‘Tatparya’ in Bhoja
By Tapasvi Shambhuchandra Nandi
Summary
Focusing on Bhoja’s theory of tātparya (the intended meaning of a sentence), this article builds on Dr Raghavan’s exposition and examines the textual passages in Bhoja’s writings. After quoting a key passage from Bhoja, the author explains that tātparya arises when the primary meaning of words, implied meaning and suggested meaning together convey the speaker’s intention. Drawing on Sanskrit poetics, the article discusses how the three levels of meaning—abhidhā (direct statement), lakṣaṇā (secondary sense) and dhvani (suggestion)—interact to reveal tātparya. Through examples, it shows that the intended sense may differ from the literal sense and depends on context, speaker’s purpose and convention. The author compares Bhoja’s views with other theorists and highlights the uniqueness of his approach, which emphasises that tātparya is realised only when words, metre and intention align. The discussion also touches on Bhoja’s classification of sentences and his insistence that listeners must grasp tātparya to appreciate poetry fully. By clarifying technical terms and analysing illustrative verses, the article contributes to a better understanding of medieval Indian literary theory.
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Conclusion
Bhoja’s concept of tātparya underscores the importance of context and authorial intent in interpreting language. The study demonstrates that meaning is multilayered—literal, implied and suggested—and that true understanding requires attention to how these layers converge within a sentence.