Siri Bhuvalaya

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"Siri Bhuvalaya": A Unique Polyglot Poem Encoded in Numerals

The book "Siri Bhuvalaya," reviewed by Anupam Jain, presents a detailed examination of a remarkable Jain text titled "Bhuvalaya." This monumental work was authored by Acharya Kumudendu, a prominent disciple of Acharya Virasena, the renowned commentator on the Dhavala commentary. Acharya Kumudendu was a spiritual guide to the rulers of the Rashtrakuta dynasty and the Ganga region.

Historical Context and Unique Nature:

Evidence suggests Acharya Kumudendu resided in the village of Yelav, near Nandi Hill, about 60 kilometers from Bangalore. He completed "Bhuvalaya" approximately 44 years after the completion of the Dhavala commentary, placing its creation in the 9th century CE (either 860 CE or 824 CE, depending on the dating of the Dhavala).

What makes "Bhuvalaya" extraordinary is its unique method of encoding. It is described as the world's only polyglot poem written in numerical script. By converting 64 specific numerals into letters using a special rule, a Kannada poem with consistent meter is obtained. Crucially, by rearranging these letters, poems in various other languages can be derived.

Rich Content and Significance:

The polyglot nature of "Bhuvalaya" means it contains a vast repository of knowledge on ancient Indian philosophy, literature, art, and science. Dr. S. Srikantha Shastri, after studying chapters 1 to 33, concluded that the text encompasses significant material on:

• Literature: Kannada literature, Sanskrit, Pali, Prakrit, Tamil, and Telugu.
• Religion and Philosophy: Indian religions and philosophies.
• History: Political history of India and particularly Karnataka.
• Sciences: Mathematics, astrology, geography, astronomy, chemistry, physics, Ayurveda, zoology, and linguistics.

The text is also believed to be instrumental in correcting and revising texts such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita, and ancient Jain hymns and poems.

Recognition and Preservation:

The profound importance of "Bhuvalaya" was recognized by India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who famously declared it the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Under his special directive, a microfilm of this invaluable treasure was preserved at the National Museum in Delhi.

The Role of Acharya Ratna Deshabhushanji:

The reviewer highlights the contribution of the 20th-century Mahadiigambara Jainacharya, Acharya Ratna Deshabhushanji. Following the tradition of Jain scholars who produced commentaries and translations of ancient texts, Acharya Deshabhushanji undertook the significant task of transliterating the first 14 chapters of "Bhuvalaya" from numerical script into Kannada and then translating them into Hindi. This translation is lauded for reflecting his equal command over both languages and his deep understanding of the subject matter. The accompanying explanations and annotations are deemed helpful in clarifying the complex topics within the text.

"Shri Bhuvalaya Parichay" - An Introduction:

The book includes "Shri Bhuvalaya Parichay," a preface written by Acharya Shri. This introduction provides insights into the author's history, the nature of the "Bhuvalaya" text, its sources, antiquity, and the subject matter of all its chapters.

Challenges and Recommendations:

A significant challenge in the study and publication of "Bhuvalaya" is the limited availability of manuscripts. Only one copy is currently known, and even that is a copy made by a scribe, not the original author's work. The reviewer urges publishers and scholars to make a concerted effort to find other existing copies.

The reviewer offers two key recommendations:

1. Expedite Translation and Publication: The remaining parts of the text should be translated as quickly as possible and arrangements made for their publication. While the loss of Yelappa Shastri is irreparable, Acharya Shri's guidance is currently available.
2. Publication of Scientific Knowledge and English Translation: The valuable knowledge contained within "Bhuvalaya" related to modern sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, etc.) should be studied and edited for publication. Furthermore, a complete English translation of the entire work is recommended.

Conclusion:

The reviewer concludes by commending Acharya Shri for his strenuous efforts and the utilization of his profound knowledge to present "Bhuvalaya" as an invaluable gift to modern scholars. The book is praised for its beautiful printing and binding, making it highly useful and collectible.