Samrat Vikramaditya Yane Avantino Suvarna Yug - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Samrat Vikramaditya Yane Avantino Suvarna Yug" by Mangaldas Trikamdas Zaveri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Samrat Vikramaditya Yane Avantino Suvarna Yug (Samrat Vikramaditya and the Golden Age of Avanti) Author: Mangaldas Trikamdas Zaveri Publisher: Prachin Sahitya Sanshodhak Karyalay Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/035237/1

Overall Summary:

This Jain text, "Samrat Vikramaditya Yane Avantino Suvarna Yug," authored by Mangaldas Trikamdas Zaveri, is a historical and religious work dedicated to exploring the life and times of Emperor Vikramaditya, particularly focusing on his reign in Ujjain (Avanti) which is depicted as a golden age. The book delves into historical and religious narratives, aiming to provide an authentic account based on various Jain literary sources, inscriptions, archaeological findings, and historical evidence.

Key Themes and Content:

The Golden Age of Avanti and Vikramaditya: The central theme is the celebration of Vikramaditya's era in Ujjain as a period of prosperity, righteousness, and cultural flourishing in Jain history. The book aims to establish Vikramaditya's existence and significance, particularly within the Jain tradition.
Historical and Religious Research: The author, Mangaldas Trikamdas Zaveri, presents himself as a "Satyashodhak" (truth-seeker) and historian, meticulously compiling information from diverse sources. The preface (Page 31) directly addresses the historical debate surrounding Vikramaditya's existence, acknowledging differing scholarly opinions but firmly asserting the author's belief in his historical presence. The author lists numerous kings who might have been mistaken for Vikramaditya, but then proceeds to present evidence from Jain literature that supports Vikramaditya's existence.
Jain Perspective on Vikramaditya: The text strongly emphasizes Vikramaditya's connection to Jainism. It highlights his adherence to Jain principles, his respect for Jain Acharyas, and his role in the restoration of Jain sites like the "Shakunika Vihar" in Bharuch under the guidance of Acharya Shridhar Divakar Suri (Page 32). The presence of Jain symbols like the crescent moon and the Swastika on Ujjain coins is cited as evidence of his Jain leanings (Page 32).
Chronology and Historical Debates: The book engages with historical chronology, particularly the discrepancies found in Jain texts regarding the Nanda and Maurya dynasties (Page 33). The author references his previous work, "Samrat Samprati," as an effort to clarify such historical confusions. The text also discusses the origins of the Vikram Samvat, mentioning various theories about its commencement (Page 32, 33).
Biographies of Patrons and Supporters: A significant portion of the book (Pages 6-27) is dedicated to profiling various individuals and families who supported the publication of this work and were prominent figures in business, society, and religious activities. These include:
- Seth Maneklal Chunilal J.P. (Page 9-10)
- Seth Hathibhai Galalchand and Sau. Chandanbehn (Page 12-14)
- Shriyut Mohanlal Tarachand Shah (Page 15)
- Seth Mehulal Hemchand Zaveri (Page 17-18)
- Sw. Shah Premchand Raichand Sarvaiya (Page 19-20)
- Seth Padamshi Premji (Page 21)
- Seth Lakhmshi Palan (Page 23)
- Sw. Seth Bhavanjee Vadhaman (Page 24)
- Seth Ratilal Laxmichand Kuwadia (Page 25)
- Shishukumar (Page 27)
- Sw. Vinaychand Chaturbhuj Gandhi (Page 28-30)
These biographies often highlight their philanthropic contributions, business acumen, and dedication to religious and social causes, showcasing them as influential figures and supporters of Jain literature and institutions.
Narrative of Kalakacharya and His Influence: The text details the life and actions of Acharya Kalakacharya, a significant figure in Jain history. It recounts his renunciation, his spiritual journey, and his pivotal role in events related to Avanti and its rulers. Notably, the story of Kalakacharya's intervention to rescue Sadhvi Saraswati from King Gandharvasena's transgression is a prominent narrative (Page 49 onwards). Kalakacharya's efforts to unite the Shak chieftains against the oppressive rulers and his eventual success in establishing new rule in Avanti are central to this section.
The Shak Invasion and Avanti's History: The book traces the history of the Shak people, their nomadic origins, their migrations, and their eventual invasion of India, specifically their interaction with Avanti. It discusses figures like King Chandrapot, the Gadhvi dynasty, and the subsequent rise of the Chaston dynasty and King Rudradaman. The text also touches upon the vastness of Rudradaman's empire and his administrative achievements, including the restoration of the Sudarshan Lake.
The Role of Women: The text highlights the significant roles played by women, such as Maharani Madansena, in protecting righteousness and upholding dharma, even in challenging circumstances. Her intervention to protect Sadhvi Saraswati and her influence on King Gandharvasena are notable.
Philosophical and Ethical Teachings: Interwoven with historical narratives are philosophical discussions and ethical teachings derived from Jain principles. The emphasis on karma, dharma, ahimsa (non-violence), and the pursuit of spiritual liberation is evident.
Illustrations and Presentation: The book includes illustrations that appear to be derived from artistic carvings intended for a Jain temple in Thane (Page 2). These are used to visually represent the stories and figures discussed in the text, adding an artistic dimension to the historical and religious content.

Structure of the Book (from Table of Contents):

The book is structured into seven parts, covering:

Volume 1: Introduction, Early History of Magadha Empire, Nanda Dynasty, Nanda Dynasty (continued).
Volume 2: Maurya Dynasty analysis, Chandragupta Maurya's early life, Errors in Chronology.
Volume 3: Abduction of Sadhvi Saraswati, Kalakacharya's vow, Who is Vikramaditya?, Protection of Saraswati, In the region of Sardar Paras, Analysis of the Shak Tribe.
Volume 4: Arrival of the Shak people in India, Siege of Ujjain, Duty of the Half-Woman.
Volume 5: Kalakacharya's Asceticism, Vikramaditya's Destiny, Golden Man and the Puppet, Vikram's Test of Strength.
Volume 6: History of the Chaston Dynasty, Sudarshan Lake.
Volume 7: Appendices including Vikram's Khapri, Vikram's benevolence, Jain literature related to Vikramaditya, and the manifestation of Lord Parshvanath.

Overall Impression:

"Samrat Vikramaditya Yane Avantino Suvarna Yug" appears to be a meticulous work of scholarship from a Jain perspective, aiming to place Vikramaditya within a rich historical and religious context, particularly highlighting his era as a golden age influenced by Jain principles. The inclusion of detailed accounts of patrons and supporters underscores the community's engagement and support for such historical preservation efforts. The text is characterized by its detailed narrative, drawing upon religious scriptures, historical records, and epigraphical evidence to build its case for Vikramaditya's significance and his connection to Jainism.