Achalgadh Sachitra Aetihasik Varnan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Achalgadh Sachitra Aetihasik Varnan" by Jayantvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Achalgadh Sachitra Aetihasik Varnan (Achalgadh: A Pictorial Historical Description) Author: Muni Shri Jayantvijayji Publisher: Yashovijay Jain Granthmala Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006289/1

This book, "Achalgadh Sachitra Aetihasik Varnan," is a detailed historical and pictorial account of the Jain pilgrimage site of Achalgadh, authored by the esteemed Jain Acharya Muni Shri Jayantvijayji. It is published by Yashovijay Jain Granthmala. The book is part of a series or compilation, indicated by "Bhag Tritiyo" (Part Three) on Page 2, and it focuses on the Abu region, specifically Achalgadh.

Key Aspects and Content:

Author and Publisher: The book is a product of the diligent research and writing of Muni Shri Jayantvijayji, known for his scholarly works on Jainism. Yashovijay Jain Granthmala, based in Bhavnagar, is the publisher, with the first edition in V.S. 2002 and the second in V.S. 2004.
Dedication: The book is humbly dedicated to the author's revered guru, the late Jagatpujya Shastra Visharad Jainacharya Shri Vijaydharm Surishwarji Maharaj, in remembrance of his work in dispelling ignorance and as a tribute to his spiritual lineage.
Historical Significance of Achalgadh: The text emphasizes Achalgadh as an ancient and significant Jain tirth. Muni Shri Jayantvijayji's work aims to provide a pure and historically accurate description of this tirth, enhancing its importance.
Research and Methodology: The author undertook extensive research and meticulous investigation to compile this work. The book includes 16 photographs (chhabio) of the tirth, contributing to its visual appeal. It also references previous works by the author, such as "Aaboo Gujarati," indicating a continuous effort to document and present Jain heritage.
Context of Publication: The publisher's note highlights the challenging economic conditions due to a devastating world war, which led to increased printing costs. Despite no external financial assistance, the Granthmala published the book, with any surplus profit intended for further literary endeavors.
Structure of the Book: The book is divided into six chapters:
1. Giriraj Abu (Mount Abu): An introduction to the entire Abu mountain range, its geological features, historical mentions in ancient texts like the Mahabharata and Vishnu Purana, its climate, and its significance as a sacred place for various religious traditions and a recreational spot for Europeans and royalty. It also touches upon its unique flora and fauna.
2. Rasta, Vahano, Mundaku (Roads, Vehicles, Tolls): Details the routes to Achalgadh from Delvada, mentioning the paved road, transportation options like motor buses, taxis, bullock carts, horses, and rickshaws. It also explains the "mundaku" (toll or entrance fee) levied by the Sirohi state.
3. Area: Describes the village of Area, its ancient Jain temple dedicated to Lord Mahavir Swami (though the principal deity is now Lord Adinath), and its administrative connection to the Achalgadh Jain temple office.
4. Achalgadh: Provides a geographical description of the Achalgadh village, its location on a high hill, the presence of a fort named Achalgadh, and the numerous Hindu sites like Achaleshwar Mahadev temple, Mandakini Kund, Bhartrihari Cave, and the fort itself. It details the pathways and structures within the fort area.
5. Achalgadh ke Jain Mandire (Jain Temples of Achalgadh): This is the most detailed section, covering four Jain temples:
  - Shri Chaumukhji (Adishwar) ka Mukhya Mandir: A magnificent, multi-storied temple built by Sanghvi Sahasa. It details the temple's architecture, the history and descriptions of the various idol installations (made of metal and marble), and the differing accounts regarding the number and weight of the idols from various historical texts and traditions.
  - Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan ka Mandir: A simpler, more modern temple, estimated to be around 350 years old. It describes the temple's layout, the principal idol of Lord Rishabhdev, and other idols in surrounding small temples (devakulikas) and pavilions (chhatris).
  - Shri Kunthunath Bhagwan ka Mandir: Located within the office building, this temple houses the main idol of Lord Kunthunath, along with several other idols. It details the history of its construction and the likely changes in the main deity over time.
  - Shri Shantinath Bhagwan ka Mandir: Situated at the foot of Achalgadh hill, this temple is attributed to Maharaja Kumarpal. The text discusses the historical evidence for this attribution, the changing deities housed in the temple over centuries, and the fine craftsmanship of its idols and architectural features.
6. Hindu Tirtho aur Darshaniya Sthane (Hindu Pilgrimage Sites and Places of Interest): This chapter describes various important Hindu sites and natural attractions in and around Achalgadh, including:
  - Shravan-Bhadar (water reservoirs)
  - Chamunda Devi Temple
  - Achalgadh Fort (built by Maharana Kumbha)
  - Harishchandra Cave (also known as Gopichandji's cave)
  - Gardens
  - Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple (with mentions of its history, architectural changes, inscriptions, and its significance as the presiding deity of Abu)
  - Mandakini Kund (a large ancient reservoir)
  - Saraneshwarji Temple
  - Bhartrihari Cave
  - Revati Kund
  - Bhrugu Ashram
  - Shri Tirthvijay Ashram
  - Koteshwar (Kanakhleshwar) Shiva Temple (in Area village)
  - Bhim Gupha
  - Sakkar Kund
  - Gurushikhar (the highest peak of Abu, with the temple of Guru Dattatreya, Anusuya Devi, and historical bells)
Illustrations: The book is richly illustrated with 16 photographs, providing visual evidence and enhancing the reader's understanding of the described sites. The frontispiece features a collage of scenes from Achalgadh.
Purpose and Appeal: The book aims to serve as a valuable resource for archaeologists, scholars, and especially Jain pilgrims and tourists interested in the history and significance of Achalgadh. It provides practical information alongside historical and religious details.
Concluding Remarks: The author expresses hope that the book will inspire readers to visit Achalgadh, engage in spiritual practices, and achieve self-welfare. The final sections include "Upasamhar" (Conclusion) and "Yatraluone Tirthyatram Pālanā Mānyā Niyam" (General Rules for Pilgrims to Observe During Pilgrimage), offering guidance for spiritual conduct.

In essence, "Achalgadh Sachitra Aetihasik Varnan" is a comprehensive and well-researched guide that meticulously documents the Jain temples and other significant historical and natural landmarks of Achalgadh and the surrounding Abu region, authored by a respected Jain scholar.