Medieval Sanskrit Poetry

Jayadeva and the Court of Lakshmana Sen

Jayadeva, the composer of the Geet Govind, served as a court poet for King Lakshmana Sen of the Sena dynasty.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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Whose court was embellished by 'Jaydev', composer of Geet Govind?

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1999]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Sena dynasty of Bengal was a major patron of Sanskrit literature during the 12th century, just before the Turkish invasions.

Authentic Source Evidence


Jayadeva, the celebrated author of the Gita Govinda, was a court poet of Lakshmana Sen (reigned 1178–1206 CE).

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option D is Correct: Lakshmana Sen's court was home to the 'Pancha-Ratna' (Five Gems) of poets, including Jayadeva, Dhoyi, and Umapati Dhara.

  • Impact: The Gita Govinda revolutionized devotional literature by focusing on the 'Madhura Bhakti' (sweet devotion) between Radha and Krishna.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the primary theme of the Gita Govinda?"

    It is a lyrical narrative describing the relationship between Krishna, Radha, and the Gopis, serving as a pillar of the Bhakti movement.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Jayadeva's work in the Sena court proved that high classical Sanskrit could be used to express the most intimate human and divine emotions."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Sena Dynasty 4

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