Karkanda Chariu

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Karakanda Chariu" by Muni Kanakamara, based on the provided information:

Karakanda Chariu: A Summary

Title: Karakanda Chariu (कRKANDACARIU) Author: Muni Kanakamara (मुनि कनकामर) Publisher: Karanja Jain Publication Society, Karanja (बरार) Year of Publication: Vira Samvat 2459 / 1934 AD, Vikram Samvat 1991

Overview: The "Karakanda Chariu" is an Apabhramsa literary work that narrates the life story of King Karakanda, a significant figure in Jain tradition. Karakanda is recognized as a saint and a Pratyeka-Buddha by both Jain and Buddhist traditions. The text is also valued for its historical information, which is extensively discussed in the introduction, along with illustrations and critical apparatus.

Content and Structure: The work is composed of ten chapters (Sandhis), each detailing various aspects of Karakanda's life and teachings. The narrative is punctuated by numerous intervening stories (avanatara kathaen) that serve to illustrate moral and ethical points, often recounted to educate Karakanda himself. These ancillary narratives are believed to be drawn from popular folklore of the time or are original creations of the poet.

The Life of King Karakanda: The central narrative follows the life of Karakanda, a king and saint. Key events include:

• Birth and Early Life: Karakanda's story begins with his mother, Padmavati, the daughter of King Vasupala of Kaushambi. Abandoned at birth due to inauspicious omens, she was rescued and raised by a gardener. Padmavati was later married to King Dhadivahana of Anga. Due to an unfortunate turn of events, she was separated from her husband and gave birth to Karakanda in a cemetery.
• Rescue and Upbringing: A Vidyadhara, cursed to be a Matanga (outcaste), rescued the infant Karakanda. The sage who cursed him modified the curse, stating that the Vidyadhara would regain his powers when Padmavati's son, raised by him, ascended the throne of Dantipur. The Matanga took the child, and due to a dry scab on his hand, named him Karakanda. He was raised with great care and educated in various arts and sciences, learning the consequences of good and bad company through stories.
• Ascension to the Throne: Upon the death of the king of Dantipur, who had no heir, an elephant was used to select the next ruler. The elephant anointed Karakanda, who was then accepted as king despite his Matanga upbringing, with the Vidyadhara revealing his true lineage.
• Conquests and Vows: Karakanda became a powerful ruler and conquered many kingdoms. He took a vow to place his foot upon the heads of the kings of the Dravida country (Chola, Chera, Pandya) who refused to acknowledge his suzerainty.
• Encounter at Terapur: During his southern campaign, Karakanda visited Terapur. He was shown a cave containing a Jina image and an anthill on a hill, worshipped by an elephant. Excavating the anthill, he discovered an image of Lord Parshvanatha, which he installed in the cave. He also caused a water spring to be revealed within the cave and commissioned the construction of three more caves.
• Separation and Reunion: A Vidyadhara, in the form of an elephant, abducted Karakanda's beloved wife Madanavali. After various trials, including a sea voyage, a storm, and a encounter with a sea monster, Karakanda was separated from his wife but was assured of regaining her. He traveled to Simhala island, married Princess Rativega, and eventually reunited with Madanavali.
• Religious Awakening: Upon hearing the sermons of Sage Silagupta and witnessing the impermanence of worldly life through various events, Karakanda developed a sense of detachment.
• Renunciation and Liberation: After transferring his kingdom to his son Vasupala and his queens following his example, Karakanda embraced asceticism. Through severe penance, he attained omniscience and achieved liberation (moksha).

Key Themes and Significance:

• Pratyeka-Buddha: Karakanda is a significant figure recognized as a Pratyeka-Buddha, one who attains enlightenment independently but does not preach the Dharma. This unique status is shared by other figures in Buddhist and Jain traditions.
• Moral Instruction: The numerous intervening stories highlight the consequences of actions, the importance of good company, the futility of desire, and the transient nature of worldly pleasures, all crucial teachings in Jainism.
• Historical and Cultural Value: The text provides valuable historical information, particularly regarding the identity of ancient places like Terapur (modern Ter), its cave temples, and possible connections to historical dynasties like the Shilaharas. The author, Muni Kanakamara, likely lived between 965 AD and 1502 AD, as indicated by the mentions of earlier poets and the dates of manuscript copies.
• Literary Merit: The work is composed in Apabhramsa, a Prakrit language, and is noted for its poetic meter, particularly 'Pajjhatika' (पज्झटिका). The narrative is rich with descriptions, dialogues, and philosophical discussions.
• Influence and Sources: The author draws upon earlier Jain literature, Buddhist Jatakas, and popular folklore, weaving them into a cohesive narrative. The story of Naravahanadatta, for instance, is found in other prominent works like the Brihatkatha.

The Editor and Publication: This edition was critically prepared by Hiralal Jain, M.A., LL.B., who was a former Research Scholar at Allahabad University. The publication was a significant effort in bringing this important Apabhramsa work to light, including a detailed introduction, translation, glossary, indices, notes, and appendices. The inclusion of twelve photo illustrations enhances the understanding of the Terapur cave-temples.

In essence, the "Karakanda Chariu" is a profound narrative that encapsulates Jain philosophy, ethics, history, and rich literary tradition through the exemplary life of a king who achieved spiritual liberation.