Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1975 - Book Summary

This Jain text, titled "Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1975" and authored by Bhanvarlal Polyaka, published by Rajasthan Jain Sabha Jaipur, is a commemorative souvenir dedicated to the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavira. The publication was released in 1975 by the Rajasthan Provincial Bhagwan Mahavir 2500th Nirvana Mahotsava Mahasamiti.

Here's a comprehensive summary of its content:

Overall Purpose: The souvenir serves as a tribute to Lord Mahavira on the occasion of his 2500th Nirvana anniversary. It aims to:

Disseminate Lord Mahavira's philosophy, teachings, and principles.
Document the various programs and activities undertaken across Rajasthan and India to celebrate this significant occasion.
Serve as a source of inspiration for individuals to adopt Mahavira's ideals in their lives.
Highlight the cultural and spiritual contributions of Jainism.

Key Contents and Themes:

Editorial and Commemorative Messages:
- The souvenir features messages from prominent figures, including the Chief Minister of Rajasthan (Shri Haridev Joshi), the Union Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation (Shri Jagjivan Ram), the Union Minister of Defence Production (Shri Ramvilas Paswan), the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh (Shri Prakash Chand Sethi), the Chief Minister of Gujarat (Shri Babubhai Jashbhai Patel), the Chief Minister of Haryana (Shri Bansi Lal), the Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court (Shri Prakash Narayan Singhal), the Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly (Shri Ramkishore Vyas), and various other state ministers, including those for Finance, Education, Health, Agriculture, and Tourism.
- These messages consistently praise Lord Mahavira's teachings of non-violence (Ahimsa), non-possessiveness (Aparigraha), and multi-faceted reality (Anekantavada), emphasizing their relevance for national character building, discipline, and ethical development in contemporary India.
- Many messages highlight the importance of imbibing Mahavira's principles in daily life as the true tribute to him.
- The souvenir also includes messages from spiritual leaders like Acharya Shri Tulsi, who emphasizes that the celebration of the Nirvana year should not be an endpoint but a catalyst for continued action.
- There's a notable message from Kasturbhai Lalbhai, emphasizing the propagation of Jainism's high principles.
Projects and Publications related to the Mahotsava:
- Shri Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra Shri Mahavirji: The text lists ongoing and planned projects at this significant Jain pilgrimage site. These include:
  - Construction of a Mahavira Stupa.
  - An Eye Hospital.
  - A modern dining hall (Bhojanshala).
  - A lecture hall (Pravachan Hall).
  - Additional accommodation rooms.
- Literature Publication: The souvenir also details literature published by the Shri Mahavirji Kshetra, including:
  - "Mahavir Kavya Mala" series.
  - Various small tracts on Mahavira, Jain Philosophy, and Mahavira's teachings.
  - "Catalogues of Jain Manuscript Libraries in Rajasthan" (Volumes 1-5).
  - "Jain Granth Bhandars in Rajasthan" by Dr. K.C. Kasliwal.
  - "Jain Saints of Rajasthan: Personality and Works" by Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal.
  - "Personality and Works of Mahakavi Daulatram Kasliwal."
  - Poetic works by Pt. Moolchand Shastri, Pt. Padmachand Shastri, etc.
In-depth Articles on Mahavira's Life, Philosophy, and Teachings:
- The souvenir features a rich collection of articles covering various aspects of Lord Mahavira's life and philosophy. These include:
  - Lord Mahavira: Life, Thought, and Teachings: Articles by prominent scholars and spiritual figures like Acharya Shri Tulsi, Muni Shri Nagarajji, Dr. Narendra Bhanavat, Sadhvi Shri Kanakaprabhaji, and many others.
  - Mahavira's Philosophy and the Hedonistic Tradition: An analysis of Mahavira's teachings in relation to hedonism.
  - The Foundation of Democracy: Mahavira's Philosophy: Exploring the connection between Mahavira's principles and democratic ideals.
  - Mahavira's Kevala-Sadhana: Detailed accounts of Mahavira's intense austerities and spiritual practices.
  - Vira Vandana (Ode to Vira): Poetic tributes to Mahavira.
  - Mahavira and the Concept of Soul: Discussions on Jain metaphysics related to the soul.
  - Mahavira's Internal Revolution: An exploration of Mahavira's inner transformation and its impact.
  - Mahaver's Capacity: Accounts of Mahavira's strength and resilience.
  - Mahavira and Karma Theory: Explaining the Jain concept of karma.
  - Conscious Sentinels of Freedom: Mahavira: Discussing Mahavira's emphasis on individual freedom and conscience.
  - Mahavira and the Awakening of Women: Highlighting Mahavira's role in empowering women and challenging societal norms.
  - The Central Principle of Mahavira: Ahimsa vs. Violence: A comparative study of Ahimsa and violence.
  - The Message of Dharma: Exploring the universal message of dharma.
  - Serpent Cult and Jain Tirthankaras: Discussing the historical connections and iconography.
  - Why Groan!: A philosophical reflection.
  - Lord Mahavira and Marx: A comparative study of their philosophies, highlighting similarities in their revolutionary outlook, humanistic approach, and emphasis on equality and self-reliance.
  - The Message of Dharma: Exploring the universal message of dharma.
  - Jainism and Bihar: The historical and archaeological connection between Jainism and the state of Bihar.
  - Lord Mahavira's Birthplace Kundapur: Detailing the significance of Mahavira's birthplace.
  - Jaina Art and Architecture: Discussing the development and examples of Jain art in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
  - Ancient Historical City Junna (Barmer) and Jaina Tirth Nakoda: Exploring historical sites and Jain pilgrimage.
  - Lord Mahavira and his Non-possessiveness: Analyzing the principle of non-possession.
  - Contemporary Materialism and Lord Mahavira: Discussing the relevance of Mahavira's teachings in addressing modern materialism.
  - The Path of Restraint: Exploring the Jain path of self-control.
  - Lord Mahavira's Physical and Spiritual Qualities: A detailed description.
  - A Study of Jainism's Universality: Examining the broad applicability of Jain principles.
  - Jain Dharma: An overview of Jainism.
  - Jaina Mysticism: Exploring the mystical aspects of Jainism.
  - The Message of Dharma: The essence of Jain teachings.
  - Serpent Cult and Jain Tirthankaras: Historical and iconographic connections.
  - Why Groan!: A philosophical piece.
  - Jaina Art in Madhya Pradesh: Development and examples.
  - Ancient Historical City Junna and Jaina Tirth Nakoda: Archaeological and historical perspective.
  - Jaina Art and Architecture: Highlighting artistic contributions.
  - The Essential Principle of Mahavira: Ahimsa: A comparative study.
  - The Jaina Philosophy of Syadvada: Explaining the doctrine of non-absolutism.
  - A Comparative Study of Jainism and Buddhism: Examining similarities and differences.
  - The Significance of the Jain Lay Follower (Shravak): Discussing the role and importance of lay followers.
  - Jain Logic: An overview of Jain epistemological principles.
  - The Ancient Jain Art of Rajasthan: Highlighting artistic achievements.
  - Lord Mahavira's Mysticism: A study of Jain mysticism.
  - The Message of Dharma: An exploration of Jain ethics.
  - The Message of Jainism: A discourse on Jain principles.
  - Lord Mahavira's Central Principle: Ahimsa: A detailed analysis.
  - Jainism and Its Relevance: Modern-day applicability.
  - The Jaina Soul and the Liberated Soul: Metaphysical concepts.
  - The Impact of Jain Astrology on Aryabhata: Historical connection.
  - Tirthankarahood and Buddhahood: Comparative study of attainment.
  - The Jaina Philosophy of Syadvada: Detailed explanation.
Rajasthan's Achievements in the Mahotsava:
- The souvenir extensively details the various programs and achievements in Rajasthan during the Mahotsava year. This includes governmental initiatives like declaring the year as "Ahimsa Year," imposing restrictions on animal sacrifice, establishing the "Mahavira Handicapped Aid Committee," and allocating funds for Mahavira Chairs in universities.
- It also highlights the extensive public participation, the formation of numerous committees at district and local levels, the construction of Mahavir Bhavans, parks, libraries, and the distribution of Mahavira's literature. The dedication and effort of various individuals and organizations are praised.
- The publication emphasizes the spirit of Jain unity that emerged during this period.
Concluding Remarks:
- The editorial and messages collectively express a strong belief that the 2500th Nirvana anniversary celebration should lead to the practical application of Mahavira's teachings in daily life, fostering ethical development and societal progress.
- The emphasis is on continuing the momentum generated by the Mahotsava and working towards a more just, peaceful, and compassionate society.

In essence, the "Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1975" is a rich compilation that serves as both a record of a significant religious observance and a repository of Jain philosophy and cultural contributions, with a particular focus on the extensive activities and achievements in Rajasthan.