Surjanacarita (Sri Rajanacarita) of Candrasekhara
By H. C. Ray
Summary
The Surjanacarita (Sri Rajanacarita) of Candrasekhara is a 16th-century Sanskrit mahakavya comprising 2200 verses structured into 20 sargas (chapters). The manuscript, preserved in the Royal Asiatic Society of Bengal, contains 87 folios written in Nigara script on country-made paper. The work chronicles the lineage and exploits of the Cauhana (Chahamana) dynasty, beginning with Visudeva, a prince of Vindavati, who worships the goddess Sakalirthaditri (also called Sumbhasurapratamantri) and later conquers vast territories. His descendants include kings like Visvapati, Harirdja, Bhimadeva, Vigrahadeva, and others, each expanding the dynasty’s power through military victories over enemies like the Yavanas, Sakas, and Bhojas. The narrative details territorial expansions, including regions like Magadha, Gaudopakantha, Kalinga, and Dvaravati, and highlights cultural and religious practices, such as temple construction and adherence to dharma. The poem also describes seasonal changes and the sacred city of Puskara, with later sargas focusing on romantic subplots, such as Prince Ajayapila’s elopement with the Naga princess Vijayi. The dynasty’s decline is marked by internal strife and external threats, including conflicts with Persian forces. Key figures like Prthvirdja exhibit strategic brilliance, as seen in his rescue of Kantivati from Kanyakubja and subsequent battles. The text concludes with the eventual downfall of the Chauhanas, succeeded by their son Prahlada, who rules
Conclusion
The Surjanacarita of Candrasekhara offers a distinctive genealogy of the Cauhana dynasty, emphasizing spiritual devotion and political resilience. The narrative highlights Visvapati’s divine blessings and territorial expansion, followed by the dynasty’s military triumphs under Harirdja and Bhimadeva, who consolidated power through strategic conquests and alliances. The text shifts focus toward cultural and natural descriptions in later sections, reflecting broader themes of governance and seasonal cycles. This mahakavya serves as a historical and literary bridge, preserving regional legends while showcasing the interplay between royal authority and religious practices in sixteenth-century India. Its detailed lineage and geographic scope provide valuable insights into the period’s socio-political dynamics and artistic sensibilities.