Mahavira Chitra Shataka - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mahavira Chitra Shataka" (महावीर श्री चित्र - शतक) authored by Kamalkumar Shastri and Fulchand, and published by Bhikamsen Ratanlal Jain. The book is a collection of illustrated verses and poems depicting the life and philosophy of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.

Here's a breakdown of the content:

Book Overview:

Title: Mahavira Chitra Shataka (महावीर श्री चित्र - शतक), meaning "A Century of Mahavira's Images/Pictures." The subtitle "Mukharit Rekhakritiyan" (मुखरित रेखाकृतियां) suggests "vocalized line drawings," implying that the illustrations are accompanied by descriptive verses.
Subject Matter: The core theme is the life and philosophy of Lord Mahavira, from his early state of being "Hiyaman" (deteriorating) to his ultimate attainment as "Vardhamaan" (one who increases or progresses).
Dedication: The book is dedicated to all followers of Ahimsa (non-violence) in reference to the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavira.
Illustrators: Shri Ramprasad Ji, Shri Durgadeen Ji Bagi, and Shri Ramesh Soni Madhukar are credited as the illustrators.
Publishers: Bhikamsen Ratanlal Jain of Delhi.
Editors/Authors: Pt. Shri Kamalkumar Ji Shastri "Kudum" and Kavi Shri Fulchand Ji "Pushpendu" from Khurai.
Advisory Board: A distinguished panel of Jain scholars and figures provided guidance.

Key Themes and Content:

Glorification of Mahavira: The initial pages offer prayers and salutations to Lord Mahavira, praising his virtues, his victory over attachment and aversion, and his role as a spiritual guide.
Mangala Stuti (Auspicious Prayer): Arya Shri Gyanmati Mataji offers an invocation, highlighting Mahavira's omniscience, his liberation from worldly afflictions, and his role as a beacon of well-being.
Mahamangalmay Mahavir (Most Auspicious Mahavira): Further verses express devotion and praise for Mahavira.
Appreciation for Publishers and Contributors: The book expresses gratitude to the publisher, Babu Ratanlal Ji Jain, for his selfless dedication to promoting Jain literature. It also acknowledges the significant contributions of the editors, illustrators, and the advisory board.
The Concept of "Chitra-Shataka": The "Chitra-Shataka" is presented not just as a collection of pictures but as a historical and puranic text, where the verses accompanying the illustrations explain the events and teachings of Mahavira's life. The verses are described as "nectar-like songs" that make the narratives engaging.
Visual Storytelling: The book emphasizes the power of visual art in conveying spiritual and historical knowledge, especially in an era where people are often too busy to read extensive texts. The illustrations are intended to make Mahavira's life accessible to both the educated and the uneducated.
Mahavira's Life Journey: The book aims to present Mahavira's entire life story through these illustrated narratives. It includes depictions from his past lives, illustrating the gradual spiritual evolution (heeyaman to vardhamaan) that leads to Tirthankara status.
Key Life Events and Teachings: The content covers various aspects of Mahavira's life, including:
- Birth and Early Life: Descriptions of his birth, naming ceremony, childhood miracles, and his early intellectual prowess.
- Renunciation and Asceticism: His decision to renounce worldly life, his rigorous penance, and his spiritual journey.
- Conquering Attachments: His detachment from worldly pleasures and his mastery over senses and emotions.
- Omniscience and Divine Preaching: His attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and his sermons delivered in the Samavasarana (divine assembly).
- Core Teachings: Emphasis on Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possession), Anekanta (non-absolutism/pluripotentiality), and Karma theory.
- Past Lives: The book delves into Mahavira's past lives to illustrate the arduous path of spiritual development and the accumulation of merit that leads to Tirthankarahood. These narratives often involve cycles of suffering and redemption, demonstrating the principles of karma and reincarnation.
- Specific Events and Encounters: The text includes episodes like his encounters with the serpent Chandakoushika, the intoxicated elephant, and the persuasive powers of the apsaras.
- The Concept of Sameness and Unity: Mahavira's teachings on the equality of all beings and the universality of the soul are highlighted.
- Social Reform: His opposition to animal sacrifice, the caste system, the subjugation of women, and his advocacy for equality and compassion are detailed.
- The Significance of the 2500th Nirvana Anniversary: The book is a tribute to this milestone, aiming to spark spiritual awakening and a revival of Mahavira's teachings.
Astrological Interpretation of Mahavira's Birth Chart: A significant portion of the book (pages 46-74) provides a detailed astrological analysis of Lord Mahavira's birth chart, interpreting the planetary positions and their influence on his life and mission. This section highlights the astrological Yogas and their significance in predicting his divine qualities and spiritual mission.
Devotional Hymns and Poems: The book features a collection of prayers, verses, and poems by various Jain saints and scholars, each offering a unique perspective and tribute to Lord Mahavira. These include:
- Mahavir Ashtak Stotram: An eight-verse hymn praising Mahavira.
- Deep Archana: A devotional song for "lighting the lamp" for Mahavira.
- Mahavir Vandana: A salutation to Mahavira.
- Manavata Ke Uddharak: Bhagvan Mahavir: A poem celebrating Mahavira as the savior of humanity.
- Samaravta (Coordination): A poem emphasizing the concept of synthesis.
- Udbodhan (Awakening): An inspirational piece.
- Ve Mahan The Vardhamaan The (He Was Great, He Was Vardhamaan): A poem reflecting on his greatness.
- Darshan-Bodh (Glimpse of Philosophy): A reflection on his philosophy.
- Jyotirmay Mahavir (Radiant Mahavir): A poetic tribute.
- Vaishali: A poem by Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar' about the significance of Vaishali.
- Veer-Vaibhav (Glory of the Hero): A poem celebrating Mahavira's splendor.
- Samaravta (Coordination): A poem on unity and coordination.
- Communist and Lord Mahavira: An essay drawing parallels between Mahavira's teachings and communism.
- Tirthankar Lord Mahavir and His Message: An essay on his teachings.
Illustrative Details: The book also contains an index of illustrations, indicating the specific events and figures depicted. It includes detailed genealogies of Mahavira's past lives and the lineage of his immediate disciples.

Overall Significance:

"Mahavira Chitra Shataka" serves as a visually rich and devotionally profound resource for understanding the life, teachings, and spiritual journey of Lord Mahavira. It combines artistic expression with scholarly insights and devotional poetry to create an inspiring and educational portrayal of this pivotal figure in Jainism. The book emphasizes the practical application of Mahavira's philosophy in contemporary times and aims to connect readers with his eternal message of peace, compassion, and self-realization.