Bharateshwar Bahubali Ras Tatha Buddhiras

This document introduces and presents two important ancient Gujarati literary works by the Jain monk Shalibhadrasuri: "Bharateshwar Bahubali Ras" and "Buddhiras".

Key Highlights:

• Authorship: Both works are attributed to Shalibhadrasuri, a monk from the Rajgacch tradition of the Jain Shvetambara sect.
• "Bharateshwar Bahubali Ras":
  • Significance: This work is presented as one of the earliest known poetic compositions in the Gujarati language, dating back to Vikram Samvat 1241 (1185 CE). This makes it a crucial piece for understanding the early development of Gujarati literature.
  • Content: It narrates the well-known Jain story of the conflict between Bharateshwar and Bahubali, the sons of Lord Rishabhanatha (the first Tirthankara), over kingship and the subsequent renunciation and spiritual attainment.
  • Language and Style: The text is written in ancient Gujarati. The editor notes challenges in its linguistic accuracy due to inconsistent orthography and spelling in ancient manuscripts, common among scholars of that era who were proficient in Sanskrit and Prakrit but sometimes less meticulous with their vernacular. The style is described as vigorous, with a strong emphasis on the heroic sentiment.
  • Manuscript: Only one ancient manuscript of this work was available for the publication, originating from the collection of Muni Shri Kantivijayji in Vadodara. Its age is estimated to be 400-500 years old.
  • Historical Context: The text's composition in VS 1241 coincides with the completion of Somaprabhacharya's "Kumarapalpratibodh" in Prakrit. The editor suggests that "Bharateshwar Bahubali Ras" can be considered a work from the Hemchandracharya era, given that only 10-11 years had passed since his demise.
• "Buddhiras":
  • Significance: This is a shorter, 63-stanza didactic poem by the same author.
  • Content: It offers general ethical teachings and moral advice for the common populace, followed by specific instructions for the lay Jain community (Shravakas). The verses are described as concise and easy to remember.
  • Popularity: The "Buddhiras" was very popular in the centuries following its composition, with numerous manuscripts found in ancient libraries, indicating widespread recitation and memorization.
  • Authorship Debate: While likely by Shalibhadrasuri, the editor notes that the absence of explicit mentions of his lineage or guru in this work, unlike in the "Ras", makes absolute certainty difficult, as other authors named Shalibhadra existed. However, linguistic and stylistic analysis strongly suggests it is by the same author.
  • Manuscripts: Many manuscripts exist, showing variations in language and text due to its popularity. The published version is based on an old manuscript.
• Editor's Contribution: Shri Jinvijay Muni is credited as the editor, who undertook the painstaking task of researching, reviewing, and publishing these ancient texts. He emphasizes the importance of preserving and studying ancient Gujarati literature, highlighting the contributions of earlier scholars like Chimanlal Dahyabhai Dalal. The publication was brought out in connection with the Gujarati Sahitya Parishad gatherings.
• Dedication: The publication is dedicated to Shri Kanhaiyalal Maneklal Munshi, a significant figure in the revival and promotion of Gujarati culture and literature.

In essence, this document serves as an introduction to two foundational works in Gujarati literature, meticulously presented by the editor, highlighting their historical significance, literary value, and Jain religious context.