जम्बूसामिचरिउ में रसयोजना

Summary

The text analyzes the application of rasa (aesthetic emotion) in the Apabhramsha epic "Jambūsāmicariu" by the poet Vīra. The central narrative of the work is the conflict between pravritti (worldly inclination) and nivritti (renunciation) in the life of the omniscient Jambūsvāmī and his previous births, culminating in the victory of renunciation. The poet's primary aim is to achieve rasa in his poetry. The dominant rasa is śṛṅgāra (erotic), depicted in both its aspects of union and separation, with a greater emphasis on union. Descriptions of the hero and heroines focus on subtle beauty, such as a swan-like gait and delicate limbs, rather than gross physicality. The hero Jambūsvāmī's radiant physique inspires desire in the women of the city, leading to vivid depictions of their lovesick states, including forgetfulness in adornment and trembling. The text includes scenes of love-play in gardens and water sports, with descriptions of kissing, embracing, and nail marks. The poet advocates for restrained love, contrasting it with destructive courtesan love. The viyoga (separation) aspect of śṛṅgāra is explored through the previous birth of Jambūsvāmī as Bhavadeva, whose unsatisfied desire for his wife causes him intense mental anguish after he becomes a monk, leading to poignant depictions of his inner turmoil. The second major rasa is vīra (heroic). Unlike many epic heroes who fight for personal glory, Jambūsvāmī engages in a fierce battle to protect the public good and establish justice. He fights King Ratnaśekhara of Haṃsa-dvīpa, who unjustly attacked King Mṛgāṅka to abduct his daughter. The battle scenes are vividly described, with the clash of armies, the twanging of Jambūsvāmī's bow causing cosmic disturbances, and the gruesome aftermath of scattered limbs and