Emperor Vikramaditya Diwakar Chitrakatha 050 051 052

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Emperor Vikramaditya Diwakar Chitrakatha 050 051 052":

This illustrated storybook, presented by Mahavir Seva Trust and authored by Jinottamsuri and Shreechand Surana, chronicles the life and remarkable achievements of Emperor Vikramaditya, highlighting his association with Jainism and the significant contributions of Jain scholars.

Emperor Vikramaditya's Legacy: The book establishes Emperor Vikramaditya as a historical figure revered for his policies of justice and public welfare, comparable to figures like Shri Rama and Shri Krishna. His name is cemented in the popular Indian calendar, Vikram Samvat, dating back to around 56-57 BC, which marked a glorious and peaceful period of his reign. He was a scholar himself, a patron of learning, and respected all religions.

The Role of Acharya Siddhasen Divakar: A pivotal figure in the narrative is Acharya Siddhasen Divakar, a contemporary of Vikramaditya and an epoch-making scholar in Jain history. Known for his radical and revolutionary thinking within Jainism, Siddhasen's intellectual prowess and austere lifestyle greatly influenced Vikramaditya, leading the Emperor to become an ardent supporter of Jainism.

The Story of King Bhartrihari and the Fruit of Immortality: The narrative begins with Vikramaditya's brother, King Bhartrihari of Avanti. After a quarrel with Queen Anangasena, Vikramaditya leaves his kingdom. Meanwhile, Bhartrihari receives a divine fruit of immortality from a grateful Brahmin. However, the fruit passes through a chain of people – Bhartrihari, his queen, the city commandant, his girlfriend, and finally back to Bhartrihari – each driven by their own desires and affections, ultimately revealing the transient nature of worldly love and the prevalence of deception. Witnessing this, Bhartrihari renounces the kingdom and embarks on a spiritual path as Yogi Bhartrihari, known for his works like Vairagya Shatak and Niti Shatak.

Vikramaditya's Journey and Rise to Kingship: Disguised as an Avadhoot Yogi, Vikramaditya wanders, encountering his friend Matribhatt. Together, they experience trials that showcase Vikramaditya's inherent brilliance, courage, and integrity. Upon learning of Avanti's plight – the kingdom being plagued by the Agni Vetaal ghost after Bhartrihari's renunciation – Vikramaditya, guided by his friend and destiny, returns to Avanti.

Confronting the Agni Vetaal: Vikramaditya, still in disguise as an Avadhoot Yogi, takes charge of Avanti to combat the Agni Vetaal. He cunningly outsmarts the ghost through a series of strategic maneuvers and dialogues, eventually establishing a pact of friendship with Vetaal. This period sees Vikramaditya administering justice and focusing on public welfare, earning him the respect and admiration of the people.

Coronation and Public Welfare: The people and ministers of Avanti, impressed by his leadership, request him to shed his yogic guise and assume the royal mantle. His coronation is celebrated with great fanfare. During his reign, Vikramaditya prioritizes public welfare, art, literature, and commerce, working tirelessly to eradicate ignorance and poverty.

The Story of Sukomala and the Transformation of Hatred: Vikramaditya's wisdom and statesmanship are further tested in his quest to win over Sukomala, the princess of Pratishthanapur, who harbors a deep-seated hatred for men due to her past-life experiences. Disguised as a dancer named Vikrama, Vikramaditya befriends Sukomala, listens to her stories of past lives, and subtly guides her towards understanding the true nature of relationships and challenging her prejudices. With the help of Vetaal and his courtesan friends, Madana and Kaamkeli, Vikramaditya eventually reveals his identity, and Sukomala, realizing the truth, overcomes her hatred. They marry, and Sukomala's son, Dev Kumar, later becomes known as Vikramcharitra, proving to be a worthy successor.

The Encounter with Acharya Siddhasen Divakar and the Philosophical Debates: The book also delves into the philosophical and spiritual journey of Acharya Siddhasen Divakar (Siddhasen), highlighting his debates and influence.

• The Debate with Kumud Chandra: Siddhasen, through his wisdom and understanding of the common people, defeats the proud Brahmin scholar Kumud Chandra in a debate. This leads to Kumud Chandra's conversion to Jainism, and he becomes Muni Siddhasen, later known as Sarvajnaputra.
• Siddhasen's Miraculous Powers and Spiritual Growth: Siddhasen demonstrates his mastery of mantras and tantras, using them for the welfare of others. However, his indulgence in worldly comforts and political discussions draws the attention of his guru, Acharya Vriddhavadi.
• Guidance from Guru Vriddhavadi: Acharya Vriddhavadi guides Siddhasen back to the true path of asceticism, emphasizing the importance of understanding the language of the masses and the spirit of Jain teachings rather than solely focusing on scholasticism or political influence. Siddhasen undertakes a period of secret austerity as penance.
• The Mahakaal Temple Incident: Disguised as an Avadhoot, Siddhasen challenges the prevailing notions of devotion and ritual by demonstrating the oneness of Shiva and Parshvanath, symbolizing the unity of all spiritual paths. This miraculous event deeply impresses King Vikramaditya, drawing him closer to Jainism.
• Spread of Jainism: Siddhasen, with Vikramaditya's support, plays a crucial role in propagating Jainism. He translates Jain scriptures into Sanskrit to reach a wider audience, though this initially earns him criticism from his guru for departing from the traditional Prakrit language.
• The Atonement and Rededication: Siddhasen's atonement period is completed, and he is reinstated as the Acharya, continuing his mission with renewed focus and humility. The book recounts his journeys and the passing of his guru and later, himself, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and the enduring impact of their spiritual endeavors.

Vikramaditya's Final Years and Legacy: In his later years, King Vikramaditya, inspired by the teachings of Acharya Siddhasen, dedicates himself to public welfare, charitable works, and the promotion of Jainism. He eventually renounces worldly pleasures, hands over his kingdom to his son Vikramcharitra, and achieves spiritual immortality through his virtuous life. The book concludes by emphasizing his bravery, wisdom, statesmanship, and his significant contributions to Indian history, including the establishment of the Vikram calendar.

Key Themes: The narrative highlights themes of:

• Justice and Public Welfare: Vikramaditya's reign as a model of good governance.
• The Power of Wisdom and Spirituality: The influence of Jain scholars like Siddhasen and the Emperor's own spiritual journey.
• Overcoming Hatred and Prejudice: Sukomala's transformation and the message of unity.
• The Importance of True Asceticism: Siddhasen's journey from worldly accolades to spiritual discipline.
• The Unity of Religions: The reconciliation of Shaivite and Jain traditions.
• The Cycle of Karma and Reincarnation: Illustrated through Sukomala's past-life stories.

The book, through its engaging storytelling and historical context, presents a rich tapestry of Emperor Vikramaditya's life, his commitment to dharma, and the profound impact of Jain philosophy and scholars on his reign and the broader Indian subcontinent.