Amari Navvanu Yatrano Mitho Anubhav

The book "Amari Navvanu Yatrano Mitho Anubhav" (My Sweet Experience of Ninety-Nine Pilgrimages) by Pravina Chandrakant Mehta, published in 2006, is a Gujarati Jain text recounting the author's profound spiritual journey and experiences performing 99 pilgrimages to the sacred Shatrunjay mountain, also known as Siddhachal.

Key Themes and Content:

• Deep Devotion and Spiritual Quest: The book highlights the author's intense longing and dedication to undertake the arduous but spiritually rewarding journey to Shatrunjay. The "ninety-nine" pilgrimages are symbolic of a profound spiritual undertaking.
• The Significance of Shatrunjay: The text extensively elaborates on the immense spiritual importance and sanctity of Shatrunjay Tirth. It describes how countless souls have attained liberation (Siddhapad) on this sacred mountain, which is considered the foremost among all Jain pilgrimage sites. The presence of the first Tirthankar, Lord Rishabhdev (Adinath), and other Tirthankaras makes every particle of the mountain sacred.
• Personal Journey and Transformation: Pravina Mehta shares her personal journey, emphasizing how the spiritual environment of Shatrunjay transcended physical limitations. Despite living in the US where walking long distances is uncommon, she and her husband felt immense energy and devotion, attributing it to the grace of Lord Adinath, the blessings of their elders, and their spiritual mentors.
• Family and Spiritual Heritage: The author expresses deep gratitude to her parents, in-laws, and husband, Chandrakant Mehta, for instilling strong religious values and supporting her spiritual endeavors. Her husband's active participation in Jain religious activities and teachings in the US is also acknowledged.
• The Ritual of "Navvanu": The book details the author's experience of performing the "Navvanu" (ninety-nine) pilgrimages. It describes the daily routine, the challenges overcome, the devotional practices, the inner transformation, and the profound peace and joy derived from each pilgrimage. The text illustrates the physical and mental endurance required, but more importantly, the spiritual upliftment gained.
• Detailed Account of the Pilgrimage: The latter part of the book provides a day-by-day account of the 99 pilgrimages, describing the specific temples visited, the rituals performed, the devotional songs sung, the interactions with fellow pilgrims and caretakers, and the profound inner experiences. It touches upon the spiritual significance of various locations on the mountain and the blessings received from different deities and Tirthankar idols.
• Guidance for Pilgrims: The book also includes practical guidance for future pilgrims, such as a list of essential items to carry and the prescribed rituals and prayers to be performed during the "Navvanu" yatra, making it a valuable resource for those undertaking a similar spiritual quest.
• Emphasis on Devotion over Ritual: While detailing the rituals, the underlying emphasis is on the devotional aspect and the inner feeling of reverence and connection with the divine. The author's tears of joy and overwhelming emotions highlight the transformative power of devotion.
• The Second "Navvanu": The book mentions that after completing the first 99 pilgrimages, the couple felt inspired to undertake the "lower Navvanu" (of Babu's Derasar) in the subsequent year, further deepening their spiritual commitment.
• Endorsements and Testimonials: The book includes introductory notes and testimonials from prominent Jain figures like Padmashri Dr. Kumarpal Desai and Sunandaben Vohra, who praise the author's spiritual dedication and the book's inspiring content.

In essence, "Amari Navvanu Yatrano Mitho Anubhav" is a deeply personal and spiritually enriching narrative that captures the essence of Jain pilgrimage, devotion, and the profound impact of connecting with sacred places like Shatrunjay. It serves as an inspiration for readers to embark on their own spiritual journeys with faith, perseverance, and unwavering devotion.