Bhoj Charitra

The following is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhoja Charitra" by Rajvallabh, edited by Dr. P. C. H. Chhabra and S. Sankaranarayanan, published by Bharatiya Gyanpith:

Overall Scope and Purpose:

The "Bhoja Charitra" is a Jain text that narrates the life and deeds of King Bhoja, a famous ruler in Indian history. While acknowledging that Indian historical literature often lacks purely historical accounts, the text emphasizes that Jain literature is rich in references to historical facts and individuals. These references are included to inspire ideal and elevated human life and to establish moral and ethical conduct. The "Bhoja Charitra" is presented as a significant contribution to this corpus, providing a valuable narrative of King Bhoja's life.

Author and Context:

The text was composed by Rajvallabh, a follower of Jainism. He lived approximately four hundred years after King Bhoja, around the mid-12th century. Rajvallabh's primary intention in writing this work was to illustrate the glory and importance of donating food (अन्नदान). He collected various narratives and anecdotes related to King Bhoja from his time and presented them in a style consistent with the literary conventions of his era.

Editorial Work and Publication:

This Sanskrit poetic composition was first edited by Dr. Bahadur Chand Chhabra and Mr. S. Sankaranarayanan. Their work was based on eight ancient manuscripts, the oldest dating back to Samvat 1498 (1441 CE). The editors' work is highly praised for its skill, and the introductory preface is noted for its scholarly discussion of the subject matter and its connection to the author. The Bharatiya Gyanpith is commended for publishing this important ancient work in a modern, well-edited format. The publication details indicate the first edition was released in Vikram Samvat 2020 (1964 CE), corresponding to Nirvan Samvat 2490.

Key Themes and Narrative Structure:

The "Bhoja Charitra" recounts the story of King Bhoja, highlighting his virtues such as generosity, love for learning, bravery, wisdom, and righteousness. The narrative is structured into several "Prastavas" (sections or chapters), each detailing different episodes from Bhoja's life.

Summary of Key Episodes (Based on the provided text):

• Prastava 1: The Birth and Early Life of Bhoja:

  • The story begins with a invocation to the Tirthankaras.
  • It introduces the kingdom of Malwa and its beautiful capital, Dharanagari.
  • It describes King Sindhu, the father of Bhoja, who was virtuous, brave, and wise.
  • King Sindhu and his queen, Ratnavali, were childless, leading to their distress.
  • One day, while on a hunting trip, King Sindhu found a child, whom he named Munja (or Muñja), believing him to be a gift from Providence.
  • Munja was raised as the king's adopted son.
  • The narrative details Munja's upbringing, education, and the events leading to his ascension to the throne.
  • It includes episodes of Munja's wisdom, such as his discerning judgment in resolving disputes, and his interactions with his ministers and the challenges he faced.
  • A significant portion of this Prastava focuses on the intrig, and eventual blindness, of Munja, and the subsequent rise of Bhoja. It details how Bhoja, though adopted, proved his worthiness and eventually took over the kingdom.
  • The Prastava also touches upon the political landscape, mentioning neighboring kings and their interactions with Bhoja.
  • It highlights Bhoja's just and benevolent rule, his patronage of arts and sciences, and his devotion to Jain principles, particularly the practice of donating food.

• Prastava 2: The Deeds of Bhoja and a Tale of Incarnation:

  • This section continues to narrate Bhoja's great deeds.
  • It includes an episode involving Jayasena, the son of the king of Kalinga, and a clever method of valuing heads that demonstrates Bhoja's sharp intellect.
  • It narrates Bhoja's marriage to Saubhayg Sundari, princess of Dakshinapatha, and his infatuation with her, which led him to neglect his royal duties.
  • The text mentions Bhoja's pursuit of knowledge and his eventual mastery of various arts and sciences, earning him the title "Sarasvati-viruda."
  • It also includes the story of a cat that performed rituals like a human, highlighting the nature of true character versus acquired qualities.
  • A significant episode describes Bhoja's encounter with a Rakshasa and a divine couple, which reveals the story of their past lives and the reason for their current predicaments. This section emphasizes the concept of karma and rebirth.
  • It further details how Bhoja, through his wisdom and understanding of past lives, was able to resolve their issues and guide them towards righteousness.

• Prastava 3: Bhoja's Wisdom and a Tale of Past Lives:

  • This Prastava delves deeper into Bhoja's intellectual prowess and his encounters with various individuals who highlight philosophical and ethical dilemmas.
  • It recounts the story of Dhanapala, a wealthy merchant, and his wife, who were cursed due to their actions in a previous birth. Bhoja, with his wisdom, helps them understand their karma and find a path to redemption.
  • The narrative also highlights the importance of knowledge and its proper application, as demonstrated through various characters and situations.
  • A prominent episode is the interaction with a "Vidya-dhara" (a celestial being possessing supernatural powers), who tests Bhoja's intellect and wisdom.
  • The text emphasizes the Jain principles of non-violence, truthfulness, and detachment from worldly possessions.

• Prastava 4: Bhoja's Encounters and a Parable of Transmigration:

  • This section continues to showcase Bhoja's encounters with extraordinary beings and his ability to resolve complex situations through his wisdom.
  • It includes the story of a parrot that possesses remarkable knowledge and guides Bhoja in his quest for true happiness.
  • The narrative details Bhoja's interactions with Chandrasena, the king of Chandravati, and his daughter, Pushpavati.
  • A significant portion is dedicated to the story of "Sechanaka," a character who plays a pivotal role in Bhoja's interactions with Pushpavati, demonstrating the consequences of past actions and the power of destiny.
  • The story of Sechanaka's tragic past life and his eventual liberation through righteous conduct is recounted, reinforcing the theme of karma.
  • It also highlights the importance of virtue, wisdom, and divine intervention in overcoming life's challenges.
  • The Prastava concludes with the marriage of Bhoja to Pushpavati, signifying the culmination of his journey and the establishment of a just and prosperous reign.

• Prastava 5: Bhoja's Virtues and the Tale of Devaraja and Vatsaraja:

  • This Prastava emphasizes Bhoja's continued virtuous rule and his deep affection for his sons, Devaraja and Vatsaraja.
  • It narrates the story of Devaraja's birth, his upbringing, and his exceptional talents.
  • The text highlights the strong bond between the brothers and their commitment to righteousness.
  • A significant episode involves Bhoja's sons being sent on a mission and their encounter with a merchant and a mysterious old woman, which leads them to understand the concept of transmigration and the consequences of karma.
  • The narrative emphasizes the Jain belief in the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of virtuous conduct.
  • It concludes with the successful resolution of the sons' challenges and their reunion with their father, further solidifying Bhoja's reputation as a wise and compassionate ruler.

Literary Style and Language:

The "Bhoja Charitra" is written in Sanskrit verse, adhering to the poetic conventions of the time. The language is described as rich and expressive, capable of conveying complex philosophical and ethical ideas. The narrative is engaging, blending historical accounts with mythological elements to create a compelling story.

Overall Significance:

The "Bhoja Charitra" is a valuable Jain text that not only chronicles the life of a renowned king but also serves as a repository of Jain teachings and values. It emphasizes the importance of righteousness, generosity, wisdom, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. The text's enduring appeal lies in its ability to inspire readers with its portrayal of a virtuous king and its exploration of profound philosophical concepts within an engaging narrative framework.