Bhagwan Mahavir Mahiti Visheshank

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bhagwan Mahavir Mahiti Visheshank," based on the scanned pages:

Overview:

The scanned pages are from a special issue of the "Jain Saptahik" (Jain Weekly) published in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Titled "Bhagwan Mah Mahavir Mahiti Visheshank," this publication is the second edition and serves as a comprehensive overview of the 2500th Nirvana Mahotsav (Nirvana Festival) of Lord Mahavir. Authored by Gulabchand Devchand Sheth and published by Jain Saptahik, it is a richly illustrated volume dedicated to the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, and the grand celebrations held across India and beyond to commemorate his 2500th Nirvana anniversary.

Key Highlights and Content:

• Commemoration of Lord Mahavir's 2500th Nirvana: The entire publication is centered around the significant event of the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavir. The text emphasizes the unprecedented and grand scale of these celebrations, involving the entire Jain community and extending to the general populace who hold reverence for the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and the teachings of Lord Mahavir.

• Extensive Visual Content: The book is heavily illustrated with 35 specially created four-color pictures printed on high-quality creamy paper. It also features 60 two-color line drawings and 141 small artistic symbols. These visuals are intended to depict Lord Mahavir's life from his previous births to his final liberation. The quality of the binding and the image of Lord Mahavir on it are also highlighted.

• Multilingual Content: The book provides information in three languages: Gujarati, Hindi, and English, making it accessible to a wider audience.

• Detailed Information and Scope: The publication includes 12 appendices and spans a total of 158 pages. It aims to capture the essence of the nationwide and even international celebrations.

• Editor's Vision and Gratitude: The editor, Gulabchand Devchand Sheth, expresses his deep satisfaction and gratitude for being able to contribute to preserving the memory of this significant event through the "Mahiti Visheshank" (Information Special Issue). He acknowledges the challenging nature of collecting such extensive information from across the country and beyond, highlighting the effort involved in gathering, compiling, and editing the material, including numerous pictures. He expresses hope that this issue will serve as a valuable resource for future generations.

• Inspiration and Support: The publication details the immense support received from various sources. This includes blessings and inspiration from prominent Acharyas like Shri Vijaypratapsingh Surishwarji Maharaj and Shri Vijaydharmasurishwarji Maharaj, as well as the active participation and encouragement from Muni Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj and other Jain scholars and saints. The support from organizations like the Shri Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Conference in Mumbai, which provided office space, is also gratefully acknowledged. Financial support through advertisements from well-wishers and the public is also mentioned as crucial for the publication's success.

• Focus on the Celebrations: The text extensively details the various programs and activities that took place during the 2500th Nirvana Mahotsav. These include:

  • Assemblies, processions, early morning gatherings, and religious processions.
  • Various types of Pujans (worship ceremonies), Mahapujans, and Bhajans.
  • Competitions in oratory, essay writing, art, and music.
  • Academic discussions (symposiums), Kavisammelans (poetry gatherings), and exhibitions on Jain culture, philosophy, history, and architecture.
  • The proclamation of "Antik Bandi" (ban on slaughter) and "Katalkhana Bandi" (ban on slaughterhouses) as a practical manifestation of Ahimsa.
  • Reductions in prison sentences, releases of prisoners, and commutation of death sentences, inspired by Lord Mahavir's compassion.
  • Distribution of food, sweets, and fruits to the poor and needy, and to patients in hospitals.
  • Issuance of special silver coins and postage stamps commemorating the Nirvana Mahotsav, including a stamp featuring the Jalmandir of Pavapuri.
  • Establishment of educational institutions, research centers, and Jain chairs in universities.
  • The establishment of new libraries and museums, and the expansion of existing ones.
  • Publication of numerous books, collections of high-quality pictures, special issues of magazines, and daily newspaper supplements.
  • Organization of dance-dramas, documentaries on Jain Tirths, and broadcasts on All India Radio featuring Jain devotional songs and discussions on Jainism.
  • Religious practices like Tapa (asceticism), Japa (chanting), meditation, and Anushthana held in various places.

• Unity and Collaboration: The publication highlights the unprecedented spirit of brotherhood and cooperation among different sects of the Jain community during this festival. For the first time in Jain history, a single Jain symbol and flag were recognized by all sects. The compilation of "Shraman Sutra," summarizing the essence of Jainism, is also noted as a significant achievement.

• Government Support: The extensive involvement and organizational efforts of the Central and State governments, including the formation of committees at various levels (national, regional, district), are emphasized as exemplary.

• Impact and Legacy: The publication aims to preserve the memory of this grand celebration for future generations and to showcase the spiritual grandeur of Lord Mahavir and Jain culture. It acknowledges the immediate benefits and long-term constructive contributions like educational institutions, hospitals, libraries, and museums as lasting legacies.

• Specific Examples of Celebrations: The text provides numerous specific examples of how the festival was celebrated across different states (Bihar, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Goa, and Nepal). It details the establishment of various memorial sites, statues, educational centers, and the impact on social reforms like the ban on liquor and meat.

• Personal Reflections and Gratitude: The editors and contributors express profound gratitude to all those who supported the publication, including spiritual leaders, community elders, friends, and volunteers, without whom this monumental task would not have been possible.

In essence, "Bhagwan Mahavir Mahiti Visheshank" is a historical document that meticulously records the widespread and diverse celebrations of Lord Mahavir's 2500th Nirvana anniversary, showcasing the organizational prowess, spiritual fervor, and cultural richness of the Jain community, along with the significant government and societal support received for this monumental occasion.