Samaj Ko Badlo - Book Summary | JainGPT

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Samaj ko Badlo" by Sukhlal Sanghavi, based on the provided pages:

The central theme of "Samaj ko Badlo" (Change the Society) is the profound idea that true societal change begins with individual self-transformation. The author emphasizes that the act of "changing" (badalna) is inherently persuasive, encompassing both self-change and influencing others. This is not merely a linguistic nuance but a fundamental truth of life.

The Principle of Leading by Example:

Sanghavi argues that to effectively guide others, one must first embody the desired changes. Just as a teacher must be knowledgeable in their subject to teach it effectively, a reformer must first master the principles they wish to impart. A dirty person cannot cleanse others; they can only transfer their own dirt. Even if perfect instruction isn't always achieved, the act of attempting to teach or purify benefits the individual doing so, and its positive seeds eventually sprout in the surrounding environment.

The Impact of Personal Transformation on Societal Change:

When an individual desires to change society, they must first demonstrate how to change and what the ideal state should be. The sincerity, knowledge, passion, and perseverance of the reformer are what truly influence society. When people witness the tangible results of these principles in the reformer's life, their resistance wanes, and respect grows, even if they cannot immediately follow suit.

The Practical Advantages of Self-Change for Reformers:

The process of changing oneself provides reformers with invaluable insights into the challenges others face. The struggles, contemplation, and solutions discovered during personal transformation equip them with a deeper understanding of societal problems and innovative approaches to address them. Therefore, reformers must first become living examples of the change they advocate. The impact of seeing is far greater and deeper than that of merely speaking. Mahatma Gandhi's life serves as a prime example of this principle, reinforcing the transformative power of personal example, much like the lives of Buddha and Mahavir.

Illustrative Examples of Societal Reformers:

The author then presents three individuals who embody this philosophy:

Ravishankar Maharaj: A devoted companion of Mahatma Gandhi, Ravishankar Maharaj dedicated himself to reforming the "Bariya" tribe, known for their involvement in theft and violence. By deeply integrating himself into their lives and transforming his own lifestyle, he inspired the tribe to voluntarily confess their crimes and even take pride in their rehabilitation. Despite lacking formal higher education, his words profoundly impacted intellectuals, students, and even government officials. His lived experience and the results of his self-transformation were the keys to his influence.
Sant Bal: A Sthanakvasi Jain Sadhu, Sant Bal, despite his traditional attire, possesses a progressive outlook that transcends sectarian boundaries. He has been actively involved in social reform in the "Bhalki Patti" region for over a decade, working with over two hundred villages. His service, built on principles of dharma and ethics, has left a remarkable impression on ministers, collectors, and commissioners alike. He has not merely changed external practices but has initiated a process that reveals the spiritual and ethical essence of his soul, clarifying his vision for societal improvement. His work encompasses all aspects of life, aiming to revitalize society and foster self-reliance.
Akbar Bhai: A Muslim reformer, Akbar Bhai has also undertaken significant reform work for many years, particularly in the Banas river region. He has brought about a new consciousness among the Koli and Thakur communities, historically involved in crime. Even upper-caste Brahmins and Kshatriyas, who practice untouchability, hold him in high regard. Akbar Bhai's keen intellect and intuition for social reform lead people to trust his guidance implicitly. Thousands flock to him for his counsel, drawn by his understanding and his commitment to integrating himself into village life and its issues, a path he embraced after being influenced by Mahatma Gandhi.

The Evolving Nature of Society and the Need for Adaptation:

Sanghavi stresses that society cannot remain static. The modern era demands adaptation. Those who cling to old customs will be swept away by the tide of change, even if reluctantly. True reformers, however, embrace new opportunities and adapt proactively, just as one changes clothing with the seasons or buys new clothes as one grows. This change should be conscious and deliberate rather than forced by circumstances.

Specific Areas Requiring Change:

The text then delves into specific areas where societal transformation is crucial:

Education for Girls: The author notes the shift in perspective regarding girls' education, questioning why, if some education is beneficial, more cannot be provided based on a girl's potential.
Social Customs: The practice of purdah (veiling) is deemed impractical and detrimental in modern urban settings, leading to women becoming burdens and the next generation becoming weak.
Widow Remarriage: While young people are sympathetic to widows, fear of societal judgment prevents them from remarriage, often leading them to choose unsuitable partners and ruin their lives.
Self-Reliance and Family Responsibilities: Young men driven by the desire for inheritance or parental approval often succumb to outdated traditions, leading to financial hardship and a compromised quality of life for their families.
Diet and Clothing: The text criticizes unscientific dietary habits that lead to indigestion and emphasizes the need for a greater proportion of vegetables. It also highlights the inefficiency of not utilizing leisure time for activities like spinning, contributing to the reliance on mill owners and the government. Simple living and dressing in plain clothes should be embraced.
Attire for Women: Traditional Indian attire is considered impractical for the demands of modern life, especially for women engaged in dynamic activities. A more functional attire, like that of Punjabi women, is suggested.
Religious Practices: The author critiques the societal tendency to venerate religious figures to the point of creating a class of dependent, idle individuals who perpetuate superstitions. The idea that religious institutions cannot be reformed is seen as a false belief that hinders beneficial changes.
Political Awareness: In a democracy, understanding and exercising one's right to vote is crucial for addressing societal flaws. Both men and women often lack this awareness.
Economic Priorities: The obsession with material wealth like cars, gold, and factories is contrasted with the neglect of crucial sectors like animal husbandry and agriculture, which are vital for societal well-being.

Fundamental Societal Flaws Requiring Immediate Reform:

Finally, Sanghavi identifies five core societal issues that require immediate attention and transformation for the creation of a strong society:

Casteism: The deeply ingrained belief in social hierarchy within Hinduism has not only degraded the higher castes but also further marginalized the Dalits, leading to a lack of humanity in the Hindu psyche.
Misconceptions about Wealth and Power: The belief that capitalism or authority is a divine blessing or the result of past karma leads to a reluctance to pursue personal effort with confidence.
Materialism: The obsession with wealth (Lakshmi) encourages sycophancy and subservience rather than the development of intelligence and self-respect.
Underestimation of Women's Lives: Misconceptions about the value of women's lives hinder their full development, with both men and women contributing to this impediment.
Ritualism and Superficial Practices: The mistaken belief that religion lies solely in rituals and outward practices leads society away from true spirituality and strength, making it more ritualistic and less cultured.

Conclusion for Reformers:

The book concludes by advising those who wish to change society to understand the hierarchy of reform issues. They should prioritize reforms that bring about fundamental changes and are within their capacity. Taking on too much at once can stall even achievable progress. Aspiring young reformers are urged to gain practical experience and training from seasoned individuals to clarify and stabilize their vision before embarking on their reformist journey, preventing their initial enthusiasm from waning and avoiding ridicule from entrenched traditionalists.