Gujaratioe Hindi Sahityama Aapel Falo

The book "Gujaratiyo e Hindi Sahityama Aapel Falo" (The Contribution of Gujaratis to Hindi Literature) by Dahyabhai Pitambardas Derasari, published by Gujarat Vernacular Society, Ahmedabad, is a detailed exploration of the influence and contributions of Gujarati individuals to the development and richness of Hindi literature. The book, part of the Shri Sorabji Jamsetji Jijibhai Memorial Grant series, was published in 1937 (Samvat 1993).

The author begins by discussing the historical prevalence of Brajbhasha (a dialect of Hindi) in Gujarat. He highlights how, for centuries, people in Gujarat studied and were influenced by Brajbhasha literature, including works like those of Nunddas, Bihari, Viharidas, and Vrind. This exposure to Brajbhasha and Hindi literature created an environment where Gujaratis naturally engaged with and contributed to the broader Hindi literary landscape.

The book then delves into specific periods and individuals who significantly impacted Hindi literature. It traces the evolution of Hindi language usage in Gujarat, noting how the term "Hindi" itself is relatively recent, with Brajbhasha being the common term for the literary language.

Key Contributions and Figures Discussed:

• Early Influences and Study of Brajbhasha: The text details how Gujaratis learned Brajbhasha through direct instruction from knowledgeable individuals, often starting with foundational texts. The lack of readily available grammar books made the learning process challenging but also fostered a deep appreciation for the language.

• Poets and Writers: The book systematically introduces numerous Gujarati poets and writers who contributed to Hindi literature, spanning several centuries. It provides biographical details and examples of their work. Some notable figures and their contributions include:

  • Bhalan: His works, particularly in the Dasham Skandh, show influence and inclusion of Brajbhasha verses.
  • Meera Bai: The text discusses her life, devotion, and literary works, noting how her compositions, widely sung, underwent linguistic changes and additions due to their popularity.
  • Narmiyan (or Narmi): A poet from Junagadh who wrote in Brajbhasha.
  • Girdharlal Nagar: A Vishnu devotee who wrote extensively on Radha-Krishna.
  • Dhon: A poet from Gujarat in the latter half of the 17th century.
  • Mahatma Dadu Dayal: Though his origins are debated, his spiritual and poetic contributions are acknowledged.
  • Puhkar: A Kayasth poet from Kathiawar who wrote "Rasratna" while imprisoned.
  • Shivanand: A Vadnagar Nagar Brahmin from Surat who composed verses in Gujarati, Hindi, and Marathi.
  • Ramchandra: A Nagar poet who lived around the 18th century, author of "Git Govind Adarsh" and "Leelavati."
  • Akho: The renowned Gujarati poet who also wrote extensively in Hindi, with his unique "Lakbhasha" (people's language) style.
  • Devchandji: A Radhavallabhi sect follower who established a new sect and wrote in Hindi.
  • Kavishwar Devramji: A Visnagar Nagar poet from Malwa.
  • Lakshmiramji: Son of Devramji and grandfather of the author, also a poet and artist.
  • Dalpatram and Vanshidhar: Ahmedabad residents who jointly authored "Alankar Ratnakar."
  • Maharana Jagatsingh: His praise is noted, and his poetry is presented.
  • Raghram: A Visnagar Nagar poet from Ahmedabad who wrote "Samasara."
  • Kevalramji: A Visnagar Nagar poet who wrote the historical "Babi Vilas" in Hindi.
  • Aditramji: Son of Kevalramji, who received patronage and composed poetry.
  • Uttamram: A poet who continued the tradition and added to "Babi Vilas."
  • Kishan Das: A Jain sadhu-poet who wrote "Kishan Bawani" (or "Upadesh Bawani"), notable for its powerful language and structured acrostic verses.
  • Trivikramanand: A sadhu from Jambusar, whose devotional poetry is highly regarded.
  • Harinaath: A Gujarati Brahmin from Kashi, author of "Maryada Rann."
  • Dayaram: A celebrated Gujarati poet whose Hindi compositions are noted for their linguistic richness and regional influences.
  • Lallujilal: Considered a pioneer of Hindi prose, he wrote "Prem Sagar," a well-regarded text.
  • Mohanlal Vishnulal: A poet and scholar who defended "Prithviraj Raso."
  • Govindbhai Gilabhai: Known for editing "Bhushan Granthavali" and composing in Brajbhasha.
  • Kavishwar Dalpatram: The author himself, who also wrote poetry in Brajbhasha.
  • Maharav Ratikantbiji: Mentioned for providing information.
  • Maharav Surti Rambijiji: Mentioned for providing information.
  • Maharav Rawați: A poet from Kutch.
  • Shri Krishnaram: A poet and physician.
  • Kavishwar Fakiruddin: A poet from Surat.
  • Bhattark Kanak Kushal: Author of "Lakhpati Yash Sindhu."
  • Jasuram: A poet known for his political treatises.
  • Dipavant Janki: Author of "Hira Shringar."
  • Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati: His impactful Hindi prose is acknowledged.

• The Nature of Contribution: The book emphasizes that Gujarati contributions were not merely imitative but often infused with local flavor and perspectives. It acknowledges that pure Brajbhasha was sometimes blended with Gujarati and other dialects, making the language unique. The author highlights the challenges in accessing old texts and the linguistic variations that occurred over time.

• Historical Significance: The work positions these contributions within a broader historical and cultural context, illustrating how linguistic and literary exchange enriched Hindi literature and demonstrated the intellectual engagement of Gujaratis with the national literary heritage.

In essence, "Gujaratiyo e Hindi Sahityama Aapel Falo" serves as a testament to the deep and multifaceted connections between Gujarati and Hindi literary traditions, showcasing the intellectual and creative prowess of Gujaratis in shaping and enriching the Hindi literary canon.