Mahakavya Kiratarjuniya a splendid work of poetry was authored by the very versatile poet Bharavi. She lived around 575-600 A.D. and was patronized by king Simhavishnu of Kanchi. Kiratarjuniya is a poem in 18 cantos and describes the obtaining of the Pasupatastra by Arjuna.
Filled with spirit and wisdom Bharavi`s style of writing is outpour of perceptional thoughts. It would be an ideal example of the definition of slesa or double entendre. Bharavi exhibits his skill very well in the use of the rules of grammar. The discussions on political issues in which Yudhistira, Bhima and Draupadi participate are noted for their vigor and depth of expression. In the 15th canto, Bharavi displays his dexterity in playing with words. There are stanzas with single or double consonants reading the same when taken from both ends of the line. There are many general statements in his poem, all didactic in nature. The famous commentator Mallinatha considers Bharavi`s words a hard nut to crack.
