Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras - Book Summary

I can provide a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras" by Sadhviji Jitkalpashreeji, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Shri Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras Author: Sadhviji Jitkalpashreeji (Translator) Original Author (of the Ras): Pandit Shrivijayji Publisher: Shri Vadachouta Samvegi Jain Mota Upashray, Surat

Summary of the Provided Text:

The provided pages are from the Gujarati translation and commentary of "Shri Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras," originally composed by Pandit Shrivijayji Maharaj. The text is a devotional and narrative work, likely a "Ras" (a poetic narrative genre in Jain literature, often sung), detailing the life and incidents related to King Chandrashekhar and his queens.

Here's a breakdown of the key information and themes presented in the provided pages:

1. Dedication and Praises:

The text begins with salutations and praises to various Jain Tirthas (holy places) like Shri Suparshvanath, Shri Jirawala Parshvanath, Shri Shatrunjay Tirth, and the Guru Nemi Suri.
It highlights the inspiration and blessings from prominent Jain Acharyas like Acharya Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, Acharya Shilchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, and Acharya Pradyumnasurishwarji Maharaj.
The translator, Sadhviji Shri Jitkalpashreeji, is acknowledged as a disciple seeking the Guru's grace.

2. Author Information (Pandit Shrivijayji Maharaj):

The text provides a detailed biographical sketch of Pandit Shrivijayji Maharaj, a highly prolific and influential Jain scholar-poet of the 19th century.
Birth: Born in Ahmedabad in Vikram Samvat 1829 (1772 CE).
Childhood Name: Keshav.
Renunciation: Showed early signs of detachment. Left home after his father's death at 15 and later accepted initiation at the age of 19 in Vikram Samvat 1848 (1841 CE) near Khambhat.
Literary Contribution: He is lauded as a great poet whose works flowed like a stream. He composed extensively on various subjects, including astrology, Tantra-Mantra, Swaroday, ethics, religion, omens, and practical examples.
Key Work: "Shri Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras" was composed in his late years (Vikram Samvat 1902 / 1845 CE) for Premabhai, son of Nagarseth Hemabhai.
Other Notable Works: The text mentions several other influential works like "Sursundari Ras," "Panch Kalyanak Puja," "Chatushth Prakari Puja," "Navanu Prakari Puja," "Dhammil Kumar Ras," etc., highlighting his mastery in devotional poetry and puja compositions.
Dispute Resolution: It mentions his significant role in settling the "Tithi-vad" (date dispute) with the Sthanakvasi community, using his scriptural knowledge to prove the validity of idol worship.
Demise: Passed away in Ahmedabad in Vikram Samvat 1908 (1851 CE).

3. "Shri Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras" - The Work Itself:

Structure: Composed in four parts (khand), with 57 chapters (dhal) and 2,991 verses (kadi).
Content: The Ras narrates the wonderful life stories of King Chandrashekhar and his queens, including Gunyasundari and Mrigasundari. It is described as engaging and instructive, enriched with descriptions of astrology, Tantra-Mantra, Swaroday, ethics, religion, omens, and practical reasoning, showcasing the author's deep knowledge in various subjects.
Purpose of Translation/Commentary: The current publication, translated and commented upon by Sadhviji Shri Jitkalyashreeji, aims to clarify specific difficult passages and make the unique poetic work more accessible to a wider audience, especially women, so that the dust can be blown off the ancient texts and they can be heard with enthusiasm.
Illustrations: The commentary also includes illustrations prepared with great effort, depicting various incidents from the Ras.

4. Biographical Details of the Translator (Sadhviji Shri Jitkalyashreeji):

The text dedicates a section to the life and spiritual journey of Sadhviji Shri Jitkalyashreeji.
Inspiration: Inspired by the teachings and presence of her Guru, Sadhviji Shri Suryaprabhashreeji Maharaj Saheb.
Spiritual Path: The narrative highlights the journey of Kamala Ben, her mother, and her two sisters (Daughters Sushila and Tara) who all took spiritual initiation under the guidance of Pujya Devishriji Maharaj Saheb and Guru Dev Shri Suryaprabhashreeji Maharaj Saheb. The story emphasizes the strong spiritual bond and aspiration for liberation (moksha).
Discipleship: Sadhviji Shri Jitkalyashreeji is a devoted disciple of Pujyapad Gurudev Shri Suryaprabhashreeji Maharaj Saheb, dedicating the translated work to her spiritual mentor.
Overcoming Obstacles: The text alludes to facing challenges and controversies ("vintoliyo") in her spiritual journey but overcoming them with divine grace and the guidance of her Acharyas.

5. The Narrative of King Chandrashekhar (as depicted in the Ras):

The text includes excerpts of the Ras itself, starting with Manglacharan (auspicious invocation).
The narrative begins by describing the prosperous city of Varanasi, its king Mahasen, and his queen Shailavati.
It introduces Prince Chandrashekhar, who undergoes extraordinary experiences and miraculous journeys.
The story touches upon themes of karma, virtue, knowledge, and the importance of righteous actions.
It includes detailed descriptions of the universe, the sacred Mount Shatrunjay, and the teachings of Lord Mahavir Swami.
The text delves into the life of Chandrashekhar, his interactions with various characters, his pursuit of knowledge, and the spiritual lessons learned.
The provided text includes the initial chapters (dhal 1 to 13, and parts of others) of the Ras, describing Chandrashekhar's birth, his education, the introduction of various characters like Guṇasundari, the magical elements, and his encounters, suggesting a rich and detailed narrative.

6. Publisher and Support:

The publisher is Shri Vadachouta Samvegi Jain Mota Upashray, Surat.
The publication is supported by numerous individuals and organizations, as listed in the concluding pages (Page 21-27), indicating community support for this literary endeavor.

Overall Theme:

The "Shri Chandrashekhar Rajano Ras" by Pandit Shrivijayji, as translated and presented by Sadhviji Jitkalpashreeji, is a spiritual and moral narrative aimed at imparting Jain teachings and values through the engaging life story of King Chandrashekhar. It highlights the importance of righteousness, knowledge, devotion, and the consequences of actions (karma). The translation and commentary aim to make this profound work accessible and understandable to a wider audience, preserving and promoting Jain heritage.

Note: The provided text is primarily in Gujarati, and the summary is based on interpreting the content from the Gujarati script and the context provided. The detailed narrative of Chandrashekhar's life would be found within the full text of the Ras.