Vinaychandra Kruti Kusumanjali - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vinaychandra kruti Kusumanjali" by Bhanvarlal Nahta, based on the provided catalog link and pages:

Book Title: Vinaychandra kruti Kusumanjali Author: Bhanvarlal Nahta Publisher: Sadul Rajasthani Research Institute, Bikaner Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003819/1

Overview:

"Vinaychandra kruti Kusumanjali" is a publication by the Sadul Rajasthani Research Institute, Bikaner, focusing on the literary works of the Jain poet Vinaychandra. The book is a testament to the Institute's dedication to researching, editing, and publishing ancient and significant Jain literary treasures, particularly in the Rajasthani language. Edited by Bhanvarlal Nahta, this volume aims to bring to light the compositions of Vinaychandra, a poet belonging to the Kharatar Gachchha tradition.

Key Aspects of the Publication and its Context:

Sadul Rajasthani Research Institute, Bikaner: The preface highlights the Institute's establishment in 1944, inspired by K.M. Panikkar and supported by Maharaja Shri Sadul Singhji Bahadur of Bikaner. The Institute's mission is the service and comprehensive development of Sanskrit, Hindi, and especially Rajasthani literature. Over 16 years, it has undertaken various significant projects, including the compilation of a vast Rajasthani-Hindi dictionary, a Rajasthani idiom dictionary, publication of modern Rajasthani works, and the esteemed journal 'Rajasthan Bharti'.
Research and Preservation of Ancient Texts: A core objective of the Institute is to research, edit, and publish important and rare ancient Rajasthani and Jain literary works. This involves discovering manuscripts, ensuring accuracy in editing, and making these valuable texts accessible to scholars and the public. The Institute has a long list of published and ongoing projects demonstrating this commitment.
Kaviraj Vinaychandra and His Literary Contributions: The central focus of this book is Kaviraj Vinaychandra.
- Discovery: Vinaychandra's works were discovered through research into the compositions of Mahakavi Samaysundar. An old manuscript from 1804 VS (1747 CE) found in Bikaner contained several of Samaysundar's works along with four compositions by Vinaychandra, including "Nemirajul Barahmasa" and "Rajimati Rahnemis Sijhay." These particularly attracted the editor's attention due to their artistic merit.
- Lineage: Vinaychandra was a disciple of Gyanatilakji, who was a disciple of Harshnidhi, who was a disciple of Sakalchandra Gani, a prominent disciple of Shri Jinachandrasuri. This lineage places him within a distinguished scholarly tradition.
- Works Published: The book includes Vinaychandra's known works, such as:
  - Uttamkumar Charitra Chaupai (circa 1752 VS)
  - Viharmaan Bisi (1754 VS)
  - 11 Ang Sijhay (1755 VS)
  - Chaturvishatika (1755 VS)
  - Shatrujay Yatra Stavan (1755 VS)
  - Several other miscellaneous stanzas, Sijhays, and Barahmasas.
- Literary Style: Vinaychandra is described as a poet of innate talent, possessing a natural flow and rich vocabulary. His poetry is characterized by profound devotion, the use of various rhetorical devices like utpreksha and vakrokti, and elegant wordplay. He effectively uses similes and proverbs to make his compositions engaging. The book highlights his ability to describe nature's beauty and the changing seasons with vividness.
- Uttamkumar Charitra Chaupai: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the summary and analysis of Vinaychandra's Uttamkumar Charitra Chaupai. This narrative poem, based on a Sanskrit work by Charuchandra Muni, recounts the virtuous life and adventures of Uttamkumar, a prince. It includes his early life, education, pursuit of virtue, journey, encounters with kings and demons, his marriage to Madalsa, and eventual rise to kingship. The summary emphasizes themes of righteousness, character, and the consequences of actions. The narrative highlights Uttamkumar's wisdom, courage, and adherence to principles. The story also illustrates the concept of karma, showing how past actions influence present circumstances.
Inspirational Aspects: The works of Vinaychandra, particularly his devotional stanzas and the narrative of Uttamkumar, are presented as sources of inspiration for spiritual understanding, ethical conduct, and appreciation of Jain philosophy. His poems express deep love and devotion to the Tirthankaras.
Philanthropic Support: The publication acknowledges the financial assistance received from the Ministry of Scientific Research and Cultural Affairs of the Government of India and the Rajasthan Government, enabling the publication of 31 books, including this one. This support is crucial for the Institute's mission of preserving and promoting Rajasthani literature.
Contribution to Jain and Rajasthani Literature: The book serves as a valuable resource for researchers and scholars of Jainism and Rajasthani literature, providing access to the works of a significant historical poet and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

In essence, "Vinaychandra kruti Kusumanjali" is a scholarly compilation that not only celebrates the poetic genius of Vinaychandra but also underscores the vital role of the Sadul Rajasthani Research Institute in preserving and disseminating India's rich literary and religious heritage.