Gaddalikapravahah
By Satyavrat Verma
Summary
The article on Gaddalikapravāha examines a little‑known Sanskrit maxim that likens uncritical imitation to the way a flock of sheep follows one animal. It begins by noting that Sanskrit literature encompasses sacred scriptures, secular treatises and pithy sayings (nyāyas) that distil ancient wisdom. While many maxims are widely cited, gaddalikapravāha is seldom discussed. The maxim surfaces in the Kāvyaprakāśa and is referenced by scholars such as Abhinavagupta, Mammaṭa and Viśvanātha. Commentators debate its spelling—gaddalikā versus gaddarī—owing to the phonetic equivalence of the sounds r and l. In the Kāvyaprakāśa, Mammaṭa invokes the maxim when questioning whether poetic qualities (guṇas) and figures of speech (alaṅkāras) are truly distinct. He argues that insisting on their separation is an example of gaddalikapravāha: following an opinion without examining its basis. Later commentaries reinforce this interpretation. One explains that just as sheep blindly follow the flock, scholars sometimes accept distinctions for no good reason. Etymological analysis links gaddalikā to gadarī, meaning sheep, and parallels are drawn with Hindi gādarīyā (shepherd), underscoring the proverb’s roots in pastoral imagery. Through philological and textual analysis, the article concludes that gaddalikapravāha represents herd mentality and cautions readers to avoid unreasoned conformity.
Conclusion
By unpacking the history and meaning of the proverb gaddalikapravāha, the article highlights a recurring theme in Sanskrit aesthetics: the need for intellectual independence. The maxim likens blind adherence to the indiscriminate movement of sheep, warning scholars against accepting ideas without critical scrutiny. Its use in debates over poetic theory illustrates how Sanskrit writers employed proverbs to challenge established views. The discussion invites readers to practise discernment and to recognise the value of questioning received opinions.