In which language is ‘Rajatarangini’ originally composed?

‘Rajatarangini’ is originally composed in Sanskrit. It is a historical chronicle written by the Kashmiri historian Kalhana, detailing the history of the Kashmir region from ancient times to the 12th century CE.

‘Rajatarangini,’ composed by the Kashmiri historian Kalhana in the 12th century, is a Sanskrit historical chronicle documenting the political and cultural history of the Kashmir Valley. Divided into eight books, it covers the reigns of various rulers, including legends and dynasties, up to Kalhana’s contemporary period.

Kalhana’s meticulous narrative style combines historical facts with poetic embellishments. The work provides insights into the political intrigues, cultural advancements, and social dynamics of Kashmir. Notable for its rich descriptions, ‘Rajatarangini’ also reflects Kalhana’s keen interest in the ethical and moral aspects of rulership.

While ‘Rajatarangini’ is a valuable historical source, its literary qualities contribute to its enduring appeal. It remains a significant work in both historical and literary contexts, portraying Kashmir as a vibrant center of cultural and political life in medieval India.