Kayvanna Rasmala

This Jain text, "Kayvanna Rasmala" (કયવન્ના રાસમાળા), authored by Bhanuben Shah and published by Jain Sahitya Prakashak Samiti, is a comprehensive collection and study of medieval Gujarati literature related to the story of Kayvanna (also known as Kritapunya). The book focuses on the significance of charity (દાનનું માહાત્મ્ય) through this narrative.

The work is a result of extensive research and compilation by Dr. Bhanuben Shah (Satra), who holds a PhD from Mumbai University for her study on Kavi Rishabhdas's "Samkit Sar Ras". The "Kayvanna Rasmala" is her fifth book in the field of Jain literature research.

The book presents eighteen different versions (rasas) of the Kayvanna Seth's story, collected from various ancient and modern manuscripts. Fifteen of these are previously unpublished, highlighting the rich, but often undiscovered, heritage of Jain literature. The author has meticulously collected, deciphered, and studied these manuscripts, which span from the 15th century to the 20th century.

The central theme of the "Kayvanna Rasmala" is the glorification of charity (દાનનું માહાત્મ્ય). The narrative of Kayvanna (Kritapunya) is used to illustrate how charity, particularly when performed with sincere devotion and altruism, leads to immense merit, prosperity, and even spiritual liberation. The text delves into the philosophical aspects of charity, emphasizing that the intention and the purity of the heart are more significant than the material value of the donation.

Dr. Shah's research involved consulting various libraries and institutions, including Kailas Sagarsuri Gyan Mandir (Koba), Geetartha Ganga (Ahmedabad), Bhandarkar Institute (Pune), and LD Institute of Indology (Ahmedabad), as well as contacting scholars and individuals to gather these manuscripts.

The book also includes introductory and concluding remarks from esteemed scholars like Dr. Kavinbhai Shah and Dr. Abhay Doshi, who commend Dr. Shah's dedication to uncovering and preserving this valuable literary treasure. They highlight the "Ras Yug" (Age of Rasas) in medieval Gujarati literature and the importance of these narrative poems in conveying Jain principles like charity, ethical conduct, and spiritual pursuit.

The text provides detailed information about the eighteen different compositions of the Kayvanna story, including the poets, their respective time periods (Samvat), and the libraries where the manuscripts are preserved. The book is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the literary evolution of this important Jain narrative.

In essence, "Kayvanna Rasmala" is a significant contribution to Jain literature and Gujarati literary history, showcasing the author's deep commitment to research and her passion for bringing ancient texts to light for the benefit of current and future generations. The book underscores the Jain emphasis on the virtue of giving and its profound impact on one's life and spiritual journey.