Ambiguity and Variation
Shathakam is also pronounced and written as Sathakam. The first syllable is either pronounced as a 'sha' or a simpler 'sa'. And both pronunciations are prevalent and acceptable.
Contents
- Ambiguity and Variation
- Shathakam
- Purpose of Shathakam
- Structure and Composition
- Some Examples
- References
Shathakam
Shathakam is a literary piece of art. The name derives from Shata, which means a hundred in Sanskrit. Shathakam usually comprises a hundred poems (give or take). Hence, a Shathakam is a volume (book) of hundred poems.
Since the creation of Shatakams have been around for centuries, they were passed down by transcribers of the bygone eras. Sometime some of the poems are lost to time. At other times the transcribers insert new ones mistakenly or deliberately. However, by doing a comparative study of the same literary work from multiple branches scholars establish which parts are authentic and original.
Purpose of Shathakam
Shatakams are usually devotional, philosophical or convey morals. Some shathakams such as the Sumathi Satakam are popular because of their simplicity and their usefulness in conveying morals which can be taught to school aged children.
Structure and Composition
Shatakams are written in various well known literary scales. While some scales are very old and derive from the vedic age (called Vedic scales), some are particular to some regions and languages.