Pragatprabhavi Dada Jinkushalsuri - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pragatprabhavi Dada Jinkushalsuri" by Bhanvarlal Nahta, based on the provided pages:

This text is a biographical account of Acharya Jinakushalsuri, a highly influential and revered Jain monk from the Kharatargachcha lineage. It details his life, spiritual achievements, extensive travels, and significant contributions to the Jain faith.

Early Life and Initiation:

Born Karman in Samvat 1337 (1337 CE) in Marwar, Rajasthan, to a religiously devout family.
He was initiated into monkhood in Samvat 1347 (1347 CE) by Acharya Jinachandrasuri, also known as Kalikal-Kevali, a prominent figure who had converted four kings. His monastic name became Kushalkirti.
He studied under the renowned scholar Upadhyay Viveksagar, excelling in grammar, logic, rhetoric, and astrology.

Ascension to Acharya and Influence:

Jinachandrasuri appointed Kushalkirti as Acharya in Samvat 1375 (1375 CE). His name was then widely known as Jinakushalsuri.
He played a crucial role in the expansion of the Kharatargachcha's influence in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Sindh, and Delhi.
He was instrumental in organizing grand religious festivals and installations of idols, attracting large gatherings of monks, nuns, and lay followers from various regions.

Key Achievements and Activities:

Idol Installations (Pratishtha Mahotsavas): Jinakushalsuri was prolific in conducting idol installations, particularly at prominent pilgrimage sites like Shatrunjay, Girnar, and Taranga. He oversaw the installation of hundreds of idols made of stone, precious stones, and metals, often as part of grand festivals with significant financial contributions from wealthy patrons.
Royal Patronage and Grants: He secured important decrees from rulers like Sultan Qutb-ud-din and Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, granting permission for pilgrimage and religious activities, demonstrating his influence across different communities.
Spiritual Dissemination and Teachings: He travelled extensively, spreading Jain teachings and performing acts of Dharma (religious influence). He engaged in debates, authored commentaries on important texts, and delivered sermons that enlightened both Jain and non-Jain populations.
Mentorship and Succession: He personally guided and trained many disciples, some of whom achieved prominence themselves. He appointed his successor, Jinapadmasuri, and bestowed positions like Upadhyay on deserving individuals.
Writings: The text mentions his scholarly contributions, including a lengthy commentary on Jinadattasuri's "Chaityavandan Kulak" (comprising 24 religious stories) and a commentary on Jinachandrasuri's "Chatuhsaptati Tattvadarshan". He also composed several Sanskrit hymns and stotras.
Promoting the Faith: He actively worked to increase the number of Jain followers, reportedly initiating fifty thousand new converts and maintaining the tradition of the community.

Later Life and Passing:

Jinukushalsuri passed away in Samvat 1376 (1376 CE) at Košvāna, after observing an unbroken fast.
Despite his early demise, his spiritual legacy continued to flourish. The text highlights his enduring presence and the miraculous fulfillment of devotees' wishes even after his passing, leading him to be revered as a living deity.
The text mentions that 637 years after his passing, his 700th birth anniversary was celebrated with great fanfare, indicating his lasting significance.

Legacy and Reverence:

Jinukushalsuri is described as a highly learned, influential, and benevolent spiritual leader.
His influence is evident in the numerous temples, statues, and "dadavadis" (temples dedicated to specific revered monks) established in his honor across India.
The text emphasizes that his presence is still felt, and his devotees continue to experience his blessings, making him a "kalpavriksha" (wish-fulfilling tree) for them.
He is described as having a close connection with the divine couple Dharanendra and Padmavati, who are said to be his associates in both life and afterlife.

In essence, "Pragatprabhavi Dada Jinkushalsuri" is a detailed chronicle of a pivotal Jain Acharya who significantly shaped the religious landscape of his era through his scholarship, devotion, organizational skills, and profound spiritual influence, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith and devotion.