Parichay Pustika - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Parichay Pustika" (Introduction Booklet) published by the 108 Jain Tirth Bhavan Trust:

Overall Purpose:

This booklet serves as an introduction to the Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan and Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir, a significant Jain religious complex located in Palitana, Gujarat, India, at the foothills of Shatrunjay Hill. It details the conception, development, and features of this monumental undertaking, aiming to provide comprehensive information to devotees and interested individuals.

Key Institutions and Individuals:

Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan Trust: The publishing body and the driving force behind the construction and maintenance of the complex.
Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra: The parent organization associated with the project.
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir: A knowledge center and library within the Aradhana Kendra.
Key Spiritual Guides and Inspirators:
- Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Ji Maharaj: A prominent figure and inspiration behind the project.
- Acharya Shri Vijay Kastursurishwarji Maharaj: Referred to as the "Dharmaraja Prakrut Visharad" and "Prernadata" (inspirer), he played a crucial role in conceptualizing and guiding the project.
- Acharya Shri Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji Maharaj: The primary guide and driving force ("Vishisht Margdarshak") who oversaw the execution of the project.
- Acharya Shri Vijay Ashokchandrasurishwarji Maharaj: The younger spiritual brother who worked alongside Acharya Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji.
- Acharya Shri Padmasagarsurishwarji Maharaj: Provided inspiration and blessings.

Development History (Timeline and Milestones):

The booklet traces the development of the project through a series of key events:

V.S. 2022 (1966 AD): The idea for the "108 Jain Tirth Darshan Mandir" was initiated in Surat.
V.S. 2024 (1968 AD): The first "Shri 108 Jain Tirth Mandir" was inaugurated in Surat.
V.S. 2026 (1970 AD): The "108 Jain Tirth Darshanavali" booklet, featuring the main deities and history of the 108 Tirths, was published in Surat.
V.S. 2026 (1970 AD): The decision was made to construct the "Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan" in Palitana.
V.S. 2028 (1972 AD): Land was acquired in Palitana, and the establishment of the Trust began.
V.S. 2031 (1975 AD): Groundbreaking ("khanan vidhi") and foundation stone laying ("shilaropan vidhi") ceremonies took place for the "Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan."
V.S. 2039 (1983 AD): Acharya Shri Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji Maharaj entered Palitana, marking significant guidance for the Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir.
V.S. 2040 (1984 AD): The 24 Tirthankar idols were given auspicious entry into the "Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan" and "Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir."
V.S. 2041 (1985 AD): The "Anjanshalaka Pratishtha Mahotsav" (Consecration Ceremony) commenced, along with the inauguration of 141 "Jivan Chhod" (likely meaning lives freed or auspicious events).
V.S. 2041 (1985 AD): Consecration ("anjanshalaka vidhi") of the "Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir" occurred.
V.S. 2041 (1985 AD): Consecration of 136 Tirthankar idols in the "Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir."
V.S. 2041 (1985 AD): Inauguration of the "Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir."
V.S. 2042 (1986 AD): Consecration of the 108 Tirth Pata (scrolls/paintings) in the "Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan."
V.S. 2042 (1986 AD): Consecration of the main deities and historical scrolls of the 108 Tirths.

Key Features of the Complex:

The booklet elaborately describes the various components and features of the complex:

Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan:
- Purpose: To provide a single location where devotees can have darshan (auspicious sight) and worship of the main deities of 108 important Jain pilgrimage sites across India, thereby strengthening their faith.
- Tirth Pata (Scrolls): 108 meticulously created scrolls, featuring modern, high-quality color photographs of the main deities and temples of each of the 108 selected Tirths. These are made with laminated modern techniques on marble, providing historical context as well.
- Depiction of Saints: Plans are in place to display portraits and information about 27 great Acharyas, 27 great Sadhvis, 27 great Shravaks, and 27 great Shravikas, detailing their significant contributions.
- Educational Displays: Sections dedicated to explaining concepts like the 45 Agamas, their five recitations, the structure of Adhidveep and Jambudveep, the six Aras of Utsarpini and Avasarpini, and the lineage of Lord Mahavir.
- Iconography: Depictions of the 63 Shalaka Purushas, 12 Chakravartis, 9 Vasudevas, 9 Prati-Vasudevas, and 9 Baladevas.
Shri Samvatsaran Mahamamdhir:
- Concept: The Samvatsaran is the celestial assembly held by a Tirthankar Bhagwan during their discourse. This temple is designed to replicate that divine experience.
- Architecture:
  - Height: 108 feet tall.
  - Layout: Designed with three tiers (Gadhs), 12 gates, and 108 steps, following Jain scriptural descriptions.
  - Central Deity: Four large idols (61.5 inches) of Lord Mahavir Swami are placed in the four cardinal directions. The central Manikyasthambh (jeweled pillar) features four main Tirthankaras.
  - Surrounding Deities: 108 Parshvanath idols are arranged in a circular pattern around the central structure. Additionally, 24 Tirthankaras of the current era are also installed.
  - Surveyshrum: A large statue of a Kapala tree (Chaitravruksha) and an Ashoka tree are also depicted.
  - Symbolism: The gates are adorned with depictions of celestial beings, and the assembly of divine beings and animals (living in harmony) are represented according to Jain scriptures.
- Educational Content: The temple houses detailed visual representations of Jain cosmology, history, and the lives of prominent spiritual figures.

The "Why" Behind the Project:

Accessibility: To allow people who cannot physically visit all 108 Tirths to experience them in one place.
Spiritual Fulfillment: To provide an opportunity for devotees to strengthen their faith and gain spiritual merit.
Preservation of Knowledge: To document and display the history and significance of various Jain pilgrimage sites and the lives of influential figures.
Spiritual Guidance: The project was inspired by the spiritual insights and guidance of prominent Acharyas.

Financial and Devotional Aspects:

The booklet also includes information on how individuals can contribute to the ongoing maintenance and development of the complex, with various donation schemes and opportunities to be recognized for their contributions.

Overall Significance:

The "Parichay Pustika" presents a comprehensive overview of a monumental Jain project that aims to serve as a beacon of spiritual learning, devotion, and preservation of Jain heritage. It highlights the dedication and vision of the Trust and the spiritual leaders involved in bringing this grand complex to fruition.