Jain Sahitya Evam Sanskruti Ke Vikas Me Bhattarako Ka Yogadan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jain Sahitya evam Sanskruti ke Vikas me Bhattarako ka Yogadan" by Kasturchand Kasliwal, focusing on the contributions of Bhattaraks to the development of Jain literature and culture:

The text highlights the significant role played by Bhattaraks in the development of Jain literature and culture, particularly from the period after Emperor Harsha's reign until the 19th century. It contrasts this period with the earlier era of prolific Jain Acharyas who contributed immensely to Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramsa, and regional languages.

The Rise of the Bhattarak Tradition:

Political Instability and the Need for a Centralized Authority: The text notes that after Emperor Harsha, India experienced political fragmentation and instability. The advent of Muslim invasions in the 11th century and their subsequent rule from the 13th century onwards created a climate of fear and persecution for Jains. The practice of Jain asceticism, especially nudity, became difficult, and temples faced looting and idol destruction.
Bhattarak Prabhachandra and the Delhi Seat: In this challenging environment, Bhattarak Prabhachandra established his center in Delhi during the reign of Alauddin Khilji (around the late 13th and early 14th centuries). This marked a resurgence and a new phase for the Bhattarak tradition across North India.
Establishment of Bhattarak Gadiyas (Seats): Following Prabhachandra, the Bhattarak tradition gained immense popularity, leading to the establishment of numerous Bhattarak Gadiyas in various regions of India, including Rajasthan (Chittor, Champavati, Takshagarh, Amer, Sanganer, Jaipur, Shri Mahavir Ji, Ajmer, Nagaur, Jauar), Madhya Pradesh (Gwalior, Sonagiri), Bagad region (Dungarpur, Sagwara, Banswara, Rishabhdev), Gujarat (Navsari, Surat, Khambhat, Dhodho, Girnar), Maharashtra (Karanja, Nagpur), and South India (Mudbidri, Humach, Shravanabelagola). These Bhattaraks organized themselves into Gan Sanghas and Gachhas, becoming pillars of Jainism within their respective territories.

Contributions to Jain Culture and Art:

Promoting Temple Construction and Renovation: The Bhattaraks were instrumental in encouraging the construction and renovation of Jain temples. The text mentions a significant renovation in Mojamabad (Rajasthan) in 1664, which received the blessings of Emperor Akbar and Maharaja Mansingh of Amer. These events involved substantial financial expenditure and were attended by a large number of people.
Revival of Arts and Crafts: The temple building activities not only revived Jain culture but also fostered the development of sculpture and architecture. The grandeur and artistic merit of the idols installed in temples in Jaipur, Sagwara, Chandkhedi, and Jhalrapatan are attributed to the efforts of the Bhattaraks.
Installation of Idols: The period between 1350 and 1850 CE is considered the peak of Bhattarak influence. During these 500 years, numerous grand idol installation ceremonies were organized, with the inspiration and blessings of the Bhattaraks. It is estimated that thousands of idols were installed in temples across the country, and many of the idols found in North Indian Jain temples today date back to this period.
Commemorative Inscriptions and Pillars of Fame: The text mentions "Nishedhikayen" (inscriptions) and "Kirtistambhas" (pillars of fame) erected to honor Bhattaraks like Prabhachandra, Jinachandra, and Shubhachandra in places like Awa (Rajasthan) and Chittor fort. These structures testify to the public reverence for the Bhattaraks and their cultural contributions.

Contributions to Jain Literature:

Patronage of Literature: The Bhattaraks were not only religious leaders but also dedicated patrons and creators of literature. They encouraged the writing of various literary forms in Sanskrit and Hindi, moving away from Prakrit and Apabhramsa.
Creation of Diverse Literary Works: They produced a vast body of work encompassing:
- Charitra Kavyas (Biographical Epics): Tales of Tirthankaras and other revered figures.
- Puranas: Religious narratives.
- Kavyas: Poetry and literary compositions.
- Veli, Ras, Panchasika, Shatak, Pachchisi, Bavani, Vivah Lo, Aakhyan, Pad, and Geet: Various forms of lyrical and narrative poetry, often in regional languages like Rajasthani.
Key Literary Figures and Their Contributions:
- Bhattarak Sakal Kirti (15th Century): A prolific writer who penned over 26 works in Sanskrit and 8 in Rajasthani in the last 22 years of his life. He was proficient in music and prosody and wrote in an accessible style. His notable works include Adi Purana, Uttar Purana, Nemijin Charitra, and several others.
- Bhattarak Somkirti (1516-1540): Composed works in both Sanskrit and Hindi, including Saptavyasan Katha, Pradyumna Charitra, and Yashodhar Charitra in Sanskrit, and Guravali, Yashodhar Ras, etc., in Rajasthani. His writings often emphasized ethical principles and social values.
- Jindas (disciple and brother of Sakal Kirti): A significant contributor to Hindi literature, authoring over 60 works. His Ram Sitaras is considered the first Ramayana in Rajasthani. He played a crucial role in promoting Hindi among the common people.
- Bhattarak Gyanbhushan: A disciple of Bhattarak Bhuvanakirti, he wrote Adishwar Phag, a significant work comprising both Hindi and Sanskrit verses.
- Bhattarak Vijayakirti: Highly respected by rulers, he contributed to temple building and installation ceremonies and was praised in a song for his wide-ranging influence.
- Bhattarak Shubhchandra: A master of six languages, he wrote extensively in Sanskrit and Hindi, with Tattvasar Dah being a notable Hindi work. His writings often contained profound philosophical insights.
- Bhattarak Ratnakirti and Bhattarak Kumudchandra: Popular saints who composed devotional songs (padas) in Hindi, contributing to the tradition of pada sahitya. Their works often focused on spirituality, separation, and devotion.

Legacy and Impact:

The Bhattaraks served as Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Munis for the populace for approximately 500 years. Their influence on the development of Jain literature and culture was immense. They fostered an environment of literary creativity, established scriptural libraries, and promoted the collection and copying of manuscripts. Their efforts in promoting Sanskrit and Hindi helped elevate these languages and disseminate Jain teachings widely.

The text concludes by stating that while the contributions of the Bhattaraks are undeniable and have shaped Jain literature and culture significantly, their role has perhaps not received the full recognition it deserves, and there is a pressing need for further appreciation and research into their work.