Sri Krsnavatara Lila. The Birth of Krishna

The origin of this work is shrouded in mystery. The original copy of the Sri-Krsnavatar-Lila written in Kashmiri language was obtained by Sir George Grierson in Srinagar. This was probably the only surviving copy of the work. Sir Grierson could not establish the identity of the original author conclusively, but concedes that the original work remains the best specimen of philosophical writing in the Kashmiri language. The work seemed to have been written between 1780 to 1830 A.D. The only certainty is that the author’s pen-name could be Dinanatha which is borne out by the author’s reference to himself in verse 1172 of the book.
The work is a life of Krsna, based like the Prem-Sagar, on the tenth Skandha of the Bhagvad Purana. The translated verses provide the reader with almost an eyewitness account of the festivities and rejoicing attending Krsna’s birth. The verses on The Naming Ceremony, The Butter-Thief, The Conquest of Kaliya Naga, Theft of the Damsel’s garments, The Rasa Dance, Upholding of Goverdhan and Krsna’s slaying of Kamsa fill the heart with joy. Such is the beauty and magnificence of Grierson’s language.
This book, along with Grierson’s other work – Ramavatara-Carita, remain the most respected translations of indological writings. The reading pleasure of the original work is enhanced in the translated version because of Grierson’s complete understanding of the language – he compiled the only Dictionary of Kashmiri Language.
The book shall be welcomed not only by the specialists in the area of Indology, philosophy, Indian Religion, literary writings and Bhagvat Gita but also by men and women in love with Krisna.