Bharatni Ek Viral Vibhuti - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bharatni Ek Viral Vibhuti" by Chitrabhanu, based on the provided pages:

The book "Bharatni Ek Viral Vibhuti" (A Rare Luminary of India) by Muni Shri Chandraprahsagarji (Chitrabhanu) is a tribute to Lord Mahavir on the occasion of his Nirvana. Published by Jain Yuvak Mandal, the book is presented as a compilation of two essays previously published in "Siddhachakra" and "Kalyanu" magazines.

Part 1: "Bharatni Ek Viral Vibhuti" (A Rare Luminary of India)

This section is a biographical and inspirational account of Lord Mahavir, presented poetically and with deep reverence.

The Divine Incarnation: The text describes Lord Mahavir's birth on a blessed Chaitra Shukla Terash (the 13th day of the waxing moon in the month of Chaitra). His arrival is portrayed as a beacon of hope for a world engulfed in violence, indulgence, and sin. His birth brought an atmosphere of peace, joy, and spiritual awakening, likened to the melodious chirping of birds and the flowing of rivers. Even celestial beings and great kings paid homage to him.
Life and Renunciation: Lord Mahavir lived a life of princely splendor, enjoying worldly pleasures and having a cultured child. However, he viewed these as mere remedies for the worldly disease of attachment. At the age of thirty, he experienced a profound detachment upon realizing the suffering in the world and renounced his opulent life (Maha-abhinishkramana). This departure was deeply emotional for his loved ones, particularly his younger brother, signifying the pain of separation.
Ascetic Practices: The text highlights the immense hardship of Lord Mahavir's ascetic life. He endured the scorching sun after enjoying cool shade, walked on thorns after sleeping on soft beds, and tolerated insults after receiving salutations. His heart alone could truly comprehend the difficulty of this path.
The Test of Sangam: The narrative describes how even King Indra praised Lord Mahavir's fearlessness in the face of death and his equanimity in life, his contentment not being swayed by pleasures and his spirit not being dimmed by suffering. This praise was perceived as hyperbole by an envious celestial being named Sangam. Driven by pride and a desire to prove Indra wrong, Sangam attempted to test Lord Mahavir by transforming into a lion, thundering with terrifying roars, and manifesting as a fierce demon. However, all these attempts failed to disturb the unshakeable lamp of Lord Mahavir's inner resolve.
Sangam's Repentance and Forgiveness: Witnessing Lord Mahavir's steadfastness, Sangam's pride was shattered. He realized his own sin and deeply repented his actions. He fell at Lord Mahavir's feet, acknowledging his own impurity and ignorance and begging for forgiveness. Lord Mahavir, with his compassionate gaze, showered him with mercy.
Continued Austerities and Enlightenment: After enduring further hardships and trials, Lord Mahavir undertook twelve years of silent penance. During this period, he faced numerous calamities with equanimity, forbearance, and peace. These trials purified his karma, and his soul, like an infinite sun, began to shine forth. He attained Kevala Gyana (omniscience), and his luminous soul illuminated the directions. His countenance radiated joy, universal love, and serene gravity.
The Preachings of Mahavir: Upon breaking his silence, Lord Mahavir's voice, deep and melodious like the clouds, drew all beings – gods, demons, humans, and the ignorant – to listen to his teachings. He urged them to awaken from the slumber of indulgence, as their spiritual wealth was being plundered by anger, pride, delusion, and greed.
The Call to Inner Strength: When his followers expressed their weakness and inability to face these vices, Lord Mahavir declared that their souls were inherently powerful. The only difference was that their souls were burdened by karma, while his was purified. He exhorted them to shed this karmic clutter, become radiant, and stand firm like rocks against their enemies. He promised to show them the strategy for victory in the battle of life.
The Philosophy of Anekantavada: Lord Mahavir emphasized the transient nature of life, wealth, pleasure, and age, asserting that only Dharma (righteousness) is eternal. He stressed the necessity of abandoning pride and arrogance to truly embrace Dharma, as these vices had corrupted true religion and fostered conflict. He introduced Anekantavada (the doctrine of manifold aspects) as the supreme means for spiritual development and understanding the truth in the world. He explained that Anekantavada, also known as Syadvada or relativity, is the impartial judge that dispenses true justice and reveals truth. He stated that without adopting the perspective of Anekantavada, human development would remain stunted.
The Importance of Ahimsa (Non-violence): Following the philosophical discourse on Anekantavada, Lord Mahavir expounded on the practice of Ahimsa. He described Ahimsa as a beautiful river quenching the thirst of many, a bridge connecting hearts, a rose spreading fragrance, and a cuckoo bringing joy. He declared Ahimsa as the unfailing path to world peace. He attributed the exploitation, suffering, and atrocities in the world to violence and urged his followers to practice Ahimsa, protect innocent creatures, and uplift the downtrodden. He proclaimed Ahimsa as the nectar that grants immortality and brings happiness to the world.
The Impact of the Teachings: These teachings instilled new life and dynamism in the devotees. Prejudice melted away, discord was destroyed, the weak became strong, the fearful became brave, and the lifeless became vigorous. His teachings led to the creation of a vibrant and positive existence.
The Legacy of Mahavir: Lord Mahavir traveled extensively, spreading his message and purifying the land of India. For three decades, he established an empire of peace, nurturing the trees of truth, cultivating the fields of non-stealing, and allowing the flowers of contentment to bloom on the plants of self-control. He transformed the ruins of India into a magnificent garden during his lifetime.
The Nirvana and the Origin of Diwali: The text tragically narrates the passing of this luminous beacon in Pavapur. His Nirvana plunged the world into darkness, necessitating the creation of artificial lights, which came to be known as Diwali, the festival of lights. The author concludes this section by stating that Lord Mahavir's name continues to resonate in the hearts of humanity.

Part 2: "Ae Mahavirna Saput!" (O Son of Mahavir!)

This section is a direct, impassioned address to the modern Jain community, urging them to embody the principles of Lord Mahavir.

Awakening to Social Responsibility: The text implores the reader to wake up and observe the suffering of the poor and needy. It questions how one can enjoy delicious food, wear fine clothes, or indulge in pleasures when fellow humans are starving, lack clothing, or are consumed by hatred. It asks if their blood has grown cold with indifference and if they are betraying Lord Mahavir's teachings.
The Essence of Being Jain: The author emphasizes that being Jain means adhering to the principles of Ahimsa and Truth. He warns that losing these two "wings" will reduce them from "Jain" to mere "Jan" (human), losing their distinguishing glory and capacity to spread love and peace.
Embracing Inner Strength: The text encourages shedding laziness and lethargy, urging them to remember Mahavir's great deeds. It lists Mahavir's qualities as a hero who faced demons fearlessly, a great giver who helped the needy, a renunciate who abandoned worldly pleasures, a warrior who conquered his senses, and a preacher of Dharma who lived and spread the virtues of Ahimsa, Truth, Non-stealing, Self-control, and Non-possession.
Call to Action and Transformation: The author urges the reader, as a son of Mahavir, not to live a weak life. They are called to infuse their lives with vitality, make their voices echo, bring brilliance to their eyes, and show the world their immense power. They are encouraged to implement Mahavir's principles with unwavering resolve and to focus on actions rather than empty words, as the people are tired of hollow speeches.
Discipline and Overcoming Obstacles: The text stresses the importance of strict discipline, confronting and destroying desires, and removing obstacles to their development. It assures them that with faith, they will overcome challenges, and their inner strength will conquer even mountains and oceans.
Faith and Perseverance: The author acknowledges that the path will have thorns and mud, urging them to remain vigilant and not to be discouraged or drawn into the mire. In times of adversity, they should remember their infinite inner strength, which will dispel darkness and illuminate their path.
Sharing Inner Riches: The text calls upon the soul to reveal its grandeur, share its precious gems with the world, and cast a ray of its eternal light upon humanity, which is yearning for it.
The Purpose of Birth: It states that they were born not to die but to become immortal by living a noble life, conquering demonic tendencies, and spreading divine love and compassion. They are meant to illuminate the world with their pure light and offer freedom from selfishness.
Inner Truth vs. Outer Appearance: The author concludes by advising the reader to reflect honestly on their inner selves. He warns that external appearances are useless if the inner mind is impure, and while they might deceive the world, they cannot deceive their true companion, the soul. When confronted by the soul, their deception will be revealed, and they will suffer the consequences.

Overall Message:

"Bharatni Ek Viral Vibhuti" is a powerful and inspiring work that celebrates the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir. It serves as a biographical account, a philosophical exposition of core Jain principles like Anekantavada and Ahimsa, and a potent call to action for the modern Jain community to live up to the ideals of their spiritual heritage. The book emphasizes the importance of inner strength, ethical conduct, social responsibility, and unwavering adherence to truth and non-violence in achieving spiritual liberation and contributing to a better world.