Antarlok Me Mahavir Ka Mahajivan

This document is a comprehensive presentation and exploration of the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, titled "Antarlok Me Mahavir Ka Mahajivan" (The Great Life of Mahavir in the Inner World) by Pratap J. Tolia. The book is published by Vardhaman Bharati International Foundation.

The text focuses on understanding Mahavir not just through external narratives but through an internal, meditative experience. It emphasizes the importance of "Antardhyan" (inner meditation) and "Satsang" (company of the virtuous) in grasping the profound essence of Mahavir's life. The author's journey is shaped by pre-existing impressions, family traditions, and deep study and reflection on Jain scriptures and the lives of great Jain saints and thinkers like Upadhyay Yashovijayji, Shrimad Rajchandra, Shri Bhartendu, Shri Sahajanandghanji-Bhadr Muni, and Dr. Pandit Sukhlalji.

Key Themes and Content:

• Inner Vision of Mahavir's Life: The primary goal of the book is to present Mahavir's life not merely as a historical account but as an internal experience, an "Antarlok" (inner world) exploration. The author seeks to evoke the profound inner state of Mahavir, emphasizing his deep meditation and silence.
• Foundation in Scriptures and Guidance: The author acknowledges the importance of scriptures like the Kalpasutra, Bhagavati Sutra, Upa-sarga-dasao, Trishti Shalaka Purusha Charitra, and the works of modern thinkers like Shrimad Rajchandra. However, the ultimate basis for understanding Mahavir is sought in the guidance of realized spiritual masters and through one's own inner experience ("Antardhyan").
• Personal Journey and Influences: The author details their personal journey, influenced by family traditions, early exposure to Jain teachings and music, and the guidance of various spiritual mentors. Key influences include:
  • Family: Parents' devotional singing, exposure to the "Mokshmala" text.
  • Sadhguru Sang: Muni Shri Bhuvanvijayji, Yogishwar Acharya Shri Kesarsuri, Munishri Santbalji, Nanchanadji, Badapji, Acharya Vinobaji, Chinnamama Mata, Dr. Pandit Sukhlalji, Acharya Gurdial Mallikji, Acharya Purnanand Suri, Vimal Sagarji, Nirmal Sagarji, Upadhyay Amarmuniji, Munishri Sushil Kumarji, Sadhvi Shri Mrigavatiji, Nirmala Shri ji, Arthika Gyanmati Mataji, J. Krishnamurti, Vimalatai, and most significantly, Yogayugpradhan Shri Sahajanandghanji and Mataji Dhanadevi ji.
• Emphasis on Meditation and Inner Experience: The text repeatedly stresses the importance of meditation ("Dhyan") as the core path to understanding Mahavir. It highlights the concept of experiencing Mahavir internally, through "Antardhyan," and reflecting this experience in external actions ("Bahyolok me Aprmatta Pradarshan"). The author draws parallels with Shrimad Rajchandra's ability to maintain a state of meditative equanimity even while engaged in business.
• Key Philosophical Concepts: The book aims to explore Mahavir's teachings on:
  • Self-Knowledge: "Je Egan Janai Se Sarvam Janai" (He who knows the One/Self knows all) is a central mantra.
  • Inner vs. Outer: The balance and integration of inner spiritual practices with outer conduct and societal engagement.
  • Ahimsa, Aparigraha, Anekanta: These core Jain principles are presented as integral to Mahavir's life and message.
  • "Sarva-sangh Parityag" (Renunciation of all attachments): This ideal from Mahavir's life is highlighted as a source of inspiration.
• The Musical Presentation: The text describes "Mahavir Darshan - Mahavir Katha" as a musical and literary work, a "swara-kriti" and "shabda-kriti," aimed at bringing an inner realization of Mahavir's life. The author has created recordings (LP, CD, cassettes) and stage presentations of this work. The text includes references to the musical composition and its performances in various cities like Calcutta, Mumbai, and Rajkot.
• Holistic Life Philosophy: Mahavir's life is presented as a complete life philosophy ("Sampurna Jivan Darshan") and a "Way of Life," offering guidance on how to live harmoniously, peacefully, and joyfully from morning to night, from birth to death. It emphasizes the relevance of Mahavir's teachings for the present age.
• The Author's Mission: The author, Prof. Pratapkumar J. Tolia, has dedicated his life to propagating Mahavir's message through music, literature, and discourse, aiming to awaken the youth and society to the profound spiritual wealth of Jainism. He emphasizes that Mahavir belongs not to a sect but to all humanity.
• Compilation and Collaboration: The text acknowledges the contributions of various individuals, including family members, artists, friends, students, and spiritual guides, in the creation and dissemination of this work.
• Appendix and Testimonials: The latter part of the document includes testimonials from individuals who experienced the "Mahavir Darshan" program, praising its depth, musicality, and spiritual impact. It also lists numerous books and audio/video recordings by the author and his foundation, demonstrating a prolific output dedicated to spiritual and cultural dissemination.

In essence, "Antarlok Me Mahavir Ka Mahajivan" is an invitation to a profound, personal journey into the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, experienced through meditation, devotional music, and scriptural wisdom, aiming to bring about a holistic transformation in the individual and society.