Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1978 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1978," based on the English translation of the provided pages:

Overall Context:

This publication is a souvenir (Smarika) commemorating Mahavira Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira) in 1978, published by the Rajasthan Jain Sabha, Jaipur. It serves as a collection of articles, poems, and information related to Jainism, Lord Mahavira, and the activities of the Rajasthan Jain Sabha. The souvenir highlights the significance of Mahavira's teachings in the contemporary world and showcases the Sabha's efforts in promoting Jainism.

Key Sections and Content:

Editorial and Organizational Information (Pages 2-4):
- Publisher and Editorial Board: Rajasthan Jain Sabha, Jaipur is the publisher. Shri Bhanvarlal Polyaka is the Chief Editor, supported by an editorial board including Dr. Narendra Bhanavat, Shri Gyanchand Jain Biltiwale, Shri Rajkumar Kala, Shri Rajmal Begsya, and Shri Padmchand Shah.
- Organizing Committee: Shri Sumerkumar Jain is the Convener, assisted by several members for various aspects of the Mahavira Jayanti celebration and souvenir publication, including essay competitions, speech competitions, youth conferences, processions, cultural programs, fundraising, publicity, and pandal arrangements.
- Message from the Chief Minister of Rajasthan (Page 5): Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, the Chief Minister, expresses his pleasure in the publication of the souvenir, noting that it will contain scholarly articles on Jain philosophy, history, culture, and literature. He emphasizes that Lord Mahavira's ideals of social morality and religious tolerance are as relevant today as they were in his time, especially in the current context of the nation. He wishes the souvenir success in spreading Mahavira's principles.
- List of Dignitaries and Members: Pages 2 and 3 provide extensive lists of the office bearers and executive committee members of the Rajasthan Jain Sabha, Jaipur.
Table of Contents (Page 6-8):
- The souvenir is structured into three main sections:
  - Section 1: Mahavira: His Philosophy and Other Philosophies: This section includes articles and poems focusing on Lord Mahavira, his teachings, and comparative philosophical discussions. Titles include "Veer Vandana," "Mahavira in the Mirror of Self-Revolution and People's Revolution," "Lord Mahavira's Philosophy," "The Secret of Jain Sadhana," "The Superiority of Five Great Vows," and comparative studies of Jain, Buddhist, and Gita philosophies.
  - Section 2: Our Land, Our Country: This section appears to cover a broader range of topics related to Jain heritage, history, literature, and culture within India. Titles include "Mangalacharanam," "The Author of Prashmarati Prakarana is Different from the Author of Tattvartha Sutra," "The Influence of Apabhraṃśa Krishna Poetry on Surdas's Poetry," "Khartvel's Early Life," "The Politics Reflected in Uttarapurana," "Khandelewal Shravakas' Origin," "Jaipur's Jain Fairs," and "Jainism in Muslim Rule."
  - Section 3: Free Thoughts and Others: This section contains diverse essays and reflections, including "Lord Mahavira, the Inspirer of Universal Brotherhood," and "Mahavira in the Circle of Question Marks."
- Correction Note: A note on page 4 mentions a missing author's name for a poem and requests readers to make the correction.
- Printing Errors: Page 8 lists several printing errors and their corrections.
President's Address (Page 13-14):
- Shri Rajkumar Kala, the President of the Rajasthan Jain Sabha, Jaipur, delivers an address reflecting on the current state of the world, characterized by violence and hatred, contrasting it with the need for Mahavira's teachings. He praises the consistent publication of the souvenir over the years and acknowledges the dedicated work of the Chief Editor, Shri Bhanvarlal Polyaka. He highlights Polyaka's commitment despite his age and health, emphasizing his success in compiling valuable material. He also expresses gratitude to the organizing committee, sponsors, advertisers, and all members of the Sabha for their support.
Editor's Address (Page 17):
- Shri Bhanvarlal Polyaka, the Chief Editor, reflects on his ten years of editing the souvenir. He expresses his gratitude for the support received from contributors, colleagues, and the press. He mentions his desire to shed light on the history of the Khandelewal Jain community and laments the inability to publish all submitted works due to space and time constraints. He expresses hope for the continued success and usefulness of the souvenir.
Editorial (Page 18-21):
- The editorial recounts the establishment of the souvenir tradition in 1962 by the late Pt. Chainsookdas Nyaytirtha. It praises the current editor, Pt. Bhanvarlal Polyaka, for his selfless literary service and acknowledges the Sabha's recognition of his work. It emphasizes the importance of Mahavira's principles of living and letting live, non-possession, and non-absolutism in today's world. It also thanks the organizing committee and advertisers for making the publication possible.
Activities of Rajasthan Jain Sabha (Pages 22-29):
- This section provides a detailed account of the various events and activities organized by the Rajasthan Jain Sabha in the past year (1977-78). These include:
  - Mahavira Jayanti Celebration: Essay and speech competitions, musical evenings, Prabhat Pheris (morning processions), women's conferences, a grand procession, cultural programs, and public gatherings.
  - Dashlakshan Festival Celebration: Daily discourses by learned scholars.
  - Kshamaapan Festival (Forgiveness Festival): A mass forgiveness ceremony with messages emphasizing true forgiveness.
  - Protest against Offensive Content: The Sabha protested against objectionable content in a research thesis concerning Jain practices.
  - Silver Jubilee Celebration: Marking 25 years of the Sabha's existence.
  - Condolences: Condolence meetings were held for prominent members of the Jain community.
  - Mahavira Nirvana Festival: Commemoration of Lord Mahavira's nirvana.
  - Jain Fair: An event featuring art exhibitions, games, and cultural performances.
  - Literature Dissemination: Continuation of the souvenir publication and the publication of small books by Jain scholars.
- Social Activities: The Sabha's involvement in social issues such as advocacy for legislative changes, providing information on tax laws, and addressing social issues like dowry. Future plans include educational camps, reading rooms, scholarships, and industrial training for widows.
- Appreciation: The Sabha expresses gratitude to various individuals and institutions for their support.
Appreciations from the Press and Scholars (Pages 33-41):
- This extensive section compiles positive reviews and appreciations of the previous year's souvenir (1977) from various newspapers, magazines, and scholars. These commendations highlight the souvenir's research-oriented content, scholarly articles, editorial insights, informative value, attractive layout, and overall contribution to Jain literature and culture.
Prominent Personalities Who Passed Away (Pages 42-49):
- This section pays tribute to prominent Jain personalities who passed away during the year, including:
  - Sahu Shanti Prasad Jain: Described as a philanthropist, danveer (generous donor), and pillar of the community.
  - Shri Rishabhdas Ranka: Hailed as the lifeblood of the Bharat Jain Mahamandal, a freedom fighter, and a dedicated social worker.
  - Pt. Parmeshthidas Jain: Recognized as a profound scholar, editor, reformer, and author.
  - Prajna Chakshu Pt. Sukhlal Jain: Celebrated as a distinguished scholar of Indian philosophy and culture.
  - Pt. Uday Jain: Founder of Jawahar Vidyapeeth and Jain Shikshan Sangh.
  - Shri Sundarlal Jain: A renowned publisher of Oriental studies and founder of Motilal Banarsidas publishing house.
- The tributes highlight their significant contributions to Jainism, literature, social reform, and national life.
Articles on Jain Philosophy and Lord Mahavira (Pages 51-168):
- This constitutes the main body of the souvenir, featuring a wide array of scholarly and reflective articles on various aspects of Jainism and Lord Mahavira. The articles cover:
  - Devotional and Eulogistic Pieces: "Veer Vandana" and other hymns.
  - Mahavira's Life and Teachings: Analyses of his self-revolution and revolution for the masses, his philosophy, his emphasis on ahimsa, truth, aparigraha, and his concepts of anekantavada and syadvada.
  - Philosophical Comparisons: Discussions on Jain philosophy in relation to Buddhism and the Bhagavad Gita, particularly concerning karma.
  - Jain Practices and Concepts: Articles on the secrecy of Jain sadhana, the significance of Mahavrata (great vows), and the meaning of "Samayika" (equanimity).
  - Jain Ethics and Morality: Discussions on the nature of 'pap' (sin) and 'punya' (merit), with comparative analyses across Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic traditions. The importance of the five Mahavratas (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha) is highlighted.
  - Jain Art and History: Articles on "Sarvatobhadra Pratima" (four-faced idols) and the "Early Life of Kharvel," examining historical and artistic aspects.
  - Jain Literature: Discussions on the influence of Apabhraṃśa Krishna poetry on Surdas and comparisons between Jain and Vaishnavite devotional practices.
  - Jain Social Practices: An examination of the significance of festivals like the Jain Mela.
  - Jain Identity and Community: An exploration of the origins of the Khandelewal Shravak community and the importance of recognizing historical figures like Sanghi Jhootharam.
  - Jain Philosophy vs. Other Philosophies: Articles like "Is All Jainism Atheism?" and "Is God Perceived?" delve into the philosophical underpinnings and comparisons of Jainism with other belief systems.
  - The Role of the Soul and Nature: "The Individuality of Man" and "The Soul's Universal Brahman-like Nature" touch upon deeper spiritual concepts.
  - The Significance of Mahavira's Life: Articles reflect on Mahavira's role as an exemplar of universal brotherhood and his message for humanity.
Specific Highlights:
- Emphasis on Ahimsa and Anekantavada: Lord Mahavira's core principles of non-violence and non-absolutism are consistently highlighted as solutions to modern-day problems.
- Relevance to Contemporary Society: The souvenir repeatedly emphasizes the timeless relevance of Mahavira's teachings for achieving peace and harmony in the current turbulent world.
- Community Spirit: The publication showcases the active engagement and dedication of the Rajasthan Jain Sabha in organizing various religious, cultural, and social events.
- Literary Merit: The inclusion of contributions from scholars and writers across different disciplines underscores the high literary standard of the souvenir.

In essence, the Mahavira Jayanti Smarika 1978 is a comprehensive tribute to Lord Mahavira, showcasing his eternal relevance and the vibrant efforts of the Rajasthan Jain Sabha to propagate his message of peace, non-violence, and universal brotherhood.