Hindi Ke Vikas Me Jain Vidwano Ka Yogadan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text in English, focusing on the contributions of Jain scholars to the development of Hindi:

Book Title: Contribution of Jain Scholars to the Development of Hindi Author: Premchand Ranvaka Publisher: Z_Deshbhushanji_Maharaj_Abhinandan_Granth_012045.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/212277/1

Summary:

This text, "Contribution of Jain Scholars to the Development of Hindi" by Premchand Ranvaka, argues that Jain scholars and poets have played a significant, often overlooked, role in the evolution and enrichment of the Hindi language and literature, from its early stages through the Bhakti era.

Hindi as a People's Language and Cultural Mirror:

The author establishes Hindi as a primary language of India, widely used from humble homes to palaces. It is presented not just as a literary medium but as a crucial tool for understanding the last thousand years of Indian culture, social conditions, and religious practices. Hindi literature is seen as a direct reflection of folk life, making it more vital for studying the medieval period than Sanskrit.

Jain Scholars' Approach to Language and Literature:

Jain acharyas, saints, and poets, according to the text, did not adhere to a specific language. Instead, they adopted the prevailing folk language of their time to connect with the common populace and spread their teachings. This led to Jain literature being found in all major Indian languages, including Hindi.

Early Contributions (Aadi Kaal - Early Period):

The text highlights the significant contribution of Jain poets to the formative period of Hindi literature, often referred to as the "Aadi Kaal" (Early Period).

• Challenging Historical Narratives: The work refutes the notion that Jain literature is purely religious and thus less significant for literary history. It cites Acharya Hazari Prasad Dwivedi, who states that religious literature is not inherently excluded from literary consideration and that spirituality is a unique characteristic of literature.
• Foundation of Hindi Literature: The author contends that the "Aadi Kaal" of Hindi literature is not only enriched by Jain poets but would be incomplete without them.
• Pioneering Poets and Their Works: Prominent Jain poets mentioned include Swayambhu, Pushpadant, Yogindra, Dhanpal, Haribhadra Suri, Hemchandra, Ram Singh, Somprabh Suri, Merutung, and Devsen. Their works provided a complete picture of human life.
• Pioneering Literary Forms and Techniques:
  • Jain poets are credited with creating new poetic meters like Doha, Soratha, Chaupai, and Chhappay, which were widely adopted by later Hindi poets.
  • They are considered precursors and inspirations for later great poets like Vidyapati, Kabir, Surdas, Jayasi, and Tulsidas.
  • Jain scholars are recognized for originating the "Rasobandh" poetic form, which integrated various meters and paved the way for "Raso" compositions describing heroic deeds, like the Prithviraj Raso.
  • They also utilized popular folk songs like "Phag" and "Charchari," evident in later devotional songs.
• Influence on Later Literature: The text asserts that many characteristics of Jain narrative poetry influenced later Hindi poetry. The close relationship between early Hindi literature and Apabhramsha literature, of which 80% is attributed to Jain poets, is emphasized as crucial for understanding Hindi literature. Some scholars even consider Apabhramsha literature as "Old Hindi."

Contributions to the Bhakti Era:

The text further details the substantial contributions of Jain poets, saints, and acharyas to the Bhakti (devotional) era of Hindi literature.

• Proponents of Devotional Literature: Poets like Bhattaraka Sakal Kirti, Bhattaraka Bhavan Kirti, Bhattaraka Gyan Bhushan, Brahma Jindaas, Brahmachari Raj, Brahmachari Raymal, Bhattaraka Shubhandra, Banarasi Das, Samayasundar, Bhudhar Das, Dhanat Rai, Gyan Sagar, and Jin Harsh flowing simple streams of devotion.
• Connecting with the Masses: These poets created literature in various forms according to the needs of the common people, satisfying their spiritual and social aspirations. Their works were not detached from contemporary life but incorporated social and cultural aspects alongside spirituality.
• Pioneering the Rama Kavya Tradition: Brahma Jindaas is highlighted as a major poet of the 15th century who served Hindi literature with over 70 works. His "Ram Ras" (circa 1508) is considered a famous and ancient Jain Ramayana, initiating and leading the Hindi Rama Kavya tradition even before Tulsidas. His "Harivansh Purana Ras" is similarly noted as an ancient Jain Mahabharata. Brahma Jindaas is unique for composing around 50 "Ras" titled works on diverse subjects.
• Influence on Metaphorical Poetry: The "Param Hans Sthal" in the tradition of metaphorical poetry is recognized for its distinct imagery.
• Other Notable Contributors: Other important Jain poets mentioned for their contributions include Bhattaraka Kumudchandra, Brahmachari Jyasagar, Ratnakirti, Surendra Kirti, Daulatram Kaslipaal, Todarmal, and Dhithal.

Enduring Legacy:

The author concludes by emphasizing the praiseworthy service of Jain poets to Hindi literature. Jain literature is seen as carrying the flow of Indian spiritual thought, and the philosophical sensitivity of Jain literature has played a vital role in keeping Hindi literature's spiritual consciousness alive and organized from the early period to the present day. The contributions of Jain poets are significant in terms of both content and form, meaning and expression, solidifying their indelible mark on Hindi literary history.