Nagri Pracharini Patrika Part 15

The Nagri Pracharini Patrika, Part 15, published by the Nagri Pracharini Sabha and edited by Shyamsundardas, is a scholarly quarterly journal focused on ancient research. This particular volume (Part 15, Samvat 1961) features a diverse collection of articles covering various aspects of Indian history, culture, literature, and philosophy.

Here's a summary of the key themes and articles presented in this issue:

Literature and Religious Philosophy:

• "Nirguna Sampradaya in Hindi Poetry" by Dr. Pitambaradatta Barthwal: This comprehensive article, spread across several pages, delves into the history and characteristics of the Nirguna (formless) devotional tradition within Hindi poetry. It explores the socio-political and religious circumstances that led to the rise of this movement, highlighting the influence of Muslim invasions and the caste system within Hindu society. The article traces the intellectual currents that shaped this tradition, discussing figures like Kabir and the broader philosophical underpinnings. It analyzes the impact of various influences, including Sufism and yogic traditions, on the development of Nirguna poetry. The author examines the social discrimination faced by lower castes, particularly the Shudras, and how the Nirguna movement offered a path to spiritual and social liberation. It also discusses the role of figures like Ramanand and the subsequent development of various Bhakti movements. The article emphasizes the synthesis of Hindu Vedanta and Islamic Sufi thought, culminating in the teachings of Kabir and other saints who advocated for monotheism, equality, and the rejection of rituals and idol worship.

• "The Promulgators of the Nirguna Saint Sect": This section introduces various saints who spread the Nirguna philosophy, including Jaydev, Namdev, Trilochan, Ramanand, and his prominent disciples like Dhanna, Sena, Raidas, and Kabir. It details their lives, teachings, and the influence they had on the movement. Special attention is given to the life and philosophy of Kabir, examining his origins, his spiritual journey, and his teachings on the oneness of God and the equality of all humans. The influence of Sikhism and figures like Guru Nanak are also discussed. The article explores the philosophies of other significant Nirguna saints like Dadu, Pran Nath, Baba Lal, Maluk Das, and others, highlighting their unique contributions and the spread of their teachings across different regions of India.

• "Philosophical Principles of the Nirguna Sect": This part of the journal discusses the core philosophical tenets of the Nirguna tradition. It elaborates on concepts like monotheism, the immanence of God in all creation, the rejection of idol worship and external rituals, the importance of inner experience and love for the divine, and the ultimate unity of the soul with the Supreme Being. The article compares these ideas with Islamic monotheism and Sufi thought, as well as with different schools of Hindu philosophy, particularly Advaita Vedanta. It analyzes the nuanced understanding of the divine, often described in negative terms (Neti Neti) due to its ineffable nature, and the attempts by saints to reconcile the absolute with the relative through allegory and symbolism.

History and Archaeology:

• "Women in Ancient India" by Kumari Ram Pyari Shastri: This article explores the status and roles of women in ancient India, drawing insights from classical literature. It counters the notion that women were always subjugtered, highlighting their access to education, their participation in intellectual debates (like Gargi), their contributions in arts and sciences, and their rights within marriage and property. The article discusses different types of women's education (Sadyodvaha and Brahmavadini) and the emphasis on their role as upholders of domestic and social values. It touches upon the practices of marriage, including the concept of Svayamvara, and the influence of social customs on women's lives.

• "The Founder of Nalanda Mahavihara" by Shri Vasudev Upadhyay: This article investigates the historical figures credited with the founding and expansion of the renowned Nalanda Mahavihara. It critically examines the accounts of the Chinese traveler Xuanzang and analyzes epigraphic and numismatic evidence to ascertain the identities and timelines of the patrons, primarily from the Gupta dynasty. The author discusses the challenges in conclusively identifying figures like Shakraditya with specific Gupta rulers like Chandragupta II or Kumaragupta I, considering the complexities of dating and succession within the Gupta lineage. It highlights the significant contributions of rulers like Buddhagupta, Suryagupta (often identified with Baladitya), and Vajra in patronizing Buddhist learning.

• "A Brief Description of the Historically Famous Fort of Ranthambore" by Shri Prithviraj Chauhan: This article provides a detailed account of the Ranthambore Fort, its geographical location, strategic importance, and historical significance. It describes the natural defenses of the fort, its architectural features like gates and ramparts, and its association with key historical figures like Rao Hammir Dev. The article recounts the fort's capture by Alauddin Khilji and its subsequent history under various rulers, including the Mughals and the Jaipur state. It highlights the legendary tales and the historical battles associated with this formidable fortress.

• "Various Topics": This section comprises several shorter articles and notes:

  • "Archaeology": This part includes discussions on ancient Indian geography (Jambudvipa), the concept of reconversion (Shuddhi) in Hinduism based on texts like Devala Smriti, and an analysis of the Yajnavalkya-Janamejaya relationship as depicted in Vedic texts. It also features an article discussing the interpretations of the Mandukya Upanishad and Gaudapada's commentary, examining the scholarly debate on their authorship and philosophical lineage.
  • "The Amar Markandeya Play by Pandit Shankarlal": This review discusses a Sanskrit play by Pandit Shankarlal, highlighting its themes, characters, and literary merit.
  • "Umar Kavya": This is a review of a collection of poems by Umaradan 'Balak', a Rajasthani poet, praising his poetic skills and the compilation of his works.
  • "The Importance of Animals and Natural Objects in Hindu Caste Science": This article explores the origins of caste systems and clan names, linking them to totemic beliefs involving animals and natural objects, particularly in relation to Oriya Brahmins. It discusses the potential influence of Dravidian beliefs and the practice of attributing lineage to natural elements.
  • "Introduction to Navasahasanka-Charita": This detailed review analyzes the Sanskrit epic poem 'Navasahasanka-Charita' by Padmagupta, focusing on its historical context, narrative structure, poetic style, and its portrayal of the reign of Sindhuraja. It discusses the literary merits and the blend of historical and mythical elements in the work.

• "The Plot Against Humayun" by Shri Ramshankar Awasthi: This article examines the historical accounts and scholarly interpretations regarding alleged conspiracies against Emperor Humayun. It analyzes the conflicting viewpoints of contemporary and later historians, discussing the roles of figures like Mirza Haider Doglat, Abul Fazl, and Nizamuddin Ahmad. The author critically evaluates the evidence for and against a conspiracy, considering the political motivations and personal relationships of the key players.

• "Jetavan" by Shri Rahul Sankrityayan: This article provides a detailed archaeological and historical account of Jetavan, a significant site associated with the Buddha in Shravasti. It discusses the findings from excavations, the architectural layout of the monastic complex, the historical accounts from Pali scriptures and Chinese travelers, and the legends associated with the place, including the story of Devadatta's descent into the earth.

• "Ram-Charitra in Oriya Village Literature" by Shri Devendra Satyarthi: This article explores the unique portrayal of Lord Rama's life and deeds in the oral traditions and folk literature of rural Odisha. It highlights how local customs, agricultural practices, and daily life have influenced the narrative of Rama, presenting him as a relatable figure integrated into the fabric of village life. The author presents examples of folk songs and stories that depict Rama as a farmer, a family man, and a beloved deity resonating with the common people.

• "Punch-marked Coins" by Raibahadur Pandya Baijnath: This article presents a scholarly analysis of ancient Indian punch-marked coins, focusing on their classification, chronology, and symbolism. It discusses the findings of scholars like Durga Prasad and Cunningham, examining the various symbols found on these coins and their potential meanings. The article delves into the metallurgical composition of these ancient coins and their significance in understanding the economic and political history of early India, particularly during the Maurya period.

• "Some Characteristics of Padmakar's Poetry" by Shri Akhauri Gangaprasad Singh: This article is a critical appreciation of the poetry of Padmakar, a prominent poet of the Ritikalin period. It analyzes the key features of his poetic style, including his command over the Hindi language, his use of various poetic devices like alliteration and metaphors, his depiction of nature, and his exploration of themes like love, devotion, and heroism. The author highlights Padmakar's ability to connect with the common populace through his accessible language and vivid imagery, making him one of the most popular poets of his era.

• "The Social Condition of India" based on Kalidasa's Works by Shri Bhagwatsharan Upadhyay: This article draws upon the literary works of Kalidasa to reconstruct the social fabric of ancient India. It discusses aspects like the Varna system, the Ashrama system, the institution of marriage (Svayamvara, Prajapatya, Gandharva), the status of women, daily life, attire, ornamentation, and popular customs and beliefs. The author uses Kalidasa's plays and poems as primary sources to paint a vivid picture of the social norms and values of that era.

• "Origin of Numerical Words in Khadi Boli" by Shri Shivsahay Trivedi: This linguistic article traces the etymology of numerical terms in the Khadi Boli dialect of Hindi. It examines their evolution from Sanskrit through Prakrit and Apabhramsha, highlighting linguistic changes and influences from neighboring dialects. The article provides a comparative analysis of these terms with those found in other Indian languages and discusses the underlying principles of numeral formation.

Overall:

The collection showcases a high level of scholarship and a wide range of interests within the field of Indology. The articles are well-researched, often drawing upon primary literary and archaeological sources, and engage with contemporary scholarly debates. The journal serves as a valuable platform for disseminating knowledge about India's rich past and intellectual traditions.