Rajasthani Literature and Dialects

Rajasthani Literature and Dialects reflect the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of Rajasthan history. The literature, composed in various local dialects like Dingal, Marwari, and Mewari, showcases the valor, devotion, and everyday life of the people. These dialects have preserved folk tales, heroic ballads, and devotional songs passed down through generations.

Rajasthani Literature and Dialects

2023	Name any two dialects Counted under Middle-Eastern Rajasthani or Dhundhadi.	2 M
2023	Explain the following terms related to Rajasthani Literature:(1) Vat     (2) Vachnika	5 M
2021	Examine the significance of Charan Literature in the Classical Literature of Rajasthan.	10 M
2018	Describe the text “Vishva Vallabh” in brief .	2 M

Development of Rajasthani Language

The Rajasthani language, a part of the Indo-Aryan group, has evolved through various linguistic stages from the ancient times of Gurjar-Apabhramsa to its current independent status. Its development reflects the cultural, historical, and social transformations in Rajasthan. 

Developmental Phases :

1. Preliminary Phase (750–1000 AD):
   • Origin traced to Gurjar-Apabhramsa.
   • Initial written evidence found in Kuvalayamala (8th century) by Udyotansuri.
2. Old Rajasthani Phase (1000–1500 AD):
   • Emergence of Old Rajasthani as a distinct form.
   • Early literary works include:
     • Bharateshwar Bahubali Ras (1184 AD) by Shalibhadra Suri.
     • Other notable texts: Jambuswami Charit and Chandanwala Ras.
   • Apabhramsa influence declined, leading to the establishment of Rajasthani as a distinct literary language.
3. Medieval Rajasthani Phase (1500–1850 AD):
   • Development of dialects like Marwari, Mewari, and Dhundhari.
   • Literature flourished with Dingal and Pingal poetry forms.
   • A clear distinction from Gujarati emerged by the 17th century.
   • This is the golden phase
4. Modern Rajasthani Phase (1851 AD–Present):
   • Contributions by scholars like George Abraham Grierson and L.P. Tessitori emphasized its independent status.

Constitutional status of rajasthani language

Rajasthani language has been recognized as a distinct language by the Sahitya Akademi and the University Grants Commission. It is taught in universities like Jai Narayan Vyas University (Jodhpur), Mohanlal Sukhadia University (Udaipur), and Maharaja Ganga Singh University (Bikaner), and has been included as an optional subject by the Rajasthan State Board of Secondary Education since 1973. However, it is not yet included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

In 2003, efforts were made at the government level to grant recognition to Rajasthani, and the Rajasthan Vidhan Sabha passed a resolution to include it in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. The tradition of celebrating “Rajasthani Language Day” on 21st February was started, and in 2021, directives were issued to observe this day in all state-funded universities, private universities, and colleges. Recently, ‘Helo Mayad ro’ Abhiyan was launched to spread awareness in this reference.

Family tree of Rajasthani language according to Dr. Motilal Maneria :

Classification of Rajasthani Dialects : 

• Initial Classification by Kellogg (1876) : In “A Grammar of the Hindi Language”, Kellogg classified the dialects of the Hindi region into six sub-languages, including Rajasthani dialects such as Marwari, Mewari, Merwari, Jaipuri, and Harauti.
• Classification by L.P. Tessitori : Tessitori divided the dialects of Rajasthan and Malwa into two categories:
  • Western Rajasthani (Marwari)
  • Eastern Rajasthani (Dhundhari)
• Classification by George A. Grierson : Grierson’s classification of Rajasthani dialects is more detailed:
  • Western Rajasthani: Marwari, Mewari, Dhatki, Thali, Bikaneri, Bagri, Shekhawati, Kheradi, Godwadi, and Devdawati.
  • Northeastern Rajasthani: Ahirwati, Mewati.
  • Central-Eastern Rajasthani: Dhundhari, Torawati, Khadi Jaipuri, Kathadi, Rajawati, Ajmeri, Kishangarhi, Chaurasi, Nagarchal, and Harauti (including Rewari).
  • Southeastern Rajasthani: Malvi (including Rangdi, Saundhwadi).
  • Southern Rajasthani: Nimadi.
• Dr. Namvar Singh believes that Eastern Rajasthani is influenced by Brajbhasha, while Western Rajasthani has similarities with Gujarati. In Rajasthani literature, they are known as ‘Pingal’ and ‘Dingal’. The literary form of Eastern Rajasthani is considered to be ‘Pingal’ and the literary form of Western Rajasthani is considered to be ‘Dingal’.

Aspect	Dingal	Pingal
Region	Western Rajasthan	Eastern Rajasthan
Authorship	Mostly written by Charan poets	Mostly written by Bhat poets
Origin	Developed from Gurjari Apbhramsha	Developed from Shauraseni Apbhramsha
Language Composition	Pure Rajasthani	Mix of Rajasthani and Brij language
Dominant Rasa	Veer-Ras (Heroic sentiment)	Shringar-Ras (Romantic sentiment)

• Modern Simplified Classification : Based on linguistic consensus, Rajasthani dialects can broadly be divided into two groups:
  • Western Rajasthani: Marwari, Mewari, Bagri, Shekhawati.
  • Eastern Rajasthani: Dhundhari, Harauti, Mewati, Ahirwati.

Dialects of Rajasthani Language

Marwari

• Region: Jodhpur, Nagaur, Jaisalmer, Pali, parts of Shekhawati.
• Significance: Most widely spoken and historically important dialect, often synonymous with the Rajasthani language.
• Sub-Dialects: Thali, Godwari.
• Literary Form: The literary version of Marwari is called ‘Dingal.’
• Notable Works: Jain literature and compositions like Razia Ke Sorathe, Veli Krishna Rukmini Ri, Dhola-Marwan, and Moomal.

Mewari

• Region: Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, Bhilwara.
• Significance: Rich literary tradition.
• Variants: Parvati Mewari (spoken in hilly regions) and Maidani Mewari (spoken in plains).
• Notable Usage: Used in the Kirti Stambh Prashasti inscription by Rana Kumbha.

Dhundhari

• Region: Jaipur, Dausa, Dudu (ancient Dhundhar region).
• Significance: Influenced by Gujarati, marked by the frequent use of the word “Chhe.”
• Sub-Dialects: Torawati, Rajawati, Nagarchol, Chaurasi, Hadoti.

Hadoti

• Region: Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, Baran.
• Significance: Developed under the influence of the Hada Rajputs; also uses “Chhe” like Dhundhari.
• Relation: Considered a sub-dialect of Dhundhari.
• Notable Works: Most compositions of Suryamal Mishran are in Hadoti.

Mewati

• Region: Alwar, Bharatpur, and areas near Haryana.
• Significance: Influenced by Braj language, especially in Bharatpur.
• Notable Authors: Sant Lal Das, Charan Das, Daya Bai, and Sahjo Bai used Mewati in their compositions.

Wagdi

• Region: Banswara, Dungarpur (Wagad region).
• Significance: Clearly influenced by Gujarati.
• Alternate Name: Also referred to as Bhili by Grierson. Mainly spoken by the Bhil tribe.

Malwi

• Region: Pratapgarh and areas near Madhya Pradesh’s Malwa region.
• Significance: Influenced by Gujarati and Marathi languages.
• Sub-Dialects: Rangdi, Nimadi.

Shekhawati

• Region: Churu, Jhunjhunu, Hanumangarh, Ganganagar.
• Origin: Named after Rao Shekha.

Nimadi

• Region: Northern Neemuch and Bhansawar.

Ahirwati

• Region: Behror, Kotputli (junction of Bangru and Mewati).
• Historical Name: Known as Rath or Rathi dialect.
• Notable Work: Hammir Raso by Jodharaj.

Literature of Rajasthan

“Literature in Rajasthan” means all the literature works that have been created within the geographical boundary of Rajasthan from the start of time till now. As a result, it includes Sanskrit, Prakrit, Rajasthani, Hindi and other Language works. History of Literature in Rajasthan includes:

1. Sanskrit & Prakrit Literature
2. Rajasthani Literature
   • Ancient Period (1050–1450 AD)
   • Pre-Medieval Period (1450–1650 AD)
   • Post-Medieval Period (1650–1850 AD)
   • Modern Period (1850 AD–Present)
3. Hindi Literature 

Sanskrit & Prakrit Literature of Rajasthan :

The literature history of Rajasthan goes back to 1500 years and ancient astronomer and mathematician Brahmagupta belonged to Bhinmal (Jalore) town composed Brahmsfut Siddhanta.

• Poet Magha, who also belonged to Bhinmal and wrote Shishupal Vadh in the 8th century.
• Hari Bhadra Suri of Chittor wrote Samaraichcha katha
• Udhyotan Suri wrote Kuvalaya Mala partly in Prakrit & partly in Aprabransh in 779 A.D
• Sidha Rishi wrote Upmiti Bharva Prancha Katha
• Vigrah Raj Chauchan IV of Ajmer wrote drama named Harkaili
• Somdeva, poet of Court of Vigrah Raj, wrote drama Lalit Vigrah Raj
• Court poet of Prithviraj Chauchan III wrote Prthvi Raj Vijay
• Maharana Khumbha wrote a treatise of Jai Deva’s Geet Govinda and a book on musicology –Sangeet Raj.

Rajasthani Literature : 

Rajasthani Literature dates back to the 11th century, with the development of Maru-Gurjari as language in the early 11th century. On basis of time Rajasthani Literature can be divided into:

Ancient Period (1050–1450 AD) : 

• Themes: Heroic poetry dominated due to frequent invasions and battles in the region.
• Thus it is named as the ‘Veer Gatha’ period.
• This early period was dominated by Jaina Scholars, Acharyas & Monks and important works include:
  • Bharatvarsh war Bahubali Ghor written by Vijrasen Suri
  • Bharateshwar Bhaubali raas authored by Shalibhadra Suri
  • Jiyadarya Raas by Asig
  • Padmavati Chaupai by Jinprabha Suri
  • Stulibhadra Phag by Hemraj
  • Gyan Manjari by Vijhana
• Non- Jaina works
  • Prithviraj Raso by Chandbardai – 12th Century
  • Achaldas Khichi ri Vachanika by Gadan Shivdas
  • Bisaldeo raso by Narpati Nalah
  • Ranmall Chanda by Shridhan
• The literature works belonging to the early period are common heritage of Rajasthani and Old Gujarati.

Pre-Medieval Period (1450–1650 AD) : 

• Themes: Emergence of the Bhakti movement amidst political and social turmoil. 
• Several saints established popular sects like Ramsnehi, Nathpanth, Alakhiya, Vishnoi, and Jasnathi. These sects emphasized constant remembrance of God (naam smaran), worship of formless God (nirguna Ishwar), reverence for gurus, and the elimination of caste discrimination (jaat-pant poochai na koi, hari ko bhaje so hari ko hoi).
• Simultaneously, Sagun saint-poets, worshippers of God with attributes (Sagun Ishwar), glorified their deities through their works. 
• Notable compositions include Bhakt Shiromani Meera Bai’s verses, Veli Kisan Rukmani Ri by Prithviraj Rathore, Ramraso by Madhodas Dadhwadiya, Hariraso by Isardas, and Naag Daman by Devyaan Sayanji Jhoola.
• Other important texts
  • 1455 – Kanhadade Prabandh by Padmanabh – regarded as the link between Gujarati and separated Rajasthani. The work is considered as an encyclopedia of life in Rajasthan during those times.
• 1473 – Dhola Maru ra Doha (by Kallol)

Post-Medieval Period (1650–1850 AD) :

• Themes: Literature focused on aesthetics (Shringar), ethics (Niti), and folklore.
• This period is considered as the Golden age of Rajasthani Language and literature based on the amount and variety of text written.
• The folktales of romance became the subject of many works. 
• Important works of this period include Raghunath Rupak of Kavi Manchharam, evocative didactive (nitikarak) poetry Rajiya ra Sortha, Chakariya ra Sortha’, Bheriya ra Sortha’, ‘Motiya ra Sortha‘, Khuman raso written by Dalpat, Binhai raso written by Mahesdas etc.

Modern Period (1850 AD–Present) : 

• Themes: Emergence of new genres (Kavya & Raso declined) and themes post-1857. Nationalism, reform, and modernist ideas influenced the literature.
• In the middle of the 19th century, Surya Mal Mishran of Bundi (also called as Bhushan of Rajasthan) attempted to revive heroic poetry and wrote Vansh Bhaskar & Veer Satsai.
• Another great poet of the same period was Ramnath Kaviya of Alwar who wrote Draupadi Vinaya & Pabuji ra Soratha.
• Maharaja Chatur Singh translated Geeta, Patanjali’s Yogasutra into Mewari language. Meghraj Mukul composed the poem Sainani.

Hindi Literature of Rajasthan : 

The National movement gave new life to literature in Rajasthan and a large number of poets and writers expressed fury of people against British rule. The poets also reprimanded Rajput rulers of their suicidal policies.

• Important Writers : Surya Mal Mishran, Girvardhan, Bhopaldan, Keshri Singh Barhat etc.

Important Literary traditions of Rajasthani Language:

Rajasthani Jain Literature – 

• Jain literature is primarily composed by monks and writers influenced by Jainism.
• Most of the literature from the 11th to the 14th century follows the Jain tradition. This literature is filled with the sentiment of peace(Shant-ras) and includes compositions on religious texts as well as topics like astrology, medicine, music, and other aspects of life.
• The forms of Jain literature include prose, poetry, and religious poetic styles such as Ras, Phag, Chaupai, Stavan, Prabandh, Chhand, Siloka, Doha, etc.
• Prominent Texts and Writers:
  • Haribhadra Suri: Dhurtakhyan
  • Udyotansuri: Kuvalayamala
  • Siddharsi: Upmiti Bhava Prapancha
  • Dhanpal: Sachariyath Mahavir Utsah
  • Hemchandra Suri: Deshinamamala and Shabdanushasan
  • Kavi Dharma: Sthulibhadra Ras
  • Vijaysen Suri: Revat Giriras
  • Manikya Sundar Suri: Malay Sundari Katha
• Folk Literature and Narrative Poetry:
  • Narpati Nalh: Bisaldeva Raso (a love story-based poem)
  • Kavi Kushallabh: Madhvanal Chaupai and Dhola Marwan ki Chaupai
  • Hemratna Suri: Gora Badal ri Chaupai
• Non-Jain Compositions:
  • Sharangdhar: Hammira Raso
  • Kavi Killol: Dhola Maru ra Duha
• This literature not only propagates religious and moral values but also reflects social and cultural diversity.

Charan Literature:

• Charani literature is primarily composed by Charans and other non-Charan communities (such as Brahmbhatts, Bhats, Dhadhis, Dholis, Raws, Sewaks, Motisars, etc.).
• Themes: Valor in battles, Sacrifice and dedication of Rajput women, Emotional descriptions in Shringara Rasa, It vividly portrays history, politics, and social life through heroic tales and folklore. 
• Reflecting the valor and lifestyle of the Rajput era, this literature is heroic and available in genres like narrative poetry, songs, dohas, Sorathas, kundaliyas, chappays, kavitts, and jhulans.
• Prominent Works:
  • Badar Dhadhi: Veeramayan (Heroic deeds of Rawal Mallinath and Gogadev), considered an early work in Charani style.
  • Gadan Shivdas: Achaldas Khichi ri vachnika (Depiction of Jauhar and battles).
  • Padmanabh: Kanhadade Prabandh (Battle between Kanhad Dev and Alauddin Khilji).
  • Chand Bardai: Prithviraj Raso (A significant poem of the heroic age).
  • Muhnot Nainsi: Nainsi ki Khyat and Marwar ra
  • Pargana ri Vigat (Political and social descriptions).
  • Suryamal Mishran: Vansh Bhaskar and Veer Satsai.
  • Kesari Singh Barhat: Chetawani ra Chungatiya (Inspirational anti-British literature).
  • Song Compositions: Dhola Maru ra Duha, Gangaji ra Duha, Rajiya ra Sortha.
  • Prose Literature: Bankidas and Dayaldas ki Khyat, Nainsi ri Khyat, Marwar ra Pargana ri Vigat, Vansh Bhaskar, etc.
  • Charani literature not only preserved valor and culture but also presented folk literature and historical events in a lively manner. Despite exaggeration, it contains significant historical and cultural elements.

Saint Literature:

• Sant literature played a vital role in enriching Rajasthani literature.
• It is primarily written in verse and elaborates on self-realization, metaphysics, and ethical principles in vernacular languages. 
• Saints propagated morality, fraternity, and righteousness through their hymns and compositions.
• Literary Characteristics:
  • Language: Use of Rajasthani, Hindi, Braj, and Sanskrit.
  • Style: Poems, hymns, and verses in verse form.
  • Themes: Self-realization, Nirguna Brahma, devotion, morality.
• Prominent Saints and Their Contributions:
  • Dadu Dayal ri Vani, Ramcharan ji ki Vani
  • Meera ki Padavali, Narsi ji ro Mayro
  • Sant Mavji ke Chopra
  • Jambhoji and Jasnathi Vaniyas: Emphasized Hindu-Muslim unity, morality, and spirituality.
  • Chatur Singh ji: Commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita, Alakh Pachchisi, Anubhav Prakash, inspired religious paths.
  • Prithviraj Rathore (‘Peethal’): Veli Krisan Rukmani ri. Despite being a Mughal officer, he was a devotee of Krishna and freedom.
  • Ramsnehi Saints (Ramcharan Ji, Hariram Ji, Daryavji): Their compositions guided people towards morality and devotion.
• Sant literature not only enriched Rajasthani literature but also guided society towards morality, religion, and devotion. Through vernacular languages, it delivered profound spiritual and social messages that remain relevant even today.

Folk Literature:

• Rajasthani folk literature vividly reflects the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of Rajasthan. It includes diverse forms ranging from oral traditions to written literature.
• Various genres of folk literature encompass folk songs, public poetry, folk ballads, love stories, folk theatre, riddles, and proverbs related to numerous themes and events.
• Folk Tales (Oral Narratives):
  • Themes: Mythological, religious, and historical events.
  • Depiction of ideal life and moral lessons.
• Folk Ballads (Narrative Songs):
  • Stories of heroes like Pabuji, Gogaji, Tejaji, and Ramdevji.
  • Love stories such as Dhola-Marwan, Jethwa-Ujli, and Saini-Bijanand.
• Folk Theatre:
  • Combines folk tales and ballads.
  • Major forms include Khyal, Swang, Lilas, Ramnat, Gawri, and Hela.
• Riddles:
  • Riddles are presented as questions, with the solver considered intelligent.
  • They often convey something indirectly, leaving hints elsewhere.
• Proverbs:
  • Some proverbs are straightforward yet sarcastic, while others are rhymed, unrhymed, tonal, and rhythmic.
  • In certain cases, they include poetic elements or dialogic styles.
  • Example: Karamheen kheti kare, kaal pade ya bail mare (An ill-fated farmer cultivates during hard times or when his ox dies).

Brahman Literature:

• Brahman literature does not imply works created solely by Brahmins but refers to literature written in the Brahmanic style. It primarily deals with religious, mythological, and moral themes.
• Mythological Stories: Vetal Panchavimshati, Simhasan Battisi, Sua Bahottari, and Hitopadesh.
• Translations of Mythological Texts into Rajasthani – Texts like the Bhagavata Purana, Nasiket Purana, Markandeya Purana, and Surya Purana.

Forms of Rajasthani Literature

Khyaat : 

• Derived from the Sanskrit word Khyaat, meaning renowned or famous.
• These works document the successes and life events of renowned kings and warriors.
• They provide insight into the political, economic, religious, moral, and cultural aspects of society during the time.
• Types of Khayat:
• Sanlagna Khayat: Chronological/Sequential history, e.g., Dayaldas ri Khyat.
• Baat Sangrah: Anecdotal history, e.g., Nainsi ri Khyat, Bankidas ri Khyat.

Raso : 

• Heroic poetry composed under royal patronage.
• Detailed descriptions of a king’s glory, victories, wars, and valor.
• Prominent Raso Texts:
  • Prithviraj Raso by Chand Bardai
  • Khuman Raso by Dalpat Vijay
  • Hammir Raso by Jodhraj
  • Bisaldev Raso by Narapati Nalh

Roopak : 

• Poems showcasing the achievements of a dynasty or individual.
• Notable Roopaks:
  • Gajgun Roopak
  • Roopak Gogadeji ro

Vigat : 

• Vigats provide detailed descriptions of rulers, their families, territories, and the political-social personalities of the time.
• The statistical data in Vigats is useful for understanding the socio-economic conditions of the time.
• Example: Marwar ra Pargana ri Vigat – This work by Muhnot Nainsi provides information about the population, land types, crops, irrigation systems, etc., of each district.

Vaat :

• Vaat refers to a special narrative style of storytelling, where the narrator continuously narrates, and the listener acknowledges with expressions.
• This style sheds light on every aspect of life, such as wars, religion, philosophy, and entertainment, and also portrays practices like Sati, child marriage, polygamy, purdah, and dowry.
• Major Works in Baat Style:
  • Achaldas Khinchi ri vaat
  • Viramdev Songra ri vaat
  • Pabuji ri vaat
  • Kanhadde ri vaat

Vachnika :

• The term Vachnika is derived from the Sanskrit word Vachan.
• In Rajasthani literature, prose-poetry mixed compositions are called Vachnika.
• Two Types:
  • Verse-Based: Rhymed verses of 8-8 or 20-20 syllables.
  • Prose-Based: No syllabic structure.

Davawait :

• These are rhymed compositions in mixed prose and verse.
• Vachnikas are written in Rajasthani, while Davawaits use Urdu and Persian vocabulary.
• Prominent Davawait Works:
  • Akhmal Devda ri Davawait
  • Maharana Jawansingh ri Davawait
  • Raja Jayasingh ri Davawait

Veli : 

• The term Veli means vine or creeper. These works mention the valor, loyalty, intellect, and genealogies of kings, nobles, etc.
• Prominent Works:
  • Veli Kishna Rukmani ri – Composed by Prithviraj Rathore.
  • Rao Ratan ri Veli

Jhulna :

• A metric form of Rajasthani poetry. It follows a syllabic pattern of 24 letters with a Yagan at the end.
• Major Works:
  • Amarsingh Rathore ra Jhulna
  • Raja Gajsingh ra Jhulna

Jhamal :

• Another metric form, where the last line of a couplet is repeated in the fifth line.
• Example: Rao Indra Singh ri Jhamal.

Kakka :

• Compositions where each line begins with one letter of the 52 alphabets.

Bahi :

• Registers containing historical data.
• ‘Rao’ and ‘Badve’ used to write the names of the patrons and details of their main achievements in their ledger. Similarly, people of ‘Rani Manga’ caste used to write the names of princesses and Thakranis and details of their progeny in their ledger. This work continued from generation to generation.
• Examples:
  • Chittaur-Udaipur Patnama ri Bahi
  • Pabudan ri Bahi
  • Jodhpur Rani Manga ri Bahi

Parchi :

• The poetic composition in which the biography of saints and great men is found is called Parchi.
• It contains information related to the saints such as name, caste, name of parents and other relatives and description of their spiritual achievements.
• Prominent Works:
  • Kabir ri Parchi
  • Sant Raidas ri Parchi
  • Meera Bai ri Parchi

Sakhi :

• Sakhi is derived from the word ‘Sakshi’. It means ‘to describe what one has seen with one’s own eyes’.
• In Sakhi based compositions, saint poets have described the knowledge they have experienced. Soratha metre has been used in this.
• Kabir’s Sakhis are famous.

Siloka : 

• Siloka is a distorted form of the Sanskrit word sloka.
• Religious, historical and didactic Siloka are found written in Rajasthani language
• These are written by ordinary educated people, hence they convey the feelings of the common people to the common people.
• Main works:
  • Rao Amarsingh Ra Siloka
  • Ajmalji Ro Siloko
  • Rathore Kusalsingh Ro Siloko
  • Bhati Keharsingh Ro Siloko

Doha : 

• Many couplets were written on the brave and generous men of Rajasthan, which gives information about their courage, patience, sacrifice, devotion to duty, charity and historical events.
• Main works:
  • Akhairaj Sonigrai’s couplet
  • Amarsingh Gajsinghot’s couplet
  • Karan Sangatsinghot’s couplet
  • Kanhadde Sonigrai’s couplet

Marsiya :

• Marsiya means ‘mourning poetry’. ‘Marsiya’ poems were composed to express grief after the death of a particular person. In addition to the character qualities of that person, other great deeds were also described in it.
• Major works:
  • Rane Jagpat Ra Marsya – This Marsya was written to mourn the death of Mewar Maharana Jagat Singh.

Prashasti :

• In Rajasthan, inscriptions on temples, fort gates, victory towers, etc., that detail the achievements of kings are known as Prashasti.
• Prashastis describe the lineage of kings, military campaigns, relationships with neighboring states, and the temples, reservoirs, gardens, palaces, and other structures built by them.
• They provide insights into the political, religious,and cultural conditions of the time.
• While these accounts often include exaggerations, they are still valuable for historical research.

Prashasti	Comment	Place engraved	Ruler	Author	Period
Eulogy of Neminath temple	Also known as Lunsehahi inscription	Delwara village, Mount Abu	Parmar Dynasty Rulers	Tejpal	1230 CE
Ranakapur Prashasti	Describes rulers of Mewar from Bappa Rawal to Kumbha	Column in Chaturmukha Temple, Ranakpur village, Pali district	Rulers of Mewar	Depak (Deepa or Depak)	1439 CE
Raj Prashasti	The largest inscription or record in the world engraved on 25 black stones	Nine Chowkis of Rajsamand Lake	Raj Singh	Raj Singh	1676 CE
Rai Singh Prashasti	Also known as Bikaner Fort Inscription and Junagarh Inscription	Bikaner	BikanerRai Singh	Jain Muni Jadta	1594 CE
Kirti Stambh Prashasti	Contains information about the titles and book authored by Maharana Kumbha	Kirti Stambh, Chittorgarh Fort	Maharana Kumbha	Poet Atri and his son Mahesh Bhatt	1460 CE

Prakas :

• Works that shed light on the achievements of a dynasty, a specific individual, or a particular event are called Prakas.
• Major Works:
  • Raj Prakash – Kishordas Ashiya
  • Mahayash Prakas – Man Singh
  • Pabu Prakash – Moda Ashiya
  • Bhim Prakas – Ramdan Lalsa
  • Suraj Prakash – Kaviya Karnidan

Barahmasa : 

• In Barahmasa, the poet describes the separation of the heroine by depicting the circumstances of each month of the year; its description usually starts from Ashadh.
• Theme: Description of nature, description of beauty

Important works of Rajasthani literature

Name of the Text	Author	Description
Prithviraj Vijay	Jayanak	Describes the history of the Chauhans and the development of Ajmer.
Hammira Mahakavya	Nayachand Suri	Highlights Alauddin Khalji’s conquest of Ranthambore.
Achaldas Khinchi Ri Vachnika	Shivdas Gadan	Narrates the battle (1423 CE) between Achaldas, ruler of Gagron, and Hoshang Shah Gauri, Sultan of Malwa.
Ekling Mahatmya	Kanha Vyas	Useful for the genealogy of the rulers of Mewar; some scholars attribute its authorship to Maharana Kumbha.
Karmachandra Vanshottkirtnakavyam	Jayasom	Describes the splendor and scholarly interests of the rulers of Bikaner.
Kanhad de Prabandha	Padmanabh	Highlights the battle (1311 CE) between Kanha Dev Chauhan of Jalore and Alauddin Khalji.
Kuvalayamala	Udyotansuri	Written in Prakrit in Champu style; mentions 18 languages of Rajasthan and recounts the story of Queen Kuvalayamala and other souls through various births, including administrative details of Pratihara king Vatsaraja.
Kyamkha Raso	Jaan (Niyamat Khan)	A text identifying Chauhans as belonging to the Vatsagotra.
Khuman Raso	Dalpat Vijay	Describes the union of Pratap and Shakti Singh during the Haldighati battle and the Mewar-Mughal relations during Maharana Pratap’s reign.
Prithviraj Raso	Chand Bardai	Written in Pingal, this first Hindi epic mentions the origin of Rajputs from Mount Abu’s Agnikund. Covers Prithviraj Chauhan’s reign and the battles of Tarain (1191–1192 CE).
Pratap Raso	Jachak Jeevan	Chronicles the life of Rawaraja Pratap Singh and the establishment of Alwar state (1770 CE).
Buddhivilas	Shah Bakhtaram	Provides information about the establishment (1727 CE) and construction of Jaipur city.
Marwar Ra Pargana Ri Vigat	Munhot Nainsi	Details the history and administrative structure of six parganas of Jodhpur state; compared to ‘Ain-e-Akbari.’
Mundiyar Ri Khyat	Charans of Mundiyar village	Provides insights into Marwar-Mughal relations.
Raj Prakash	Kishordas	Chronicles the Mewar dynasty’s origin from Ram’s eldest son, Lav; the Haldighati battle; and Mewar-Mughal relations.
Raj Vallabh	Mandan	Describes 15th-century architecture, including gates, forts, royal palaces, temples, and markets; attributed to Mandan, court architect of Maharana Kumbha.
Raj Vinod	Sadashiv Bhatt	Details the reign of Rao Kalyanmal, ruler of Bikaner.
Vansh Bhaskar	Suryamall Meesan	Written in Dingal in Champu style, it narrates the history of Bundi, Maratha activities in Rajasthan, and the poisoning of Krishna Kumari (1810 CE). Completed by his adopted son, poet Muraridan.
Veer Vinod	Shyamal Das	In five volumes, it covers the history of the Mewar dynasty, tracing its origin to Kush, son of Ram. Written under the orders of Maharana Shambhu Singh.
Veli Krisan -Rukmani Ri	Prithviraj Rathore (Peethal)	Written in Dingal at Gagron Fort; referred to as the “5th Veda” and the “19th Purana” by Dursa Adha. Highlights the religious and social life of the time.
Suraj Prakash	Karnidan	Chronicles the genealogy of Rathores, and the battles of Sumel and Dharmat.
Bankidas Ki Batan	Bankidas	Narrates the history of the Chauhan, Hada, Guhilot, and Rathore dynasties in Dingal language.
Ratan Raso	Jagga Ji	Also known as ‘Vachnika Rathore Ratan Singh Ri Mahesadasotri,’ it describes the valor of Ratan Singh of Ratlam in the battle of Dharmat.
Sujan Charitra	Sudan	Chronicles the battles of Suraj Mal, ruler of Bharatpur.
Gora Badal Padmini Chaupai	Acharya Hemratan Suri	Mentions the valor of Rani Padmavati, Gora, and Badal of Chittor.

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