Akalanknikalank

This document is a religious play titled "Akalank Niklank: Sacrifice and Glorification" (બલિદાન અને પ્રભાવના) by Bra. Harilal Jain. The play is presented as a religious drama that depicts the story of two brothers, Akalank and Niklank, who were devout followers of Jainism.

Here's a summary of the key aspects and narrative presented in the provided pages:

Core Theme: The play focuses on the themes of sacrifice (બલિદાન) for the sake of Jainism and the subsequent glorification or establishment (પ્રભાવના) of the faith. It aims to inspire devotion and impart knowledge of Jain principles.

Characters:

• Akalank: The elder brother, destined to bring about the glorification of Jainism.
• Niklank: The younger brother, who makes the ultimate sacrifice for Jainism.
• Purushottam Sheth: Their father.
• Chitragupta Muniraj: A Jain monk who imparts spiritual guidance.
• Baudh Guru: The head of the Nalanda Buddhist university.
• Ujjain King: The ruler of Ujjain.
• Jinmatri Maharani: The King's wife, a devotee of Jainism.
• Buddhamati Maharani: The King's other wife, a devotee of Buddhism.
• Jin Vimal Kumar: Son of Jinmatri, representing the Jain side.
• Buddha Kumar: Son of Buddhamati, representing the Buddhist side.
• Sanghshri: A learned Buddhist scholar and Acharya.

Plot Summary (as revealed in the provided pages):

• Early Life and Vow of Celibacy (Pages 11-20): The play begins with Akalank and Niklank (referred to as Aku and Niku in their childhood) discussing spiritual matters. They encounter a Jain monk, Chitragupta Muniraj, and are inspired by his teachings. Their father, Purushottam Sheth, takes a vow of lifelong celibacy after hearing the monk's discourse. The brothers also vow to dedicate their lives to the service of Jainism and refuse marriage, much to their father's initial surprise.

• Study at Nalanda and Niklank's Sacrifice (Pages 20-52):

  • The brothers decide to study at the renowned Nalanda Buddhist university to understand and counter the influence of Buddhism.
  • They discreetly study Buddhist scriptures, and Akalank cleverly corrects a textual error (omitting "chāt") in a Buddhist scripture that was causing confusion for their Guru.
  • Their Jain identity is discovered through tests, including a test involving respecting a Jain idol.
  • When faced with the choice of renouncing Jainism or facing death, Niklank makes a courageous sacrifice. He distracts the pursuing soldiers, allowing Akalank to escape, while he himself is martyred for his faith. Akalank witnesses this and vows to uphold the Jain dharma and avenge Niklank's sacrifice by spreading Jainism throughout India.

• Akalank's Glorification of Jainism (Pages 52-83):

  • The Ujjain Dispute: In Ujjain, a conflict arises regarding the order of religious processions for the Jain and Buddhist faiths. The King decides that a debate between the scholars of both religions will determine the order.
  • The Debate: The Buddhist scholar, Sanghshri, known for his expertise in the doctrine of impermanence (anitayavaad) and momentary existence (kshnikvaad), debates with Akalank. Akalank brilliantly defends Jainism, particularly the principle of Anekanta (many-sidedness of reality), by highlighting the logical inconsistencies in the Buddhist doctrine of constant change. He argues that if everything is momentary, then even the concept of self and personal identity dissolves, leading to logical contradictions.
  • Sanghshri's Deception and Exposure: Sanghshri, unable to refute Akalank's arguments, resorts to deception. He hides behind a curtain and uses a hidden speaker (a pot containing a divine voice) to answer Akalank. Akalank exposes this trickery.
  • Conversion and Triumph: Impressed by Akalank's intellect, virtue, and the strength of Jain philosophy, the King, Buddha Kumar, former Buddhist disciples, and the people of Ujjain convert to Jainism. The King leads the Jain procession. Sanghshri, remorseful for his actions, also embraces Jainism and seeks forgiveness from Akalank.
  • The Grand Procession: The play concludes with a magnificent Jain procession, symbolizing the triumph and glorification of Jainism, fulfilling Akalank's vow.

Key Jain Principles Highlighted:

• Anekanta Vada: The doctrine of many-sidedness, central to the debate.
• Sam'yak Darshan, Gyan, Charitra (Right Faith, Knowledge, Conduct): The path to liberation.
• Vairagya (Detachment): Demonstrated by the brothers' decision to forgo worldly pleasures.
• Sacrifice for Dharma: Niklank's ultimate act of martyrdom.
• The importance of study and understanding other faiths.
• The power of righteous intellect and devotion.

The play emphasizes the glory of the Jain faith, the wisdom of its scholars like Akalank, and the sacrifices made by its followers. It serves as an inspirational narrative for promoting Jain values and practices.