Panchatantram-Vishnu Sharma Praneet

Panchatantram-Vishnu Sharma Praneet" (पञ्चतन्त्रम्-विश्णुशर्मा प्रणीतम्) is a renowned work based on the Panchatantra, an ancient Indian collection of interrelated animal fables in Sanskrit verse and prose. The Panchatantra was composed by the sage Vishnu Sharma and is traditionally believed to be written with the intention of teaching political science and practical wisdom to young princes, particularly the Niti Shastra (the science of moral conduct and governance). The book is one of the most important and ancient texts that presents valuable life lessons through stories.

The specific edition or version of the Panchatantra you mentioned, "Vishnu Sharma Praneet by Shri Shyama Charana Pandey", is likely a modern commentary or edition on the original work. Shri Shyama Charana Pandey is credited for his scholarly work on this text, possibly providing annotations, explanations, and deeper insights into the stories and moral teachings of the Panchatantra.

Key Features of "Panchatantram-Vishnu Sharma Praneet":

1. Compilation of Moral Fables: The Panchatantra is divided into five sections (hence the name Panchatantra, meaning "five chapters" or "five principles"). Each section contains a series of stories aimed at imparting important lessons on politics, diplomacy, ethics, and practical wisdom. The stories often feature animals, each symbolizing different human traits, and through these characters, complex life lessons are taught.

2. The Five Books (Tantras): The Panchatantra is divided into five parts, each addressing a different aspect of life:

   • Mitrabheda (The Separation of Friends)
   • Mitra-Labha (The Gaining of Friends)
   • Kakolukiyam (On Crows and Owls: Strategies for War)
   • Labdhapraṇāśam (Loss of Gains)
   • Aparīkṣitakārī (The Unwise Actions)

3. Political and Ethical Wisdom: The stories often revolve around leadership, governance, and the art of living in society. They are designed to teach practical wisdom, such as how to deal with conflict, the importance of strategic thinking, and the value of making wise decisions. Many of the stories also focus on friendship, loyalty, honesty, cunning, and deception.

4. Animal Characters and Allegorical Meaning: The use of animals in the stories serves as an allegory for human behavior. For instance:

   • The lion might represent power or authority.
   • The fox might symbolize cunning or intelligence.
   • The crow could stand for social awareness or community.
   • The rabbit often represents the cleverness of the weak or underdog.

5. Moral Lessons and Practical Application: Each story concludes with a moral or lesson that has practical application in real life. These lessons are intended not only for kings and princes but also for anyone wishing to lead a wise and ethical life.

6. Shri Shyama Charana Pandey's Contribution: In the edition by Shri Shyama Charana Pandey, the work might include:

   • A commentary on each story, explaining the deeper meanings and relevance to human behavior and societal norms.
   • Detailed explanations of the Sanskrit verses and prose, making it easier for readers to understand the subtleties of the text.
   • A modern interpretation that connects ancient wisdom to contemporary life, which makes it accessible to readers from all backgrounds, including scholars, students, and general readers interested in ancient Indian literature.

Importance of the Panchatantra:

1. Cultural and Historical Significance: The Panchatantra is one of the most widely translated works in world literature. It has been translated into numerous languages, including Arabic, Persian, Greek, Latin, and English, influencing many other literary works across the world. It is not only a key text in Indian literature but also a cornerstone in the global study of storytelling and moral education.

2. Influence on Other Literary Traditions: The Panchatantra's influence can be seen in the Arabian Nights (One Thousand and One Nights), the Fables of Aesop, and other similar collections of moral stories. Its style of teaching through animal fables has been a popular method for imparting moral lessons in many cultures.

3. Universal Appeal: While the book was originally intended to teach princes, its lessons are applicable to people from all walks of life. The universal appeal of the Panchatantra lies in its ability to provide practical guidance for solving everyday problems, while also illustrating the complexities of human relationships and decision-making.

Conclusion:

In summary, "Panchatantram-Vishnu Sharma Praneet by Shri Shyama Charana Pandey" is a significant contribution to the study and understanding of the Panchatantra, especially with the insights and commentary offered by Shri Shyama Charana Pandey. It makes the ancient text more accessible and relevant for modern readers, helping them grasp the profound wisdom embedded in the stories. Whether you're studying ancient Indian literature, philosophy, or simply looking for guidance in everyday life, the Panchatantra remains a timeless source of learning and reflection.