Kavitraya

Kavitraya refers to the collective body of three great poets in Telugu literature who lived between the 11th and 14th centuries CE. These poets are Nannaya, Tikkana, and Errana. Their monumental contributions, particularly the translation and continuation of the Mahabharata into Telugu, earned them this esteemed title.

Nannaya Bhattaraka is credited with commencing the translation of the Mahabharata, a colossal task he began in the 11th century. He translated the first two and a half parvas (sections) of the epic. His poetic style and linguistic innovations laid a strong foundation for subsequent Telugu literature.

Tikkana Somayaji, who lived in the 13th century, is considered the foremost of the Kavitraya. He undertook the daunting challenge of completing the Mahabharata translation where Nannaya left off. Tikkana translated 15 parvas, bringing the epic to its conclusion. His rendition is celebrated for its powerful narrative, masterful characterization, and vibrant Telugu prose.

Errana, a contemporary of Tikkana, played a crucial role in the Kavitraya's work. He translated the Harivamsa, an appendix to the Mahabharata, and also completed some portions of the Mahabharata that Tikkana had not yet translated. His contributions ensured the completeness of the epic in Telugu. Together, the Kavitraya's work not only made the Sanskrit epic accessible to the Telugu-speaking populace but also significantly enriched the Telugu language and literary tradition, setting a benchmark for future generations of poets.