Agnat Pratima Ki Khoj - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agnat Pratima Ki Khoj" (The Search for the Unknown Idol), based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Agnat Pratima Ki Khoj (The Search for the Unknown Idol) Author: Rekha Jain Publisher: Acharya Dharmshrut Granthmala Publication Year: 2004 Context: Published on the auspicious occasion of the 131st birth anniversary of Charitra Chakravarthi Acharya Shri Shanti Sagar Ji Maharaj.

Summary:

The book is a Jain illustrated story that narrates the historical and spiritual journey leading to the discovery and consecration of the magnificent statue of Lord Gommateshwara Bahubali.

Key Narrative Points:

Origin of Bahubali and the First Idol: The story begins by referencing the era of the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva. It describes how, when the mythical wish-fulfilling Kalpa trees became less giving, Emperor Rishabhadeva taught his subjects agriculture, trade, arts, and self-defense. His sons, Bharata and Bahubali, are highlighted, with Emperor Bharata giving his name to the land of Bharatvarsha. The text mentions that Emperor Bharata, after a war with his brother Bahubali, had a beautiful and colossal statue of Bahubali built to commemorate his brother's penance. However, the whereabouts of this original idol became unknown over time.
The Longing for the Unknown Idol: The narrative shifts to a contemporary setting where Digambar Shraman Nemichand Ji, the "Siddhanta Chakravarti," is giving a sermon. He speaks of the great statue of Bahubali built by Bharata, igniting a deep desire in his listeners to see it.
Chumundaray's Mother's Devotion: The story then focuses on Chullladevi (also referred to as Kalaldevi), the mother of Chumundaray, a minister to the Ganga King Rayamalla. Inspired by Acharya Nemichand's discourse, Chullladevi becomes deeply desirous of seeing the unknown statue of Bahubali. She expresses her longing to her son, Ajita, who is initially concerned about the arduous journey through dense forests inhabited by wild animals and the hardships it would entail for his elderly mother.
The Quest Begins: Despite the risks, Chullladevi's unwavering devotion and desire to fulfill her life's wish (to see the statue before her end) motivates her son. Ajita, though brave and accomplished, is concerned for his mother's well-being. Ultimately, with Chullladevi's persistent desire, they prepare for the expedition. The travelling party includes Acharya Nemichand Siddhanta Chakravarti, Chumundaray (though his name is mentioned as the minister to King Rayamalla, the pursuit seems to be led by Ajita in this part), Kalaldevi, and many young men and women.
Facing Obstacles and Divine Guidance: The journey is fraught with difficulties. The dense forest, formidable mountain ranges, and fierce wild animals make progress perilous. At one point, the group is forced to halt. Acharya Nemichand receives divine guidance in a dream from an unknown voice. The voice instructs him that if Chumundaray (presumably referring to Ajita or the lineage of Chumundaray as the one who commissioned the statue) shoots an arrow from Chandragiri mountain towards Indragiri mountain, the statue will manifest where the arrow strikes the rock.
The Arrow and the Manifestation: Following the divine instruction, the arrow is shot, and it strikes a rock. Miraculously, the colossal idol of Bahubali begins to emerge from the rock. The sight causes immense joy and wonder.
The Sculptors and the Offer of Wealth: The emerging statue is immense and needs refinement. The minister (presumably Ajita acting on behalf of his king) calls skilled sculptors to improve its form and beauty. One sculptor, Arishtanemi, undertakes the task. Initially, the minister offers payment based on the weight of the stone removed, which amounts to a fortune. However, the sculptor, recognizing the sacredness of the work, refuses the monetary offer. He feels that his artistic inspiration diminishes when he accepts payment for such divine art. He returns the offered wealth and declares that he will not accept payment, as the art itself is a reward.
The Mother's Sacrifice and the Miracle: The construction of the statue is completed. The minister's mother, Chullladevi, visits the site and is proud of her son's efforts. However, she laments that her other son (Ajita) has become a businessman instead of a true artist, focusing on the monetary reward. She contrasts her situation with that of another mother whose son endured hardships to build the idol. The sculptor, Arishtanemi, is praised by the minister for his dedication. Later, the minister is informed that the statue is not yet fully finished and that the sculptor needs more time to perfect its beauty. The minister, in turn, offers the sculptor diamonds and pearls equivalent to the weight of any additional stone removed. The sculptor, however, returns the payment and reiterates his refusal, explaining that since he decided not to take payment, imperfections began to appear. He asks for forgiveness, and the minister respects his sentiment, wishing him success.
The Consecration and the True Devotion: The idol is finally ready. Acharya Nemichand's blessings make the idol "pujaniya" (worthy of worship). The consecration (Pran Pratishtha) and Mahamastakabhishekam are planned. During the consecration, the minister Chumundaray, despite his pride in commissioning the magnificent statue, finds that the offered water does not reach the idol's head, indicating a lack of true devotion or acceptance. He is humbled and seeks forgiveness. Acharya Nemichand explains that pride and devotion cannot coexist, and humility is paramount. Meanwhile, an elderly woman, who daily brings a pot of milk for the deity, is initially dismissed by Chumundaray. However, the Acharya directs that her milk be used for the Abhishek. To everyone's astonishment, the milk from the old woman's small pot flows abundantly onto the idol's head and continues to flow, signifying true and selfless devotion. The minister realizes his mistake and acknowledges his debt to the old woman.
The Disappearance of the Devotee: After the Abhishek, the old woman disappears mysteriously. The minister searches for her but cannot find her, concluding that she was a manifestation of divine power.
The Enduring Legacy: The book concludes by stating that a beautiful artistic statue was built in memory of that virtuous old woman, which stands today as a reminder of that miraculous event. The 57-foot-tall statue of Lord Gommateshwara is described as a unique and unparalleled artistic and spiritual contribution to South India, worshipped by millions.

In essence, "Agnat Pratima Ki Khoj" is a tale of:

Faith and Devotion: The unwavering faith of Chullladevi is the driving force behind the quest.
Spiritual Guidance: The role of Acharya Nemichand in inspiring and guiding the endeavor is crucial.
Artistic Integrity: The sculptor's refusal of monetary gain for divine art highlights the sanctity of religious craftsmanship.
True Humility in Worship: The miracle of the old woman's milk underscores that genuine devotion, not worldly pride or status, is what pleases the divine.
The Enduring Power of Jain Sculptures: The narrative celebrates the creation of the iconic statue of Lord Gommateshwara Bahubali, a testament to Jain art, architecture, and spirituality.