Devidas Vilas

This Jain text, "Devidāsa-Vilāsa," authored by Mahākavi Devidāsa and critically edited by Dr. (Smt.) Vidyavati Jain, is a significant work published by Shri Ganesh Varni Digambar Jain Sansthan in Varanasi in 1994. The book is a compilation of rare and previously unpublished compositions of Devidāsa, a gifted poet from the late 18th century who wrote in Bundeli-Hindi.

Key aspects of the work and its composer include:

• Composer Devidāsa: He was a highly sensitive, spiritually inclined individual and a mature philosopher. He possessed complete command over expression, classical stanza forms, varied literary styles, and various musical modes and melodies. Despite his popularity and scholarship in his time, he remained relatively unknown and neglected for a long period.
• The Work "Devidāsa-Vilāsa": This majestic work is presented in its restored glory after being critically edited for the first time from old manuscripts. Dr. Vidyavati Jain's scholarly introduction provides a detailed exposition and commentary on the various facets of Devidāsa's personality and creativity.
• Bundeli-Hindi Literature: Devidāsa's contribution is highlighted as foundational for Bundeli-Hindi, giving it a strong literary base. He is noted for flowing a stream of spirituality within the context of the Ritikalin period, which was otherwise known for its ornate and often sensuous poetry.
• Jain Teachings and Philosophy: The poet's works extensively cover various aspects of Jainism, including philosophy, ethics, rituals, history, and sociology, all while adhering to the Agam tradition. His writings are characterized by simple and straightforward Bundeli-Hindi, making complex Jain concepts accessible.
• Devidāsa's Life and Circumstances: The introduction sheds light on Devidāsa's humble background as a gifted but economically challenged Śrāvaka. He earned his livelihood through modest trade, carrying goods on his shoulders or using a bullock, a practice still known in Bundelkhand as "banji-bhauri." Despite financial hardships, he dedicated time to his literary and spiritual pursuits with unwavering faith.
• Comparative Study: The work includes a comparative study of Devidāsa's compositions with those of other Jain and non-Jain devotional poets, drawing parallels with figures like Kabir, Surdas, and Mirabai in terms of their spiritual and literary contributions.
• Literary Merit: Devidāsa's poetry is appreciated for its rasa (sentiment) planning, use of alankaras (figures of speech), personification, symbolism, and a wide array of Chandas (metrical patterns), including unique "chitra-bandha" compositions. His language is praised for its simplicity, flow, and ability to convey profound philosophical ideas.
• Preservation and Publication: The Shri Ganesh Varni Digambar Jain Sansthan is recognized for its mission to bring to light rare and unpublished ancient Jain manuscripts. "Devidāsa-Vilāsa" is presented as a valuable addition to this endeavor, made possible through the dedicated efforts of Dr. Vidyavati Jain.

In essence, "Devidāsa-Vilāsa" is a comprehensive work that not only showcases the poetic talent and philosophical depth of Mahākavi Devidāsa but also serves as a vital contribution to the preservation and understanding of Jain literature and the Bundeli-Hindi language. Dr. Vidyavati Jain's meticulous editing and critical study have been instrumental in bringing this significant poet and his work back into the literary spotlight.