The Kamasutra, the ancient Indian text on love, was written by a north Indian scholar-saint called Vatsyayana Mallanaga in the 3rd century. It is a comprehensive guide to the art of living, finding a partner, and maintaining power and appeal in marriage and sex. It is a detailed scientific treatise on the art of lovemaking and describes the qualities of an ideal man and woman as well as sixty-four different positions in sexual intercourse.
Apart from the mere physical details, Kamasutra also provides spiritual and social insight into the art of sex and marriage. It formed an integral part of adult education in ancient India. The students of the Gurukula system of education were mostly required to have a thorough knowledge of the principles of Kamasutra, for the well-being of the individuals and the society. Kamasutra also has great historical significance as it comments on the social and sexual practices of ancient Indian kingdoms.
The origins of the Kamasutra is believed to be in remote pre-historic times when Prajapati, the abstract supreme creator, delivered ten thousand chapters of it. Lord Shiva is said to have compiled these chapters, which were then transcribed into Sanskrit sutras by Vatsyayana. This ancient text is divided into several parts such as Sadharana, Samprayogik, Kanya Samprayuktaka, Bharya dhikarik, Paridarik, Vaishik and Aapamshadik. Various translations are available.
