Mahabal Malayasundari - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mahabal Malayasundari" by Dulahrajmuni, published by Adarsh Sahitya Sangh:

The novel "Mahabal Malayasundari" is based on a Jain narrative and was originally written in Gujarati by Vaidya Mohanlal Chunilal Dhami. The Hindi translation is by Muni Dularaj. The story explores themes of willpower development through devotion to the Namaskar Mahamantra, intertwining reality and imagination with engaging plot twists that create curiosity in the reader. This is the third novel in a series, following "Bandhan Tute" (related to Chandanbala) and "Nrityangana" (related to Sthulabhadra and Koshā).

The narrative unfolds in two main parts:

Part 1: Mahabal and the Scientific Endeavor

A Scientific Ashram in a Dangerous Forest: The story begins by introducing Acharya Padmasagar, a great scientist residing in an isolated ashram in the formidable Kamya forest. This forest is feared for its dangerous beasts and alleged demonic inhabitants, making it a place where few dare to tread. Acharya Padmasagar, dedicated to scientific research, chose this secluded location for undisturbed contemplation and experimentation.
The Quest for a Capable Disciple: Acharya Padmasagar wishes to achieve certain scientific breakthroughs and requires a strong, patient, and courageous disciple. He approaches Maharaja Surpal and requests his only son, Prince Mahabal, for a period of one and a half months to assist in his experiments.
Mahabal's Trials and the Creation of a Divine Pill: Despite initial parental apprehension due to the forest's dangers, Mahabal, with his inherent bravery, agrees. Acharya Padmasagar is impressed by Mahabal's demeanor and sees in him the potential for success in his experiments. Mahabal proves his mettle by bravely defending the ashram against monstrous creatures. The Acharya is close to completing a remarkable creation: a "Divya Gutika" (divine pill) made from mercury. During the crucial final stages, Mahabal remains vigilant, protecting the ashram from attacks by fierce beings while Acharya Padmasagar completes the alchemical process. The pill is revealed to have the power of "Rupaparivartini Vidya," allowing the user to transform into any desired form, a feat achieved not by mantra but by advanced science.
The Gift of Transformation: Acharya Padmasagar successfully creates the pills, which are described as glowing like gems. He explains their power to transform appearance and expresses his gratitude to Mahabal for his crucial support. He imparts knowledge of various scientific experiments to Mahabal, recognizing the prince's potential.

Part 2: The Artist and the Courtesan's Dilemma

The Skillful Artist Ary Susharma: The story shifts to Chandravati city, where King Viradhaval hosts Ary Susharma, a renowned artist from Bengal. Susharma possesses extraordinary talent, able to paint detailed portraits with his eyes covered, based solely on memory and observation. His art is so refined that he can depict intricate scenes on a single grain of rice.
A Challenge and a Commission: Susharma demonstrates his art by painting the royal priest with remarkable accuracy, astonishing the court. King Viradhaval is captivated by Susharma's skill and commissions him to paint the royal family, starting with Princess Malayakumari. Susharma is deeply struck by Malayakumari's beauty, considering her a divine manifestation.
Encounter with Chandrasena: While in Chandravati, Susharma is invited by Vinoda, the chief attendant of the famous courtesan Chandrasena. Chandrasena, known for her beauty and intelligence, wishes to have her portrait painted. Susharma is intrigued but initially hesitant when Chandrasena requests a nude portrait, citing that true beauty is revealed without adornment. Susharma refuses, stating that such a request is not art but a mockery. He later agrees to paint her portrait in a unique way, requiring her to stand before him for a few moments in her true form.
Chandrasena's Reflection and Ambition: Chandrasena, a successful courtesan, reflects on her mother's advice to maintain self-control over her beauty and avoid men's deceit. Despite her profession and the admiration she receives, she adheres to her mother's teachings. She is intrigued by Susharma's refusal to paint a nude portrait, questioning his artistic integrity and assuming he will eventually succumb to her allure.
Susharma's Steadfastness and the Prince's Interest: Chandrasena visits Susharma at the royal guesthouse, intending to persuade him. Susharma shows her his work, including a painting of Malayakumari, which he kept for himself, hoping it would lead to a suitable match for her. He knows many princes and kings and believes he can help Malayakumari find a good husband. He is impressed by Susharma's integrity and his refusal of Chandrasena's advances.
The Seed of Love: Susharma's encounter with Malayakumari sparks a deep admiration in him. He is struck by her divine beauty and purity. He decides to keep a small portrait of her, hoping to find a suitable match for her, believing that Prince Mahabal of Prithvisthanpur would be an ideal partner.
Prince Mahabal's Quest: Meanwhile, Prince Mahabal, upon seeing Susharma's paintings of the royal family, becomes interested in Malayakumari. He receives an invitation from King Surpal of Prithvisthanpur to visit. Mahabal, already smitten by Malayakumari's portrait, travels to Chandravati, disguised as a commoner to observe her discreetly.
The First Meeting: Mahabal, disguised, visits the royal palace gardens, hoping to catch a glimpse of Malayakumari. He is mesmerized by her beauty when she appears at a window. They have a brief, indirect interaction when Malayakumari drops a coded message. Mahabal, understanding the message, is overjoyed and determined to win her affection.
The Royal Family's Concern and Malayakumari's Fate: The story delves into the history of King Viradhaval's family. Queen Champakamala, his first wife, is unable to conceive, leading the King to marry Kanakavati. When Kanakavati also remains childless, Champakamala, through divine intervention and devotion, is blessed with two children: Prince Malayamara (later referred to as Mahabal) and Princess Malayakumari. However, Kanakavati harbors deep jealousy towards Champakamala and her children, leading to sinister plots.
The Self-Imposed Exile and the Prince's Return: Due to Kanakavati's machinations and a misunderstanding, Mahabal is sent to Acharya Padmasagar's ashram. After Mahabal's safe return, he receives a letter from King Viradhaval, inviting him to Chandravati for Malayakumari's birthday, which coincides with his own. The letter also hints at the possibility of a marriage alliance. Mahabal, still in love with Malayakumari, decides to go, disguised as "Sundersen."
The Revelation and the Scheme: In Chandravati, Mahabal, as Sundersen, visits the royal palace. He encounters Malayakumari, who recognizes him despite his disguise. Meanwhile, Kanakavati, consumed by jealousy, attempts to manipulate Susharma into painting Malayakumari in a compromising position to discredit her. Susharma, however, upholds his artistic integrity and refuses. Later, Kanakavati's machinations lead to Mahabal's mistaken imprisonment.
The Power of the 'Rupaparivartini' Pill: Mahabal, having obtained a powerful 'Rupaparivartini' pill from Acharya Padmasagar, uses it to escape captivity and later to disguise himself. The pill allows for temporary physical transformation.
The Challenge and the Self-Sacrifice: Back in Prithvisthanpur, Mahabal learns of his mother's distress over the missing "Lakshmipunj" necklace, a divine gift. He vows to retrieve it. Meanwhile, Malayakumari, after a series of calamities including a perilous ordeal in a well and an encounter with a dangerous serpent, is found and guided by a wise ascetic. Her survival is attributed to her unwavering faith in the Namokar Mantra.
The Grand Revelation and the Union: At Malayakumari's Swayamvar, Mahabal, disguised as "Sundersen," dramatically reveals his true identity by lifting the mighty Vajrasara bow and piercing a target. The story culminates with the revelation of Mahabal's identity, the reunion of Mahabal and Malayakumari, and the exposure of Kanakavati's wickedness. The novel emphasizes the importance of righteousness, devotion, and the consequences of negative emotions like jealousy and greed. The narrative also highlights the efficacy of the Namokar Mantra in overcoming obstacles and delivering devotees from dire situations. The story concludes with Mahabal and Malayakumari embracing their destiny, ready to rule their kingdom with justice and compassion.

Key Themes and Elements:

Scientific and Spiritual Prowess: The story showcases advanced scientific knowledge through Acharya Padmasagar and the power of spiritual devotion through the Namokar Mantra.
Moral and Ethical Values: The novel explores themes of courage, integrity, the dangers of jealousy and greed, and the triumph of good over evil.
The Power of Devotion: The story emphasizes the transformative and protective power of devotion to the Namokar Mantra.
Justice and Karma: The narrative illustrates the workings of karma, showing how wrongdoings are eventually punished and virtues are rewarded.
The Journey of Discovery: Both Mahabal and Malayakumari undergo significant trials and transformations, leading them to their destined union.

The summary highlights the intricate plot, the development of characters, and the underlying Jain principles woven into the fabric of the story.