Nammayasundari Kaha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nammayasundari Kaha" (Narmada Sundari Katha), based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Nammayasundari Kaha (Narmada Sundari Katha) Author: Mahendrasuri Editor/Publisher: Pratibha Trivedi, Singhi Jain Shastra Shiksha Pith, Mumbai

This text is part of the Singhi Jain Granthamala Series (Volume 48) and is a collection of four related works centered around the story of Narmada Sundari. The primary text is the Nammayasundari Kaha by Mahendrasuri, which is presented alongside three other versions: a synopsis by Devachandrasuri, an Apabhramsha version by Jinaprabhasuri, and an old Gujarati prose rendition by Merusundara.

Introduction and Context:

The collection was initiated by Muni Jinavijaya, who discovered an ancient manuscript of Mahendrasuri's work in a Jain library in Jaisalmer around 1942-43. The manuscript appeared to be about 500 years old. He intended to publish it as part of the Singhi Jain Granthamala. Kumari Pratibha Trivedi took on the task of editing and critically examining the text for her PhD under Muni Jinavijaya's guidance. However, due to her health and subsequent teaching commitments, the full critical edition was not immediately completed. This publication presents the original text of Mahendrasuri's Nammayasundari Kaha along with the other related works, with the hope that Trivedi might complete her thesis in the future, which could then be published as an appendix.

Core Narrative of Mahendrasuri's Nammayasundari Kaha:

The story of Narmada Sundari, according to Mahendrasuri's version, is a moral and devotional tale with a significant narrative spanning multiple lifetimes and dramatic events. The key elements include:

1. Setting the Scene: The story begins with descriptions of prosperous cities and the virtuous nature of their inhabitants.
2. Rudra Datta's Infatuation: Rudra Datta, a wealthy merchant's son, becomes infatuated with Rishidatta, the daughter of the esteemed merchant Ushabhdatta. Ushabhdatta, a devout Jain, insists on marrying his daughter to someone who follows the Jain faith.
3. Rudra Datta's Conversion: Despite his initial attachment to worldly pleasures, Rudra Datta, driven by his desire for Rishidatta, approaches a Jain monk (Dharmaghosha). He expresses his willingness to embrace Jainism and requests guidance on layman's practices. The monk teaches him the principles of Jain conduct, and Rudra Datta diligently follows them, earning respect.
4. The Marriage and Subsequent Events: Rudra Datta marries Rishidatta. The narrative then details their life, Rishidatta's adherence to Jain principles, and the birth of their son, Mahesar Datta.
5. Mahesar Datta's Life and Challenges: Mahesar Datta grows up virtuous. Rishidatta faces hardships when her husband, Rudra Datta (now referred to as Rudradatta in some contexts), appears to abandon Jainism. Rishidatta's strong adherence to her faith is tested.
6. Narmada Sundari's Birth and Beauty: The narrative shifts to the birth of Narmada Sundari in the city of Narmada Pur, founded by Sahadeva and Vīradāsa. Narmada Sundari is described as exceptionally beautiful and virtuous.
7. Mahesar Datta's Encounter with Narmada Sundari: Mahesar Datta meets Narmada Sundari and is deeply impressed by her beauty and virtuous conduct, which he learns about through merchants from Narmada Pur. He is drawn to her, despite her initial resistance due to his perceived worldly nature.
8. Mahesar Datta's Dilemma and Journey: Mahesar Datta, influenced by his friends to seek adventure and wealth, decides to travel to the island of Yavadvipa (Javadvipa). He leaves his beloved Narmada Sundari behind, despite her pleas to take her along.
9. Narmada Sundari's Ordeal: Left alone, Narmada Sundari faces immense suffering. She is abandoned by her husband and eventually separated from her family. She endures great hardship, eventually finding herself stranded on a deserted island. Her profound devotion and meditation lead her to attain a heavenly existence.
10. Mahesar Datta's Regret and Return: Mahesar Datta, after facing his own trials, including a misunderstanding fueled by jealousy and deceit (possibly involving a courtesan named Harini), eventually learns about Narmada Sundari's fate. He returns, filled with regret, and seeks her out.
11. Mahesar Datta's Reunion and Spiritual Path: Mahesar Datta's quest leads him to Narmada Sundari, who has achieved spiritual merit. He is reunited with her and is further influenced by her spiritual teachings. He eventually embraces Jainism wholeheartedly, dedicating his life to its principles.
12. The Story Continues: The narrative follows Mahesar Datta and Narmada Sundari's lives, their adherence to Dharma, their eventual separation and reunion, and their spiritual progress. The text highlights the consequences of actions (karma), the importance of devotion, and the path to liberation.

The Other Works in the Collection:

• Devachandrasuri's Synopsis: This version provides a concise account of the Narmada Sundari story, likely drawn from examples within his commentary on Acharya Pradyumna Suri's Mulashuddhi Prakaran.
• Jinaprabhasuri's Namaya Sundari Sandhi: This is an Apabhramsha version of the story, useful for comparative linguistic and narrative study.
• Merusundara's Gujarati Prose: This work is a detailed explanation (Balavabodha) of the story in ancient Gujarati prose, likely part of a larger compilation of tales.

Themes and Significance:

The Nammayasundari Kaha emphasizes:

• Karma and its Consequences: The story illustrates how past actions shape present circumstances and future destinies.
• Devotion (Bhakti) and Faith (Shraddha): The unwavering devotion of characters, particularly Narmada Sundari, to Jain principles and their spiritual guides is central.
• Patience and Perseverance: Characters face significant adversities and are tested, but their endurance and faith lead to eventual spiritual or worldly success.
• The Importance of Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra): The narrative highlights the path of righteousness, renunciation, and spiritual discipline as the ultimate goal.
• The Power of Right Association: The influence of good company (sadhus, saints) is shown to be crucial in spiritual progress.

This compilation serves as a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of Jain narratives across different languages and literary styles, offering insights into the moral and spiritual teachings of Jainism.