Aparajiteshwar Shatak - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Aparajiteshwar Shatak" by Devraj Pathik, focusing on the work and its translator, Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj:

This document is a review or appreciation of the Hindi translation of the "Aparajiteshwar Shatak," a significant work by the renowned South Indian poet Ratnakar Varni. The review highlights the immense contributions of Shri 108 Shri Digambar Jainacharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj, the translator of this work into Hindi.

About Ratnakar Varni and Aparajiteshwar Shatak:

Ratnakar Varni is described as a preeminent poet in the Kannada language, deeply concerned with the welfare of humanity.
The "Aparajiteshwar Shatak" is an immortal poetic work by Ratnakar Varni, comprising a total of 127 verses (padyas).

About Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj (the Translator):

Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj is lauded as a great ascetic saint of the modern era and a prominent figure in the Vitaragi (non-attached) tradition.
He is considered the foremost successor to the immeasurable virtues of Shri 108 Acharyavarya Shri Shantisagarji Maharaj.
His profound knowledge, studious nature, and exceptional spiritual brilliance have guided many lost souls towards the right path of living.
While primarily recognized as a scholar of Kannada and Marathi languages, his intellectual prowess is equally accessible in other Indian languages.
His notable translated works from Kannada into Hindi, Gujarati, and Marathi include "Bharatesh Vaibhav," "Ratnakar Shatak," "Paramatma Prakash," "Dharmamrit," "Nirvan Lakshmipati Stuti," and "Niranjan Stuti."
His original thought and creative spirit are evident in his independent works such as "Guru Shishya Samvad," "Chinmay Chintamani," "Ahimsa ka Divya Sandesh," and "Mahavir Divya Sandesh."
Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj embodies a rare combination of knowledge and character.

Significance of the Hindi Translation:

The review emphasizes that the Hindi translation of the "Aparajiteshwar Shatak" is a valuable contribution, particularly in showcasing the diverse streams of thought within South Indian literature, especially Kannada and Tamil.
Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj's effort in translating such rich South Indian literature into Hindi is seen as a significant step in realizing the vision of national consciousness for the entire country.
The translation is considered a landmark achievement in Hindi translated literature, offering a profound and unique perspective.
The reviewer praises the translation for its authenticity, natural flow, elegance, impact, and aesthetic appeal, attributing these qualities to the translator's deep faith and ascetic practices in literature, philosophy, and religion.
The translation is described as the "nectar-like speech" of a realized soul, reflecting the luminous spiritual consciousness of an ascetic and the pure, sincere, and divine essence of a great self-aware individual.
By translating this 127-verse Kannada masterpiece into Hindi in two volumes, Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj has benefited countless followers of Jainism and the vast Hindi-speaking population, making this significant work accessible to a much wider audience.
The translation is further enriched by citations from numerous other texts, adding to its originality and depth.
The reviewer notes that, much like his spiritual discourses, Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj's original and translated works possess a remarkable capacity for self-purification.
The reviewer expresses a desire for humanity to continue to have the fortune of encountering such great scholars and ascetic saints, enabling lost souls to immerse themselves in their own inner essence.

Overall Impression:

The "Aparajiteshwar Shatak" translation by Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj is presented as an exceptional, unique, and deeply insightful work. It is lauded not only for its high standard of translation but also for its ability to convey the original essence and joy of the text. The review strongly highlights Acharya Deshbhushanji Maharaj's immense scholarly and spiritual stature and his dedication to bridging cultural and linguistic divides through his literary endeavors. His work is seen as a beacon of spiritual guidance and cultural enrichment, contributing significantly to the intellectual and spiritual landscape of India.