Hemchandracharya Diwakar Chitrakatha 040

Author(s): Nityanandsuri, Chidanandmuni, Shreechand Surana
Publisher: Mahavir Seva Trust Mumbai

Page 16

KALIKALA SARVAJNA HEM CHANDRACHARYA In those days in Patan, King Jaisingh Siddharaj of Gujarat, a powerful and ambitious ruler of the Chaulukya clan, was expanding his empire by conquering neighbouring states. He also conquered king Yashovarman (Bhoj) of Malava. Patan city was celebrating this victory. On this occasion Siddharaj respectfully invited Acharya Shri Hem-chandra Suri to seek his blessings. Besides many kings and courtiers, prominent sages of all religions also came to this assembly. Many kings and courtiers brought expensive gifts for Siddharaj. With the valuable diamonds, pearls, and other things brought from Malava, numerous gold-work manuscripts from King Bhoj's library were also on display. King Siddharaj said - Malava country has excelled in fields
of art, culture, and literature. Our Gujarat is second to none in wealth
and bravery, but I want that Gujarat also enhances its glory in the fields of
art and literature. Is it possible?
The king took a manuscript in hand and said –
This is 'Sarasvati Kanthabharan", the Sanskrit Grammar written by King Bhoj Can some scholar from Gujarat write such
grammar?
The assembled scholars looked at each other. Breaking the silence, Hem-chandracharya said -
King! There is no dearth of
scholars in Gujarat. I can write a better
grammar
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