Vada in Theory and Practice: Studies in Debates, Dialogues and Discussions in Indian Intellectual Discourses c10.s15.19

c10.s15.19

The theme of this play revolves around the debate between Devasūri and Kumudacandra, a Digambara monk. Kumudacandra, the opponent, is described as *jalpa-kelīśraddhāluḥ* (devoted to the sport of debate) here⁴⁵ and also *nirvyūḍhanaikavādivijayakelidur-lalitaḥ* (having developed arrogance after winning several debates like sports).⁴⁶ The protagonist, after learning that Kumudacandra has been abusing the Śvetāmbara sect, sends a letter challenging him to have a debate. Before the start of the debate, Kumudacandra describes his victories over Mīmāṁsakas, Sāṁkhyas, Vedāntins, etc. in a very boastful way. Yaśaścandra used the term *jalpotsava* (festival of debate) for this event.⁴⁷