Meghagani Nirvan Ras

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Meghagani Nirvan Ras" by Vinaysagar, based on the provided pages:

The document is an excerpt from an academic research paper (Anusandhan 49) discussing the Jain text "Shri Meghagani Nirvan Ras" composed by Vimalahansgani and presented by M. Vinaysagar.

Key Information about Meghagani:

• Identity and Affiliation: The text speculates that Meghagani might have been a disciple of Shri Hiravijayasuri, based on the mention of "Aham [Da] Vadi Charitra Leadji" and "Ganimegha" in a song. It is also suggested that he may have transitioned from the Sthanakvasi sect to the Mandirmargi (temple-worshipping) sect.
• Time Period: While the exact dates of his initiation and passing are not mentioned in the text itself, it is estimated that Meghagani lived in the 18th century because the manuscript is an 18th-century document.
• Guru and Initiation: Meghagani received initiation from Vijayhansa Guru. This clarifies that the composer of the Ras, Vimalahansgani, is distinct from Meghagani, as Vimalahansgani refers to receiving initiation from "Vijayhansa Guru," implying Meghagani is a different individual who also had a connection with Vijayhansa. The text notes that the "Pattavali-Samuccaya" (a collection of lineage records) is silent on both Vijayhansa and Vimalahansgani.
• Life and Nirvana:
  • After initiation by Vijayhansa, Meghagani observed his Chaturmas (a four-month monastic retreat) in Nana.
  • He attained Atmasiddhi (self-realization/liberation) by taking an anashan (fast unto death) in Nana.
  • His passing (svargavas) occurred on the 13th day of the bright half of Vaishakh (Vaishakh Sudi 13).
• Veneration and Memorials:
  • The Jain community (Sangh) of Nana established his paduka (footprints) in the Veer temple, where many men and women come daily to pay homage.
  • Significantly, Jodhigshah established Meghagani's paduka at the Ranakpur temple under a Rayan tree, and the Sangh worships them with enthusiasm.
• The Ras (Hymn): The composer, Vimalahansgani, expresses his devotion to Meghagani. He compares his longing for Meghagani's name to the longing of a chatak bird for the clouds, a cuckoo for spring, a bee for the Malati flower, a chaste woman for her husband, an elephant for the Rewa river, and a peacock for the month of Shravana. He states that he chants Meghagani's name throughout the twelve months across the six seasons.
• Benefits of Remembering Meghagani: Reciting Meghagani's name brings all kinds of happiness, leads to liberation (moksha), and helps increase one's family, including sons and wife. The composer Vimalahans expresses that Meghagani always resides in his mind and that by remembering him, one can obtain desires like the mythical Kalpavriksha (wish-fulfilling tree) and the Chintamani jewel, leading to increased wealth and family prosperity.

Manuscript Details:

• Only the fourth leaf of this particular manuscript is available.
• The size of the manuscript is 25.5 x 11.
• Each page has 13 lines.
• Each line has approximately 33 characters.
• The writing is estimated to be from the 18th century.

Additional Text:

The research paper also notes the existence of an incomplete Nirvan Bhas (another devotional hymn) dedicated to Meghamahāmuni within the same manuscript. This hymn mentions Vimalahans singing the praises of Meghamahāmuni, invoking divine blessings, and associating his name with prosperity and fulfillment of desires.

In essence, "Meghagani Nirvan Ras" is a devotional composition celebrating the life and spiritual achievements of a Jain monk named Meghagani. The text highlights his lineage, his guru, his pious passing, and the veneration he continues to receive, emphasizing the benefits derived from remembering his name.