Dvipushta Vasudev Charitram

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dvipaushṭa Vasudeva Charitra" by Vardhamansuri, translated and published by Pandit Shravak Hiralal Hansraj:

This text is a biography of Dvipaushṭa Vasudeva, a significant figure in Jain tradition. The work, originally authored by Shri Vardhamansuri, is presented here with its original Sanskrit verses, transliterated into Gujarati script, followed by a Gujarati translation and explanation by Pandit Hiralal Hansraj. The publication date is Vikram Samvat 1984 (1929 CE).

The Narrative unfolds as follows:

The story begins by introducing King Pawanvega of Prithvipur, who was virtuous and brought happiness to his subjects, both friends and foes. He eventually renounced worldly life, took vows from Muni Shramanasimha, and performed severe penance, after which he attained an excellent celestial abode.

The narrative then shifts to the city of Vindhyapur in South Bharatavarsha, where King Vindhyashakti ruled. He was known for his immense power, his bow symbolized victory, and his army was formidable. His prowess was such that defeated kings, overwhelmed by his might, would fall before him.

A spy informs King Vindhyashakti about the prosperous city of Saket in Bharatavarsha, ruled by King Parvat, who was renowned for his military victories and possessed a beautiful courtesan named Gunamanjari. King Vindhyashakti, struck by the description of Gunamanjari, becomes infatuated with her.

King Vindhyashakti sends his minister to King Parvat to request Gunamanjari. The minister delivers Vindhyashakti's message, which emphasizes the shared destiny and friendship between them. He conveys Vindhyashakti's belief that whatever belongs to one should be shared with the other, including prosperity and even Gunamanjari.

King Parvat, angered by this audacious request, vows to fight Vindhyashakti. He is further provoked when Vindhyashakti's minister arrogantly demands Gunamanjari and threatens severe consequences if she is not handed over. Parvat, feeling insulted and determined to defend his honor, mobilizes his army.

A great battle ensues between the armies of Vindhyashakti and Parvat. The text vividly describes the fierce combat, the bravery of the soldiers, the clash of weapons, and the immense casualties on both sides. The fighting is depicted as epic, with soldiers fighting with immense courage and determination.

In the midst of the battle, King Parvat, renowned for his strength and skill, is defeated by King Vindhyashakti. After his defeat, Parvat renounces the world, takes monastic vows from Acharya Sambhavasuri, and undertakes severe penance, aiming to attain a higher rebirth. Vindhyashakti, victorious, takes Gunamanjari as his own.

The narrative then traces the subsequent lives of these characters. King Parvat, after his ascetic practices, dies and ascends to a celestial realm. Vindhyashakti also experiences a life of virtue, eventually becoming a Jain monk, dying, and ascending to heaven.

Later, Vindhyashakti is reborn as a prince named Taraka in the city of Dvaraka, son of King Brahmadaitya. He grows up to be a powerful warrior with immense strength and longevity. Meanwhile, the soul of King Pawanvega is reborn as Prince Vijay, son of King Brahmadaitya and Queen Subhadra. Prince Vijay is known for his virtue and his ability to bring joy to all.

The text then describes the celestial events surrounding the births of these princes, including prophetic dreams. Prince Vijay's birth is celebrated with great fanfare, and he is named "Vijay" for his auspicious qualities. Prince Taraka is also born and nurtured by his parents.

The story highlights the contrasting natures of Prince Vijay and Prince Taraka. Vijay is depicted as virtuous and popular, while Taraka is portrayed as arrogant and power-hungry. The narrative sets the stage for their inevitable confrontation.

The Conflict:

A conflict arises between Prince Taraka and Prince Vijay. Taraka, driven by his pride and ambition, demands that Vijay submit to him and relinquish his possessions and kingdom. Vijay, upholding his principles, refuses.

The conflict escalates into a full-blown war. The armies clash fiercely, with descriptions of valiant battles, heroic deeds, and the devastating consequences of warfare. The text details the strategies and tactics employed by both sides, emphasizing the prowess of the warriors.

During the battle, Prince Taraka, wielding a powerful discus (chakra), faces Prince Vijay. The battle is intense, with both princes displaying exceptional skill and courage. Despite the ferocity of the fight, the outcome remains uncertain for a time.

Ultimately, Prince Vijay, a manifestation of divine power and virtue, defeats Prince Taraka. The text describes the final moments of the battle, with Vijay's discus striking Taraka and ultimately leading to his demise. After his victory, Vijay is crowned as the ruler of the southern part of Bharatavarsha, consolidating his power and establishing a just and righteous reign.

The final verses describe Prince Vijay's coronation and his benevolent rule. He defeats many kings and establishes a reign of righteousness, bringing peace and prosperity to his kingdom. The text concludes by stating that this biography of Dvipaushṭa Vasudeva is presented for the spiritual benefit of all, with the hope that it will lead to their welfare.

Key Themes and Elements:

• Karma and Rebirth: The story emphasizes the Jain principles of karma and rebirth, showing how the actions of individuals in one life influence their future existences.
• Virtue vs. Vice: The narrative contrasts the virtuous and righteous paths of Prince Vijay with the prideful and ambitious nature of Prince Taraka.
• Dharma and Righteous Rule: The text highlights the importance of righteous governance, justice, and the duties of a king.
• Epic Battles and Heroism: The detailed descriptions of battles and the heroic exploits of the warriors add an epic quality to the narrative.
• Spiritual Renunciation and Penance: The examples of King Pawanvega and King Parvat underscore the Jain emphasis on renouncing worldly attachments and performing penance for spiritual liberation.
• Devotion and Divine Intervention: The narrative implicitly suggests the role of divine grace and the influence of spiritual forces in the unfolding of events.

In essence, "Dvipaushṭa Vasudeva Charitra" is a Jain hagiographical work that narrates the heroic exploits and spiritual journey of its central character, emphasizing the moral and ethical principles central to Jainism.