Bengal in The Light of Nabya Smriti: An Analysis

Abstract

The pillars of medieval Bengal comprise Nabya Nayay, Nabya Smriti and Tantra. The leading figure in the context of Nabya Nayay in Raghunath Shiromani who spread education in Nabadwip. His contemporary was the famous ascetic Krishnananda Agamnabis who was also born in Nabadwip. It is believed that Raghunandan Bhattacharya who introduced indigenous Nabya Smriti was also born in Nabadwip. These three luminaries illuminated the world of Shastra or anthology or scripture in Bengal in such a way that other writers sank into oblivion. Raghunandan Bhattacharya was an epoch-making writer. He was a prolific writer. His writings about the legal system are full of wisdom. In pre-Ragunandan era, the well-known scholars were Bhabadeb Bhatt, Jimutbahan, Aniruddha Bhatt, Ballal Sen, Halayudh, Shulpani, Brihaspati Raymukut and Srinath Acharya. Raghunandan era witnessed the scholars namely Raghunandan, Prodipto Bhaskar and Gobindananda. The writers and essayists of the decadent period of Bengal were Anataram Bidyabagis, Anandaban, Kasiram Sharma, Kriparam, Krishna Moman Nayay Alankar, Krishnananda Bidyabagis Bhattacharya, Gunanada and Gopal Nyaya Panchanan. Those writers and essayists influenced Bengal during their time greatly. They interpreted the text of Manu Smriti and that of Yajnabalk keeping the society of their time in mind. They wanted to regulate society through the rituals suitable to it. My article will throw light on the relevance of Nabya Smriti to the socio-political scenario of Bengal from the 11th century to the 16th century. Besides this, the article will also highlight the role of ancient smrity and Nabya Smriti in empowering women during that period.