Exploring the Bhashyas on Manusmriti: Insights from Ancient Commentaries

The Manusmriti, often referred to as the "Laws of Manu," is one of the most significant and ancient Dharmashastra texts in Hindu literature. Traditionally attributed to Manu, the progenitor of humanity. 

Importance of Bhashyas:

Bhashyas, or detailed commentaries, are essential tools for understanding the profound and often complex texts of Hindu literature. When it comes to the Manusmriti, these commentaries are particularly valuable.

Here are the Bhashyas I found:

1. Medhatithi's Commentary of 9th Century. 

     It's known as Manubhâshya.

2.Govindaraja's Commentary of 12th Century 

    Known as Manuţikâ.

3.Sarvajňa-Nârâyaņa's Commentary of 14th

Century Known as Manvarthavivriti.

4.Râghavânanda's Commentary of 16th Century Known as Manvarthachandrikâ.

5.Nandana's Commentary (uncertain date) Known as Nandinî or Manvarthavyâkhyâna or Mânavavyâkhyâna.

6.Anonymous Kashmirian Commentary.

7. Kullûka's Commentary of 15th Century Known as Manvarthamuktâ-vali 

There  are some manuscript also which don't 

have specific names

 

1.

2.

These commentaries not only illuminate the meanings behind the verses of Manusmriti but also reveal the dynamic interplay between ancient teachings and their evolving interpretations over time. Through the lenses of various scholars like Medhatithi, Kulluka Bhatta, and others, we see how legal and social norms were shaped, adapted, and sometimes contested in different historical contexts.