Mahakavi Harichandra Ek Anushilan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Mahakavi Harichandra Ek Anushilan" by Pannalal Sahityacharya, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mahakavi Harichandra: Ek Anushilan (An Exploration of the Great Poet Harichandra) Author: Dr. Pannalal Sahityacharya Publisher: Bharatiya Gyanpith

This academic work, presented as a doctoral dissertation for which Dr. Pannalal Sahityacharya was awarded a Ph.D. by Sagar University, is a detailed study of the life and works of the renowned Jain poet Harichandra. The book aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of his contributions to Sanskrit literature, particularly focusing on his two major works: Dharmasharmabhyudaya and Jivandharachampu.

The book is structured into four main chapters, each divided into several "pillars" (स्तम्भ) or sections, allowing for a systematic exploration of the subject.

Chapter 1: Foundation (आधारभूमि)

Poetic Tradition (काव्यधारा): This section begins by discussing the rich tradition of Sanskrit poetry, highlighting the distinct characteristics of padyakavya (verse poetry) and gadyakavya (prose poetry). It emphasizes the importance and difficulty of prose composition, noting that true mastery in prose is a hallmark of great poets. The evolution and significance of Champukavya (a genre blending prose and verse) are also discussed, tracing its lineage and mentioning prominent examples like Nalachampu, Yashastilakachampu, Jivandharachampu, and Purudevachampu.
Mahakavi Harichandra: Personality and Work (महाकवि हरिचन्द्र-व्यक्तित्व और कृतित्व): This crucial section introduces Harichandra, identifying him as the son of Ardradeva and Rathya, belonging to the Kayastha lineage of the Nome dynasty. His younger brother was Lakshmana. Harichandra was a follower of the Digambara Jain tradition, and his period is estimated to be between the 11th and 12th centuries CE. The section confirms that his known works are Dharmasharmabhyudaya (a Mahakavya) and Jivandharachampu (a Champukavya). It also addresses the scholarly debate regarding the authorship of Jivandharachampu, refuting the earlier opinion of Nathuram Premi that it was by a different author, by presenting evidence of stylistic and linguistic similarities between the two works. Harichandra is placed in the league of great poets like Kalidasa, Magha, and Bharavi, with his works embodying all the characteristics of a Mahakavya.
Tradition of Abhyudaya-named Kavyas (अभ्युदयनामान्त काव्यों की परम्परा): This section surveys Sanskrit Mahakavyas that end with the suffix "Abhyudaya," a tradition that includes Jain works like Jinatacharya's Parshvabhyudaya. It highlights the significance of Dharmasharmabhyudaya within this lineage.
Mahakavya Definition Research (महाकाव्य-परिभाषानुसन्धान): This section examines the definition of a Mahakavya, particularly as outlined by Vishvanath Kaviraj in his Sahitya Darpana. It demonstrates how Dharmasharmabhyudaya perfectly fits this definition, with its virtuous Kshatriya hero (Tirthankara Dharma Natha), peaceful dominant mood (shanta rasa), and other prescribed elements. Similarly, Jivandharachampu is also analyzed in relation to the Champukavya definition.

Chapter 2: Narrative (कथा)

Basis of Dharmasharmabhyudaya's Narrative (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय की कथा का आधार): The narrative of Dharmasharmabhyudaya is based on the life of the 15th Jain Tirthankara, Dharma Natha. The section details the mythological accounts of his previous lives and his birth, emphasizing how the poet has transformed the traditional narrative into a poetic masterpiece.
Basis of Jivandharachampu's Narrative (जीवन्धरचम्पू की कथा का आधार): The narrative of Jivandharachampu is based on the life of Jivandhara Swami, a contemporary of Lord Mahavir. The section discusses its primary sources, likely Vadiibhasimha's Gadyachintamani and Kshatrchudamani, as well as Gunabhadra's Uttarapurana, noting similarities and differences.
Narrative of Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का आख्यान): A detailed synopsis of the story of Dharmasharmabhyudaya is provided, covering King Mahasena and Queen Suvrata, the prophecy of Dharma Natha's birth, his youth, marriage to Shringarvati through a swayamvara (choice ceremony), his eventual renunciation, attainment of omniscience, and liberation.
Comparative Study of Jivandhara's Life (जीवधरचरित का तुलनात्मक अध्ययन): This section undertakes a comparative analysis of Jivandhara's life as depicted in various texts, including Gadyachintamani, Uttarapurana, and Jivandharachampu, highlighting the poet's creative adaptations.
Character Portrayal of Key Characters in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू के प्रमुख पात्रों का चरित्र-चित्रण): This part offers character sketches of the main figures in Jivandharachampu, including King Satyanandhar, Queen Vijaya, Kaathangara, Jivandhar himself, Gandharvadatta, Gunamala, Suramanjari, and others, analyzing their roles and complexities.

Chapter 3: Literary Excellence (साहित्यिक सुषमा)

Literary Brilliance of Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का काव्य-वैभव): This section delves into the poetic merits of Dharmasharmabhyudaya, analyzing its use of figures of speech (alankaras like simile, metaphor, hyperbole, antithesis, etc.), its dhvani (suggested meaning), guna (qualities), and riti (style). It showcases the poet's masterful use of language and imagery.
Poetic Artistry of Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू की काव्यकला): This part focuses on the literary artistry of Jivandharachampu, discussing its prose and verse, the beauty of its utpreksha (hyperbole) figures, and the skillful portrayal of emotions (rasa) and figures of speech.
Rasa in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का रस-परिपाक): An analysis of the dominant and subordinate emotions (rasa) in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, noting the prominence of shanta rasa (peaceful sentiment) befitting a Tirthankara's life, alongside skillful handling of shringara rasa (erotic sentiment) and other emotions.
Rasa Flow in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का रस-प्रवाह): A detailed examination of the various emotions depicted in Jivandharachampu, including shringara, hasya (humor), karuna (pathos), raudra (anger), vira (heroism), bhayana (terror), bibhatsa (disgust), adbhuta (wonder), and shanta. The book highlights the profound expression of shanta rasa in Jivandhar's renunciation.
Love-in-Separation in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का विप्रलम्भ-शृंगार): A specific focus on the portrayal of vipralambha shringara (love in separation) in Jivandharachampu, including the famous "pranayapatra" (love letters) exchanged between Jivandhar and Gunamala.
The Sacred Stream of Shanta Rasa in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू में शान्त रस की पावन धारा): An exploration of how shanta rasa permeates Jivandharachampu, culminating in Jivandhara's eventual renunciation and liberation.
Rhythm and Meter in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय में छन्दों की रसानुगुणता): An analysis of the metrical patterns (chandas) used in Dharmasharmabhyudaya and how they are employed to enhance the emotional impact of different passages.
Metrical Arrangement in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू में छन्दो-योजना): A similar analysis of the metrical variety and skillful application in Jivandharachampu.

Chapter 4: Exchange and Influence (आदान-प्रदान)

Upajeevya Status of Jivandhara's Biography (जीवन्धरचरित की उपजीव्यता): This section discusses how Jivandhara's life story has served as an inspiration for numerous works in Sanskrit, Apabhramsha, Kannad, Tamil, and Hindi.
Upajeevya and Upajeevita (उपजीव्य और उपजीवित): This pillar examines the influence of earlier poets on Harichandra and Harichandra's influence on later poets, citing comparative examples from Kalidasa, Bharavi, Magha, Sriharsa, and others.
Shishupalavadha and Dharmasharmabhyudaya (शिशुपालवध और धर्मशर्माभ्युदय): A comparative study of these two works, highlighting similarities in narrative structure, poetic devices, and stylistic choices, demonstrating Harichandra's engagement with Magha's masterpiece.
Chandraprabhacharita and Dharmasharmabhyudaya (चन्द्रप्रभचरित और धर्मशर्माभ्युदय): A similar comparative analysis with the work of Viranandi, demonstrating influence and shared traditions.

Chapter 5: Principles and Descriptions (सिद्धान्त और वर्णन)

Background of a Tirthankara (तीर्थंकर की पृष्ठभूमि): Explains the Jain concept of Tirthankaras, the rigorous path (shodasha karanabhavanas or sixteen causal sentiments) leading to this status, and the principles of Jain philosophy that underpin their lives.
Jain Principles in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय में जैन-सिद्धान्त): This section details the exposition of core Jain tenets such as the soul (jiva), non-soul (ajiva), influx (asrava), bondage (bandha), stoppage (samvara), exciusion (nirjara), and liberation (moksha) as presented in Dharmasharmabhyudaya.
Jain Conduct in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू में जैनाचार): This pillar outlines the principles of Jain conduct, particularly the duties of a lay follower (shravaka), as illustrated through the life of Jivandhara Swami in Jivandharachampu.
Charvaka Philosophy and its Refutation in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय में चार्वाक दर्शन और उसका निराकरण): This section analyzes the depiction of Charvaka philosophy (materialism and atheism) in Dharmasharmabhyudaya and how the poet refutes its tenets through logical arguments presented by the characters.
Descriptions of Land and City (देश और नगर-वर्णन): Detailed analysis of the geographical and urban descriptions in both works, showcasing Harichandra's ability to create vivid settings.
Descriptions of Women's Beauty (नारी-सौन्दर्य): An exploration of the poet's portrayal of feminine beauty in both works, highlighting his skill in evoking aesthetic appreciation.
Adornment and Costume in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू की नेपथ्य-रचना): A study of the detailed descriptions of attire, jewelry, and grooming found in Jivandharachampu, reflecting the social customs of the time.
Kings (राजा): Analysis of the portrayal of kings, their duties, virtues, and flaws, as depicted in both works, examining their political and administrative roles.
Divine Armies (देवसेना): Description of the celestial armies and their role in events like the birth ceremony of Tirthankaras, as presented in Dharmasharmabhyudaya.
Mount Meru (सुमेरु): The depiction of the mythical Mount Meru, a significant location in Jain cosmology and mythology, within Dharmasharmabhyudaya.
Ocean of Milk (क्षीरसमुद्र): The portrayal of the mythical Ocean of Milk, another important cosmological element, in Dharmasharmabhyudaya.
Vindhya Mountains (विन्ध्यगिरि): The detailed description of the Vindhya mountain range in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, highlighting its natural beauty and its role in the narrative.

Chapter 6: Nature's Depiction (प्रकृति-निरूपण)

The Cycle of Seasons in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का ऋतुचक्र): An analysis of Harichandra's depiction of the six seasons in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, noting the poetic skill and emotional resonance.
The Hermitage in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का तपोवन): A description of the hermitages and ascetic retreats in Jivandharachampu, emphasizing their role in spiritual practice and the poet's naturalistic style.
Nature Description in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का प्रकृति-वर्णन): A comprehensive review of the natural descriptions in Jivandharachampu, comparing them favorably with the works of other renowned poets.
Sunset, Darkness, Moonrise, etc. (सूर्यास्तमन, तिमिरोद्गति, चन्द्रोदय आदि): An examination of Harichandra's evocative descriptions of natural phenomena like sunset, twilight, moonrise, and their impact on the mood of the narrative.
Morning Description in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का प्रभात-वर्णन): A comparison of Harichandra's descriptions of dawn with those of other poets, highlighting its unique freshness and purity.

Chapter 7: Entertainment and Instruction (आमोद-निदर्शन and प्रकीर्णक-निर्देश)

Flower Gathering and Water Sports (पुष्पावचय और जलक्रीड़ा): Analysis of the descriptions of festive activities like flower gathering and water sports in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, highlighting the portrayal of social life and aesthetic beauty.
Springtime Splendor in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का वसन्त-वैभव): A detailed examination of the descriptions of spring in Jivandharachampu, showcasing the poet's skill in capturing the essence of the season.
Childhood Depiction in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू में शिशु-वर्णन): An analysis of the depiction of childhood in Jivandharachampu, noting the poet's ability to capture the innocence and charm of youth.
The Awakening Song in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का प्रबोध-गीत): A discussion of the "awakening song" sung to rouse the queen, its literary significance, and its influence from earlier traditions.
The Swayamvara in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का स्वयंवर-वर्णन): A detailed analysis of the swayamvara ceremony in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, discussing its social implications and poetic execution, and its comparison with similar scenes in other literary works.
Eclipses and Old Age Descriptions (चन्द्रग्रहण और जरा का अद्भुत वर्णन): An exploration of Harichandra's unique and imaginative descriptions of celestial events like eclipses and the process of aging, noting their philosophical undertones.
Praise of the Virtuous and Condemnation of the Wicked (सज्जन-प्रशंसा और दुर्जन-निन्दा): An analysis of the prevalent theme of moral contrast in Harichandra's works, where virtuous characters are lauded and wicked ones are condemned, often through apt subhashitas (wise sayings).
The Pain of Childlessness (पुत्राभाव-वेदना): An examination of the poignant portrayal of the suffering caused by childlessness in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, drawing comparisons with similar themes in other works.
Dream Visions (स्वप्नदर्शन): An analysis of the significance of dream visions in the context of Jain tradition, particularly their role in foretelling the birth of Tirthankaras, as depicted in Dharmasharmabhyudaya.

Chapter 8: Morality and Warfare (नीति-निकुंज and सामाजिक दशा और युद्ध-निदर्शन)

Collection of Subhashitas in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का सुभाषितनिचय): A compilation and analysis of the aphorisms and wise sayings embedded in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, highlighting their ethical and philosophical value.
Moral Instruction and Governance in Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का नीत्युपदेश और राज्य शासन): An examination of the moral teachings and insights into governance presented through the words of King Mahasena to his son Dharmaraja, drawing parallels with Shukrasopadesha from Bana's Kadambari.
Collection of Subhashitas in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का सुभाषितसंचय): A similar compilation and analysis of wise sayings found in Jivandharachampu.
Bhakti Ganga of Jivandhara Swami (जीवन्धर स्वामी की भक्तिगंगा): An exploration of the devotional aspect in Jivandharachampu, specifically the hymns and prayers offered by Jivandhara Swami to the Tirthankaras during his pilgrimages.
Social Conditions Reflected in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू से ध्वनित सामाजिक स्थिति): An analysis of the social fabric, customs, and practices, including marriage rituals, attire, political systems, education, transportation, and religious beliefs, as revealed in Jivandharachampu.
Warfare in Dharmasharmabhyudaya and its Pictorial Aspect (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का युद्ध वर्णन और चित्रालंकार): An analysis of the war descriptions in Dharmasharmabhyudaya, noting the use of chitra-alankara (pictorial figures of speech) and the limitations imposed by the chosen meter (anushtup) on the expression of vira rasa (heroic sentiment).
Warfare in Jivandharachampu (जीवन्धरचम्पू का युद्ध-निरूपण): A detailed and critical analysis of the warfare depicted in Jivandharachampu, highlighting the skillful use of various meters and the robust portrayal of vira rasa, particularly in the climactic battle between Jivandhara and Kaathangara.

Chapter 9: Geographical Directives and Conclusion (भौगोलिक निर्देश और उपसंहार)

Ratnapur of Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय का रत्नपुर): An attempt to locate the legendary city of Ratnapur, the birthplace of Dharma Natha, and its possible connection to modern geographical locations like Pataliputra (Patna).
Hemangada Country and Jivandhara's Travels (जीवन्धर का हेमांगद देश और उनका भ्रमण क्षेत्र): An exploration of the geographical settings relevant to Jivandhara's life, discussing theories about the location of Hemangada country and other sites of his travels, and the challenges in their identification.
Commentaries and Notes (टीकाएं और टिप्पण): A discussion about the existing commentaries on Dharmasharmabhyudaya and the lack thereof for Jivandharachampu, and the author's own contribution in providing a commentary.
Sanskrit Commentators of Dharmasharmabhyudaya (धर्मशर्माभ्युदय के संस्कृत टीकाकार): An examination of the known Sanskrit commentators of Dharmasharmabhyudaya, particularly Yashaskirti, and a discussion of their methodology and historical context.
Conclusion (उपसंहार): A concluding summary that reiterates the significance of Harichandra's works in Sanskrit literature, his mastery of literary elements, and the comparative strengths of his compositions. It emphasizes the value of such comparative studies for understanding literary evolution and preserving cultural heritage.
Final Request for Forgiveness (अन्त्यनिवेदनम्): The author concludes with a humble request for forgiveness for any errors or omissions in the research.

Overall Significance:

"Mahakavi Harichandra: Ek Anushilan" is a monumental work of scholarship that not only elevates the stature of Mahakavi Harichandra but also provides invaluable insights into Jain literary traditions, philosophical principles, and the socio-historical context of ancient India. The book's rigorous research methodology, extensive use of comparative analysis, and detailed exploration of poetic devices make it a definitive study of its kind.