Bhagavana Mahavira

This book, "Bhagavan Mahavira," published by Jain Parishad Publishing House in Delhi in August 1951, is a biographical account of the last Tirthankara of Jainism, Lord Mahavira. The book aims to fill a void in providing a comprehensive and authentic life story of Mahavira, especially on the occasion of his birth anniversary celebrated across India.

The author, Kamta Prasad Ji, is described as a distinguished historical writer with a unique style, who has previously authored numerous books on Jainism and its historical figures. He accepted the request to write this book and the preface is contributed by Vasudev Sharan.

The book is structured into several chapters covering various aspects of Lord Mahavira's life and teachings:

• Vir-Darshan (Philosophy of Mahavira): Introduces Mahavira as a symbol of ascetic culture and a living example of unwavering resolve amidst worldly pleasures.
• Samsar-Sthiti aur Kaal-Chakra (State of the World and the Wheel of Time): Discusses the cyclical nature of existence, the concept of time cycles (avasarpini and utsarpini), and the role of Tirthankaras in restoring Dharma.
• Tirthankar Kaun Hai (Who is a Tirthankar?): Explains the significance and characteristics of a Tirthankar, emphasizing their role as propagators of the path to liberation.
• Sadhana ke Path par (On the Path of Sadhana): Traces Mahavira's spiritual journey through various past lives, highlighting his continuous efforts towards self-realization and his gradual development towards becoming a Tirthankar.
• Tatkalin Paristhiti (The Prevailing Circumstances): Details the socio-economic and religious conditions of India during Mahavira's time, painting a picture of a society grappling with spiritual confusion, ritualistic excesses, and social inequalities.
• Nata-Kshatriya aur Kund-Gram (The Jnatri Kshatriyas and Kundgram): Describes the noble lineage of Mahavira's birth, the Jnatri clan, and his birthplace, Kundgram.
• Bhagavan ka Shubagman (The Auspicious Arrival of the Lord): Narrates the auspicious events surrounding Mahavira's birth, including divine signs and the divine conception.
• Yuvavastha aur Grihasth Jeevan (Youth and Householder Life): Covers Mahavira's early life, his exemplary conduct as a prince and householder, and his profound insights even in his youth.
• Vairagya aur Diksha Grahan (Renunciation and Initiation): Details Mahavira's detachment from worldly life and his momentous decision to embrace asceticism, a pivotal moment in his spiritual quest.
• Tapascharya aur Yoga Sadhana mein Paryatan (Penance and Travels in Yoga Sadhana): Describes his rigorous penance, austere practices, and extensive travels in search of ultimate truth.
• Vividh Upsarg Vijay (Conquest of Various Afflictions): Highlights the numerous challenges, persecutions, and hardships Mahavira faced with equanimity and fortitude, showcasing his unwavering resolve.
• Keval Gyanotpatti aur Dharm Chakra Parivartan (Attainment of Kevala Jnana and Setting the Wheel of Dharma in Motion): Marks the pivotal event of Mahavira attaining omniscience and his subsequent commencement of preaching the Dharma.
• Shri Indrabhuti Gautam Samagam aur Dharmopadesh (The Meeting with Shri Indrabhuti Gautam and the Sermon): Details the profound encounter with Indrabhuti Gautam, his conversion, and his role as the chief disciple. It further elaborates on Mahavira's sermons, the philosophical principles of Jainism, and the scientific basis of his teachings.
• Dharm Prachar aur Vihar (Preaching and Travels): Chronicles Mahavira's extensive missionary journeys across India and beyond, spreading the message of Ahimsa and Dharma.
• Chaturvidh Vir-Sangh aur Nigranth Guru (The Four-Fold Sangha and the Nigranth Ascetics): Explains the structure of Mahavira's spiritual organization, comprising monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
• Samrat Shrenik Vimbisar aur Prabhu Vir (Emperor Shrenik Bimbisar and Prabhu Vir): Discusses the close relationship between King Bimbisara and Lord Mahavira, highlighting the king's devotion and intellectual curiosity.
• Abhay Rajkumar ki Pravajya (The Renunciation of Prince Abhay): Narrates the story of Prince Abhay, his spiritual awakening, and his path to renunciation.
• Varishen Muni ka Samyaktva (The Right Faith of Muni Varisen): Presents the story of Muni Varisen and his steadfast adherence to Jain principles.
• Mahila Ratna Chandana aur Chelni ki Veer Bhakti (The Devotion of the Female Gems Chandana and Chelni): Showcases the deep devotion and exemplary lives of women who were disciples of Mahavira.
• Kunik-Ajatshatru ki Veer Vandana (The Heroic Adoration of Kunik-Ajatshatru): Describes the conversion and reverence shown by King Ajatshatru towards Mahavira.
• Ganayanak Raja Chetak aur Senapati Singh ka Veer Samagum (The Heroic Meeting of Chieftain Raja Chetak and Senapati Singh): Highlights the devotion of King Chetak and his son Senapati Singh.
• Vaikhyar Shail par Veer-Deshna (The Sermon of Vir on Vaikhyar Hill): Details a significant sermon delivered by Mahavira.
• Shabdal Putra ka Shanka Nivaran (The Dispelling of Doubt by Shabdal Putra): Narrates the interaction with Shabdal Putra and the clarification of his doubts regarding fate versus free will.
• Vir Shraman Jeevdhar ki Siddhi (The Attainment of Siddhi by the Ascetic Jeevdhar): Recounts the spiritual achievements of Muni Jeevdhar.
• Rajrishi Udyan ki Vaiyavritti (The Service of Rajrishi Udyan): Tells the story of King Udyan's dedication and service.
• Mangkhali Goshala aur Pooran Kashyap Prasang (The Incidents of Mangkhali Goshala and Poorn Kashyap): Discusses the encounters and philosophical differences with contemporary ascetics like Goshala and Kashyap.
• Bh. Mahavir aur Mo. Gautam Buddha (Bhagavan Mahavir and Mahatma Gautam Buddha): Compares and contrasts Mahavira and Buddha, highlighting their distinct paths and teachings.
• Bhagavan ka Moksha Labh aur Nirvana Dham (The Lord's Attainment of Moksha and the Abode of Nirvana): Describes the final liberation of Lord Mahavira.
• Bh. Mahavir Sambandhi Tirth aur Puratatva (Tirthas and Archaeology Related to Bhagavan Mahavira): Lists and describes significant places associated with Mahavira's life and their archaeological relevance.
• Jeevan se Prapt Shikshaen aur Upasanhara (Lessons from the Life and Conclusion): Summarizes the key takeaways and teachings from Mahavira's life and concludes the book.

The book emphasizes Mahavira's teachings on Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Brahmacharya (celibacy), and how these principles offer solutions to the problems faced by humanity. It also touches upon the historical context, the philosophical debates of the era, and the lasting impact of Mahavira's life and philosophy. The book aims to be a source of inspiration and guidance for both Jain and non-Jain readers, promoting the understanding and practice of ethical and spiritual living.