________________ At one place, there is an interesting reference of a love-letter written by a lover to his beloved. He says - "O dear friend ! What shall I write in my love-letter ? I can't complete even the initial 'swasti, as my pen slipped out of my hand because of sweating and trembling of fingers." (3.44) The sweet nostalgic memories of aged persons are noted down likewise - "Alas ! the villagers narrate our unique love-stories to each other and we simply hear them like distant observers !" (6.17) Totally shameless behavior of a wanton woman is presented in one verse very artistically. The poet says - "The wanton woman has so tamed the dog with food and drink that the dog welcomes her paramour but barks at the owner of the house (i.e. her husband) when he comes in." (7.62) Several references of harlots, courtesans and unchaste women are found in this anthology along with the kula-vadhus and kula-baalikas. If we compare the present anthology Gaathaa-sapta-shatee to a decorated hall, then the subhaashitas, descriptions of nature, ethical teachings and philosophical reflections etc. are the peripheral decorations while the glittering chandelier of 'singaara-rasa', hanging in the middle of the ceiling, is the crest-jewel of all decorations. These rustic love-expressions of Maharashtra, start with the devine love of Lord Shiva and Gauree and the last auspicious salute at the end of the 7th chapter is also dedicated to the same celebrated pair - the spring well of all the patterns of acting, music and dance Indeed the Gaathaa-sapta-shatee stands as incomparable in Indian Literature. * * * * * * * * * * 170
