Ema Be Vat Che

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ema Be Vat Che" by Hasu Yagnik, based on the provided pages:

"Ema Be Vat Che" (There are Two Things in This) by Hasu Yagnik recounts the author's profound intellectual and personal journey under the tutelage of the renowned scholar Dr. Harivallabh Bhayani. The narrative highlights the transformative power of their relationship, emphasizing not just academic guidance but also the shaping of a broader understanding of culture, literature, and life.

The story begins in 1967-68 when Dr. Bhayani, introduced by the author's uncle, Amrutlal Yagnik, takes the author under his wing. The author, initially accustomed to perceiving literary works as mere entertainment, is introduced to a new paradigm of research. Dr. Bhayani, a visionary scholar, steers the author away from contemporary novel writing towards the rich, yet often overlooked, medieval Gujarati literature, particularly love stories. He emphasizes the need to understand the historical, social, and psychological contexts that gave rise to recurring themes and narratives, like those found in "Nandbatrishee" or the stories of Madhav and Kamakundala. Dr. Bhayani instills the idea that ancient and medieval stories are not just imaginative tales but vital documents of their times.

Their relationship blossoms into a regular, intense mentorship. The author describes the rigorous intellectual discussions that followed, often lasting late into the evening. Dr. Bhayani's exceptional memory and insightful analysis are consistently praised. He would guide the author through their research, offering concise and piercing feedback that, though sometimes blunt, always led to clarity and improvement. The author recalls the challenge of navigating the university's recognition of their work, as Dr. Bhayani was initially recognized for linguistics rather than literature.

Beyond academics, the text delves into Dr. Bhayani's multifaceted personality. He was a passionate patron of classical music, engaging in lively discussions and appreciating performances with deep understanding. The author shares anecdotes of attending concerts with him, witnessing his discerning taste and insightful commentary on artists like Kishori Amonkar and Amir Khan. Dr. Bhayani also fostered a warm and hospitable environment at his home, where friends and fellow scholars would gather for intellectual discourse and musical appreciation.

The narrative also touches upon the author's personal career challenges, including the threat of transfer from Ahmedabad. Dr. Bhayani's unwavering support and advice are highlighted, as he encouraged the author to remain in their field of study rather than succumbing to administrative roles, even amidst uncertainties.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the author's involvement in developing and promoting Gujarati folk literature and oral traditions, a passion deeply shared and fostered by Dr. Bhayani. He envisioned various projects, including the creation of a historical grammar of Gujarati, a comprehensive folklore index, and the recording and preservation of oral traditions like folk songs and rituals. Dr. Bhayani's guidance was instrumental in the establishment and growth of institutions like the Gujarat Academy and the Forbes Gujarati Sabha. The author details the meticulous work involved in compiling and publishing these vast collections, often collaborating with other scholars under Dr. Bhayani's leadership.

The text also reveals Dr. Bhayani's dedication to his family and his efforts to maintain his intellectual pursuits even during difficult times, such as a period of illness. His unwavering commitment to his scholarly mission, even when facing personal challenges, is a recurring theme.

The narrative concludes by emphasizing the enduring impact of Dr. Bhayani's legacy on Gujarati literature and folklore research. The author expresses deep gratitude for his mentorship, which not only shaped their academic career but also provided them with a profound understanding of cultural heritage. The text acknowledges that while Dr. Bhayani's physical presence is no more, his influence and teachings continue to inspire and guide future generations of scholars. The author reflects on the unique and irreplaceable nature of their bond, a connection that transcended spoken words and was rooted in mutual understanding and shared passion.