Taranath Bhattacharyya (Tarkavachaspati): Pioneer of Oriental Scholarship | Author of Vachaspatyam

(तारानाथ भट्टाचार्य तर्कवाचस्पति)

During the last century, no one was a greater votary of oriental scholarship than Taranath (4th Nov 1812 – 20th Jun 1885). Taranath Tarkavachaspati was born on 4 November 1812 in the Burdwan district of present-day West Bengal in British India to a ” Vedic Bhattacharya” family. His grandfather, Ramram Tarkasiddhantha (Shunak Gotra/शुनक गोत्र), originally lived in a village called Baichandi in the Barisal district of East Bengal, where he cultivated a profound understanding of ancient texts and traditions. Tarkasiddhanta’s ancestors were renowned for their expertise in teaching Sanskrit, contributing significantly to the cultural and educational landscape of the region. At that time, Maharaja Tilak Chandra Bahadur of Burdwan organized gatherings of scholars from various parts of the country at his residence, transforming it into a vibrant hub of intellectual exchange and discourse. During one of these events, Ramram Tarkasiddhanta attended the assembly, deeply impressed by the exchange of ideas among esteemed scholars, and the Maharaja, recognizing his erudition, granted him land at Shyamraipara in Kalna, where he subsequently settled with his family. He became known to the locals as ‘Bangal Bhattacharya’, a title that carried a sense of pride and respect within the community. Taranath’s father, Ramaram, the youngest son of Tarkasiddhanta, was bestowed with the title ‘Sovereign’ due to his deep engagement with various scriptures of Kalidasa, which inspired a new generation of scholars and poets. Ramaram’s dedication to the preservation and promotion of literary heritage played an instrumental role in shaping Taranath’s passion for scholarship, ultimately setting the stage for Taranath’s own illustrious journey into the realms of oriental studies and literature, thereby solidifying the family’s legacy in academic circles.

From a young age, Taranath exhibited exceptional proficiency in the Sastras, becoming a master of language, astrology, philosophy, and Hindu law, unparalleled by any Pandit in Bengal. His thirst for knowledge was insatiable; he often read while walking through the bustling streets, completely absorbed in ancient texts and manuscripts, where the wisdom of the past came alive in his mind. Educated in Vedanta and Panini in Benares under the esteemed Biswampa Swami, Taranath became fluent in Bengali, Hindustani, and Sanskrit, skillfully maintaining the unique qualities of each language, making it challenging to identify his mother tongue. His linguistic prowess not only enriched his understanding of sacred scriptures but also allowed him to engage deeply with the diverse cultural nuances of the region, as he effortlessly conversed with scholars and laypeople alike, bridging gaps and sharing knowledge across different communities. As he matured, his reputation grew, drawing admirers and seekers of wisdom, while he remained firmly rooted in humility, always eager to learn more and share his insights, thereby becoming a beacon of intellect and spirituality.

On January 23, 1845, he was appointed as a Professor of Sanskrit at the esteemed Sanskrit College, earning an initial salary of Rs. 90, which eventually rose to Rs. 150—a top salary among his peers at the time, reflecting his exceptional expertise and the valued contribution he made to the institution. Over the years, he became renowned not only for his teaching capabilities but also for his deep understanding of ancient texts, which inspired countless students. He retired in 1874 after a distinguished career, and in his later years, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to the study of the Sastras and various religious practices, immersing himself in the philosophical and spiritual teachings that had shaped his life. He often engaged in discussions with scholars and spiritual leaders, further enriching his knowledge and fostering a sense of community among those who sought wisdom.

In his youth, Taranath ventured into various businesses, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and resilience in the face of challenges. He opened a cloth shop in Ambicagram, undeterred by a loss of Rs. 5000, seeing it as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. Despite this financial blow, he remained committed to his ventures and expanded his horizons. He also owned a goldsmith’s shop in Kalna, where he skillfully crafted exquisite jewelry that attracted many customers in the region. Furthermore, he started another cloth shop in Suri, near Birbhum, employing local peasants in agriculture, thereby contributing to the community’s economic development and providing livelihood opportunities for those in need. This multifaceted approach not only showcased his business acumen but also his dedication to uplifting those around him.

Although not proficient in English, Taranath demonstrated a keen understanding of sociology and political economy, garnering respect from prominent English scholars who recognized his insights and innovative ideas. He fervently advocated for the idea that true national wealth stems primarily from trade and, secondly, from agriculture, emphasizing that these two sectors are vital for a nation’s growth and stability. He believed, with a conviction rooted in both theory and practice, that Brahmins should engage in commerce to achieve prosperity, as it would not only elevate their social standing but also contribute to the economy’s overall health. This principle he embodied by actively participating in trade despite facing significant losses due to misplaced trust in his servants, showcasing his determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Taranath’s relentless pursuit of this vision served as an inspiration to many, encouraging others within his community to embrace commerce as a means of empowerment and advancement.

Taranath Tarkabachaspati (he received the title in 1836 from Sanskrit College) distinguished himself not only as a scholar but also as a passionate advocate for social reform, supporting Vidyasagara’s progressive views on widow remarriage and courageously engaging in debates against various Pandits who held conservative views. His intellectual prowess was evident as he adeptly articulated his arguments, effectively challenging the status quo. However, he diverged from Vidyasagara’s (26 September 1820 – 29 July 1891) stance on polygamy, arguing that the opposition to polygamy based on the Sastras was flawed, suggesting that interpretations of the ancient texts warranted a more nuanced understanding. In 1826 (Samvat), he published “Dhaturupa,” which was a significant milestone that established his reputation as a formidable scholar with his insightful commentary, Sarala, on the revered Sanskrit Grammar, Sidhantakaumudi, a text that served as a cornerstone for students of the language. His renowned commentaries on classical Sanskrit poems and dramas remain celebrated today, enriching the literary landscape and inspiring generations of scholars. His magnum opus, Bachaspatyabhidhan, was published in 1874 with support from the Education Department, gaining international recognition and attracting students from China, Japan, and Burma who sought to learn from his vast knowledge and expertise. European scholars frequently visited him, seeking his insights, and his literary contributions not only fortified his reputation but also helped him to overcome his mounting debts, allowing him to continue his scholarly pursuits without financial constraints. Taranath passed away on June 23, 1885, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence the study of Sanskrit literature and social reform.

Among the notable works of Taranath Tarkavachaspati, a distinguished scholar in his field, here are some of his significant works: he contributed extensively to the study of Indian philosophy and linguistics, producing insightful commentaries and texts that have greatly influenced contemporary thought. His ability to synthesize complex ideas and present them clearly has made his writings not only valuable academic resources but also accessible to a wider audience interested in the nuances of Indian intellectual traditions.

• Siddhanta Kaumudi – Sarala (Simple Commentary)
• Vachaspatya – Sanskrit Dictionary
• Shabdastomamahanidhi – Dictionary (1869-70)
• Shabdartha Ratna (1852)
• Polygamy – Commentary and Analysis
• Refutation of Widow Marriage
• The Gaya Mahatmyam – Compiled by Krishna Dvaipayana Vedavyasa

These contributions reflect his profound influence on Sanskrit scholarship and literature.

Taranath Bhattacharyya

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