Prachin Chaityavandan Stuti Stavan Sazzay Sangraha

This document is a collection of Jain devotional songs, prayers, and hymns, titled "Prachin Chaityavandan Stuti Stavan Sazzay Sangraha" (Collection of Ancient Temple Worship, Praises, and Chants), compiled in Hindi.

Here's a breakdown of its content and significance:

Title and Authorship:

• Title: Prachin Chaityavandan Stuti Stavan Sazzay Sangraha (प्राचीन चैत्यवन्दन स्तुति स्तवन सज्झाय संग्रह) - This translates to "Collection of Ancient Temple Worship, Praises, and Chants."
• Authorship/Inspiration: The book is attributed to "Shiv Tilak Manohar Gunmala" (शिव तिलक मनोहर गुणमाला). It specifically mentions being published under the guidance and benevolent advice of the aged Sadhvi Shri Manohar Shri Ji Maharaj (वयोवृद्ध श्री मनोहरश्रीजी महाराज), who is a wise disciple of the late Param Pujya Tilak Shri Ji Maharaj (स्वर्गीय परम पूज्य तिलकश्रीजी महाराज). The Jain Shvetaamber Dharmottejak Mahila Mandal (जैन श्वेताम्बर धर्मोत्तेजक महिला मण्डल) of Piplipazar Upashray, Indore, published it.

Purpose and Content: The primary purpose of this collection is to provide a compilation of devotional compositions that are intended for use during temple worship (Chaityavandan), praise (Stuti), and chanting (Stavan, Sazzay). The introductory remarks state a long-held desire for a Hindi text containing such traditional compositions by ancient Acharyas.

The book contains a wide array of devotional material categorized as:

• Stuti (Praises): These are devotional songs or verses praising various Tirthankaras (Jain spiritual leaders), significant Jain figures, and concepts. The index indicates numerous stutis dedicated to different Tirthankaras (Adinathji, Ajitnathji, Sambhavnathji, Abhinandanathji, Sumatinathji, Padmaprabh Swami, Suparshvanathji, Chandraprah Swami, Suvidhi Jin, Shital Jin, Vasupujya Jin, Shanti Jin, Malli Jin, Neminath Jin, Parshvanath Jin, Mahavir Swami Jin, and the 24 Tirthankaras collectively), as well as specific occasions and practices like Diwali, festivals, and fasts.
• Stavan (Devotional Songs/Hymns): Similar to stutis, these are more elaborate devotional songs, often set to specific tunes or meters (described as "dhal" or "rag"). The index shows a vast collection of stavan dedicated to various Tirthankaras, historical figures, and important Jain festivals and practices like Paryushan, Rohini Tap, Ashtami, Ekadashi, and festivals.
• Sazzay (Chants/Devotional Narratives): These are devotional compositions that may include narrative elements or specific chanting patterns. The index lists Sazzays related to various Tirthankaras, Padmavati, and specific themes like "death," "spiritual knowledge," and "battles of dharma."
• Gahulli (Songs/Laments): These appear to be devotional songs, possibly with a more lyrical or emotional tone. The index indicates these are related to Tirthankaras, specific events, and devotional themes.

Key Figures Mentioned:

• Param Pujya Shri Manohar Shri Ji Maharaj: The guiding force and compiler of the work.
• Param Pujya Shri Tilak Shri Ji Maharaj: The revered guru of Shri Manohar Shri Ji Maharaj.
• Param Pujya Shri Anand Sagar Surishwar Ji: Mentioned with reverence, likely a significant spiritual figure associated with the publication or the tradition.
• Various Tirthankaras and Jain Saints: Numerous Tirthankaras and Acharyas are praised and venerated throughout the text.

Publication Details:

• Publisher: Jain Shvetaamber Dharmottejak Mahila Mandal, Piplipazar Upashray, Indore.
• First Edition: Vikram Samvat 2020 (which corresponds to 1963 AD).
• Price: ₹ 1.50.

Significance: This book serves as a valuable repository of traditional Jain devotional literature in Hindi. It reflects the rich heritage of Jain devotional practices, emphasizing the importance of remembering and praising the Tirthankaras and their teachings. The compilation by female spiritual leaders highlights the active role of women in preserving and propagating Jain religious traditions. The detailed index (Anukramika) provides a comprehensive overview of the devotional content, making it a useful resource for Jain scholars, practitioners, and those interested in Jain devotional music and literature. The inclusion of biographical notes about the guiding Sadhvi (Manohar Shri Ji Maharaj) adds a personal touch and context to the publication.