Night Mare Is Over

The book "The Nightmare Is Over" by Acharya Shree Gunaratnasuri Maharaj and Late Muni Shree Moxratnavijayji Maharaj, published by Adhyatma Shikshan Kendra, Bombay in 1993, tells the heart-wrenching story of Princess Anjana.

The narrative begins with the introduction of Princess Anjana, the beloved daughter of King Mahendra. Despite being born after numerous sons, Anjana's impending marriage becomes a cause of worry for her father, who seeks a suitable match. After much deliberation and consideration of horoscopes, King Mahendra selects Pavananjaya, the prince of Adityapura, for his daughter.

However, upon meeting Anjana, Pavananjaya overhears a conversation between Anjana's attendants that suggests Anjana harbors feelings for another prince, Vidyutprabh. Misled by this, Pavananjaya's love turns to hatred, and he postpones the marriage. Despite efforts to convince him otherwise, Pavananjaya eventually marries Anjana but promptly abandons her, treating her with utter neglect for twenty-two years.

During this period, Anjana endures immense suffering and isolation, attributing her plight to her past karmas. Her father, King Mahendra, also banishes her from his kingdom upon learning of her pregnancy, influenced by her mother-in-law's accusations. Anjana, accompanied by her loyal attendant Vasanttilka, is forced to live in exile in a forest.

In the forest, Anjana encounters a Jain monk who reveals the story of her previous births. She learns that her current suffering is a consequence of past misdeeds. The monk predicts that her unborn child will be a great soul with exceptional qualities, destined for greatness and eventual salvation.

Anjana eventually gives birth to a son, Hanuman, in the forest. She is found by her uncle, Pratisurya, who brings her and her son to his kingdom. Meanwhile, Pavananjaya, filled with remorse after realizing his error and Anjana's innocence, searches for her. He is on the verge of self-immolation when he is reunited with Anjana and their son, thanks to the efforts of Pratisurya.

The reunion brings happiness back into their lives. Hanuman grows into a strong and virtuous individual. Pavananjaya and Anjana live together, but eventually, Pavananjaya renounces the world to become a Jain monk, achieving salvation. Anjana also embraces the ascetic life, dedicating herself to spiritual pursuits and ultimately attaining liberation.

The book emphasizes the Jain philosophy of Karma, illustrating how past actions influence present circumstances and the importance of righteous conduct and spiritual devotion for ultimate liberation. The title, "The Nightmare Is Over," signifies the end of Anjana's suffering and her journey towards spiritual enlightenment.