Bilhana is a Sanskrit historian and poet of the 11th century CE. He was born in Kashmir but later migrated to South India and was patronized by the kings of Chalukya dynasty. He is said to have lived during the second and third quarters of 11th century CE. His father, Jyesthakalasha, had written a commentary on Mahabhashya for which he was honored in the court of king Krishna of Bundelkhand. Best known poetical work of Bilhana is Vikramanka Deva Caritam, a mahakavya (epic). He traveled far and wide, visiting many pilgrim centers. The title vidyapati was bestowed upon him in the court of Tribhuvanamalla.
Vikramanka Deva Charitam was written in 1088 CE around the
theme of the victory of Vikramaditya VI in battle. A description of the
Chalukya dynasty is given at the beginning. This is followed by an account of
Tailapa’s administration. After detailing the birth of Someshvara, Jayasimha
and Vikramaditya, which he ascribes to the grace of Shiva, Bilhana deals with
Vikramaditya’s ascendancy over his brothers and his marriage with princess
Chandralekha. The work abounds in exquisite poetic imagery. The sentiment of
pathos is well brought out while describing the death of Ahavamalla, father of
Vikramaditya.
Ahavamalla was deeply devoted to Shiva. His last words on
his death bed were – ‘I know that my life tremulous as the tip of an elephant’s
ear is gone. No other hope have I except in Parvati’s Lord. In the bosom of the
Tungabhadra River, I desire to lay aside this deception of human life, my heart
set fast on Shiva.’