Bhushan Nam Garbhit Ek Aprakat Gahuli

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bhushan Nam Garbhit Ek Aprakat Gahuli," based on the given pages:

Title: Bhushan Nam Garbhit Ek Aprakat Gahuli (A Hidden "Gahuli" Containing the Name "Bhushan")

Authors: Munisuyashchandravijay, Sujaschandravijay

Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan

Context and Significance:

The introductory section highlights that in medieval Gujarati literature, various forms like Ras, Vivahalo, and Garbo were prevalent. Among these, stanzas, "Gahuli" (a type of devotional song/poem), and chhandas gained significant popularity in public discourse. The text emphasizes that "Gahuli" can be recognized as a form of devotional song that describes the virtues of spiritual leaders.

Theme and Content:

This particular "Gahuli" focuses on the act of married women visiting their spiritual leaders (Guru Bhagwant) to pay their respects. The poet beautifully describes the adornments and jewelry the women wear as they prepare for this auspicious occasion.

Key Descriptions and Observations:

• Adornments and Jewelry: The "Gahuli" meticulously details the jewelry worn by the women, including:
  • "Jhal" and "Dodi" (though the exact meaning of some of these ornamentation names is unclear and noted as not currently in common use).
  • "Nalvati" (a tilak on the forehead), "Tili," "Tabaka," and "Tingara" (likely various decorative markings or pieces on the forehead).
  • "Piari" (a decoration applied to the forehead).
  • "Hansadi" (a necklace worn around the neck).
  • "Madaliyu" (worn on the hands).
  • "Veda" (a type of large ring worn on the finger).
  • "Chadarcheer" (the meaning of which is also not clearly ascertainable).
  • "Jhala" worn in the ears.
  • "Nath" (nose ring) and "Nakphooli" (nose stud), possibly including "Vesan-Kanto."
  • "Bajubandh" (armlets) and "Sovan Chudi" (gold bangles) with embedded rubies.
  • "Chudalo" (a wrist ornament) adorned with colorful gems.
  • "Vidi" (rings) and "Arisa" (mirrors, possibly part of jewelry).
  • "Paypadani" (foot ornaments), "Jher," "Jhanjhar" (anklets), and "Ghughara" (small bells) that make sounds.
• Attire: The women are described as wearing "Chadarcheer," "Charanocholi" (perhaps an inner garment), and "Chunadi" (a colored veil or sari). They pull their veils ("Ghunghat") with grace, captivating onlookers.
• Actions and Demeanor:
  • The women are depicted as applying "Kumkum" and "Kesar" to fill their bodice ("Kacholi").
  • They hold large plates ("Thal") filled with gold, silver, rubies, and pearls, likely as offerings.
  • They adorn their faces with "Piari" and apply kohl ("Anjan") to their eyes.
  • They braid their hair elaborately ("Venibandh").
  • Their gait is described as graceful, like that of an elephant ("Gajgati").
  • They move with a swaying, graceful movement ("Gelai").
  • They are seen approaching the "Upashray" (monastery/dwelling of ascetics) with grace and composure ("Alvaisyun").
  • They perform devotional acts, including offering "Kunkum" and "Kesar," making "Chok" (auspicious patterns) with pearls and rubies, and singing auspicious songs.
  • They move in groups ("Tolisyun") of four or five, appearing radiant.
• Devotional Aspect: The "Gahuli" emphasizes the act of devotion, with the women bowing to the spiritual leaders ("Namandan"). They express their desire for the leaders to alleviate their suffering ("Dukhada Lijai"). The poem concludes with a blessing and a statement of devotion to their Guru.

Uncertainties and Notes for Scholars:

The authors acknowledge that the exact meanings of some jewelry names ("Jhal," "Dodi") and certain words ("Vesankanto," "Chadarcheer") are not clear and require further scholarly input. The identity of the poet "Meru" is also not explicitly mentioned.

Overall Purpose:

This "Gahuli" serves as a vivid and descriptive account of the devotional practices and the aesthetic presentation of married women in a specific historical and cultural context as they visit and honor their spiritual guides. It captures the essence of devotion through beautiful imagery and the praise of their Guru.