Kavyashatakam Mulam - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, which appears to be a catalog and textual excerpt from "Kavyashatakam Mulam" by Jinendrasuri, published by Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala. The catalog link also points to Jain Education International, indicating a focus on Jain religious and educational texts.

Overall Context:

The text is a collection of six major Sanskrit poems (Kavya Shatakam) that are considered significant in Indian literature, particularly in the context of classical Sanskrit poetry. These poems are:

Raghuvaṃśa (Raghuvamsha) by Kalidasa
Kumāra-sambhava (Kumara Sambhava) by Kalidasa
Kirātārjunīya (Kiratarjuniya) by Bharavi
Śiśupāla-vadha (Shishupala Vadha) by Magha
Naiṣadha-carita (Naishadha Charita) by Shri Harsha
Meghadūta (Meghaduta) by Kalidasa

The publication aims to make these classical works accessible for study, particularly within the Jain tradition. The text includes a preface, introduction, and detailed indexes, suggesting a scholarly approach to presenting these works.

Key Themes and Purpose:

Accessibility for Study: The primary goal of this publication is to provide a resource for scholars and students to study these important Sanskrit Kavyas. The inclusion of an alphabetical index (अकारादि सूची) for each poem, with details like the starting word of the verse, poem name, chapter/ canto number, verse number, and page number, highlights this purpose.
Jain Perspective on Classical Literature: The preface and introductory remarks emphasize the value of studying these poems for understanding grammar, lexicography, poetics, rhetoric, and philosophical concepts. While the poems are classical Sanskrit works, their inclusion in a Jain publication suggests an effort to find connections or appreciate them from a Jain philosophical and literary viewpoint. The preface mentions the inspiration derived from editing the commentary on Hemachandra Surishvara's "Anekaartha Sangraha" and the need for scholarly editions of Mahakavyas with such indexes.
Preservation and Promotion of Literature: The publication by the Shri Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala aims to preserve and promote ancient literary works. The mention of support from trusts and collaborations suggests a community effort in this endeavor.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance: The preface touches upon Sanskrit as a language of spiritual culture and the importance of studying its literature for personal upliftment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It contrasts the "materialistic and negligent education of today" with the rigorous and profound study undertaken by ancient scholars.
Scholarly Apparatus: The text is meticulously edited and compiled by esteemed Jain Acharyas, including Shri Vijay Kapoor Surishwarji, Shri Vijay Apat Surishwarji, and Shri Vijay Jinendra Surishwarji. The detailed correction (शुद्ध) of verses, as seen in the later pages listing verse corrections, indicates a commitment to textual accuracy.

Content Breakdown:

Title Page (Page 1-2): Clearly states the title "Kavyashatakam Mulam," author Jinendrasuri (though the compilation involves multiple Acharyas), publisher, and the names of the six Kavyas included. It also notes the editors/researchers.
Acknowledgements and Purpose (Page 3-4): Explains the purpose of publishing this "Kavya Shatakam" for study. It mentions the collaboration with trusts to make 500 copies available to Jain Bhandars and acknowledges the support received. The preface highlights the value of original Sanskrit texts and the need for accurate, indexed editions.
General Introduction to Sanskrit and Jain Literature (Page 4-6): Discusses Sanskrit as a language of spiritual culture, its relationship with Jain literature (Sanskrit and Prakrit), and the importance of studying grammar, poetry, and other disciplines. It stresses that these Kavyas are not merely for entertainment but serve as examples for demonstrating grammatical rules, vocabulary, philosophical concepts, and literary devices. The preface reflects on the dedication and intellectual prowess of ancient scholars, contrasting it with modern educational practices.
Table of Contents and Verse Details (Page 7-21): This section provides a detailed index for each of the six Kavyas. It lists the cantos (Sarga), their names, the number of verses (Padya), and the starting page number. For Raghuvamsha, it lists 19 cantos. For Kumara Sambhava, it lists 8 cantos. For Kiratarjuniya, it lists 18 cantos. For Shishupala Vadha, it lists 20 cantos. For Naishadhiya Charita, it lists 22 cantos. For Meghaduta, it lists the text under "Purva Megha" and "Uttara Megha." The subsequent pages (12-21) provide extensive lists of verse corrections (specifically line numbers and corrected readings), demonstrating the thoroughness of the editorial work.
Textual Content (Page 22 onwards): Begins with the actual verses from the Kavyas, starting with Raghuvamsha. The detailed verse numbering and transcription confirm the comprehensive nature of the work.

Specific Details about the Kavyas (as indicated by the index):

Raghuvamsha: Covers the lineage of the Raghu dynasty, including significant events and characters from its history. The provided excerpts focus on the early cantos, detailing the arrival at Vasishtha's ashram and the blessing of Nandini.
Kumara Sambhava: Details the birth of Kartikeya, the war between the Devas and Asuras, and the story of Shiva and Parvati's union. The excerpts cover Parvati's penance and Shiva's eventual union with her.
Kiratarjuniya: Narrates the penance of Arjuna and his encounter with Shiva in the form of a Kirata (hunter), leading to the acquisition of the Pashupatastra. The index shows a large number of cantos, indicating the poem's extensive narrative.
Shishupala Vadha: Recounts the story of Krishna's slaying of Shishupala. The index shows 20 cantos, suggesting a long and complex narrative.
Naishadha Charita: The epic poem detailing the story of King Nala and Princess Damayanti. The index covers 22 cantos, highlighting its extensive scope. The excerpts provide glimpses into Nala's story, his challenges, and his eventual reunion with Damayanti.
Meghaduta: Kalidasa's famous lyrical poem about a Yaksha sending a message to his beloved through a cloud. The text indicates "Purva Megha" (First Cloud) and "Uttara Megha" (Second Cloud).

Overall Impression:

This publication is a significant academic and religious work, providing a critically edited version of six seminal Sanskrit Kavyas with comprehensive indexes and error corrections. Its purpose is to facilitate deep study and appreciation of these texts, likely for their literary merit and for any philosophical or ethical insights that can be gleaned from them, especially within the Jain tradition. The involvement of revered Acharyas underscores the seriousness and dedication behind this project.