What is the Hastividyarnava and what is its primary subject matter?

The Hastividyarnava is a significant illustrated manuscript originating from Assam, authored by Sukumar Barkaith. Its central theme revolves around the detailed management and care of elephants, specifically those maintained within the royal stables. This focus highlights the importance of elephants in the region's history and governance.

Who commissioned the creation of the Hastividyarnava manuscript?

The Hastividyarnava manuscript was commissioned during the reign of King Siva Singha, who ruled Assam from 1714 to 1744 C.E. The commission was also supported by his queen consort, Ambika. This royal patronage underscores the manuscript's importance during that era.

What historical context or tradition influenced the creation of the Hastividyarnava?

The Hastividyarnava emerged from a background characterized by disciplined study, extensive observation, and an established tradition of knowledge transmission. Such a scholarly approach was typical for important works commissioned by royalty.

Why was the elephant considered important enough to warrant a dedicated treatise like the Hastividyarnava?

Elephants were considered crucial for affirming the concept of monarchy and for the exercise of state power. The commission of a treatise on elephants, therefore, was seen as important for reinforcing royal authority and governance.

What was the intended audience and purpose of the Hastividyarnava treatise?

The Hastividyarnava was written specifically for a ruling monarch, with its content almost entirely focused on sustaining the monarchy. It aimed to provide the king with essential knowledge regarding elephants, their suitability for the kingdom, and their use by the nobility and in warfare.

How did the Hastividyarnava categorize elephants?

The Hastividyarnava featured an elaborate taxonomic system that described various types of elephants. This system also detailed their individual characteristics and temperaments.

What knowledge was considered essential for a king according to the context of the Hastividyarnava?

According to the context surrounding the Hastividyarnava, it was considered important for a king to possess knowledge regarding elephants. The text implies that only a learned king could properly recognize and understand the different breeds of elephants.

Who were the artists responsible for illustrating the Hastividyarnava manuscript?

The artists who painted the Hastividyarnava manuscript were named Dilbar and Dosai. Their work contributed to the visual representation of the text's content.

What was the assessment of the landscape quality in the Hastividyarnava manuscript's illustrations?

The quality of the landscapes depicted in the Hastividyarnava manuscript was considered not to be of a very high standard. This assessment is based on the artists' likely unfamiliarity with the Assamese landscape.

What might have contributed to the less-than-ideal quality of the landscapes in the manuscript?

The landscapes in the Hastividyarnava manuscript may not have been of the highest standard because the artists, Dilbar and Dosai, were likely not very familiar with the specific landscape of Assam. Artistic representation often benefits from direct observation and local knowledge.

Where is the Hastividyarnava manuscript currently located?

The Hastividyarnava manuscript is presently housed in the Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies (DHAS), which is located in Guwahati, Assam. This institution serves as the custodian of many important historical artifacts.

What is the full title and location of the institution holding the Hastividyarnava manuscript?

The Hastividyarnava manuscript is currently held by the Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies (DHAS) in Guwahati, Assam. This department is responsible for preserving and studying historical and antiquarian materials in the region.

With which other manuscript should the Hastividyarnava not be confused, and why?

The Hastividyarnava should not be confused with the Hati-Puthi of Auniati Sattra (Majuli). The primary reason for this distinction is that the Hati-Puthi is a significantly later work, possibly dating from the early 19th century, whereas the Hastividyarnava was commissioned in the early 18th century.

What is the approximate time period of the Hati-Puthi of Auniati Sattra?

The Hati-Puthi of Auniati Sattra (Majuli) is considered a much later work, with its creation possibly dating to the early 19th century. This makes it distinct in age from the Hastividyarnava manuscript.

What does the image caption describe?

The image caption describes a folio from the Hastividyarnava manuscript, indicating that the accompanying image is a page from this historical document. This visual element helps illustrate the manuscript's content.

What was the role of Sukumar Barkaith in relation to the Hastividyarnava?

Sukumar Barkaith was the author of the Hastividyarnava. His work provides the textual foundation for this important manuscript on elephant management.

What specific aspects of elephant management are covered in the Hastividyarnava?

The Hastividyarnava covers aspects such as the training of elephants for use by the nobility and for military purposes. It also includes an elaborate taxonomic system to classify different types of elephants and their characteristics.

How did the Hastividyarnava contribute to the concept of monarchy?

The Hastividyarnava contributed to the concept of monarchy by providing knowledge that helped sustain it. Elephants were seen as symbols and tools of royal power, and the manuscript detailed how to manage them effectively for these purposes.

What does the text suggest about the importance of a king's knowledge of elephant breeds?

The text suggests that a king's knowledge of elephant breeds was a mark of his learning and wisdom. It is mentioned that only the learned king recognizes particular breeds, implying this knowledge was significant for effective rule.

What is the significance of the Hastividyarnava being an illustrated manuscript?

The Hastividyarnava being an illustrated manuscript means that it contains visual representations, likely paintings or drawings, alongside the text. Illustrations enhance the understanding and aesthetic value of the manuscript, particularly for a subject like elephant management which could benefit from visual aids.

What does the term patronage imply in the context of the Hastividyarnava's commission?

Patronage, in the context of the Hastividyarnava's commission by King Siva Singha and Queen Ambika, implies that the royal court provided financial support and endorsement for the creation of the manuscript. This support was crucial for producing such a detailed and illustrated work.

What does the phrase disciplined study, prolonged observation and a precedent tradition suggest about the creation of the Hastividyarnava?

This phrase suggests that the Hastividyarnava was not created hastily but was the result of rigorous academic effort, careful study of elephants over time, and adherence to existing scholarly practices or previous works on the subject. It indicates a high level of scholarship involved.

How did elephants help in exercising state power as mentioned in the text?

Elephants helped in exercising state power by serving as symbols of royal majesty and authority, and also as formidable assets in warfare and processions. Their sheer size and presence conveyed power, and their use in battle or ceremonies reinforced the ruler's might.

What is the meaning of elaborate taxonomic system in the context of the Hastividyarnava?

An elaborate taxonomic system in the Hastividyarnava refers to a detailed and organized classification scheme used to categorize different types of elephants. This system likely included criteria for distinguishing breeds based on physical attributes, temperament, or origin.

What does the manuscript reveal about the training of elephants?

The manuscript reveals information about how elephants were trained, particularly for specific roles such as being used by the nobility and for the purposes of war. This training would have been essential for their effective deployment.

What is the significance of the Hastividyarnava being one of the best known illustrated manuscripts of Assam?

Its status as one of the best known illustrated manuscripts of Assam signifies its cultural and historical importance within the region. It suggests that the manuscript is widely recognized and valued for its content and artistry, contributing significantly to the understanding of Assamese heritage.

What is the relationship between the Hastividyarnava and the concept of monarchy?

The Hastividyarnava is closely linked to the concept of monarchy as it was created to sustain the monarchy. Elephants were integral to royal power and prestige, and the manuscript provided the knowledge base for managing these vital royal assets.

What does the mention of Siva Singha (1714–1744 C.E.) tell us about the historical period of the manuscript?

The mention of Siva Singha's reign (1714–1744 C.E.) places the creation of the Hastividyarnava manuscript firmly in the early to mid-18th century. This period was significant for the Ahom kingdom in Assam.

What is the significance of a queen consort commissioning a manuscript?

A queen consort commissioning a manuscript, like Ambika in the case of the Hastividyarnava, indicates her influence and active participation in cultural and scholarly pursuits. Royal consorts often played important roles in patronizing arts and sciences, contributing to the cultural richness of the court.

What does the source suggest about the artists' familiarity with Assam?

The source suggests that the artists Dilbar and Dosai were likely not very familiar with the landscape of Assam. This lack of familiarity is presented as a reason for the comparatively lower quality of the landscape depictions in their work.

What is the function of the References section in the provided text?

The References section provides citations for the information presented in the article, indicating the sources used for its content. It includes details about the publication of the Hastividyarnava itself and related scholarly works.

What specific publication details are provided for the Hastividyarnava in the references?

According to the references, the Hastividyarnava was published in Guwahati, Assam, by the Publication Board, Assam, and was edited with an introduction by P.C. Choudhury. The citation lists the work itself as authored by S. Barkaith and dated 1734.

What information is provided about a related work, the Hati-Puthi?

The Hati-Puthi of Auniati Sattra (Majuli) is mentioned as a work that should not be confused with the Hastividyarnava. It is noted as being a much later work, possibly from the early 19th century.

What does the term Assam refer to in the context of the Hastividyarnava?

In the context of the Hastividyarnava, Assam refers to the geographical region in Northeast India where the manuscript originated and where King Siva Singha ruled. It is the cultural and political setting for the creation of this work.

What does the term manuscript imply about the Hastividyarnava?

The term manuscript implies that the Hastividyarnava was originally a document written or copied by hand, rather than being printed. Manuscripts are often unique or rare historical documents, valued for their age and the information they contain.

What is the significance of the Hastividyarnava being commissioned?

The fact that the Hastividyarnava was commissioned means that it was formally requested and funded by a patron, in this case, King Siva Singha and Queen Ambika. Commissioning was a common way for rulers and wealthy individuals to support the arts and scholarship, ensuring the creation of specific works.

What does the phrase dealt with the management and care of elephants suggest about the content's practical application?

This phrase suggests that the Hastividyarnava contained practical, actionable information relevant to the daily handling, health, training, and overall well-being of elephants. Such knowledge would have been vital for maintaining a royal elephant corps.

How might the Hastividyarnava have been used by the king?

The king might have used the Hastividyarnava as a reference guide for understanding elephant breeds, overseeing their training, and ensuring their proper management for state functions, ceremonies, and military campaigns. It served as a repository of essential knowledge for a ruler reliant on elephants.

What does the citation mentioning P.C. Choudhury indicate?

The citation mentioning P.C. Choudhury indicates that this individual edited the Hastividyarnava manuscript and provided an introduction for its publication. This suggests Choudhury played a role in making the historical text accessible to a modern audience.

What does the citation mentioning the Forest Department of Assam, Govt. of Assam suggest about the context of the second reference?

This citation suggests that the second reference, concerning The Elephant in Assamese History and Mythology, was published by the Forest Department of Assam as part of a volume celebrating the Kaziranga National Park Centenary. This context links the study of elephants to conservation and regional history.

What is the significance of the Hastividyarnava being an illustrated manuscript of Assam?

Being an illustrated manuscript of Assam signifies its cultural heritage value specific to the region of Assam. It represents a historical artistic and literary tradition within Assamese culture, focusing on a subject of regional importance.

What does the term royal stables imply regarding the elephants discussed in the Hastividyarnava?

The term royal stables implies that the elephants discussed in the Hastividyarnava were specifically those owned and maintained by the king or the royal household. These elephants were likely trained for specific duties and held a higher status than common working elephants.

How did the Hastividyarnava relate to the nobility?

The Hastividyarnava related to the nobility by detailing how elephants should be trained for their use. This suggests that elephants were employed not only by the king but also by high-ranking officials or members of the aristocracy.

What does the phrase precedent tradition suggest about the Hastividyarnava's creation?

The phrase precedent tradition suggests that the creation of the Hastividyarnava followed established practices or drew upon earlier works concerning elephants or royal administration. It implies a continuity of knowledge and methodology.

What is the role of the stub classification mentioned at the end of the text?

The stub classification indicates that the article about the Hastividyarnava is a short, incomplete piece of writing that can be expanded upon. It serves as a marker for editors that more information could potentially be added to the article.

What is the significance of the Hastividyarnava being written for a ruling monarch?

The significance of the Hastividyarnava being written for a ruling monarch is that its content and perspective are tailored to the needs and interests of the head of state. It emphasizes the practical application of the knowledge for governance and the assertion of royal authority.

What does the manuscript imply about the king's role in recognizing elephant breeds?

The manuscript implies that recognizing specific elephant breeds was a skill associated with a learned king. This suggests that understanding the nuances of elephant types was considered important for effective management and perhaps for discerning their suitability for different tasks or their symbolic value.

What is the purpose of the Contents section in the article?

The Contents section serves as a table of contents, outlining the main sections of the article about the Hastividyarnava. It helps readers navigate the document and understand its structure.

What does the Artists section focus on?

The Artists section specifically focuses on the individuals who created the illustrations for the Hastividyarnava manuscript, namely Dilbar and Dosai, and provides a brief critique of their work, particularly concerning the landscapes.

What information is provided in the Current location and status section?

This section details where the Hastividyarnava manuscript is currently preserved—the Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies in Guwahati, Assam. It also clarifies that this manuscript should not be confused with another work, the Hati-Puthi.

What is the primary function of the References section in academic or informational texts like this?

The primary function of the References section is to acknowledge the sources from which the information was drawn, allowing readers to verify the facts and explore the topic further. It upholds academic integrity and provides credibility to the content.

Hastividyarnava Wiki: The Hastividyarnava: An Assamese Manuscript of Royal Elephants

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Introduction

A Landmark Assamese Manuscript

The Hastividyarnava, authored by Sukumar Barkaith, stands as one of the most renowned illustrated manuscripts originating from Assam.^[1] This significant work delves into the intricate domain of elephant management and care, particularly within the context of royal stables. Its creation was fostered under the patronage of King Siva Singha (reigned 1714–1744 C.E.) and his queen consort Ambika.^[1] The manuscript is celebrated not only for its detailed textual content but also for its rich visual representations, offering a window into the cultural and practical importance of elephants in the region.

Elephants and Royal Authority

The Hastividyarnava emerged from a tradition of disciplined scholarship, meticulous observation, and established precedents. Commissioning such a treatise was likely deemed essential for affirming the concept of monarchy and the exercise of state power.^[2] Elephants were integral to the projection of royal authority, serving in ceremonial capacities, as symbols of prestige, and crucially, in warfare. The manuscript's focus on the proper training and utilization of elephants underscores their strategic and symbolic value to the ruling elite.

Taxonomic Depth

The treatise itself was meticulously crafted for a monarch, primarily from the perspective of sustaining the institution of monarchy. It addresses which elephant breeds were most suitable for the kingdom and outlines the methods for training them for use by the nobility and for military purposes. The Hastividyarnava features an elaborate taxonomic system, detailing various types of elephants and their distinct characteristics. It was considered vital for a king to possess this specialized knowledge, as it was noted that only a learned monarch could accurately identify specific breeds.^[2]

Royal Context and Purpose

Patronage and Purpose

Commissioned under the reign of King Siva Singha and Queen Ambika, the Hastividyarnava reflects the cultural and political priorities of the Ahom kingdom in 18th-century Assam. The patronage of such scholarly and artistic endeavors was a common practice among royalty, serving to enhance the ruler's image as a learned and capable leader. The manuscript's focus on elephants highlights their multifaceted importance: as instruments of state power, symbols of wealth and status, and essential components of military strategy. The detailed classification and training methods provided within the text would have been invaluable for the royal stables and the kingdom's administration.

Elephants in Warfare and Statecraft

In historical contexts, particularly in South Asia, elephants played a pivotal role in warfare. Their sheer size and strength provided a significant advantage on the battlefield, often serving as mobile platforms for archers and warriors, and as shock troops capable of breaking enemy formations. Beyond military applications, elephants were also used in royal processions, ceremonies, and as a means of transport for the elite. The Hastividyarnava's detailed guidance on elephant management, therefore, directly supported the practical needs of the monarchy in maintaining its military capabilities and projecting its grandeur.

Artistic Contribution

The Artists Dilbar and Dosai

The manuscript's illustrations were the work of two notable artists, Dilbar and Dosai. While their artistic skill in depicting the elephants and related scenes is evident, it is suggested that they may not have been intimately familiar with the specific landscape of Assam. Consequently, the quality of the landscape elements within the illustrations is considered to be of a less refined standard compared to the primary subjects.^[2] Despite this observation, the illustrations remain a crucial aspect of the Hastividyarnava, providing visual context and enhancing the manuscript's value as a cultural artifact.

Visual Narrative

As an illustrated manuscript, the Hastividyarnava offers a rich visual narrative alongside its textual content. The folios depict scenes related to the management, training, and perhaps even the ceremonial use of elephants. These illustrations are not merely decorative; they serve to elucidate the text, providing practical visual guidance and aesthetic appeal. The detailed portrayal of elephant breeds and their characteristics, as described in the manuscript's taxonomic system, would have been significantly enhanced by these visual representations, making the knowledge more accessible and memorable for its intended royal audience.

Provenance and Status

Current Location

The original manuscript of the Hastividyarnava is presently preserved and housed within the Department of Historical and Antiquarian Studies (DHAS) in Guwahati, Assam. This institution serves as a vital repository for historical documents and artifacts, ensuring the preservation and study of Assam's rich cultural heritage.

Distinction from Similar Works

It is important to distinguish the Hastividyarnava from other related texts. Specifically, it should not be confused with the Hati-Puthi (Elephant Book) associated with the Auniati Sattra in Majuli. The Hati-Puthi is a considerably later work, with its creation estimated to be from the early 19th century, indicating a different period and potentially different scholarly or religious context.^[2] This distinction is crucial for accurate historical and art historical analysis.

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References

Barkaith, S. (1734). Hastividyarnava. Edited with an introduction by P.C. Choudhury. Guwahati: Publication Board, Assam.

Barua, M. (2005). The Elephant in Assamese History and Mythology. Kaziranga National Park Centenary Celebration Volume. pp. 34â39. Forest Department of Assam, Govt. of Assam.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Hastividyarnava Wikipedia page

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Scholarly Interpretation Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available data, including the Wikipedia article on the Hastividyarnava. It is intended for educational and informational purposes, providing an academic overview suitable for higher education students.

This is not a substitute for primary source analysis or expert historical consultation. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the interpretation and presentation of historical and cultural artifacts by AI may contain nuances or omissions. Always consult authoritative academic sources and scholarly analyses for definitive research.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors, omissions, or interpretations derived from the use of this AI-generated content.

The Hastividyarnava

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Introduction 🐘

📜 A Landmark Assamese Manuscript

👑 Elephants and Royal Authority

📚 Taxonomic Depth

Royal Context and Purpose 👑

🏛️ Patronage and Purpose

⚔️ Elephants in Warfare and Statecraft

Artistic Contribution 🎨

🖌️ The Artists Dilbar and Dosai

🖼️ Visual Narrative

Provenance and Status 📍

🏛️ Current Location

🧐 Distinction from Similar Works

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📜 Scholarly Interpretation Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

A Landmark Assamese Manuscript

Elephants and Royal Authority

Taxonomic Depth

Royal Context and Purpose

Patronage and Purpose

Elephants in Warfare and Statecraft

Artistic Contribution

The Artists Dilbar and Dosai

Visual Narrative

Provenance and Status

Current Location

Distinction from Similar Works

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Scholarly Interpretation Notice