Kavitraya or three poets – Nannaya, Tikkana and Errana,
wrote the Telugu translation of Mahabharata. Nannaya lived in the 11th
century; Tikkana in the 13th century and Errana in the 14th
century. Therefore, what is the Telugu Translation of the Sanskrit Mahabharata
written by the three poets.
Telugu Translation of Mahabharata is known as Kavitraya
Bharatamu.
"Kavitraya Bharatamu" is a celebrated Telugu rendition of the Indian epic Mahabharata. The term "Kavitraya" means "three poets," and this version of the Mahabharata was a collaborative effort by three eminent Telugu poets: Nannaya, Tikkana, and Errana. Here's a detailed overview of their contributions:
1. Nannaya Bhattaraka (Nannaya)
- Period: 11th century
- Contribution: Nannaya initiated the translation of the Mahabharata into Telugu. He translated the first two and a half parvas (books) - Adi Parva, Sabha Parva, and part of the Aranya Parva.
- Style: Nannaya's style is marked by a classical elegance and adherence to the Sanskrit original, with a blend of lyrical and descriptive passages. His language and meter set a high standard for Telugu literary works.
2. Tikkana Somayaji (Tikkana)
- Period: 13th century
- Contribution: Tikkana continued from where Nannaya left off and translated the remaining part of the Aranya Parva to the end of the Mahabharata. He did not translate the Harivamsa, an appendix to the Mahabharata.
- Style: Tikkana is renowned for his philosophical depth and masterful command of the Telugu language. He introduced a more colloquial and accessible style, making the text relatable to the common people while retaining its poetic beauty.
3. Errapragada (Errana)
- Period: 14th century
- Contribution: Errana translated the Harivamsa, completing the Telugu Mahabharata. He is often credited with ensuring that the work of his predecessors was preserved and respected.
- Style: Errana's work is characterized by a synthesis of the styles of Nannaya and Tikkana. He maintained the grandeur and sophistication of the original epic while making it engaging for Telugu readers.
Significance of Kavitraya Bharatamu
- Cultural Impact: The Telugu Mahabharata by the Kavitraya is considered a monumental work in Telugu literature. It played a pivotal role in shaping the literary, cultural, and philosophical landscape of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
- Linguistic Contribution: This translation elevated Telugu to the status of a classical language, showcasing its potential to express complex ideas and emotions with grace and precision.
- Literary Excellence: The Kavitraya's work is celebrated for its poetic excellence, rich vocabulary, and the seamless integration of Telugu idioms and cultural references into the narrative.
Themes and Styles
- Adherence to Original: While the Telugu Mahabharata stays true to the Sanskrit original, the poets also infused local flavor and cultural elements into the narrative.
- Philosophical Depth: Particularly in Tikkana's work, there is a notable emphasis on philosophical and ethical discussions, making the text not just a story of war but a treatise on dharma (duty/righteousness).
- Narrative Techniques: The Kavitraya employed various narrative techniques, including descriptive passages, dialogues, and lyrical interludes, to enhance the readability and engagement of the text.
The Kavitraya Bharatamu stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mahabharata and its profound impact on Indian literature and culture. The collaborative effort of Nannaya, Tikkana, and Errana has immortalized the epic in the Telugu language, ensuring its relevance and reverence for generations to come.