Mahavir Aur Unki Samajik Kranti

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Mahavir aur unki Samajik Kranti" by Chandanmal Vaidya:

The book, "Mahavir aur unki Samajik Kranti" (Mahavir and His Social Revolution), authored by Chandanmal Vaidya, discusses how Vardhaman, the prince of Vaishali, who became Lord Mahavir, was a visionary leader who initiated a non-violent social revolution. The book highlights that the social conditions of his time were the primary catalysts for his revolutionary path.

Key Social and Religious Ills of the Time:

• Political Instability and Exploitation: The era was marked by political unrest, violence, conflict, and exploitation.
• Flawed Religious System: The religious order was dominated by spiritual leaders who promoted an ideology based on:
  • Theism and the Concept of Avatars: The idea that rulers were divine incarnations or avatars of gods, and Brahmins were their spokespersons, was prevalent.
  • Idolatry and Superstition: Blind faith and superstitious practices were widespread.
  • Ritualistic Sacrifices: Animal sacrifice and other elaborate rituals were common.
• Societal Hierarchy and Discrimination:
  • Slavery: A pervasive slave system existed where humans were treated as property, with slaves being equated to animals.
  • Subjugation of Women: Women were considered mere objects of pleasure.
  • Caste System: The birth-based caste system, with its inherent discrimination, created a rigid social structure.
  • Class Divide: A stark division existed between the privileged, exploitative upper class and the oppressed lower class.

Lord Mahavir's Revolutionary Response:

Moved by the prevailing social injustices, Lord Mahavir renounced his royal life and embarked on a path of revolution. His teachings aimed to dismantle the deeply entrenched societal norms and superstitions.

• Rejection of Divine Kingship and Theism: Mahavir declared that kings were not divine incarnations but simply powerful human beings. He also refuted the existence of God or any external power that controls human destiny or the universe. He asserted that humans are their own masters and are responsible for their actions and their consequences, which they must bear across lifetimes.
• Emphasis on Self-Effort and Karma: He taught that liberation is achievable through one's own good deeds and self-effort, not through divine intervention or the grace of any external entity.
• Critique of Religious Dogma: Mahavir challenged the prevalent religious doctrines, including theism, the concept of divine avatars, and the rituals propagated by religious leaders.
• Establishment of Humanism and Self-Sovereignty: He laid the foundation for a human-centric religion, emphasizing the inherent dignity and potential of every individual. He proclaimed that humans are masters of their own destiny and that their greatness should be measured by their deeds, not by their birth.
• Promotion of Equality and Non-Discrimination:
  • He abolished the caste system and the slave system, proclaiming that all humans are born equal and have an equal right to self-development.
  • He granted equal respect and status to all, including women and those from lower castes.
  • He actively initiated and respected individuals from all walks of life, including Shudras and slaves, granting them dignified positions in society.
• Advocacy for Non-Possession (Aparigraha): Recognizing the issues arising from accumulation and greed, Mahavir advocated for the principle of non-possession, encouraging individuals to limit their possessions to their basic needs.
• Holistic Education and Discipline: He stressed the importance of holistic education to foster religious tolerance and build an ideal world. He advocated for individuals to lead disciplined lives through the practice of the "Dashlakshan Dharma" (Ten Virtues) and "Panch Mahavratas" (Five Great Vows).
• Upholding Human Values: The book highlights Jain culture's unique contribution in establishing human values by venerating Mahavir as a "Tirthankar" or "Maha-purush" (Great Being) rather than an avatar, a departure from other cultures that often deified their spiritual leaders.

Relevance in the Present Day:

The book concludes by emphasizing that the principles and teachings of Lord Mahavir remain eternally relevant. Many of the social ills that Mahavir addressed, such as economic inequality, untouchability, discrimination, and exploitative tendencies, continue to plague modern society in new forms. The author draws a parallel with Mahatma Gandhi's work, suggesting that the social revolution initiated by Mahavir, and further propelled by India's constitution and guiding principles, requires the widespread propagation of Mahavir's teachings to establish an ideal society. The need for his philosophy in the present day is deemed greater than ever before.