Bappa Bhatti and his Taragana
Summary
This study focuses on Bappa Bhatti, a distinguished Jain ācārya of the seventh century, and his literary works. Bappa Bhatti belonged to an eminent lineage of teachers; his guru was Jayabhadra and his disciple was Śrī‑candra. He became a leading figure in the royal court and enjoyed the patronage of kings. One of his major contributions is the *Gāraḍavīṃśatikā* (also called *Gāraḍavīṃśatikā*), a hymn of twenty verses praising the twenty‑four Tīrthaṅkaras. The article’s main subject is the *Tarāgaṇa*, a narrative work attributed to Bappa Bhatti. It is a kavya (literary composition) that combines stories of devotion and morality. The *Tarāgaṇa* recounts various episodes illustrating virtues such as faith, compassion and renunciation. Through engaging narratives, Bappa Bhatti aimed to inspire lay followers and scholars alike. The article discusses the structure of the *Tarāgaṇa*, noting its poetic qualities and its use of classical metres. It also lists the manuscripts and references confirming his authorship. Bappa Bhatti’s influence extended beyond his writings. He served as an advisor to rulers, and his teachings shaped the intellectual climate of his time. The article highlights his role in the Jain scholastic tradition and points out that later scholars, such as Hemacandra, referred to him with respect. By analysing the *Tarāgaṇa*, the author demonstrates how Jain literature used storytelling to convey philosophical ideas and ethical norms. The work stands as an example of how kavya could serve both aesthetic and didactic purposes. The article thus situates Bappa Bhatti within the broader context of Jain literary history, showing that he bridged the roles of spiritual teacher, poet and court scholar. His hymns and narratives enriched the devotional repertoire of the Jain community and influenced subsequent authors.
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Conclusion
The essay concludes that Bappa Bhatti was a pivotal figure in early medieval Jainism. His hymn and his narrative work *Tarāgaṇa* exemplify the synthesis of devotion and literary artistry. As a revered teacher and royal advisor, he contributed to the spread of Jain values through compelling stories and poetic praise. Recognising his achievements helps illuminate the development of Jain literature and the cultural environment of seventh‑century India.