Karnsinhkrut Girnarastha Khartarvasahi Geet

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Karnsinhkrut Girnarastha Khartarvasahi Geet" by M. A. Dhaky, based on the provided PDF content:

Title: Karnsinhkrut Girnarastha Khartarvasahi Geet (Song of the Khartarvasahi at Girnar by Karnsinh)

Author: M. A. Dhaky

Publisher: Z_Aspect_of_Jainology_Part_2_Pundit_Bechardas_Doshi_012016.pdf (as part of a larger collection)

Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/230055/1

Core Subject: The text is a song composed by Karnsinh (or Karnasandh) celebrating a Jain temple complex known as "Khartarvasahi" located at Girnar.

Author and Dating:

• The author explicitly states their name as "Karanusandh" in the last stanza.
• M. A. Dhaky received a "Chaitya Paripati" (description of a temple) from an "Agrapragat Karanasinh" for his research on a Chaitya Paripati of the 15th-16th century. However, this earlier work did not contain extensive personal details about the author.
• The song itself does not specify its composition year.
• Based on the context of the temple's construction, the author is believed to have lived during the 15th or 16th century CE.
• It is suggested that the author might have been a follower (Shravak) of the Khartar Gachha (a lineage within Jainism).

The Temple ("Khartarvasahi") and its Construction:

• The song is inspired by the temple complex built by the Khartargachhiya follower Narpal Sanghvi on Girnar.
• This new temple was constructed shortly before 1441 CE, likely around 1438 CE.
• It replaced an older Mahavir temple that had been built by the minister Vastupal.
• Because the new temple's patron and constructors were from the Khartar Gachha, it became known as "Khartarvasahi" from the latter half of the 15th century.
• Interestingly, over time, the name was forgotten, and the temple is now mistakenly known as "Melakvasahi" or "Merakvasahi."

Content and Description of the Temple:

• The song, composed in 16 stanzas (kadi), incorporates historical facts.
• The author, in the 8th stanza, credits the construction of the temple to Narpal, quoting the words of Jinbhadra Suri.
• The song describes various architectural features:
  • Mandapa (Hall): Mentioned with intricate sculptures.
  • Ashtapada Representation: A depiction of the sacred Ashtapada mountain is located on the right side of the main sanctum (Bhadra Prasad).
  • Nandishwar Dwipa Representation: A similar representation of Nandishwar Dwipa is present on the left side.
  • Main Sanctum (Garbhagriha):
    • The principal deity, Mahavir Swami, made of metal.
    • The gem-studded decorative frame (parikar) around the deity.
    • The torana (archway) above the deity.
• The overall structure of the song is considered "thin" (patalnu) in its scope.
• It is written in the "Dhal" meter but lacks a highly organized composition.

Language:

• The language used is identified as Marugurjar, rather than Old Gujarati. This suggests the author's likely origin or strong connection to the region where this dialect was prevalent.
• The Khartar Gachha had significant influence in Rajasthan, further supporting the possibility of the author being from that region.

Other Details:

• The song is presented in Gujarati script.
• A note mentions that this composition was to be published in the "Dal Sukh Malvania Abhinandan Granth."
• The text is based on a single available manuscript from the Hemchandracharya Gyanbhandar in Patan (accession number 3122).

Stanza-by-Stanza Glimpse (as per the provided text):

• Stanza 1: Praises Girnar and the Goddess Ambika.
• Stanza 2: Expresses admiration for the "Khartarvasahi," comparing it to being in one's palm.
• Stanza 3: Describes the mandapa with sculptures, likening it to the abode of Indra.
• Stanza 4: Mentions the golden spire and pinnacle.
• Stanza 5: Describes the idol adorned with jewels and pearls, bringing joy.
• Stanza 6: References Ashtapada and Nandishwar representations.
• Stanza 7: Mentions the sangha (community) and the seven-metal idol with a gem-studded parikar and torana.
• Stanza 8: Credits Narpal and Jinbhadra Suri for the construction.
• Stanza 9: Praises the Ashtapad representation.
• Stanza 10: Describes the ritualistic worship with eight types of offerings.
• Stanza 11: Mentions the use of fragrant flowers like Champak and Padal in worship.
• Stanza 12: Highlights the Ashtapada description as a noble endeavor, bringing merit.
• Stanza 13: Describes the beautiful temple complex surrounded by gardens.
• Stanza 14: Mentions the temple builders and their expertise.
• Stanza 15: Emphasizes the exclusivity of worship at this temple, leading to infinite gain.
• Stanza 16: Concludes with a blessing for the author's family and a joyous celebration.

In essence, "Karnsinhkrut Girnarastha Khartarvasahi Geet" is a historical and devotional song celebrating a significant Jain temple built at Girnar by followers of the Khartar Gachha. It provides valuable insights into the temple's architecture, its patronage, and the cultural milieu of 15th-16th century Gujarat/Rajasthan, all through the devotional verses of Karnsinh.