Indian Literature Abroad (In China) II
By Prabhat Kumar Mukherji
Summary
Mukherji continues his survey of the transmission of Indian literature to China. The article catalogues Buddhist sutras, treatises on logic, medicine and mathematics that were translated by Chinese monks like Xuanzang and Kumārajīva. Mukherji discusses how these translations influenced the development of Chinese philosophy and literary forms, such as chán (Zen) poetry. He highlights the activities of pilgrim‑scholars who studied in Nalanda and returned with texts and relics. The essay also notes that secular works, including fables of the Pañcatantra and romances, were rendered into Chinese and spawned indigenous adaptations. Mukherji emphasises the reciprocity of cultural exchange: while India enriched China’s intellectual life, Chinese commentaries helped preserve lost Indian originals.
Conclusion
The article concludes that the history of Sino‑Indian literary contact is one of mutual indebtedness. Mukherji hopes that further research into catalogues and inscriptions will uncover more about this fertile period.