Setubandha

"Setubandha" (Bridge of Connection) is a compilation of letters exchanged between two eminent Gujarati literary figures: Harivallabh Bhayani, a renowned linguist and scholar, and Makarand Dave, a celebrated poet and spiritual seeker. The book, edited by Vijayshilchandra Suri, captures their intellectual and personal journey through their correspondence from 1988 to 2000.

The publication, supported by the Kalikal Sarvagya Shri Hemchandracharya Navam Janmashatabdi Smruti Sanskar Shikshannidhi in Ahmedabad, highlights the profound intellectual and spiritual bond between Bhayani and Dave. Bhayani, a meticulous scholar dedicated to linguistic research and the preservation of ancient texts, and Dave, a poet deeply engaged in spiritual practices and the exploration of transcendental truths, found common ground in their passion for language, literature, and the illumination of life through these mediums.

The correspondence reveals a unique relationship where two individuals, though from different fields of expertise – one a scholar of poetics and the other a poet, one a researcher and the other a creator, one a man of utmost refinement and the other of saintly disposition – found deep resonance in their shared commitment to preserving and revitalizing the essence of Gujarati language and literature. Their letters bridge not only the gap between their distinct disciplines but also between the academic and the spiritual, the intellectual and the experiential.

A significant theme that emerges from the letters is their shared concern for preserving the core values and traditions of Indian culture, which they believed were being eroded by materialistic influences. Dave's spiritual quest and his search for a "man of understanding" (મનેર માનુષ) who could grasp the deeper meanings of his spiritual experiences find a receptive ear in Bhayani. Conversely, Bhayani, who was largely secular and rationalistic in his outlook, appears to have been deeply touched by Dave's spiritual insights, with Dave gently guiding him towards a deeper appreciation of faith.

The book delves into various topics, including linguistic etymology (the word "chundadi"), the scholarly approach to textual criticism and interpretation, the philosophical underpinnings of creative expression, and the challenges of preserving oral traditions like bhajans. Dave's efforts to document and revitalize the tradition of devotional singing (bhajans) and his vision for a "Bhajan Vidyapeeth" (an institute for devotional music) are prominently featured. Bhayani, with his vast knowledge of Prakrit and Apabhramsha literature, offers valuable insights and scholarly guidance.

The letters also offer a glimpse into their personal lives, their concerns about the changing socio-cultural landscape, their reflections on spirituality, and their unwavering friendship. Bhayani's scientific and logical approach, coupled with his respect for scholarly rigor, attracted Dave. Dave, on the other hand, was drawn to Bhayani's profound knowledge and his intellectual honesty. The exchange reveals a deep respect for each other's work and a shared desire to contribute to the cultural and spiritual enrichment of society.

The publication of "Setubandha" is seen as a significant milestone in the trust's efforts to promote literary endeavors, alongside awards, symposiums, and scholarships. The book is a testament to the power of dialogue and the enduring human connection that transcends boundaries of discipline and belief. It celebrates the intellectual camaraderie and the profound spiritual connection between two of Gujarat's most revered literary figures.