Hindi Ke Mahakavyo Me Chitrit Bhagavana Mahavira

The provided text is the book "हिन्दी के महाकाव्यों में चित्रित भगवान महावीर" (Lord Mahavir as Depicted in the Mahakavyas of Hindi) by Sushma Gunvant Rote, published by Bharatiya Gyanpith. This is a comprehensive academic study that analyzes how Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, has been portrayed in modern Hindi epic poems (Mahakavyas).

Here's a summary of the key points from the provided text:

Introduction and Author's Motivation (Pages 2-4):

• The author, Sushma Gunvant Rote, was inspired by studying modern Mahakavyas on Ram and Krishna, realizing how ancient figures were reinterpreted for contemporary times.
• While she revered Lord Mahavir traditionally, she felt a personal quest to understand his human aspect beyond the divine and mythological.
• She notes that while Lord Mahavir is historically accepted, his image has been overlaid with supernatural and divine attributes over centuries. Her aim is to explore his portrayal as a historical great personality in modern Hindi Mahakavyas.
• The study focuses on six representative Mahakavyas out of ten published works on Mahavir's life.
• Her research was driven by three core questions:
  1. What are the authentic sources for Lord Mahavir's biography?
  2. To what extent has modernity influenced the portrayal of Mahavir in modern Hindi Mahakavyas?
  3. What is the relevance of Lord Mahavir's character?
• She acknowledges the inspiration and guidance received from various scholars, Jain acharyas, and institutions during her research.
• She highlights that this is the first comprehensive critical study of modern Hindi Mahakavyas depicting Lord Mahavir.

Chapter 1: Sources of Lord Mahavir's Biography (Pages 5-41):

This chapter meticulously details the various sources used to reconstruct Lord Mahavir's life and understand his portrayal:

• Tirthankara Tradition: Jainism's belief in the Tirthankara tradition predates the Vedic period, with archaeological evidence supporting this. Lord Mahavir is the 24th and last Tirthankara.
• Inscriptions (Abhilekh): Jain inscriptions on stone and metal provide valuable historical clues. Early inscriptions from Mathura mention "Arhat Vardhmana." The Badauli (Rajasthan) inscription, dating back to 84 years after Mahavir's Nirvana, is considered the earliest direct reference. Other inscriptions from Kahauli, Kumbhria, and Ellora caves also contribute.
• Sculptures and Iconography (Murtilekh): Ancient sculptures, particularly from the Kushan period in Mathura, offer insights. The Mahavir idol with a lion emblem (which became common from the 6th century CE) and the depiction of his Yaksha and Yakshi provide biographical context.
• Buddhist "Tripitaka": The Buddhist scriptures mention "Niggantha Nataputta" (Nirgrantha Jnatriputra), widely accepted as Lord Mahavir, indicating he was contemporary with Lord Buddha. This literature provides external validation and insights into his teachings and interactions.
• Contemporary Historical Figures: Accounts of Mahavir's interactions with contemporary rulers like Chetaka of Vaishali, Shrenik Bimbisara of Magadha, and Shataneeka of Kausambi provide historical context.
• Jain Agamic Literature: This is the foundational source.
  • Agams: The divine preachings of Mahavir, compiled by his disciples into 12 Angas and 14 Purvas, form the basis. These texts, though orally transmitted for a long time, contain details about his life, teachings, and philosophy.
  • Digambara vs. Shvetambara Traditions: The book acknowledges the differences in the canon and interpretations between these two major Jain sects regarding the Agamas and specific biographical details.
  • Key Agam Texts: The chapter discusses specific Agam texts like Acharanga Sutra (detailing his conduct), Sutrakritanga (comparing him with other philosophies), Sthananga, Samavayana, Vyakhya Pragnyapti (Bhagavati Sutra, rich in biographical episodes), Niyayadhamma Kahao, Upasakadasha, Antakriddasha, Anuttaropapatikadasha, Prashna Vyakarana, Vipaka Shruta, and Drishtivada.
  • Later Jain Literature: The influence of texts like Shatkhandagama, Kashayaprahuta, Tiloypannatti, Chullika, Niyukti, Bhashya, Churni, Tika, Katha Sahitya, and Charita Kavya (both Prakrit and Sanskrit) is discussed as further sources.
• Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Apabhramsa Literature: The chapter traces the literary tradition of Mahavir's life from ancient Prakrit works to Sanskrit narrative poems and Apabhramsa literature, highlighting the evolution of his portrayal.
• Old Hindi Literature: The transition to Hindi literature is also mentioned.
• Digambara and Shvetambara Sources: Specific texts within each tradition are noted for their biographical content.
• Outline of Mahavir's Biography: Based on the sources, a brief biographical outline is presented, mentioning his birth in 599 BCE in Kundgram (Vaishali), his renunciation at 30, 12 years of rigorous penance, attainment of Kevala Gyana, 30 years of preaching, and Nirvana at 72 in Pavapuri.
• Scholarly Interpretations: The chapter references the work of scholars like Dr. Hiralal Jain and A.N. Upadhye for a historical perspective.

Chapter 2: Mahavir Character in Modern Hindi Mahakavyas (Pages 42-85):

This chapter delves into the specific portrayal of Lord Mahavir in modern Hindi Mahakavyas:

• The Dawn of Modern Hindi Mahakavyas: The emergence of modern Hindi Mahakavyas is linked to the Dwivedi era, with 'Priyamvas' by Ayodhya Singh Upadhyay 'Hariyodh' being a pioneering work that tried to rationalize mythological elements.
• Sources of Modern Mahakavyas: Modern epic poetry draws from Puranas, history, and contemporary life.
• Classification of Modern Mahakavyas: The chapter categorizes modern Mahakavyas, including those based on religious figures like Buddha and Mahavir.
• Mahavir Character Mahakavyas in Hindi Literature: The author traces the tradition of Mahavir's biography in poetic form from ancient times to the modern era.
• Analysis of Six Representative Mahakavyas: The core of this chapter is a detailed analysis of six key modern Hindi Mahakavyas that depict Lord Mahavir:
  1. 'Vardhmana' by Anup Sharma (1951): This is considered the first modern Hindi Mahakavya on Mahavir. The analysis covers his birth, parentage, the 16 dreams, his youth, the concept of marriage (treated symbolically), his renunciation, penance, attainment of Kevala Gyana, and Nirvana. The author notes the poet's attempt to balance historical facts with mythological narratives and a somewhat Sanskritized language.
  2. 'Tirthankar Bhagwan Mahavir' by Virendra Prasad Jain (1959/1965): Described as a simple, accessible, and melodious work, this Mahakavya presents Mahavir's life in eight cantos. It covers his birth celebrations, childhood, youth, renunciation, penance, attainment of Kevala Gyana, and Nirvana. The poet's portrayal is seen as traditional yet accessible, drawing from Digambara traditions.
  3. 'Paramjyoti Mahavir' by Dhanyakumar Jain 'Sudhesh' (1961): With 23 cantos and 2519 verses, this work is noted for its detailed description of Mahavir's 12 Chaturmasas and periods of penance. The author highlights its blend of Puranic tradition with contemporary context and a focus on Karuna (compassion) and Shanta (peace) rasas. It includes appendices on Jain terminology and historical places.
  4. 'Veerayan' by Raghuveer Sharan 'Mitra' (1974): This Mahakavya is described as a "Mahavir Manas Mahakavya" aiming to propagate Mahavir's teachings. It spans 15 cantos and emphasizes Mahavir's teachings in the context of contemporary India and Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy. The author notes its poetic quality, philosophical depth, and successful integration of historical and modern perspectives.
  5. 'Tirthankar Mahavir' by Dr. Chhail Bihari Gupta (1976): Praised for its scholarly approach, this Mahakavya integrates historical facts with poetic imagination, achieving a beautiful blend of history and literature. It covers Mahavir's life from birth to Nirvana in eight cantos, focusing on scientific and rational interpretations while adhering to tradition. Its accessible language and devotional tone are highlighted.
  6. 'Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir-Charitra' by Abhaykumar 'Yaudhey' (1976): This work, based on Shvetambara traditions (like the Kalpa Sutra and Sthananga Sutra), presents Mahavir's life in nine stages. It includes his birth-alteration, childhood, youth, renunciation, penance, attainment of Kevala Gyana, and Nirvana. The author notes the poet's emphasis on internal aspects and the use of simpler language.
• Analysis of Character Portrayal: The chapter discusses how each poet has interpreted Mahavir's life, highlighting elements of divinity, historical accuracy, philosophical depth, and poetic embellishment. It also touches upon the blend of Digambara and Shvetambara traditions where applicable.

Chapter 3: Character Depiction of Lord Mahavir (Pages 93-141):

This chapter focuses on the stylistic and thematic elements of Mahavir's portrayal:

• Two Aspects of Character: The author divides character depiction into Bahirang (external) and Antarang (internal).
• External Depiction (Bahirang Chitran):
  • Dynasty Description: The historical context of Mahavir's birth into a Kshatriya royal family (Jnatri clan) in Kundgram, Vaishali, is discussed, referencing ancient Republican traditions and rulers like Chetaka.
  • Names and Their Meanings: The significance of Mahavir's various names (Vardhmana, Sanmati, Vir, Ativira, Mahavir) is explored, linking them to events in his life and spiritual development. The poetic interpretations of these names are analyzed.
  • Physical Appearance and Attire: Descriptions of his divine beauty, physical attributes, and attire (both as a prince and as an ascetic) from the Mahakavyas are presented, noting the traditional emphasis on divine qualities.
  • Situational Depiction (Sthityankan): The importance of context in understanding actions is discussed, explaining how events like the elephant incident, the serpent incident, and his early renunciation are depicted within specific situations. The concept of past lives (Purvabhav Smrityankan) is highlighted as crucial for understanding Mahavir's detachment and spiritual journey.
  • Emotional Expressions (Anubhav Chitran): The depiction of Mahavir's emotional states, particularly his calmness, detachment, and compassion, are discussed, noting how his inner state is conveyed through subtle expressions.
  • Past Life Recollection (Purvabhav Smrityankan): The role of past lives in shaping Mahavir's destiny and his spiritual path is examined, particularly the concept of karma and rebirth. The influence of figures like Pururava Bhil, Marichi, and others in his transmigration cycle is noted.
  • Panchakalyanaka: The five auspicious events of a Tirthankara's life (Garbha Kalyanak, Janma Kalyanak, Diksha Kalyanak, Kevala Gyana Kalyanak, Nirvana Kalyanak) are described as depicted in the Mahakavyas, often involving divine interventions and celebrations.
• Internal Depiction (Antarang Chitran):
  • Dream Analysis: The depiction of Queen Trishala's dreams and their interpretation is analyzed as a method to reveal the divine nature and future destiny of Mahavir.
  • Inner Inspirations (Antahpreranaon ka Anusmaran): Mahavir's inherent renunciation, his contemplation of the 12 Bhavnas (meditations), and his intellectual understanding of existence are discussed as key to his internal character.
  • Life Philosophy (Jeevan Darshan): Mahavir's core philosophy, including his emphasis on self-reliance, the nature of soul and reality (dravyas), karma theory, and the path to liberation, is explored. His focus on Anekantavada (non-absolutism), Syadvada (conditional predication), and Ahimsa (non-violence) are highlighted as central.
• Character Depiction Style: The chapter discusses the various literary styles used by the poets, including descriptive, narrative, dialogic, introspective, and symbolic approaches.
• Focus on Inner vs. Outer: It is noted that while external depictions are often based on tradition, the portrayal of Mahavir's internal spiritual journey and philosophical insights is where the poets attempt to bring a contemporary relevance.

Chapter 4: Relevance of Lord Mahavir's Character (Pages 142-151):

This final chapter focuses on the contemporary relevance of Lord Mahavir's teachings and character:

• Mahavir's Contribution: The author summarizes Mahavir's historical and spiritual contributions, including his opposition to ritualistic violence, advocacy for equality (for women, Shudras, and all castes), establishment of the Chaturmas Sangha, emphasis on non-violence, non-absolutism, and the path to liberation through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
• Relevance to Modern Times:
  • Mahatma Gandhi and Ahimsa: The chapter highlights how Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and his leadership in India's independence movement drew significant inspiration from Lord Mahavir's teachings.
  • Social Justice and Equality: Mahavir's stance against casteism, gender discrimination, and his promotion of a classless, egalitarian society are presented as highly relevant to contemporary issues.
  • Anekantavada and Syadvada: The philosophical concepts of non-absolutism and conditional predication are discussed as tools for resolving modern conflicts and fostering mutual understanding in a pluralistic world.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possession) and Self-Control: Mahavir's message of limiting desires and possessions is presented as a solution to economic disparities and social unrest.
  • Reinterpretation of the Divine: The author notes how modern poets have attempted to bridge the gap between the divine and human aspects of Mahavir, making his teachings accessible and relatable.
  • The Need for Scientific and Historical Approach: The concluding remarks emphasize the need to understand Mahavir's teachings from a rational, scientific, and historical perspective, separating myth from historical reality, to truly grasp his relevance for the modern age.
  • Humanity as the Core: Ultimately, Mahavir is presented not just as a Jain Tirthankara but as a beacon for all humanity, offering solutions to contemporary problems through his emphasis on inner purity, compassion, and self-effort.

Conclusion (Pages 152-154):

The conclusion reiterates the importance of Mahakavyas as cultural vehicles for understanding societal consciousness. It highlights that while modern poets have followed traditional narrative styles, they have also infused Mahavir's character with modern sensibilities, addressing contemporary issues. The book argues for a rational and scientific approach to understanding Mahavir's life, separating historical facts from later embellishments, to appreciate his enduring relevance for personal and societal transformation.

In essence, this book is a detailed academic exploration of how Lord Mahavir, a foundational figure of Jainism, has been reinterpreted and presented in the vibrant landscape of modern Hindi epic poetry, analyzing the sources, the poets' approaches, the stylistic elements, and the enduring relevance of his message for contemporary society.