Khemo Dedrani Veer Bhamashah

This document is a summary of the Jain text "Khemo Dedrani Veer Bhamashah" by Jaybhikkhu, published by Jaybhikkhu Sahitya Trust. It is part of the "Jain Balgranthavali Shreni - 2" series.

The book is divided into two main sections: "Khemo Dedrani" and "Veer Bhamashah".

Part 1: Khemo Dedrani

This section tells the story of Khemo Dedrani, a virtuous Jain individual, and his father, a generous donor from Hadala. The narrative unfolds in the historical context of Champaner, during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Begada.

• The Scenario: The kingdom is facing a severe drought, and the Sultan is concerned about the welfare of his subjects and livestock.
• The Sultan's Decree: The Sultan tasks the wealthy merchants (Mahajans) of the city, led by Chapsi Mehta, with the responsibility of providing food and water to the populace for a year, under threat of losing their title of "Shah" (a title of respect and importance).
• The Mahajans' Challenge: The Mahajans are daunted by the immense financial undertaking. They gather to assess their ability to meet the Sultan's demand, which requires significant contributions.
• Khemo Dedrani's Intervention: While the Mahajans are struggling to find enough funds, Khemo Dedrani, a seemingly poor but pious individual from Hadala, offers to personally take on the responsibility of feeding the entire population for a year. This offer is initially met with surprise due to his humble appearance.
• The Father's Blessing: Khemo's elderly father, a man of great faith and wisdom, wholeheartedly supports his son's benevolent intention, emphasizing the importance of using wealth for good causes.
• The Royal Court: Khemo Dedrani, accompanied by the Mahajans, presents himself before Sultan Muhammad Begada. He pledges to undertake the noble task.
• The Sultan's Appreciation: The Sultan is deeply impressed by Khemo Dedrani's generosity, devotion, and the virtue he displays. He blesses Khemo, gifts him a necklace, and rewards the poet (Bhat) who spoke favorably of the merchants. He also acknowledges the role of the Mahajans in supporting his subjects.

Part 2: Veer Bhamashah

This part narrates the inspiring story of Veer Bhamashah, a devoted minister and a true patriot who served the Mewar kingdom during the reign of Maharana Pratap.

• Maharana Pratap's Struggle: The story begins with Maharana Pratap facing immense hardship and persecution from the Mughal emperor Akbar. Maharana Pratap had sworn a solemn vow to reclaim Chittorgarh and live a life of austerity until then, eating from leaf plates and sleeping on grass.
• Bhamashah's Loyalty: Bhamashah, a loyal minister of the Oswal Jain community, deeply respected and admired Maharana Pratap. He witnessed the king's suffering and the plight of his people.
• The Financial Crisis: Mewar was in a dire financial state due to constant warfare. Maharana Pratap's army lacked the resources to continue the fight.
• Bhamashah's Sacrifice: Bhamashah, upon seeing Maharana Pratap considering leaving Mewar to seek refuge abroad, approached the Maharana. He revealed that his ancestral wealth, accumulated over generations, was available to serve his king and country. He offered his entire treasury, stating it was enough to sustain a 22,000-strong army for 12 years.
• Maharana Pratap's Initial Hesitation: Maharana Pratap, initially reluctant to accept Bhamashah's personal wealth, was moved by his profound patriotism and the principle that wealth is meant for the nation's welfare.
• The Rekindling of the Fight: With Bhamashah's support, Maharana Pratap was able to regroup his forces, recruit soldiers, and wage war against Akbar's forces.
• Victories and Recognition: Under Bhamashah's strategic and financial support, Maharana Pratap achieved significant victories, regaining several forts and territories previously lost to the Mughals.
• Bhamashah Honored: At a grand assembly, Maharana Pratap bestowed great honor upon Bhamashah, calling him the "Architect of Destiny" and the "Reviver of Mewar." Bhamashah's selfless act of patriotism and his adherence to Jain values of generosity and righteousness were celebrated.
• Legacy: The book concludes by highlighting Bhamashah's exemplary life as a model of selfless service, patriotism, and the proper use of wealth, urging readers to emulate his virtues. Bhamashah passed away in Vikram Samvat 1656 (1600 CE).

In essence, "Khemo Dedrani Veer Bhamashah" is a collection of inspiring Jain tales that emphasize values such as generosity, sacrifice, patriotism, faith, and the importance of using one's wealth for the greater good and the protection of dharma and country.