Gunvarma Charitra

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Book Title: Gunvarma Charitra Author: Maganlal Hathishang Publisher: Maganlal Hathishang

Overview:

The "Gunvarma Charitra" is a Jain text authored by Maganlal Hathishang. The primary purpose of this book, as explained in the preface, is to illustrate the fruits and benefits derived from performing different types of Pujas (worship rituals) as prescribed in Jainism. The text specifically focuses on detailing the results of a "Sattar Prakari Puja" (Seventy-type Puja) through engaging narratives. The book was translated into Gujarati from Sanskrit by Shastri Harishankar Kalidas under the recommendation of Muni Gautam Sagariji of the Anchal Gaccha lineage. The publisher expresses a hope that readers will correct any remaining errors, as the text was found to be imperfect in parts.

Core Narrative and Themes:

The central narrative revolves around the life and virtues of Gunvarma, a virtuous prince who later becomes a righteous king. The "Gunvarma Charitra" serves as a vehicle to convey Jain principles, particularly the significance of devotion and good deeds (karma) leading to auspicious results, often through the concept of rebirth and the consequences of actions in past lives.

Key Elements and Stories:

The book is structured to showcase the results of various Pujas through detailed stories, interspersed with poetic verses and spiritual teachings. Based on the index and content, the narrative seems to cover:

1. Introduction and Manglacharan: Invocation and introductory remarks.
2. The Story of Gunvarma: The main narrative focuses on Gunvarma, detailing his life, marriage, and eventual reign.
3. Seventy-type Puja (Sattar Prakari Puja): The core of the book lies in the seventy-seven fascinating stories that illustrate the specific outcomes of performing each of the seventy types of Puja. These stories likely involve characters who perform a particular Puja and experience its direct results, either in the same life or in future lives.
4. Illustrative Tales: The text includes numerous stories of individuals who, through their devotion and adherence to Jain practices, achieve desirable outcomes, including prosperity, progeny, spiritual advancement, and liberation. Examples mentioned in the index include:
   • Naravarma Raja's Renunciation: Illustrating the path of renunciation.
   • Worship with Various Offerings: Stories are tied to specific Pujas like "Pushpagruh Puja," "Snan Puja," "Akshat Mangal Puja," "Dhoop Puja," "Geet Puja," "Vadya Puja," etc., each with its associated tale and moral.
   • The Story of Gunvarma's Seventy Sons: Likely detailing the results of their past actions or specific devotions.
   • Stories of Devotion and its Rewards: Characters like Kankavarma, Vasudatta, Shudatta, Chittanandan, Lakshmidhar, Dhanesh, Dhannath, Dhaneswar, Kanak, Kanakam, Hemabh, Hemavarna, Shridatta, Shri Datta, Shankha, Dharma, and Dhir are mentioned in the index, suggesting they are central figures in individual Puja-related narratives.
   • The Power of Devotion and Karma: The recurring theme is that performing these Pujas with sincerity and correct observance leads to positive outcomes, while neglecting them or performing them improperly has negative consequences.
   • Spiritual Ascent: Ultimately, the stories aim to guide devotees towards spiritual liberation (Moksha) by emphasizing the importance of righteous conduct and devotion.

Key Characters and Figures:

• Gunvarma: The central protagonist, whose life serves as a framework for the teachings.
• Naravarma: Gunvarma's father, who might be a significant figure, possibly a king who renounces the world.
• Merutung Suri: An influential figure from the Anchal Gaccha, whose teachings and recommendations are cited.
• Various Individuals in the Stories: The numerous characters in the illustrative tales, each representing the consequences of specific actions and devotions.
• Lord Parshvanath and Lord Mahavir: The stories likely draw inspiration from the lives and teachings of these revered Tirthankaras.

Linguistic and Publication Details:

• The book is written in Gujarati.
• The publication details indicate it was printed at the Union Printing Press Company Ltd. in Ahmedabad.
• The text uses a formal and devotional tone, common in religious literature.
• It mentions "Veer Samvat 2420" and "Samvat 1958," indicating its historical context.

In essence, "Gunvarma Charitra" is a devotional and didactic work designed to inspire Jain followers to engage in rigorous and meaningful worship by illustrating the profound spiritual and material benefits that result from such practices. The stories within serve as parables, making complex theological concepts accessible and relatable.