The Ananga Ranga () or Kamaledhiplava () is an ancient Indian Sanskrit text written by Kalyana malla in the 15th or 16th century. The translators of the manuscript stated that its objective is not to encourage wantonness, but simply to prevent the separation of husband and wife.

The poet wrote the work for the amusement of Lad Khan, son of Ahmed Khan Lodi. He was related to the Lodi dynasty, which from 1451 to 1526 ruled from Delhi. This work is often compared to the Kama Sutra, on which it draws.

Overview

Ananga Ranga was translated and published in English by the Kama Shastra Society in 1885 under the editorship of Sir Richard Francis Burton. After his death, the manuscript of the translation and notes were burnt by his wife Isabel Burton. However, the historical fiction titled Kalyanamalla Charitam (Saga of Kalyanamalla) authored by Vallabharayar, said to incorporate the Ananga Ranga in its entirety including that were previously lost.

References

  • Text of the Burton translation of the Ananga Ranga
  • Burton's translation of the Ananga Ranga in pdf format