Bai Ajitmati Aur Uske Samkalin Kavi - Book Summary

This Jain text, titled "Bai Ajitmati aur Uske Samkalin Kavi" (Bai Ajitmati and Her Contemporaries), authored by Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal and published by Mahavir Granth Academy, Jaipur, in 1984, is a significant compilation of the lives, personalities, and literary works of five Jain poets from the 16th-17th centuries. The book is particularly noteworthy for being the first comprehensive collection of these poets' complete works.

The five poets featured are:

Bai Ajitmati: A significant discovery, she is presented as a notable poetess who flourished in the 17th century. Her works are primarily spiritual and devotional. The text highlights her as the first Jain poetess to be brought to the attention of the wider literary world. Her poetry reveals a deep interest in spiritual contemplation and the composition of devotional verses. The presence of a prose passage from her hand, dated Samvat 1650 (1593 CE), is also noted as historically significant, showcasing the use of Hindi prose during that era. Her poetry is believed to be contemporary with Mira Bai.
Parimal Chaudhary: Described as a poet of high caliber from the 17th century, Parimal Chaudhary's work "Shripal Charitra" (The Life of Shripal) is analyzed in depth. The text mentions that his popularity extended for two centuries after his time, with numerous manuscripts of his work available in Jain libraries. The book includes a substantial portion of his "Shripal Charitra," emphasizing its vivid descriptions and captivating narrative that draws readers in. The text also notes that Parimal Chaudhary was a Digambar Jain belonging to the Barhaiya caste and was based in Agra.
Dhanpal: This poet, whose works were discovered in a manuscript at the Digambar Jain temple in Diggi town, Tonk district, Rajasthan, is presented for the first time to the literary world. Dhanpal was the son of the poet Deh and brother to the noted poet Thakursi. His works, characterized by historical narratives, include hymns to Jain Tirthankaras like Munisuvratnath, Neminath, Adinath, and Mahavir, often referencing specific and ancient idols and temples located in Keshorai Patan, Amer (Jaipur), Sangraner, and Todaraisingh. His language shows influences of Rajasthani and Braj dialects.
Bhattarak Mahendrakirti: Identified as a saintly figure associated with the Ajmer tradition of Bhattarakas, Mahendrakirti's fifteen devotional hymns are presented for the first time. His poetry is characterized by its deep spirituality and philosophical insights, often reflecting the style of renowned poets like Dadu Das and Banarasi Das, as well as non-sectarian poets like Kabir. His verses are noted for their simple yet profound language, emphasizing self-reflection and spiritual knowledge.
Devendra Kavi: Regarded as a significant poet of the 16th-17th centuries, Devendra Kavi's sole known work, "Yashodhar Ras," is a major contribution. The text notes that the manuscript of "Yashodhar Ras" was discovered in Pratapgarh, Rajasthan, and was inscribed only six years after its composition in Samvat 1638 (1581 CE) in Mahunagar (Gujarat). The Ras is a detailed, nine-chapter narrative poem that adheres to traditional Jain storytelling conventions. It covers the life of King Yashodhar, his association with the yogi Bhairavanand, the tragic story of his wife Amritamati, and the cycle of his reincarnations, ultimately illustrating the consequences of karma. The work is praised for its poetic skill, vivid descriptions of nature and urban life, and its moral message about the impact of actions, especially highlighting the dangers of inflicting harm even for spiritual or mundane purposes. The language of the Ras shows a strong influence of Gujarati.

The introductory sections of the book include:

Progress Report of Shri Mahavir Granth Academy: This section details the academy's mission and its previous publications, highlighting the effort to bring forgotten Jain poets to light. It also mentions the significant event of the sixth volume's release by the then President of India, Gyani Zail Singh.
From the Patron: This section offers words of appreciation for the academy's work and the significance of the current volume in uncovering previously unknown literary treasures.
A Few Words: Written by Dr. Hiralal Maheshwari, this piece emphasizes the crucial role of Jain poetry in the history of modern Indian Aryan languages, particularly Hindi, Gujarati, and Rajasthani. He underscores the spiritual goal of Jain poetry and the rich portrayals of society, culture, and nature found within these compositions.
From the Author's Pen: Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal discusses the vastness of Hindi literature and the challenges of capturing its entirety in historical accounts. He reiterates the academy's success in bringing to light numerous obscure Jain poets, emphasizing that the current volume continues this mission by introducing four completely unknown poets and one lesser-known poet. He shares the compelling story of discovering Bai Ajitmati's works.

Overall, "Bai Ajitmati aur Uske Samkalin Kavi" is a scholarly work that illuminates a previously under-explored area of Jain literature, making significant contributions to the study of medieval Indian poetry and the literary heritage of the Jain community. It is a valuable resource for understanding the spiritual and cultural contributions of these poets.