On the Economic Geography of Kalidasa

Summary

Kalidasa's works, particularly the *Raghuvamsa*, offer detailed insights into the economic geography of ancient India, emphasizing regional resources and landscapes. In Canto IV of the *Raghuvamsa*, Kalidasa describes Raghu's military campaigns, highlighting the economic significance of various regions. The eastern coast of India, particularly Bengal, is noted for its abundance of palm trees and expertise in navigation, traits still observed in modern eastern Bengal. The region of Suhma (likely western Bengal) is associated with cane production, a natural resource of the sea-bordering district. Kalinga (Orissa) is depicted as a land of coconuts and elephants, with its southern shores rich in coconut groves—a feature still prevalent in the region. The country extended from the southern limits of Utkala (Orissa) to the Godavari River, with its capital, Kalinganagara, situated inland. The economic geography of the southern part of India is characterized by the Malaya and Dardura mountain ranges (modern Nilgiris and Western Ghats), described as resembling a woman's breasts, and known for cardamom, pepper, and sandalwood. The Coromandal Coast and Ceylon are noted for betel nut and cardamom production, which remains accurate today. The Tamraparni River's mouth is highlighted for its pearl fisheries, a practice still prominent near Tuticorin. In the northwest, Kamboja (modern-day regions near the Hindu Kush) is associated with walnut trees, a detail corroborated by contemporary observations. The Himalayas are celebrated for musk-deer, teak, and cedar, resources still significant to India's economy. Kalidasa's descriptions align with historical