Adhyatma Pad Parijat

"Adhyatma Pada Parijat" is a compilation of devotional and spiritual songs (pads) written by prominent Jain Hindi poets from the 16th to the 20th century. Edited by Prof. Dr. Kanchedi Lal Jain and co-edited by Shri Tarachand Jain, this collection aims to preserve and propagate the rich spiritual heritage of Jainism through musical compositions.

The book highlights the influence of great Jain gurus like Kund Kund, Battaker, and Kartikeya on Jain Hindi poets. These poets, drawing inspiration from the philosophical and spiritual writings of these gurus, often expressed complex Jain doctrines of ahimsa (non-violence), aparigraha (non-possession), and anekanta (non-absolutism) in simple, melodious Hindi that resonated with the common people.

Key aspects of the collection include:

• Musicality and Devotion: The "pads" are designed to be sung, creating a unique blend of spiritual devotion and musical art. The compositions are characterized by their lyrical quality, harmonious structure, and engaging melodies, making them accessible and inspiring for a wide audience.
• Broad Geographical Reach: The composers and singers of these devotional songs traveled across India, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Assam to Rajasthan, spreading Jain spiritual thoughts and contributing to the cultural unity of the nation.
• Language and Style: The poems are written in Hindi, often incorporating influences from regional dialects like Braj, Rajasthani, and Gujarati, reflecting the linguistic landscape of their times. The language is described as simple, well-arranged, and imbued with "madhurya rasa" (sweetness and charm).
• Philosophical Depth: The collection delves into profound Jain philosophical concepts, including the impermanence of the world (samsara-asara), the principles of right faith (samyakdarshan) and right knowledge (samyakgyan), ethical teachings (sadupadesh), the consequences of karma (karmaphal), and the nature of the soul (atma-swarup).
• Historical Significance: The poems offer insights into the social and cultural context of their creation, often reflecting a response to the socio-political conditions of their times. For instance, some poems are noted for inspiring national and social character building during periods of turmoil.
• Inclusivity and Tolerance: The collection emphasizes themes of equality, harmony among all religions, and respect for other faiths and religious institutions, promoting a message of universal brotherhood.
• Editorial Efforts: The book is a result of the dedicated efforts of Dr. Kanchedilal Jain, who collected these poems at the request of Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri, with assistance from Shri Tarachand Jain. Dr. (Smt.) Vidyavati Jain provided a valuable preface and index, further enhancing the book's importance.
• Categorization of Poems: The collected "pads" are broadly categorized into 20 themes, including devotion to Jinas (Jinastuti), vision and worship of Jina (Jindev-darshan-pujan), praise of Jain scriptures (Jinvani), praise of gurus (Gurushtuti), ethical conduct, understanding the soul, the twelve reflections (Dwatash-bhavna), the results of karma, the value of human life, celebrations like Holi, and reflections on the transient nature of worldly pleasures and vices.

"Adhyatma Pada Parijat" stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of Jainism and its contribution to Indian devotional music and Hindi literature. The publisher, Shree Ganesh Varni Digambar Jain Sansthan, aims to make this collection accessible for personal and private use, reflecting its commitment to promoting Jain religious and cultural heritage.