कहाकवि धनपाल का काव्य प्रतिमा
By डॉ० योगेच््रनाथ शर्मा
Summary
The text discusses the medieval Indian literary tradition of Apabhramsha narrative poetry, focusing on the work "Bhavisayattakaha" by the poet Dhanpala. It explains that Apabhramsha literature, inspired by Prakrit storytelling, developed a rich tradition of narrative poems rooted in folk tales. Dhanpala's "Bhavisayattakaha" is highlighted as a significant Apabhramsha work from the 10th century, notable for its depiction of social, cultural, religious, and literary life of the period. The poet Dhanpala, identified as belonging to the Ghakkada merchant caste and a follower of Jainism, structures the poem as a love story framed within religious themes, particularly the importance of the Shrutapanchami vow. The narrative follows the hero Bhavishyadatta and the anti-hero Bandhudatta, symbolizing virtue and vice, and explores themes such as the consequences of polygamy, the portrayal of virtuous and wicked women, and the triumph of good over evil. Dhanpala employs a simple, unadorned style, focusing on natural description and character development rather than elaborate poetic devices. The work is divided into sections and uses both metric and syllabic meters. Scholars note that while the poem is a love story, it is infused with Jain religious elements, including references to the Tirthankara Chandraprabha. The text concludes that "Bhavisayattakaha" is a successful Apabhramsha narrative poem that upholds high moral values and provides insight into 10th-century Indian society, culture, religion, and philosophy.
Conclusion
The analysis of Dhanapala's *Bhavisayattakaha* reveals its significance as a major Apabhramsa work that bridges literary tradition and social reality. The text demonstrates how medieval Indian narrative poetry served as a vehicle for both entertainment and moral instruction, with Dhanapala deliberately choosing a simple merchant's son as protagonist to make the story accessible to common people. The work's treatment of polygamy's consequences, its contrast between virtuous and wicked characters, and its emphasis on repentance and moral values reflect the poet's commitment to establishing higher life principles. By avoiding ornate style in favor of straightforward storytelling, Dhanapala created a work that remains close to the popular heart while still conveying Jain religious themes. The *Bhavisayattakaha* thus stands as a valuable document for understanding 10th-century Indian society, culture, and literature, confirming the rich tradition of Apabhramsa narrative poetry that drew from folk tales while imparting ethical teachings.