Neminath Evam Rajmati Se Sambandhit Hindi Rachnaye - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Neminath evam Rajmati se Sambandhit Hindi Rachnaye" by Vedprakash Garg:

This document, "Neminath evam Rajmati se Sambandhit Hindi Rachnaye" by Vedprakash Garg, explores the rich literary tradition in Hindi that revolves around the lives and stories of Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara of Jainism, and his beloved, Rajmati (also known as Rajul).

Introduction to Lord Neminath and Rajmati:

Ancient Indian Religion: Jainism is presented as India's ancient religion, with its 24 Tirthankaras, who were born, attained omniscience, and preached Dharma across various regions. Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara and father of Emperor Bharat (after whom India is named), is credited with transforming India into a land of civilization, culture, knowledge, and art.
Lord Neminath's Lineage and Birth: Lord Neminath, also known as Arishtanemi, belonged to the lineage of Lord Rishabhdev. He was a highly revered and popular Tirthankara, born in Sauripur in the Braj region. Sauripur is still a significant Jain pilgrimage site. His father was King Samudravijaya of the Yadava dynasty, and his mother was Shivadevi. His childhood was spent in Dwarka, on the western coast, where his paternal cousin was Lord Krishna.
The Renunciation: Neminath was known for his valor. His marriage to Rajmati, the daughter of King Ugrasen, was arranged. However, upon arriving at the wedding ceremony with the bridal procession, Neminath was deeply moved by the cries of animals and birds gathered in an enclosure. Upon inquiry, he learned they were meant for the wedding feast. This realization of the violence and lust for indulgence in the world caused him profound revulsion and detachment. He declared that he would only marry the "bride of liberation" and refused to proceed with the worldly marriage, discarding his wedding attire. Overwhelmed by compassion for the innocent creatures, he renounced worldly life and left for Dwarka, subsequently taking diksha (initiation) on Urjayanta mountain (Girnar).
Attainment and Rajmati's Devotion: After forty-four days of penance, Neminath attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and began his spiritual discourses. He preached for many years and ultimately attained Moksha (liberation) on Girnar mountain, embodying the core Jain principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Tapasya (austerity).
Rajmati's Dedication: Rajmati, who had sincerely accepted Neminath as her destined husband and was a highly devoted wife, was deeply affected by his renunciation. Despite attempts by her family to persuade her otherwise, she refused to marry anyone else. She eventually followed Neminath to Girnar, took diksha, and became a devoted ascetic. Her unwavering commitment to her chosen husband, even after his renunciation, established her as a paragon of wifely virtue and makes her name as sacred and remembered as Lord Neminath's among Jains.

Historicity and Literary Tradition:

Historical Evidence: The document addresses the historical debate surrounding Lord Neminath, noting that while some historians initially doubted his existence, many now accept his historicity. His close relationship with Lord Krishna, whose historicity is undisputed, supports this. Neminath and Krishna lived before the Mahabharata War, the period known as Krishna-kaal. The text argues that Indian traditions, supported by astrology, archaeology, and history, place this period over 5,000 years ago, not merely the 3,500 years suggested by some modern scholars. A significant piece of archaeological evidence cited is a copper inscription found in Kathiawar, dating from around 1140 BCE, which mentions Nebuchadnezzar's devotion to Neminath of Girnar.
Literary Significance: The Neminath-Rajmati narrative has been a prolific source of inspiration for Jain poets and scholars, leading to the creation of vast literary works. These works, often classified as "viraha kavya" (poetry of separation), explore Rajmati's longing for Neminath. The separation is not described as sensual but as a profound spiritual longing for the virtuous ascetic.
Themes and Styles: Jain poets have also composed works depicting the Neminath-Rajmati love story with a focus on restrained passion, aiming to guide individuals toward self-knowledge. These compositions often possess a pure and pious quality. Rajmati's life embodies various states of separation described in literary theory, including longing, anxiety, remembrance, and praise of the beloved.
Sources and Evolution of Literature: The story of Neminath's marriage and subsequent renunciation is found in ancient Jain scriptures like the "Uttaradhyayana Sutra." Jain Puranas, such as Jinansen's "Harivansh Purana" and Gunanbhadr's "Uttarapurana," are key sources for Neminath's life. This narrative tradition has continued through Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramsha, and, importantly, into Hindi.
Hindi Literary Works: The document extensively details the evolution of Hindi literature related to Neminath and Rajmati, tracing it from the 14th century CE to the modern era. Various poetic forms like "Chaupai," "Vivahla," "Beli," "Raso," and "Phag" have been used to narrate their story. The works often focus on Rajmati's sorrow and longing, but also explore themes of devotion and renunciation. The author lists numerous poets and their compositions, chronologically, including:
- 14th Century: Vinayachand Suri's "Neminath Chaupai," Pahanu's "Neminath Barhamasa Raso," Padmakavi's "Neminath Phag," and Samudhar's "Neminath Phag."
- 15th Century: Rajshekhar Suri's "Neminath Phagu," Kanha's "Neminath Phag Barah Masa," and Heerananad Suri's "Neminath Barahmasa."
- Later Centuries (16th-20th): A vast array of poets like Bhattarak Sakal Kirti, Somasundar Suri, Jayasagar, Brahm Jinas, Brahm Bucharaj, Brahm Yashodhar, Chaturmal, Harshkirti, Veerchandra, Maldev, Rattannidhi, Kumudchandra, Hemvijay, Pandye Rupchandra, Mahimsundar, Jin Samudra Suri, Brahm Jinsagar, Pandye Hemraj, Vishwabhushan, Bhattarak Dharmachandra, Bhau, Lakshmivallabh, Vinodilal, Ramvijay, Bhavnidas, Ajayraj Patni, Jinendrabhushan, Jhunkal Lal, Manaranglal, Rishabh Vijay, Bhagchandra Jain, Pandye Bakhtawar Mal, and Kevalchandra are mentioned, along with their contributions.
Themes in Hindi Literature: The Hindi literature on Neminath and Rajmati primarily centers on Neminath as the heroic protagonist within a mythological context, with his renunciation being the central theme. Even in his youth, worldly pleasures could not attract him. Rajmati is portrayed as a determined and beautiful heroine whose hopes are dashed by Neminath's sudden renunciation. She endures hardship and achieves liberation before him.
Rasa Literature: The document also touches upon the "Rasa" literature, a significant form of folk poetry that flourished across India. Jain monks used this genre, often incorporating folk languages, to narrate the lives of Tirthankaras and devotees. It highlights how Jain Rasa literature, with its focus on common people's language and themes, enriches Hindi literary history by providing insights into popular culture, language, and life. Works like "Shil Raso" and "Chunri Geet" are mentioned as allegorical pieces that use the Neminath-Rajmati narrative to convey deeper meanings, such as the importance of chastity.

In essence, the document meticulously traces the historical and literary journey of the Neminath-Rajmati narrative in Hindi, emphasizing its enduring appeal and the profound spiritual and artistic expressions it has inspired. It underscores how this story, rooted in renunciation and unwavering devotion, has been a cornerstone of Jain literature and continues to be cherished.