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the same order of a letter or letters (consonants with vowels), having different meanings, either very closely or at close intervals. Rudrața defines Yamaka as a repetition of such Varṇas as are (1) similar in sound (2) similar in order but (3) distinct in meaning (K.A.III). Thus, both Rudrata and Hemachandra hold Yamaka to be the repetition of similar syllables, vowels and consonants together, in the same order, but with distinct senses. Mammața speaks of Yamaka (as the repetition of (a group of) letters in the same order with a different meaning when there is a meaning, in identical terms (K.P.IX.83). We can very well appreciate Hemachandra's emphasis on Śrutyaikya and Kramaikya as well as Satyartha and Anyartha because he wants to stress these four things viz. the similarity of sounds and order as also of sensibility and difference of meaning to distinguish Yamaka from other figures of word.
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This Yamaka is found in one foot rhyming with another and even in one part of a foot rhyming with another part of the same foot. In fact, Hemachandra illustrates all possible varieties of Yamaka in the text and the Viveka commentary. And after giving practicable numerical varieties, our anthor states that Yamaka can be of innumerable types !
YAMAKA: A Literary Excess
But before he concludes the discussion on Yamaka, Hemachandra observes that, critically speaking, all these varieties of Yamaka serve only to show off the powers of versification possessed by a poet and do not serve to promote any of the four goals of life and, therefore, they are regarded as impediments or intumescence (Kavyagaḍu) of poetry which obstruct the enjoyment of a Rasa.
"A poem is composed" continues stimulate tenderminded persons on to understanding Yamaka, which causes enjoyment and is wholly artificial and an appendage ( पृथग्यत्न निर्वत्य ),
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Hemachandra, "to
the goal of life. But obstruction to Rasa
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