Pattmahadevi Shatala Part 3 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Pattmahadevi Shantala Part 3," based on the pages you've shared:

Book Title: Pattmahadevi Shantala Part 3 Author: C K Nagraj Rao Publisher: Bharatiya Gyanpith

Summary of the Content:

The provided text focuses on the unfolding political and personal events surrounding the reign of King Bittideva (also referred to as Bittanna and later as Maharaj) and Queen Shantala. It primarily covers the following key plot points:

Bittideva's Health and Military Actions: Following a victory celebration, Bittideva's health declines slightly due to exhaustion. While recovering, news arrives of potential unrest in the Nilgiri region. Despite previous hesessions due to losses in the Kungalva war, a military expedition led by Puniswamyya is dispatched. Bittiyanna, eager to prove himself, requests to join the war but is denied by Shantala due to his young age and the need for Mahamatri Shri's approval. This fuels Bittiyanna's frustration, but Shantala advises him to be patient and consider his responsibility.
News from Velapuri and a Mother's Illness: News arrives that Mahamatri Shri (Bittideva's mother) is unwell and awaiting Bittideva's arrival. This prompts Bittideva to decide to travel to Chelaipuri immediately, despite his own lingering health concerns from the recent victory. He instructs Udayaditya to gather Puniswamyya and Manchi Dandanatha to prepare for the journey.
The Journey to Chelaipuri: Despite concerns about Bittideva's health, the decision is made to travel. Shantala, Udayaditya, Bammaldevi, Bittiyanna, Revimayya, Mayana, Chattaladevi, and Pandit Somnath prepare for the journey. They travel quickly, utilizing fresh horses at intervals, and eventually reach Belapuri.
Echaldevi's Acceptance and Passing: Upon arrival, they find Mahamatri Shri (Echaldevi) frail but happy to see her family. Echaldevi expresses her contentment at seeing everyone and signifies that her life's purpose is fulfilled. She entrusts Rajaldevi with the care of the royal family, indicating her impending departure. Echaldevi's peaceful passing occurs shortly after, with her last words expressing her desire to join the Lord and satisfaction at seeing her lineage secured.
Family Matters and Future Planning: Echaldevi's passing leads to discussions about the future of the kingdom and family. Shantala discusses the responsibility of looking after Bittiyanna and the need to find a suitable bride for him, suggesting daughters of Nagadeva and Pochimayya. The conversation touches upon the complexities of royal marriages and the importance of individual happiness.
Royal Decisions and Administrative Matters: Bittideva, recovering from illness and dealing with his mother's passing, makes various administrative decisions. He sends for military leaders, decides to leave some troops in Yadavapuri, and plans the journey with his family. The text highlights the importance of respecting the elders' wishes, even when facing difficult circumstances.
Military Campaigns and Internal Politics: The narrative briefly mentions a victory in the Nilgiri campaign and Udayaditya's wife giving birth to a son, named Ereyanga, in honor of his grandfather. The text also hints at underlying political tensions and the need for strategic alliances, mentioning the vigilance required against surrounding enemy kingdoms like Chalukya, Chola, Kadamba, Alupa, Chengalla, and Santhara. There's also a subtle introduction of political intrigue and potential discord, particularly concerning Bammaldevi and Rajaldevi, and the potential for marital complications.
The Marriage of Bittiyanna and Subvala: A significant event is the marriage of Bittiyanna and Subvala, the daughter of Nagideva. This is orchestrated by Shantala and Bittideva, with the approval of Mahamatri Shri. The marriage is conducted without much fanfare, but it symbolizes the consolidation of alliances and the continuation of the royal lineage.
The Rituals and Public Life: The text also describes various rituals and public events, including the centennial celebration of the Pousala dynasty in Sosyuru. This celebration involves a grand military display, emphasizing the strength and preparedness of the Pousala army. The participation of the public and the meticulous arrangements highlight the importance of such events in fostering national pride and unity.
The Troubled Marriage of Bittideva and Lakshmi: A subplot emerges concerning the troubled marriage of Bittideva and his new wife, Lakshmi. Lakshmi, having been raised in a simpler environment, struggles to adapt to the complexities of royal life and the political machinations within the palace. Her father, Tirurangadas, a religious figure, tries to guide her, but she finds herself caught between her upbringing and her royal duties. Shantala, with her wisdom and understanding, tries to mediate and offer guidance. The narrative explores themes of ambition, disappointment, and the challenges of navigating royal etiquette.
The Artist and the Dispute: A wandering artist, whose identity remains a mystery, arrives and is commissioned to sculpt the main idol for the new temple. The artist's unique approach and his interactions with Shantala and Bittideva reveal deeper artistic philosophies and the nature of creation. A dispute arises between the artist and the chief sculptor Harish over the artistic interpretation and execution of the work, leading to a public trial of skill. The resolution of this conflict highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing true talent and humility.
The Deceptive Advice and the Growing Discontent: Tirurangadas, Lakshmi's father, manipulates events from behind the scenes, instilling doubt and dissatisfaction in Lakshmi's mind regarding her position and the Pousala court's treatment of her. He advises her to be cautious, hinting at underlying political agendas and the need for self-preservation. This manipulation creates tension and mistrust, particularly between Lakshmi and Shantala.
The Military Expedition to Talakadu: The story culminates in a military expedition led by Bittideva and Shantala against the Cholas in Talakadu. The narrative details the strategic planning, the mobilization of troops, and the eventual victory. It also highlights the bravery and loyalty of various characters, including Maayana and Chattaladevi, who are captured by the enemy but eventually freed.

Overall Themes:

The third part of "Pattmahadevi Shantala" continues to explore the complexities of royal life, the interplay of personal relationships, and the challenges of leadership. It delves into:

Duty and Responsibility: Characters grapple with their duties towards the state, family, and personal aspirations.
Loyalty and Trust: The narrative examines the importance of trust and loyalty, particularly within the royal family and its relationships with advisors and subordinates.
Political Strategy and Warfare: The book depicts military campaigns, strategic planning, and the political landscape of the time.
Art and Devotion: The artistic endeavors of the period and the role of devotion in shaping life are also highlighted.
Personal Growth and Character Development: The characters, particularly Bittideva and Shantala, undergo personal growth and face moral dilemmas.

This summary attempts to capture the essence of the provided text, focusing on the main events and character interactions as presented in these pages.