Chandas (poetry)

Introduction

Chandas (Sanskrit: छन्दः) is the study of Vedic meter in Sanskrit poetry. It is an essential aspect of the Vedas, the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, and plays a crucial role in the structure and rhythm of Vedic hymns. Chandas is one of the six Vedangas, or limbs of the Vedas, which are disciplines developed to support the understanding and interpretation of the Vedas.

Historical Context

The origins of Chandas can be traced back to the early Vedic period, around 1500-500 BCE. The Rigveda, one of the four Vedas, contains numerous hymns composed in various meters. The study of Chandas became more formalized with the work of ancient scholars like Pingala, who authored the 'Chandahshastra', a seminal treatise on Vedic meters.

Types of Meters

Chandas encompasses a variety of meters, each with its own specific structure and rules. The primary meters in Vedic poetry include:

Gayatri

The Gayatri meter consists of three lines, each with eight syllables. It is one of the most revered meters and is used in the Gayatri Mantra, a highly significant Vedic hymn.

Anushtubh

Anushtubh is a meter with four lines, each containing eight syllables. It is the most common meter in classical Sanskrit poetry and is often used in epic literature like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.

Trishtubh

The Trishtubh meter comprises four lines, each with eleven syllables. It is frequently used in the Rigveda and is known for its rhythmic complexity.

Jagati

Jagati is a meter with four lines, each containing twelve syllables. It is less common than the other meters but is still significant in Vedic literature.

Structure and Rules

The structure of Vedic meters is based on the arrangement of syllables, known as 'aksharas'. Each meter has a specific pattern of long (guru) and short (laghu) syllables. The rules governing these patterns are detailed and precise, ensuring the correct rhythm and intonation of the hymns.

Syllable Length

In Chandas, the length of a syllable is determined by the vowel sound. Short vowels (a, i, u) are considered laghu, while long vowels (ā, ī, ū) and diphthongs (e, ai, o, au) are considered guru. A syllable can also be guru if it ends in a consonant.

Pada

A 'pada' is a line of a verse in Vedic poetry. Each pada must adhere to the specific syllable pattern of the meter in which it is composed. The correct arrangement of syllables in each pada is crucial for maintaining the meter's rhythm.

Significance in Vedic Rituals

Chandas plays a vital role in Vedic rituals and ceremonies. The precise recitation of hymns in their correct meters is believed to invoke the desired spiritual and cosmic effects. The rhythm and intonation of the hymns are considered essential for their efficacy.

Chandas in Classical Sanskrit Literature

While Chandas originated in the Vedic period, its influence extends to classical Sanskrit literature. Epic poems, such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, as well as numerous classical plays and lyrical compositions, employ various meters derived from Vedic Chandas.

Modern Studies and Applications

The study of Chandas continues to be an important field in Indology and Sanskrit scholarship. Modern researchers analyze ancient texts to understand the development and application of Vedic meters. Additionally, Chandas has influenced contemporary Indian poetry and music, where traditional meters are often adapted and incorporated.

References

Macdonell, Arthur Anthony. "A Vedic Reader for Students." Oxford University Press, 1917.
Pingala. "Chandahshastra." Ancient Indian Texts.
Winternitz, Moriz. "A History of Indian Literature." Motilal Banarsidass, 1981.