महाकवि पुष्पदंत और उनका काव्य

Summary

The extracted text discusses the history and development of Prakrit languages, noting that scholars have recognized the existence and prevalence of Prakrit as a vernacular language alongside Sanskrit from 500 BCE to 1000 CE. It explains that Prakrit languages were initially classified as first, second, and third Prakrit, later named Pali, Prakrit, and Apabhramsha. The text states that Apabhramsha literature began around the 5th century CE, with the poet Svayambhudeva's work "Paumacariu" considered the earliest Apabhramsha composition, though earlier poets like Catumukha are mentioned. The focus then shifts to the poet Pushpadanta, who is regarded as a major figure in Apabhramsha literature after Svayambhudeva. His work "Mahapurana" is described as a significant Apabhramsha text that depicts Jainism, Jain philosophy, culture, society, and art, while also including stories of Rama and Krishna from Hindu tradition. The text provides biographical details about Pushpadanta, stating he was originally a Brahmin of the Kashyapa gotra and a Shaiva follower who later converted to Jainism. His parents are named as Keshavabhatta and Mugdha Devi. The text notes that some scholars, like Nathuram Premi, consider the author of the "Shivamahimnastotra" to be a different Pushpadanta. Pushpadanta is identified as a poet under the patronage of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna III, composing "Mahapurana" under the patronage of minister Bharata. His other works include "Nayakumaracariu" and "Jasaharacariu," written for Bharata's son Nanna. The text mentions that Pushpadanta had titles like "Abhimanamaru," "Kavyaratnakara," and "Sarasvatinilaya," indicating his poetic skill and popularity. He is described as proud, intense, and solitary, preferring to eat grass in mountain caves rather than