Jayadeva's Ratimanjari: Classical Indian Erotology and Relevance in Contemporary Sexology Ratimanjari karya Jayadeva: Erotologi Klasik India dan Relevansinya dalam Seksologi Kontemporer

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Pankaj Sharma
https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1223-4653
Sanyogeeta A. Dixit
https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2873-6916
Vaishnavi G. Kulkarni
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6411-7118
Susmita D. Shedbale
https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4311-8666
Arshad Mohammad
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5960-0900
Aishwarya P. Magdum
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1605-2319

Abstract

Ratimanjari
, authored by Jayadeva, is a seminal work in Indian erotology that integrates poetic expression with Vajikarana Tantra, a branch of Ayurveda focused on sexual and reproductive health. This study explores the text's insights on partner dynamics, erogenous zones, and sexual techniques in the context of contemporary sexual medicine. A critical textual analysis of Ratimanjari was conducted alongside classical Ayurvedic texts and Kamasutra to fill the gaps in the existing literature and perspectives on erotology. The study examined Sanskrit terminology, aphoristic content, and historical interpretations to assess the text’s relevance to modern psychosexual health. Ratimanjari classifies sexual archetypes, outlines 16 sexual postures, and identifies erogenous zones. It emphasizes partner compatibility, emotional intimacy, and techniques for enhancing sexual satisfaction. The findings suggest that Ratimanjari provides a nuanced understanding of intimacy beyond physical pleasure, encompassing emotional and psychological dimensions. The classification of sexual archetypes and emphasis on adaptability resonate with modern theories of sexual compatibility and partner responsiveness. Jayadeva’s Ratimanjari remains a valuable text for understanding human sexuality. Integrating its classical wisdom with contemporary sexology can enhance perspectives on sexual health, relational satisfaction, and psychosexual well-being.

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How to Cite
Sharma , P., Dixit, S. A., Kulkarni, V. G., Shedbale, S. D., Mohammad, A. ., & Magdum, A. P. (2025). Jayadeva’s Ratimanjari: Classical Indian Erotology and Relevance in Contemporary Sexology: Ratimanjari karya Jayadeva: Erotologi Klasik India dan Relevansinya dalam Seksologi Kontemporer . Journal of Literature and Education, 3(1), 9–20. https://doi.org/10.69815/jle.v3i1.126
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Articles
Author Biographies

Pankaj Sharma , Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: vaidyapankajsharma@gmail.com

Sanyogeeta A. Dixit, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: drsanyogeetadixit@gmail.com

Vaishnavi G. Kulkarni, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: gkulkarnivaish@gmail.com

Susmita D. Shedbale, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: susmita23sp@gmail.com

Arshad Mohammad, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: arshadmohd729@gmail.com

Aishwarya P. Magdum, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre

KAHER's Shri BM Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Post Graduate Studies and Research Centre, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
Email: aishwarya.magdum1741@gmail.com

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