The Krama Tantricism of Kashmir (Vol. 1)

by Navjivan Rastogi

The Karma Tantricism of Kashmir is intended as a ground work of the Krama system, an almost neglected area of Kashmir Saivism. The author has very ably reconstructed the history and metaphysics of the system after rummaging through relevant literature, both in print and manuscript form. The Krama philosophy is a synthetic and complex whole where the different strands of Saiva Philosophy, Sakta esotericism and the Tantric synoptic view are seen. In this first of the two volumes, the author has given a general and historical survey in seven chapters--Krama as a distinct system, mutual exchange from allied systems, different traditions and sub-schools, sources and literature and Krama's place in Kashmir Saivism. Contains chronological table of Krama authors, classified Bibliography and indexes.

About the Author:

NAVJIVAN RASTOGI has been on the teaching staff of Abhinavagupta Institute of Aesthetics and Saiva Philosophy in the Lucknow University. He is the co-editor of the Volume of Encyclopedia of Indian Philosophies. An author of several scholarly papers, his published works include the Tantraloka of Abhinavagupta and Introduction to the Tantraloka: A Study in Structure.REVIEWS: "...This volume is the first full-length study of the Krama system....it is welcome as a pioneer work on this important line of philosophical thought and spiritual discipline." ARABINDA BASU"...His doctorate research in an unexplored area of Kashmir Shaivism i.e. the Krama system will be a significant contribution to the history of Indian thought." RADHA KAMAL MUKERJEE"...Rastogi has managed to reach satisfactory conclusions, displaying an uncommon knowledge of the extant literature, both published and in manuscript.The questions affronted by Rastogi are...innumerable and complex, and the material he presents is extremely vast..." RAFFAELA TORELLA"...The chief merit of the book lies in its profuse and precise documentation in support of conclusions...The exposition too is as scholarly and meticulous as demanded by modern research..." PROF. K.KRISHNAMOORTHY"...Your book will remain a solid contribution to Kashmir Saivism..." DR. R.C. DWIVEDI"...We welcome this important research publication which sheds fresh light on an unexplored area of Kashmir Saivism..." PROF. K.K. RAJA