills but also included intellectual and creative activities, emphasizing balanced and comprehensive education.
How to learn 64 Kama Kalas easily?
When you look deeply into the 64 arts, you will realize that learning these 64 arts involves a multi-faceted approach that combines three things – skill development, cultural understanding and continuous practice. To learn them easily, first identify some of these 64 arts for yourself that suit your interests and strengths, such as music, painting, etc. Try to master them through workshops. You can also deepen your understanding by reading classical texts, watching traditional performances and participating in cultural programs.
The purpose of Kama Sutra is Trivarga Sadhana. Acharya Vatsyayana has saluted Dharma, Artha and Kama, the causes of creation, sustenance and destruction. All the activities of the world are based on this Trivarga – Dharma, Artha and Kama. For the success of life and the rise of the world, according to the prescribed methods, the accumulation, collection and consumption of Dharma, Artha, Kama – Trivarga should be done in such a way that they do not hinder each other.