Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam Part 03

This document is the third part of the "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam," authored by Devvimal Gani and Sulochanashreeji, and published by Kantilal Chimanlal Shah. This specific volume covers chapters (Sargas) 14 through 17 of the epic poem.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text:

Overall Context:

• "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam" (The Great Epic of Hira's Fortune): This is a significant Jain epic poem, likely detailing the life and teachings of a prominent Jain Acharya, likely Hiravijayasuri, known for his influence on Emperor Akbar.
• Part 3: This volume focuses on later sections of the epic, covering significant events and philosophical discussions.
• Author and Translator: The original work is by Devvimal Gani, and the Gujarati translation is by the late Sadhvi Shri Sunandaashri's disciple, Vidushi Sadhvi Sulochanaashri.
• Publisher and Other Details: Kantilal Chimanlal Shah is the publisher, located in Ahmedabad. The publication date is V.S. 2035 (Shravan Sud 12), corresponding to 1979 AD. The price was Rs. 50.
• Content: The text comprises an "Nivedan" (Statement/Foreword) by Sadhvi Sulochanaashri, a "Naivedya" (Offering/Dedication) by Shantilal Bhalabhai, a detailed "Vishayanukramanika" (Table of Contents), the Sanskrit text with Gujarati commentary for Sargas 14-17, and a "Shuddhipatraka" (Errata/Correction slip).

Key Summaries from the Forewords:

1. Sadhvi Sulochanaashri's "Nivedan":

   • She expresses immense joy and fulfillment in translating the "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam" into Gujarati and publishing it in three parts.
   • She considers the completion of this translation a personal aspiration fulfilled, akin to her earlier successful translation of the philosophical work "Syadvada Manjari."
   • She expresses gratitude to an anonymous respected scholar who meticulously researched and revised her translation.
   • She thanks Shantilal Bhalabhai for his unwavering physical, verbal, and mental support in the publication of all three volumes, noting his dedication even when unwell.
   • She remembers the late Shravak Kirtikarbhai of Ahmedabad for his financial support during her literary endeavors, and his sons for their continued assistance in the "Heersaubhagya" publication.
   • She highlights "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam" as a masterpiece not only in Jain Sanskrit Mahakavyas but in all Sanskrit literature, comparable to renowned works like "Raghuvamsha," "Kiratarjuniya," "Shishupalavadha," and "Nishadhiya." She states that studying "Heersaubhagya" along with the associated philosophical topics will be greatly beneficial.
   • She humbly requests forgiveness from scholars if any shortcomings exist due to her own limitations in knowledge or understanding.
   • She prays that all beings find joy through studying and appreciating this great epic.

2. Shantilal Bhalabhai's "Naivedya":

   • He feels immense gratitude for the opportunity provided by Sadhvi Sulochanaashri to engage in the devotion of "Shrutagyan" (knowledge).
   • He met Sadhvi Sulochanaashri when she performed her Chaturmas in Navrangpura and learned she was translating the Sanskrit epic "Heersaubhagya."
   • Deeply impressed by her scholarship and passion for knowledge, they decided to publish the first part of "Heersaubhagya" under their Sangha's auspices, marked by a grand release ceremony.
   • The second part was published five years later, and this third part follows three years after that, completing the publication of the entire "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam" with its commentary and Gujarati translation during his lifetime.
   • He shares details about Sadhvi Sulochanaashri's life: born in Patan (N. Gujarat) in V.S. 1983 (1926 AD), took Diksha at age 12 under Sadhvi Maj. Sunandaashri. She acquired profound knowledge in various disciplines like Nyaya, Vyakarana, Sahitya, Jyotish, Karmasiddhanta, and Prakarana alongside ascetic practices. She has traveled thousands of miles across Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Rajasthan.
   • He mentions her previous translation of the philosophical text "Syadvadamajari."
   • Even after 40 years of monastic life, her thirst for knowledge remains strong. She has six disciples whom she teaches, provides spiritual knowledge to Shravikas through Tatvagnan classes, engages in philosophical discussions with scholars, and teaches Sadhvis from her own and other communities equally.
   • He humbly prays that Sadhvi Maj. continues to translate other religious texts, write commentaries, and share her intellectual brilliance with the Sangha and society. He also notes the immense benefit to the Sangha when other talented Sadhvis progress in the field of knowledge.
   • He seeks forgiveness for any errors in the publication.

Table of Contents (Vishayanukramanika) Highlights:

The Table of Contents outlines the content of Sargas 14 through 17, detailing specific events in the life of Acharya Hiravijayasuri. Key themes and events include:

• Sarga 14: Journey to the picture gallery with the king (Akbar), Suri's sermon, discussions on Dharma, the King's questions about virtues, teaching of the Five Great Vows, discussions on astrology and the prohibition of certain practices, the Guru's virtues as described by the King, the King's questions about disciples, the origin of books and their donation, the King's acceptance of the book, the Suri's return with the King after a grand celebration, his stay in Agra during Chaturmas, his return to Shaurya, and his subsequent return to Fatehpura. The Suri's inspiration for releasing prisoners and birds. The initiation of prohibition of hunting and enforcement of peace during 'Navraja' days. The bestowing of the title 'Jagadguru'. Suri's instructions to free prisoners and birds. Dialogue among forest creatures. The installation of Shantikchandra as Upadhyay. Chaturmas in Maghpur and Shivpuri, followed by establishment ceremonies. Suri's arrival in Gujarat, granting of 'Farman' to Shantikchandra Upadhyay, and liberation from Jaziya and Vimlaachal tax. The appointment of Bhanuchandra as Upadhyay.

• Sarga 15: Suri's journey to Vimalaachal (Shatrunjaya). Description of Shatrunjaya. The end of the Sarga. Entering Shatrunjaya, celebrations, staying in a temple, climbing Vimalaachal, description of the mountain, depictions of Marudevi and Rishabhdev, devotion to deities, description of the inner sanctum and the main temple, prayer to Rishabhdev, Suri's discourse on the greatness of Shatrunjaya, expressions of joy. Suri's departure from Padalipta. His contemplation on Shatrunjaya. His journey onwards. Praise of Ajaypur and its temple. Arrival and celebrations in Unnatpur, Chaturmas there, Suri's ascetic practices, description of his family and Sangha processions, discourses on the Fourfold Refuge, and the nature of the Guru and Dharma.

• Sarga 16: This Sarga appears to detail Suri's interaction with Emperor Akbar. It includes: Suri's eloquent discourse, discussions on the nature of the Divine, the King's praise, the King's invitation to his residence. The King's admiration for Suri's adherence to vows, the concept of the Guru and Dharma. Suri's explanation of the principles of Jainism, including the five Mahavratas (Great Vows) and the seven Vratas. His discussions on the nature of God, the path to salvation, and the importance of righteous conduct. The King's profound respect and acceptance of Suri's teachings. The King's decision to exempt the Jain community from Jaziya tax and allow the construction of temples, inspired by Suri's wisdom and the Jain faith. Suri's divine power and miracles are also mentioned. The Sarga concludes with Suri's departure for Gujarat.

• Sarga 17: This Sarga describes Suri's travels, encounters, and teachings in Gujarat. It includes his arrival in different cities like Surat, Padaliptpur, Unnatpur, and his interactions with various rulers and learned individuals. A significant part details Suri's profound influence on Emperor Akbar, convincing him to abolish Jaziya tax and other discriminatory policies, and demonstrating the superiority of Jain principles. The Sarga also narrates Suri's ascetic practices, his dedication to the Jain faith, his miraculous powers, and his ability to impress and convert even powerful rulers and scholars. The Sarga concludes with Suri's arrival in Unnatpur, his Chaturmas there, and his interactions with the local populace. It further describes the passing of Acharya Hiravijayasuri, the mourning of his followers, and the subsequent succession of Acharya Vijayanasuri, highlighting his continued efforts in spreading Jainism. The Sarga ends with the description of the spiritual journey of the Acharya.

Errata (Shuddhipatraka):

This section lists corrections for printing errors found in the text, providing the incorrect word and its correct replacement, along with the page and shloka/tirka number. This indicates a commitment to accuracy in the published work.

Overall Significance:

This third part of "Heersaubhagya Mahakavyam" continues to provide rich historical, philosophical, and devotional content related to Jainism and the life of Acharya Hiravijayasuri. The forewords by Sadhvi Sulochanaashri and Shantilal Bhalabhai shed light on the dedication and effort behind this publication, emphasizing its importance in making this classical Jain text accessible to a Gujarati-speaking audience. The detailed table of contents suggests a narrative that spans a significant period and includes diverse interactions and teachings.