Who among the following classical poets is the author of the book Kiratarjuniyam ?

The classical Sanskrit book 'Kiratarjuniyam' (or Kirātārjunīya) was authored by the 6th-century poet Bharavi [3]. This work is classified as a 'mahakavya' (great epic) and is renowned for its intricate style and depth of meaning [3]. The poem consists of eighteen cantos and depicts a specific episode from the Mahabharata involving a combat between the Pandava prince Arjuna and Lord Shiva, who appears in the guise of a 'Kirata' or mountain-dwelling hunter [3]. Bharavi's work set a high standard for Sanskrit literature in Southern India and is often mentioned alongside Kalidasa in historical inscriptions, such as the Aihole record of 634 A.D. [3]. While other options like Panini and Valmiki are legendary figures in Sanskrit, they are associated with grammar and the Ramayana respectively, not the Kiratarjuniyam [3].

Sources

1. [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kir%C4%81t%C4%81rjun%C4%ABya