Gujarati Kahevat Sangraha Tatha Prachin Dohrao Sakhio

The book "Gujarati Kahevat Sangraha tatha Prachin Dohrao Sakhio" (Collection of Gujarati Proverbs and Ancient Dohas and Sakhis) by Ashram Dalichand Shah, published by Mulchand Asharam Shah, is a significant compilation of Gujarati proverbs, couplets (Dohas), and narratives (Sakhis). This work aims to preserve and present the rich folk wisdom and moral teachings embedded in Gujarati oral traditions.

Here's a summary based on the provided pages:

Core Content:

• Proverbs (Kahevat): The primary focus is on collecting and organizing Gujarati proverbs. The book is structured thematically, with proverbs categorized under various headings such as "Shurveer nu Ang" (On bravery), "Niti" (Morality), "Dharm" (Religion), "Prem" (Love), "Maitri" (Friendship), "Sharir na Nashvantpana vishe" (On the impermanence of the body), "Chinta" (Worry), "Veri nu Chale Nahi" (Enmity doesn't prevail), "Kavi Prakhyat thai Gaya te vishe" (About famous poets), "Ishwar Mahima" (Glory of God), "Parameshwar nu Bhajan tatha Chintvan" (Worship and contemplation of God), "Parameshwar upar Vishwas-Shraddha Rakhva vishe" (On having faith in God), "Satsang" (Good company), "Paranari taraf Moh Nahi Rakhva Sambandhi" (Regarding not desiring another's wife), and "Pativrata Nari ni Reet" (The ways of a devoted wife). The extensive index at the end further details these thematic categories.
• Ancient Dohas and Sakhis: Alongside proverbs, the book includes ancient couplets (Dohas) and narratives (Sakhis), which are also presented in a categorized manner. The preface mentions that while proverbs often have origins and illustrative stories (drishtant), the book only includes a few examples for illustration to avoid becoming too large.
• Purpose: The author, Ashram Dalichand Shah, intended to gather these scattered pieces of Gujarati linguistic and cultural heritage for the benefit of new generations. He believed proverbs encapsulate the wisdom and common sense of a people, serving as a guide for life, relationships, and ethical conduct. The book highlights the value of proverbs in teaching practical life lessons, warning against mistakes, and offering guidance in various situations.

Author and Publication Details:

• Author: The Late Ashram Dalichand Shah.
• Publisher: Mulchand Asharam Shah.
• Edition: Second Edition, printed in 1923 AD (Samvat 1979).
• Printing: Printed by Manilal Itcharam Desai at The Gujarati Printing Press, Bombay.
• Publication Address: Mulchand Asharam Shah, Ahmedabad.
• Foreword (Prastavana): The preface emphasizes the definition of proverbs as "wise words of wise people" and their transmission through generations. It highlights their role in reflecting a nation's culture, beliefs, and ethical principles. The preface also includes a quote from Disraeli on the richness and insight provided by proverbs.
• Second Edition Preface: This preface, written by Lalubhai Asharam Shah (son of the author), details the efforts to expand and improve the second edition, building upon the first edition published in 1911. It mentions the author's dedication even in his old age to adding more proverbs, related Dohas, and anecdotal illustrations. It also acknowledges the delay in publication after the author's passing.

Key Themes and Philosophy:

• Oral Tradition: The book champions the importance of oral traditions and folk wisdom, stating that proverbs existed and were used even before written language.
• Accumulated Wisdom: Proverbs are presented as a collection of accumulated experience and wisdom passed down through generations, acting as a stamp of societal approval on certain truths.
• Practical Guidance: The proverbs are seen as keys to understanding human nature, societal norms, and practical advice for navigating life's challenges. They serve as warnings against errors and offer insights into conduct and relationships.
• Value of Language: The preface underlines the value of proverbs in enriching language and making speeches and writings more impactful and lively. The author quotes the Arabic proverb: "Language without proverbs is like food without salt."
• Preservation: The act of collecting and publishing these proverbs is considered a beneficial service to the Gujarati language and its speakers, preserving this cultural treasure for future generations.
• Author's Dedication: The work reflects a deep appreciation for Gujarati literature and the author's commitment to its preservation and dissemination.

In essence, "Gujarati Kahevat Sangraha" is a foundational text for understanding the moral, ethical, and practical wisdom embedded in Gujarati proverbs and traditional sayings, compiled with scholarly dedication by Ashram Dalichand Shah.