Kamadeva’s Arrows: The Divine Influence of Love and Procreation

Kamadeva, the god of love, uses his five arrows—each embodying a different flower and emotional effect—to inspire love, attraction, and union between beings. His purpose goes beyond mere attraction; his influence is a cosmic force intended to ensure procreation and the continuation of life. Here’s how each of Kamadeva’s arrows plays a role in building emotions that lead to love, union, and ultimately, procreation:

1. Aravinda (Lotus) – Unmadana (Delirium or Intoxication)

   • The lotus arrow sparks infatuation and fascination, often the initial stage of attraction. When Kamadeva shoots this arrow, it plants a seed of curiosity and intrigue, causing individuals to notice each other and feel drawn together. This early fascination is often essential for developing interest in a potential partner.

2. Ashoka – Shoshana (Desiccation or Yearning)

   • The ashoka arrow stirs feelings of excitement and yearning, creating a sense of emptiness or longing when apart. This yearning heightens attraction, making the individuals crave closeness or companionship. In a way, it is like a thirst that compels them to seek one another’s presence more strongly.

3. Choota (Mango) – Tapana (Burning Desire)

   • The mango arrow kindles longing and passion, bringing about tapana, a burning desire for union. As feelings deepen, this arrow invokes an intense desire to connect emotionally and physically. This growing passion can overcome obstacles, making individuals willing to go to great lengths to be with each other.

4. Navamallika (Jasmine) – Mohana (Enchantment or Bewilderment)

   • The jasmine arrow induces delight and enchantment, leading to mohana, a state where one is completely captivated. By enchanting the mind, this arrow strengthens emotional and romantic bonds, making individuals feel blissfully connected. This stage often brings commitment and attachment, setting a foundation for forming a family.

5. Neelotpala (Blue Water Lily) – Stambhana (Stupefaction or Paralysis)

   • The blue water lily arrow inspires intense passion that can reach the level of stambhana, where one is overwhelmed or "paralyzed" by love. This is a powerful attachment, symbolizing the culmination of attraction and union. At this stage, partners feel a sense of oneness, which often leads to the creation of a family, as the union is blessed with the potential for procreation.

Kamadeva uses these arrows sequentially to evoke emotions that evolve from initial attraction to deep connection, stimulating the desire for union on multiple levels—emotional, mental, and physical. Through these stages, he brings individuals to a state where procreation becomes a natural, divine expression of their love, ensuring the ongoing creation and continuation of life in the universe.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi