Ajain Natakkaro Ke Hindi Natako Me Jain Samaj Darshan Ki Avadharna

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text:

Book Title: Ajain Natakkaro ke Hindi Natako me Jain Samaj Darshan ki Avadharna (The Concept of Jain Social Philosophy in Hindi Plays by Non-Jain Playwrights) Author: Dr. Laxminarayan Dubey

This scholarly work by Dr. Laxminarayan Dubey explores the significant presence and influence of Jain social philosophy in Hindi plays written by playwrights who are not themselves followers of Jainism. The book argues that these non-Jain dramatists have effectively adopted and presented Jain principles, particularly the concepts of social reconstruction, in their theatrical works.

Key Arguments and Observations:

• Jain Social Vision in Non-Jain Plays: The author asserts that several modern Hindi playwrights have embraced and incorporated the tenets of Jain philosophy into their dramas, proposing a new societal structure based on these principles. These plays serve as evidence that the idea of a new social order is indeed valid and that non-Jain writers have made a commendable effort in showcasing the social aspects of Jain thought.
• Sociological Significance of Hindi Plays: In contemporary times, social philosophy is highly valued. When analyzing Hindi plays from a sociological perspective, Jain philosophy emerges as a significant guiding force. The reflections and solutions offered in these plays regarding societal issues can be examined through the lens of Jain thought.
• The Centrality of Truth and Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Jainism places immense importance on Truth and Ahimsa, recognizing them as unparalleled contributions of the Sramanic culture. The book highlights how, in the aftermath of two World Wars, these principles were presented globally as a means to achieve world peace. Mahatma Gandhi, deeply influenced by Jainism, played a crucial role in this dissemination. The impact of these ideas is evident in the works of contemporary playwrights.
  • Examples:
    • Seth Govindas's play Vikas emphasizes that world peace and human happiness can only be achieved through Truth and Ahimsa amidst the prevailing barbarity.
    • Acharya Chaturrasen Shastri's Meghnad showcases the triumph of Truth.
    • Plays by Radheshyam Kathavachak (Maharshi Valmiki), Upendranath Ashk (Chhata Beta), and Udayashankar Bhatt (Muktidoot) are noted for their focus on Ahimsa. Muktidoot, in particular, opposes animal sacrifice in religious rituals.
    • Jaishankar Prasad's Ajatashatru deeply explores the dignity of Ahimsa.
    • Laxminarayan Mishra's Vatsaraj depicts the Shraman tradition as being involved in Karma Yoga.
• Ahimsic Approach in Plays: Plays like Seth Govindas's Ashok, Vishnu Prabhakar's Navprabhat, Acharya Chaturrasen Shastri's Dharmaraj, and Dr. Rajkumar Verma's Vijay Evam and Kala aur Kripana are cited for their exploration of the Ahimsic perspective.
• Jain Philosophy in the Face of Modern Challenges: The author links Jain principles to contemporary societal anxieties. The growing power of science and the fear of a third World War have left humanity troubled. The twenty-first century's imperialistic ambitions have caused suffering, and the reliance on brute force has wounded humanity. Ahimsa is presented as the sole remedy. India's foreign policy, even today, prioritizes an Ahimsic approach.
• The Importance of Dharma and Moral Values: Dr. Laxminarayan Lal, in his play Sukha Sarovar, symbolically represents the drying up of a lake as a consequence of the populace abandoning Dharma and questioning religious authority, highlighting the essence of Jain thought and its social implications. The play underscores that when people disregard Dharma, rituals, and righteous actions, embracing vanity, the spiritual reservoir dries up.
• Moral Decline and the Need for Reawakening: The book points out that contemporary playwrights recognize the moral erosion in the younger generation, influenced by Western civilization, who often view ethical principles as burdens. While ancient students practiced Brahmacharya, modern students exhibit moral decay, a theme explored in Dr. Laxminarayan Lal's play Sundar Ras. Lord Mahavir Swami's message of "Awaken and Awaken others" and his role as a pioneer of women's awakening are also discussed.
• Women's Emancipation and Social Critique: The text notes the popularity of characters like Mahasati Chandanbala in plays, who are depicted being freed from bondage by Tirthankar Mahavir. This is contrasted with Vinod Rastogi's play Naye Haath, where the character Shalini expresses that wives are often treated like slaves and asserts her right to freedom, echoing the spirit of individual liberty advocated in Jainism.
• Jainism as a Solution to Societal Problems: The author identifies contemporary societal issues such as immorality, disintegration, familial discord, mental unrest, religious animosity, and political strife. Drawing on sociological theories, the text suggests that societal breakdown occurs when equilibrium-maintaining forces change. Jain thought offers principles that strengthen the individual's connection to the collective and commit society to establishing a new order aligned with its ideals.
• Jain Elements as Foundational Principles: The book emphasizes that Hindi plays have strived to incorporate Jain elements that can be recognized as fundamental to society today. While inspired by Jain social philosophy, these plays forge new ground and remain relevant.
• The Synthesis of Tradition and Modernity: The plays are described as being modern yet connected to tradition, a hallmark of their intellectual contribution. By presenting the philosophical insights of Tirthankaras and Jain acharyas through engaging narratives, characters, and dialogues, these plays foster social consciousness. The Panchamahavratas (five great vows) of Jainism are presented as life values applicable today. These plays are significant in contextualizing individual liberation within the framework of social well-being.

In essence, Dr. Laxminarayan Dubey's book argues that Hindi drama, particularly by non-Jain playwrights, has served as a powerful medium for disseminating and exploring the profound social philosophy of Jainism, offering timeless solutions to contemporary human and societal challenges.