Ancient Rajasthani Literature

The ancient Rajasthani literature dates back to 1050 AD. From 1050 AD, for about a century or so, only miscellaneous verses were written in Maru-Gurjar but after the latter half of the 12th century individual works are available in abundance. These are mainly Jain works, Vajrasen Suri`s Bharateswar Bahubali Ghor, composed around 1168 AD, may be considered to be the first work in Maru-Gurjar that is available so far. Next came Bharateswar Bahubali Ras by Salibhadra Suri composed in 1186 AD. Aprabhamsa influence is manifested on Maru-Gurjar poetry up to the end of 12th century. In addition to these secular works of Caran style was also a part of ancient Rajasthani literature.

As far Jain literature is concerned, the ancient Rajasthani literature witnessed the flourishing of both Jain poetry and prose. During this time, the religion itself was divided into schisms. As a result varied forms of Jain poetry came into being. For instance, the literature of the Swetambaras included gacchas, the Terapanth sect and Jatis. On the other hand, the works of the Digambara Jain writers were primarily in Hindi. Besides the poetry, Jain prose works are also an integral part of the ancient Rajasthani literature. The proses are of two types: (1) Original and (2) Annotation, commentary, etc. The contribution of Jain literature to ancient Rajasthani literature has been immense. It is also helpful in studying the origin and development of Rajasthani language. As far as the literary writings in Rajasthan is concerned this is the only source of information.

The ancient Rajasthani literature also comprises the secular love poetry. Such works were composed primarily between 12th and the first half of the 16th century. The subject matters of such poems are varied. Emotions of love and separation, remorse, heroism, erotic feelings, pride and glory of brave women, prudence, historical facts and persons, popular sayings and objective descriptions are plentiful. They are allegorical and religious too. Some of these love poems are still popular amongst the common folk. Another form of poetry that was quite popular in ancient Rajasthan is the Caran style of poetry. The subject matters of these poems include heroics deeds, sagas of love, morality and religion.

Thus, it would not be wrong to say that the verse form, in particular, developed significantly in ancient Rajasthani literature.