Patliputra Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Patliputra Ka Itihas" by Suryamalla Yati, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Patliputra Ka Itihas (History of Patliputra) Author: Pt. Pra. Yati Shri Suryamalla Ji Maharaj, disciple of Shri Pujanji Shri Jinratna Suriji Maharaj Publisher: Shree Sangh Patna Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032643/1

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book aims to provide a historical account of Patliputra (modern-day Patna), with a particular focus on its significance from a Jain perspective. The author's primary motivation, as stated in the preface (Vakvya), is to highlight the ancient glory of Patliputra as a place that was once vibrant with Jain community. Due to the decline in the Jain population in present-day Patna, the book serves as a call to action for the Jain community to contribute to the renovation of dilapidated ancient Jain temples in the city. The author believes that understanding the history and the great personalities associated with Patliputra will inspire renewed faith and support for this endeavor.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Patliputra's Historical and Religious Significance:

   • Patliputra is described as a city of immense ancient grandeur, beauty, and prosperity, surpassing even Indra's Amravati and Kubera's Alaka.
   • It was a city where residents lived free from suffering and enjoyed heavenly pleasures.
   • Crucially, Patliputra is identified as a profoundly sacred Jain pilgrimage site because it was the birthplace of Mahatma Swami Sthul Bhadra and the place where Sheth Sudarshan attained Kevalgyan (omniscience).
   • The book acknowledges that Patliputra was also a significant religious center for other faiths like Vedic, Buddhist, and Sikhism, indicating its broad historical and spiritual importance.

2. The Founding of Patliputra:

   • The exact construction period of Patliputra is difficult to pinpoint, but its existence is confirmed through mentions in ancient texts like Kalidasa's Raghuvansh (as Pushpapur), Mahabharata, and works by Dandin, Vishakhadatta, and Vishnu Sharma.
   • According to Jain scriptures, the city's construction is contemporary with Lord Mahavir Swami, placing it approximately 3000 years ago.
   • King Udayi, the grandson of King Shrenik (Bimbisara), is credited with founding the city. The text recounts a narrative from the Brahmanda Purana supporting this.
   • The origin story of the name "Patliputra" is linked to a significant legend:
     • The legend involves Anika, the beautiful sister of a merchant named Jayasinha.
     • A merchant named Devadatta fell in love with Anika.
     • Devadatta's parents, old and infirm, sent for him. Devadatta's wife, Anika, convinced her brother Jayasinha to allow Devadatta to return home.
     • During the journey, Anika gave birth to a son, who was called Anika-putra (later known as Sandhirana).
     • The story then transitions to Acharya Anika-putra, who, after achieving omniscience, prophesied the location of the city.
     • A Patali tree (trumpet flower tree) grew from the skull of Acharya Anika-putra, which had been washed ashore on the banks of the Ganges. This sacred tree marked the auspicious spot for the city's foundation, and thus it was named Patliputra.

3. Notable Rulers and Historical Figures:

   • King Udayi: The founder, who established the city after grieving for his father.
   • Nanda Dynasty:
     • The rise of King Nanda after Udayi.
     • The story of Kulpak, a wise and virtuous Brahmin, who became the chief minister for King Nanda. Kulpak's journey from refusing the post to accepting it after a conspiracy is detailed. His acumen brought prosperity to the kingdom.
     • Shakadala, a descendant of Kulpak, also served as a minister. The story of his son, Shriyak, and the treacherous plot involving the poet Vararuchi is narrated, highlighting the political intrigue of the time.
     • Sthulabhadra: The elder son of Shakadala. Despite being offered the position of chief minister, he renounced worldly life and became a prominent Jain monk. His rigorous spiritual practices, including staying with the courtesan Koshya for his Chaumasa (four-month retreat) to subdue his senses, are highlighted, emphasizing his spiritual prowess. He eventually became a respected Acharya.
   • Chandragupta Maurya:
     • The book presents a Jain perspective on Chandragupta's origins, suggesting he was the son of a Mayur-poshak (peacock keeper's) daughter who had a pregnancy craving to "drink the moon." Chanakya facilitated this by showing her a reflection of the moon in a milk bowl.
     • The traditional account of Chanakya's humiliation by King Nanda, leading to his vow of revenge and his recruitment of Chandragupta, is also mentioned.
     • The book asserts that Chandragupta, through Chanakya's strategy, overthrew the Nanda dynasty and became the king of Patliputra.
   • Bindusara and Ashoka: Chandragupta's son Bindusara and grandson Ashoka are mentioned as subsequent rulers. Ashoka is noted for his dharma, patronage of learning, and the erection of inscriptions, pillars, and stupas.
   • Samprati: Ashoka's grandson, Samprati, is described as a powerful, virtuous, and brave king who conquered the entire earth and ruled like Indra. He is particularly lauded for his patronage of Jainism, building numerous temples and charitable institutions.

4. Challenges and Decline:

   • A severe famine lasting twelve years occurred during Samprati's reign, leading to a disruption in the transmission of Jain scriptures (Shruta Gyana).
   • The loss of the twelfth Anga (Drishtivada) is mentioned, a significant event for the Jain tradition.
   • The book notes the eventual arrival of Muslim rulers, with Sher Shah changing the name to "Patan" (now Patna).
   • The arrival of the British and the changing political landscape are briefly mentioned, including the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, which had Patna as a center.

5. Preservation of Heritage and a Call to Action:

   • The author laments the destruction and dilapidated state of many ancient Jain monuments and memories in Patliputra.
   • He stresses the urgent need for the preservation of these remaining historical remnants.
   • He urges Jain brethren from other regions to contribute financially and physically to the upkeep of these sites, warning that without timely action, these historical marks will be remembered only in memory and not visible.

6. Geographical Description and Landmarks:

   • The book provides a geographical overview of Patna, its location on the southern bank of the Ganges, and its transportation links (railway stations).
   • It details the natural boundaries: Ganges in the north, Jalla river in the south, Punpun river in the east, and the Son river or a Ganges canal in the west.
   • Prominent Jain sites:
     • Ancient temples of Shri Sthulabhadra and Sheth Sudarshan in Gulzarbagh are highlighted as major pilgrimage destinations.
     • Other Jain temples and Chaityalayas in areas like Danka Kucha and Badeki Gali are mentioned as being in a state of ruin.
   • Other significant landmarks:
     • Shri Badi Patan Devi Ji and Chhoti Patan Devi: Ancient and revered Hindu sites.
     • Shri Kali Mandir: A powerful and charming location near Chhoti Patan Devi.
     • Shri Gopinathji Temple: An ancient structure with a replaced idol.
     • Shri Agam Kuan and Shitalasthan: A very sacred and ancient well, believed to have healing properties. Its renovation by the Bihar government and the difficulties faced are narrated.
     • Shri Harmandir: The birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site, housing relics and weapons.
     • Muslim Memorials: Stone Masjid, Kacchi Dargah, Pakki Dargah, etc., are mentioned.
     • British Era Structures: Gol-Ghar (granary), the cemetery (now known as a church), High Court, and the Governor's residence are also noted.

Author's Dedication and Acknowledgements:

• The book is dedicated to Shri Guruji Maharaj, Bra. Bhattarak Shri 1008 Shri Pujyaji Shri Jinratna Suriji Maharaj.
• Suryamalla Yati expresses gratitude to various individuals who assisted in the book's creation, including Shri Babu Pooranchandji Nahar for providing the "Parishishta Parva," Shri Pt. Jaynarayan Ji Pandey for his valuable time and corrections, and Seth Dopavandji Shravak and Shri Babu Budhsingh Ji Johari for their encouragement and support.
• He humbly requests forgiveness for any errors and asks for feedback for future editions.

In essence, "Patliputra Ka Itihas" is a historical and religious chronicle that seeks to revive interest in Patliputra's glorious past, particularly its Jain heritage, and to inspire a collective effort for the preservation of its ancient Jain sites.