Pigeons and Doves in Classical Sanskrit Literature

The main aim of the present study is to indicate the most salient elements of the image of pigeons and doves in Classical Sanskrit literature (kāvya). The author has identified three groups of such elements, which are dealt with in three separate sections of the paper: pigeons and doves are discussed as birds closely associated with humans, as well as symbols of love and sorrow. With the help of this information, in another section of the paper, selected kāvya stanzas featuring pigeons or doves are analysed in more detail.