Parmatma Sangit Ras Srotaswini

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Parmatma Sangit Ras Srotaswini" by Dhurandharvijay, published by Jain Sahityavardhak Sabha, based on the provided pages:

Title: Parmatma Sangit Ras Srotaswini (Source of the Nectar of Devotional Music of the Supreme Soul)

Author: Muni Shri Dhurandharvijayji, a disciple of Muni Shri Punyavijayji, who was a disciple of Acharya Shri Vijayamritsuriji, the successor to Acharya Shri Vijaynemisurishwarji. The author is noted for his scholarly works in various fields.

Publisher: Shree Jain Sahitya Vardhak Sabha, Surat.

Overview:

"Parmatma Sangit Ras Srotaswini" is a collection of devotional songs (stavan) dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras (Jinas). The book is significant for its fusion of spiritual devotion with musical artistry. It aims to evoke a deep sense of devotion and concentration in the reader through melodious compositions set to various classical Indian ragas and talas (rhythmic cycles).

Key Features and Content:

1. Devotional Focus: The primary purpose of the book is to foster devotion towards the Supreme Soul (Paramatma) – the Tirthankaras – and the spiritual guides (Gurus). The songs are crafted to elevate the soul and aid in spiritual progress.

2. Musical Presentation: A significant aspect of the book is its musical notation. The songs are presented with indications of the specific raga (melodic mode) and tala (rhythmic cycle) for each composition. Noteworthy is the inclusion of notations prepared by the renowned musician and scholar Shri Dinanath Manishankar Upadhyay, making the devotional songs accessible and performable for musicians. This is highlighted as a unique contribution to Jain literature, being the first such collection with detailed notations.

3. Structure and Content:

   • The book is divided into two main sections:
     • Prathama Vibhag (First Section): Contains stanzas set to various classical Ragas, with detailed notations. Examples include stanzas dedicated to Adinath, Ajitnath, Sambhavnath, Sumatinath, Abhinandannath, Dharmanath, Shantinath, Kunthunath, Aranatha, Mallinath, Munisuvrat Swami, Naminath, Neminath, Parshvanath, Pushpadant, Suvidhinath, Sheetalnath, Shreyansnath, Svasthani, Suparshvanath, Chandraprabh, Vimalnath, Veer Swami, and others. Each is presented with its specific Raga (e.g., Durga, Bhimpalashika, Jaijayavanti, Bahar, Bihag, Khammaj, Ashavari, Bhairavi, Sohini, Shankarabharanam, Bilawal, Vageshri, Patdeep, Gaudar, Bilawal, etc.) and Tala.
     • Dwitiya Vibhag (Second Section): Features stanzas in Desi Ritis (local or folk styles), often set to popular tunes or meters. This section includes devotional songs that are more accessible to a wider audience. It includes stanzas dedicated to various Tirthankaras like Neminath, Adinath, Ajitnath, Shreyansnath, etc., often in Ghazal or Lavani formats, and covers themes like life's transience, the glory of the Jinas, and personal devotion.

4. Author's Background and Scholarly Acumen: The preface provides an extensive biography of Muni Shri Dhurandharvijayji, highlighting his early initiation into the Jain monastic order and his prodigious academic achievements within a short period. He studied grammar, literature (including poetics and dramaturgy), philosophy (Siddhanta), and logic (Nyaya). He authored several other noted works, demonstrating his intellectual prowess and deep engagement with various disciplines.

5. Purpose and Spiritual Significance: The book emphasizes that music, through singing and instrumental performance, is a powerful tool for achieving concentration of the mind, a crucial aspect of spiritual development. The text references ancient Jain scriptures that attribute immense spiritual merit (punya) to devotional singing and music, often stating it yields infinite results compared to other forms of worship. It draws parallels with figures like Ravana, who is said to have attained Tirthankara-like karma by engaging in such devotional practices.

6. Inspiration and Dedication: The author dedicates the book with heartfelt reverence to his Guru, Acharya Shri Vijaynemisurishwarji Maharajshri, acknowledging the spiritual inspiration received from him.

7. Sponsorship and Support: The publication of this work is supported by the Jain Sahitya Vardhak Sabha, Surat, and individuals who have contributed financially, as listed in the "Shuddhi Patrak" (Errata) and the organizational details at the end. These patrons are categorized as "Sanrakshak" (Protector), "Sahayak" (Supporter), and "Sadasya" (Member), indicating community involvement in promoting Jain literature.

In essence, "Parmatma Sangit Ras Srotaswini" is a profound work that bridges the gap between spiritual aspiration and musical expression. It offers a structured approach to devotional practice through song, enriched by classical musical knowledge and presented in a format that is both spiritually uplifting and musically valuable for Jain devotees and musicians alike.