Jivanandana of Anandaraya Makhin (Study)
by G. D. Jayalakshmi | 2019 | 58,344 words
This page relates ‘Analysis of Gada’ of the study on the Jivanandana (in English) which is a dramatic play written by Anadaraya Makhin in the 18th century. The Jivanandana praises the excellence of Advaita Vedanta, Ayurveda (medical science) and Dramatic literature as the triple agency for obtaining everlasting bliss.
Analysis of Gada
Gada is a secret agent of king Yakṣmā sent to assess the latest situation in Jīva’s capital city. While he is wandering there in the guise of an ascetic during night time, the city policeman, Vicāra, with the help of his servant catches him. From his answers to his queries, Vicāra understands and identifies him as a spy who had come there as an ascetic.
This incident is introduced by the dramatist in the Śuddha Viṣkambha section of the third Act. Keeping in accordance with the instructions already given by the minister Vijñāna Śarmā, Vicāra lets this arrested spy Gada leave the city immediately after taking a word of promise.
The commentary (p.126) explains the nature of this Gada as a disease that causes uneasiness in the heart:
“hṛdrogo nāma -dūṣayitvā rasaṃ doṣāḥ viguṇā hṛdayaṃ gatāḥ |
hṛdi bādhāṃ prakurvanti hṛdrogaṃ taṃ pracakṣate ||” iti |
This seems to be a minor variety of heart pain since it could be easily warded off. Hence, the author has made use of this disease which brings no lasting pain to the heart, as a spy.