जंबूसामिचरिउ में छन्द-योजना
Summary
The text examines the metrical structure of the Jain epic "Jambusamichariu" by poet Vira. It begins by discussing the importance of meter in poetry, describing it as the life force of verse that creates rhythm and aesthetic pleasure. The text notes that in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Apabhramsha literature, there are four main schools of metrical study: the sutra style used by Pingalacharya and Hemachandra, the shloka style found in Natyashastra, the single-focused style of Gangadasa and Kedarbhatta, and the mixed style used in Prakrit Paingalam. Apabhramsha meters are categorized as either syllable-counting or mora-counting, with the latter having five subtypes including four-footed lyrical meters, doha-type meters, pure rhythm meters, mixed meters, and vatta-type meters. The text explains that Apabhramsha meters are primarily musical and rhythmic, with pauses being musically oriented. In "Jambusamichariu," both moric and syllabic meters are employed, though moric meters predominate. The major meters used include alillah, pajjhattika, duvai, doha, gatha, vastu, khandaka, and vatta, along with syllabic meters like sragvini, shikharini, and bhujangaprayata. Dr. Nemichandra Shastri identified twenty-three meters in the work, while Dr. Vimalprakash Jain provided detailed analysis based on mora and syllable counts. The epic is primarily composed in sixteen-mora alillah and pajjhattika meters, followed by fifteen-mora paranaka or visilotha meters. In total, twenty-six different meters are employed, with gatha appearing in five varieties and dhruvaka and vatta in numerous forms. The text concludes that the metrical variety and innovation enhance the epic's grandeur, allowing poet Vira's creative expression to flourish.
Conclusion
The analysis of "Jambusamichariu" reveals that its metrical richness is not accidental but a deliberate outcome of the Apabhramsha poetic tradition, blending both quantitative and syllabic meters to enhance the epic's grandeur. The use of twenty-six distinct meters, including variations of Gatha, Doha, and Dhruvaka, demonstrates the poet Veera's mastery in adapting folk rhythms to classical forms, ensuring both lyrical fluidity and structural discipline. This metrical diversity amplifies the emotional depth and narrative momentum, allowing the epic to resonate with readers across generations. The study underscores how meter functions as the life force of the poem, transforming linguistic expression into a vibrant, musical experience that elevates the thematic content. Ultimately, the metrical architecture of "Jambusamichariu" not only preserves the cultural heritage of Apabhramsha poetry but also establishes a benchmark for integrating traditional prosody with creative innovation, enriching the broader landscape of Indian literary aesthetics.