Pandita Todarmal Vyaktitva Aur Krititva

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pandita Todarmal Vyaktitva aur Krititva" by Hukamchand Bharilla:

This book is a doctoral dissertation approved by Indore University, dedicated to the life and works of Pandit Todarmal. Published by Todarmal Granthamala, Jaipur, it aims to bring to light the significant contributions of Pandit Todarmal, a prominent figure in Digambar Jain literature and thought.

Pandit Todarmal: Life and Achievements

The book, authored by Dr. Hukamchand Bharilla, with introductions by Dr. Hiralal Maheshwari and Dr. Devendra Kumar Jain, delves into the personality and extensive literary output of Pandit Todarmal.

Pandit Todarmal's Significance:

• A Beacon of Thought: Pandit Todarmal (c. 1719-1767 AD or V.S. 1776-1824) was a resident of Jaipur. He is presented as a formidable scholar and a staunch critic of practices like Bhattarakvaad, Tantra-Mantra, and ritualistic actions prevalent in his time. He is lauded as a "self-emergent lighthouse" who fearlessly challenged the prevailing religious dogmas and social norms of his era.
• Revival of Ancient Texts: Pandit Todarmal played a crucial role in making accessible the profound philosophical treatises of Jainism, such as Gommatasara and Samyaksara. Gommatasara, composed by Acharya Nemichandra, had become largely unreadable due to its complex philosophical nuances, with its study dwindling about 500 years before Todarmal. Todarmal's detailed commentary, "Samyagjnana Chandrika," revitalized the study of Gommatasara, and it remains the primary source for understanding the text today. He also highlighted the importance of the Shatkhandagama, the oldest theoretical work of the Digambar Jain sect, though he couldn't obtain a copy himself.
• Harmonizing Contradictions: Recognizing potential contradictions between Samyakaara (focusing on the pure soul) and Gommatasara (discussing transient elements), Pandit Todarmal strived to reconcile these differences through his writings, particularly in "Mokshamarga Prakashak." His aim was to present the profound philosophical concepts in clear, accessible language.
• Combating Malpractices: His opposition to Bhattarakvaad was a natural consequence of his emphasis on the pure soul. He, along with earlier figures like Banarasidas, critiqued the prevailing corrupt practices and deviations from core Jain principles.
• Linguistic Prowess: The book also analyzes Pandit Todarmal's unique literary style and language. His "mixed Hindi" language, incorporating elements of Braj Bhasha, Dhundhari (Jaipuri), and Khadi Boli, was a deliberate choice to make Jain philosophy accessible to a wider audience. This linguistic experimentation is considered significant for researchers studying the evolution of mixed Indian languages.
• Correcting Historical Misconceptions: The book corrects a long-held misconception about Pandit Todarmal's age at death. Previously believed to have died at 27, Dr. Bharilla, through extensive research, establishes that he lived to be 47 years old. This fact, far from diminishing his greatness, highlights the immense productivity and depth of his work within his lifespan.

Key Works and Contributions:

• Mokshamarga Prakashak: This is considered his most significant and foundational work, an "unprecedented original spiritual text." It is described as an "adhyatmik chikitsa ka shastra" (a treatise on spiritual healing), offering both diagnosis of spiritual ailments and their remedies. It critically examines spiritual laxity, external ostentation, and skepticism within the Jain community, challenging social and spiritual conventions.
• Samyagjnana Chandrika: A monumental commentary on Gommatasara (including Jivakanda, Karmakanda, Labbhisara, and Kshapanaara), this work is praised for its clarity, detailed explanations, the use of charts for scientific concepts, and its accessibility. It is noted for its comprehensive analysis and the author's willingness to expand upon the original texts.
• Other Works: The book also discusses other critical works like "Rahasyapoorna Chithi" (Mysterious Letter), "Trilokasara Bhasha Tika," and "Samavasarana Varna," which showcase his philosophical depth, analytical skills, and literary versatility.
• Linguistic Innovations: His contribution to Hindi prose and the development of a scientific, analytical style in religious literature is acknowledged. His language, a blend of Braj, Dhundhari, and Khadi Boli, served to broaden the reach of Jain philosophy.

Context of His Time:

The book places Pandit Todarmal's life and work within the historical, social, and religious context of 18th-century India. It describes a period of political instability, a decline in Mughal authority, and prevalent religious and social stagnation. In this environment, he emerged as a reformist voice, challenging the corrupt practices of the Bhattarak system and advocating for a return to the pure teachings of Jainism.

Recognition and Legacy:

The book highlights the efforts of the Todarmal Smarak Trust in promoting the study and dissemination of Pandit Todarmal's works. It also acknowledges the contributions of scholars like Shri Kanji Swami, who were instrumental in bringing Todarmal's teachings to the forefront. Dr. Bharilla's meticulous research and insightful analysis are praised, making this work a valuable contribution to Jain studies and Hindi literature.

In essence, the book "Pandita Todarmal: Vyaktitva aur Krititva" is a comprehensive tribute to Pandit Todarmal, recognizing him as a brilliant scholar, a fearless reformer, and a pivotal figure in the intellectual and spiritual landscape of Jainism, particularly in its Digambar tradition. His emphasis on critical thinking, experiential understanding of spirituality, and accessible communication of profound truths continues to inspire generations.