Anchalgacchiya Jaykesarsuri Bhas

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Title: Anchalgacchiya Jaykesarsuri Bhas Author: Vinaysagar Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229485/1

This document, part of "Anusandhan 43," is a scholarly article by Vinaysagar that discusses and presents four short compositions (Bhas and Geet) related to the influential Jain Acharya, Shri Jaykesarsuri of the Anchalgach.

Introduction and the Tradition of Praising Gurus:

The article begins by highlighting the duty of virtuous individuals to sing the glories and praise of great Gurus and scholars. This tradition is manifest in various forms like songs (Geet), dramatic performances (Bhas), hymns of praise (Stuti), and devotional songs (Ras). The author notes the existence of numerous such compositions from the 12th century onwards, mentioning works dedicated to Jinadattasuri, Jinapatisuri, Jinodayasuri, Jinavallasuri, and Jineswarsuri.

Shri Jaykesarsuri of the Anchalgach:

The core of the article focuses on Shri Jaykesarsuri, an influential Acharya of the Anchalgach from the 15th century.

• Lineage: The Anchalgach was established by Aryarakshitsuri in 1169 CE. Shri Jaykesarsuri belongs to this esteemed lineage, being the twelfth successor in the line. The text provides a detailed genealogical chart tracing this lineage from Aryarakshitsuri down to Jaykesarsuri, including figures like Jaysinghsuri, Dharmaghoshsuri, Mahendrasinghsuri, and Merutungasuri.
• Life and Achievements:
  • Birth: Jaykesarsuri was born in Thanapur, Paanchal Desh, in Vikram Samvat 1461 (some records indicate 1469). His birth name was Dhanraj. He also received the name Kesari due to his mother's dream of a lion.
  • Diksha (Initiation): He received Diksha in 1475 CE from Jaykeertisuri, and his monastic name was Jaykesari.
  • Acharya Position: In 1494 CE, Jaykeertisuri conferred the Acharya title upon him, officially making him Jaykesarsuri. According to Bhavsagarsuri, he was appointed Acharya at the request of Gangadas, the king of Champaner. The "Jaykesari Bhas" itself mentions "Ranjan Gang Narind," indicating his association with the king.
  • Gachnayak (Head of the Gach): In 1501 CE, he became the Gachnayak in Champaner.
  • Demise: He passed away in Khambhat on Posh Sudhi 8, 1541 CE.
• Devotees and Influence: Jaykesarsuri was a revered figure, with King Gangadas of Champaner and his son, Jaysingh Patai Rawal, being devoted followers. Sultan Ahmad (Mahammad Begda) was also impressed by his miracles. Thakur Rupchand and his son Samantsingh of Sayla accepted Jainism after receiving a life-saving boon from him. The poet Petha from Jambusar was also enlightened by him.
• Literary Contributions and Idols:
  • He is credited with the installation of approximately 200 idols between 1401 CE and 1539 CE.
  • Only two of his own literary works are known: Chaturvimsati-Jina-Stotrani and Adinath Stotra. The Chaturvimsati-Jina-Stotrani has been published. The author notes that these works suggest Jaykesarsuri was a profound scholar.

The Four Compositions Presented:

The article then introduces four short compositions found on a single manuscript, likely written in the early 16th century based on the script. These compositions praise Shri Jaykesarsuri:

1. Bhas (Composition 1): This composition begins with salutations to Shri Jiravali Parshwanath and then mentions the parents of Shri Jaykesarsuri of the Anchalgach. It also refers to "Ranjan Gang Narind" in its fifth verse.
2. Bhas (Composition 2) by Poet As: This composition describes the welcome (Vadhawana) of Shri Jaykesarsuri, the head of the Vidhipaksha Gach, upon his arrival in the city. It also mentions Sanghapati Mahipal and Jaypal.
3. Geet (Composition 3) by Harsur: This song describes the city entry of Shri Jaykesarsuri, the successor of Jaykeertisuri.
4. Bhas (Composition 4) by Harsur: This composition depicts female devotees adorning themselves with new attire, celebrating his arrival with cheers, creating decorative squares with pearls, and singing his praises. The Acharya's speech is compared to sugarcane and milk-sugar. He is likened to great figures like Goyama Ganadhar (in conduct), Jambukumar (in virtue), and Vajrakumar (among ascetics), implying that even sins flee from his virtuous presence.

The author presents these four compositions for the joy of devotees.

Additional Content (Page 7-11):

The latter part of the document shifts focus to discuss the Contribution of Professor Dr. Colette Caillat to Jainism and Jain Literature in France. This section appears to be a tribute or a separate article within the same publication.

• Jainism in France: Jainism is not a prevalent religion in France, with a limited Indian diaspora and an even smaller Jain community. There are no Jain temples. However, Jainism and its literature are considered significant components of Indian culture and are studied in universities due to the work of specialists.
• Scholarly Contributions:
  • Early Scholars: Guérinot was an early French scholar in this field.
  • Professor Louis Renou: Though not a Jainism specialist, his article on "Jainism" is appreciated. He met Acharya Shri Tulsi of Terapanth in India and was impressed, leading to his influential report on the Terapanth movement.
  • Professor Dr. Colette Caillat: She is lauded for keeping the Western tradition of Jain studies alive and developing it. She studied Latin and Greek, then Sanskrit and Hindi. Her teachers included Louis Renou and Jules Bloch.
  • Focus on Prakrit and Jain Texts: Caillat's doctoral thesis was on the structure of the Jain monastic order based on Chedasutras, particularly the Vyavahara Sutra and its commentary. She also studied and translated Canda-vejja-prakirnaka. Her work on Sellekhana and Marana-samadhi (fasting unto death) is also noted.
  • Influences and Collaborations: She studied under Walther Schubring in Hamburg, a renowned scholar of Jain Agam literature and Prakrit. She also collaborated with Ludwig Alsdorf. In India, she developed close relationships with scholars like Pandit Sukhlalji, Pandit Dalsukhbhai Malvania, and Muni Punyavijayji. She translated works like Dohapahuda and Paramatmaprakasa with Dr. Adinath Nemnath Upadhye.
  • Academic Career: Caillat taught Sanskrit and comparative grammar at Lyon University and later became a professor of Indology at Sorbonne University. She guided numerous students in Indian culture and Prakrit languages.
  • Publications: Her major works include a study on the Jain monastic system, "Jain Cosmology," and the critical edition and translation of Canda-vejja-prakirnaka. She also published articles on fasting unto death in Jainism. She contributed articles to international encyclopedias and reviewed scholarly works.
  • Recognition: She was honored by Jain institutions in India and other international bodies. Her life and research are presented as an ideal for those dedicated to Jainism, scholarship, and humanity.

In essence, the document is a scholarly exploration of a specific set of compositions praising a significant Jain Acharya, embedded within a broader discussion of the academic study of Jainism, particularly highlighting the significant contributions of a French scholar.