करकण्डचरिउ में प्रतिपादित इतिहास व संस्कृति

Summary

The text discusses the historical and cultural aspects presented in the *Karakandacariu*, a narrative poem by the 12th-century Jain monk Kanakamara. The work holds a distinct place in the Apabhramsha literary tradition. Kanakamara acknowledges earlier scholars like Siddhasena, Samantabhadra, and others. The poem consists of ten *sandhis* (cantos) with 201 *kadavakas* (stanzas), primarily using the *Pajjhatika* meter, and is noted for its poetic and graceful style. In Jain tradition, Karakanda is considered a *Pratyeka-buddha*, akin to a solitary Buddha in Buddhism, who attains liberation through self-initiation without teaching. This concept appears borrowed from Buddhism. Both traditions originally list four such figures: Karakanda, Naggada, Nami, and Durmukha. While Jain texts like the *Uttaradhyayana* merely mention them, later traditions, especially the Shvetambara, expanded their narratives. The *Nandisutra* does not limit their number, but the *Rishibhashita* specifies forty-five. Post-10th century, Jain acharyas composed poetic works on these figures, including Tilakasuri's *Pratyekabuddhacarita* and others. In the Digambara tradition, only Karakanda is made the hero of a narrative, portrayed as a miraculous personality rather than a *Pratyeka-buddha*. Kanakamara is the first poet in this tradition, followed by others who incorporated Karakanda's story into their works. Although a biographical text, *Karakandacariu* reflects history and culture. Dr. Hiralal identifies the composition site as "Asaiya" or "Apanapuri," near Bhopal, where Jain ruins and a statue of Tirthankara Shantinatha exist. The text mentions kings whose names align with the Chandella dynasty