Kalasamalocana

The Kalasamalocana programme relates to publications on interpretation and analysis of secondary material. These are considered to be classics of art criticism. The series is made up of the volumes of critical texts and editions of works of eminent scholars who have dwelt upon the fundamental concepts, identified perennial sources and created bridges of communication by juxtaposing diverse traditions. Their work is of contemporary relevance and validity as they are engaged in search for roots and for a comprehensive perception. These significant works of scholarship are often unaccessible as they are either out of print or do not have translations in English.
In the Kalasamalocana series, attempt has been made to bring to light these invaluable contributions through modestly-priced publications. The programme has been initiated by a series of re-edited reprints and translations of a select number of authors and works.

Another emphasis in the Kalasamalocana programme is on the publishing of Selected Letters of illustrious scholars who have made a pioneering contribution to different fields of study. While their works reflect their scholarship, their personal notings help in determining the thought-process behind it. They reveal the inner being of the scholars, their influences, their theories and ideologies. The letters published so far are those of Ananda K. Coomaraswamy, Romain Rolland, Hazari Prasad Dwivedi (in Hindi) and Benarsidas Chaturvedi in two volumes (in Hindi).

Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy (1877-1947) is amongst the modern writers who have been path-finders in perception and scholarship across cultures. His illuminating writings have brought the East and West together in a meaningful dialogue. His penetrating attention to the mind and soul of India’s civilization has provided a model for generations of Asian and Western scholars. His contribution to the study of Indian art and culture is invaluable. His writings, covering a wide range of topics and disciplines, reflect his unique scholarship. Revised editions of his books incorporating the marginal notes in his personal copies and his collected writings have been brought out in seventeen volumes so far. About 65 volumes under Kalasamalocana series have been already published.