Bagad Ke Lok Sahitya Ki Zankhi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bagad ke lok Sahitya ki Zankhi" by L.D. Joshi, based on the provided PDF pages:

Overview of Vagad and its Literary Landscape

The text, "A Glimpse of Vagad's Folk Literature," by Prof. Dr. L.D. Joshi, provides a detailed exploration of the rich and diverse oral literary traditions of the Vagad region of India. The author defines Vagad as a specific geographical and cultural area situated in southeastern Rajasthan, encompassing the districts of Dungarpur and Banswara, and extending into neighboring regions of Gujarat and Malwa.

Geographical and Demographic Context:

Location: The Vagad region is located between 23°15' to 24°01' North latitude and 73°15' to 74°24' East longitude, covering an area of approximately 5,000 square miles with a population of about 1.2 million.
Demographics: The original inhabitants are primarily the Bhil tribe. The author notes a mixed population of Bhils, Brahmins, Patels, Rajputs, Vaishyas, and other communities, resulting from interactions with the neighboring regions of Mewar, Malwa, and Gujarat.
Language: The primary dialect spoken is Bagdi, which is influenced by Gujarati and a mixture of Malvi, Mewari, and Bhili. Other related dialects like Bhili and Palwadi are spoken in specific Bhil areas. The language is described as a "khichdi" (mixture) incorporating words from Braj, Avadhi, Marwari, and Khadi Boli. The author highlights the clear presence of this mixed language in the writings of Yogiraj Mavji Maharaj.

Vagad's Literary Heritage:

The author emphasizes that Vagad has very little written literature, primarily consisting of inscriptions, grant deeds, genealogies, copper plates, and account books. However, the region boasts an immensely rich oral literature that has been passed down through generations and remains largely unpublished.

Key Forms of Folk Literature in Vagad:

The text categorizes the folk literature into several prominent forms:

Historical Ballads (Historical Vir Kavya): These are epic narratives recounting the valor and deeds of historical heroes.
Folk Songs (Lokgeet): A broad category encompassing various songs sung during different occasions.
Bhajans: Devotional songs dedicated to deities and saints.
Riddles (Parasiyan ya Paheliyan): Puzzles and enigmas testing wit and knowledge.
Proverbs and Idioms (Lokoktiyan evam Muhavare): Concise sayings reflecting wisdom and cultural understanding.
Short Stories (Laghukathaen): Brief narratives with moral lessons.
Prophecies (Bhavishyavaniyan): Predictions and forecasts.
Religious Discourse (Dharmik Vartayen): Talks and narratives related to religious themes.

Notable Literary Figures and Their Contributions:

The text highlights several significant figures who have contributed to Vagad's literary tradition:

Mahakavi Magh: A legend suggests that the renowned poet Magh composed his work "Shishupal Vadha" in Vagad.
Jain Literature: The region has a significant tradition of Jain literature, with notable works by Bhattarak Gyanbhushan, Bhattarak Shubhandra, Bhattarak Gunchandra, Bhattarak Jayvijay, and Bhattarak Ramchandra, whose compositions date back to the 15th century Vikram Samvat.
Yogiraj Mavji Maharaj: His emergence in the 18th century Vikram Samvat is considered significant. He left behind four major works (Chopades) and other smaller writings, significantly contributing to the devotional and saintly literature of Vagad.
Gawribai: A devotional poetess from Dungarpur in the 19th century Vikram Samvat, her "prem-lakshana bhakti" (love-centric devotion) verses are highly appreciated and still sung in Vagad, comparing her to Meera Bai.
Abo Bhagat: Another prominent devotional figure from the 19th century Vikram Samvat, known for his devotional verses, though unpublished, they are available in manuscript form.
Galaleng: The epic ballad of the hero Galaleng (1730-1751 Vikram Samvat) is a timeless example of love and valor, passed down orally by Jogis for nearly 275 years. The text provides a detailed narrative of his life, his struggles, his loyalty, and his tragic death in battle, highlighting his bravery and the emotional impact of his story.
Arjun Chauhan (Arjun Sauman) and Hamalda (Samantsingh): The valorous tales of these heroes are also popular oral narratives that evoke immense courage and emotion. Hamalda, a Chauhan king of Talakpur Patan (present-day Talwada), is described as a brave warrior who defended his region against Mewar.
Govindguru: A saint who emerged in the last century, he is credited with social reform among the tribal Bhils of Vagad, and songs and bhajans related to him are popular, especially among the tribal communities.
Kalooj: A warrior whose verses are sung, and his folk tale is widely known.
Balton Velniyon: A warrior who attained martyrdom, his heroic and tragic story is also popular.
Ramdevji and Bhatti Hirji: Their bhajans hold a special place in the folk literature.
Mav sect: Besides Yogiraj Mavji, his disciples like Jeevan, Suranand, Janpurush, Dasjeta, Dasmakan, Udayanand, and Nityanand Maharaj have also contributed influential bhajans and aarti.
Other devotional singers: Bhajans of Gorakh, Mora, Chandrasakhi, Harvan Kavadiyo, Gopichand-Bhartari, and Tol Rani are widely popular.

Specific Examples of Folk Literature:

The text provides excerpts and summaries of various forms of folk literature:

Galaleng Ballad: A detailed account of Galaleng's life, his family dispute, his journey to Chittor, his construction of the Dhebar dam, his conflict with the Maharana, his exile, his welcome in Dungarpur, his construction of a palace, his conflict with Jiva Patel, his revenge against Kadaniya, his return to his wives, and his ultimate heroic death in the battle of Kadana are narrated. The ballad is described as a blend of valor, romance, and pathos.
Hamalda Ballad: This narrative recounts the battle between Samantsingh (Hamalda) and the Maharana over the Som river. It highlights Samantsingh's courage in facing a larger army and his wife Rewaran's plea for him to avoid the battle. The ballad emphasizes the warrior's duty and the emotional impact of the conflict.
Folk Songs (Lagana Geets): Several wedding songs are presented, showcasing the blend of Bagdi and Gujarati linguistic influences. These songs express themes of family ties, separation, and marital bliss.
Bhadli Vakyas (Proverbial Sayings related to weather): Several lines of weather-related proverbs are quoted, indicating agricultural practices and beliefs.
Bhajans: Examples of devotional songs, particularly from the Mav sect, are presented, emphasizing themes of devotion, divine presence, and the teachings of the saints.
Riddles: A collection of riddles is provided, testing the reader's understanding of common objects and concepts.
Proverbs and Idioms: A substantial list of proverbs and idioms reflects the practical wisdom and cultural nuances of the Vagad region.
Folk Tales: Two short folk tales are narrated, one about a Brahmin and a snake, and another about a merchant, his son, a snake, and a parrot, highlighting themes of karma, kindness, and betrayal.

Preservation and Future:

The author expresses concern that this rich folk literature, being oral, is susceptible to changes and gradual disappearance. He states that while he has made efforts to collect and document this material through his research, its proper compilation, editing, and publication are still needed. The text serves as a valuable contribution to preserving this intangible cultural heritage of Vagad.