Devkumar

This is a summary of the Jain text titled "Devkumar," authored and published by Bhogilal Ratan Chand Vora. The book is a social and religious novel, first published in 1942.

The book is a narrative that recounts the life and deeds of Devkumar, a significant figure in Jain tradition. The text begins with an invocation to Goddess Saraswati and then delves into the life of Bhadrabahu Swami, highlighting his profound scholarship, asceticism, and his role as a leader in the Jain tradition.

A significant portion of the text focuses on the challenges faced by the Jain faith, including internal strife and external pressures, and how figures like Bhadrabahu Swami navigated these difficulties. It also touches upon historical events and the political landscape of ancient India, such as the reign of King Nand and the rise of Chandragupta Maurya.

The narrative then shifts to the story of Devkumar himself, a prince who, despite his royal upbringing, embarks on a spiritual journey. The text describes his renunciation of worldly pleasures, his pursuit of spiritual knowledge, and his adherence to Jain principles. It also portrays the complex relationships and political intrigues he encounters, particularly the machinations of his stepmother, Devaldevi, and her manipulative maid, Manjari.

Devkumar's story involves his brothers, Vasant Sinh, Keshav Sinh, and Kirti Sinh, and the challenges they face due to Devaldevi's schemes. The narrative highlights Devkumar's unwavering commitment to righteousness, his friendship with Lalsinh, and his quest to uncover the truth behind his brother Vasant Sinh's disappearance.

The book also features a detailed account of the dream interpretations of Acharya Bhadrabahu Swami, who foretells the future through symbolic dreams, emphasizing the cyclical nature of time and the challenges to Jain dharma in different eras.

The story further explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of ambition, particularly through the characters of Bhadrik Sinh, who succumbs to his desires and the influence of his wicked advisors, and Manjari, who orchestrates a web of deceit and murder.

Ultimately, Devkumar, with the help of his loyal friend Lalsinh and divine guidance, overcomes the obstacles placed in his path. He exposes the treachery of his stepmother and her accomplices, restores justice, and ensures the well-being of his kingdom. The narrative concludes with a message of hope, emphasizing the triumph of truth, righteousness, and unwavering faith in Jain principles.

The book's author, Bhogilal Ratan Chand Vora, who was also the Rajkavi (poet laureate) of Dharampur State, is recognized for his significant contributions to Jain literature. He is credited with publishing ten books and delivering religious discourses with musical accompaniment, earning him numerous accolades. The publication of "Devkumar" was made possible through the generous support of individuals like Seth Budhabhai Sakarchand Sutariya and others mentioned in the acknowledgments.