Sanskritini Rasdhar Part 03

"Sanskruti's Rasdhar Part 03" (Sanskritini Rasdhar Part 03) is a Gujarati language book published by Panchprasthan Punyasmruti Prakashan. It is part of a series inspired by Acharya Shri Vijay Purnachandrasuri Maharaaj. The book was released in May 2016 and contains 15 anecdotes that glorify humanity, as written by Acharya Shri Vijay Purnachandrasuri Maharaaj, who is described as a masterful writer and a source of spiritual inspiration.

The book was published to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Acharya Shri Vijay Purnachandrasuri Maharaaj's ascension to the Acharya position. The catalog link provided (jainqq.org/explore/023291/1) suggests that this publication is part of a collection of 25 books released on this occasion.

The text provided includes several pages with details about the publication, the author, and the patrons. It lists the publisher as Panchprasthan Punyasmruti Prakashan in Surat. It also mentions key contacts and distribution points in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Shankheshwar.

The table of contents (Page 9) reveals the titles of the 15 incidents, which cover a range of historical and moralistic narratives. Here's a summary of the provided chapter titles, giving a glimpse into the book's content:

1. The Nawab's Astonishing Change of Heart: Likely a story about a ruler's transformation.
2. How Virtuous and How Loyal is a Merchant?: Explores the qualities of a merchant.
3. Unique Steadfastness: A narrative highlighting unwavering resolve.
4. The Inspiring Force of Akho's Whips: Refers to the poet Akho and his impactful words.
5. How Virtuous Can a Culture-Devoted Ascetic Be?: Focuses on the ethical conduct of ascetics.
6. The Learned are Revered Everywhere: Emphasizes the universal respect for knowledge.
7. Kaandilgiri, Kaandand (Delight and Punishment/Discipline): Explores themes of pleasure and consequence.
8. The Vast Difference Between a King and a Leader: Contrasts the roles and qualities of rulers.
9. The Strength of Truth and Sadhana (Spiritual Practice): Highlights the power of virtuous living.
10. What Rare Affection for the People: A story showcasing the ruler's love for his subjects.
11. For the Protection of the Surrendered Rabbit: A tale of compassion and protection.
12. Koh-i-Noor: Mountain of Light or Shadow of Darkness?: Examines the legendary diamond and its impact.
13. Unwavering Integrity in the Face of Submission: A story about upholding principles.
14. The Generous Darbar: Depicts a benevolent court.
15. Beneficial Earnings: Discusses righteous ways of acquiring wealth.

The provided pages (10-22) detail the story of "How Virtuous Can a Culture-Devoted Ascetic Be?" This narrative focuses on "Godadia Bapu" (also known as "Godadiya Bapu"), a renunciate who lived around Jamnagar. The story recounts his involvement in the 1857 Indian rebellion, his subsequent renunciation of violence, and his life as an ascetic. It highlights his integrity, his confrontation with the British officer Colonel Lake, and his wisdom in advising the ruler Jam Vibha on matters of governance and succession, particularly regarding the ruler's heir. Godadia Bapu's commitment to truth and his fearless demeanor are central themes.

The text also includes the story of "The Learned are Revered Everywhere" (Pages 22-26), which focuses on Sir Bhagvat Sinhji of Gondal. It praises his intellect, particularly his creation of the monumental Gujarati encyclopedia "Bhagvad Gomandal." The narrative highlights his ruling style, which was characterized by fiscal prudence, as he ruled without imposing taxes on his people, relying solely on the revenue from the state railway. It also recounts his defiance against the British government's imposition of radio tax, demonstrating his commitment to his people's welfare and his own principles.

Further chapters cover various inspiring anecdotes:

• "Kaandilgiri, Kaandand" (Pages 26-30) tells the story of Dayaram Bhatt, a police officer who, after wrongly punishing a hermit, renounces his worldly life and becomes a renunciate himself, emphasizing the consequences of unrighteous actions.
• "The Vast Difference Between a King and a Leader" (Pages 31-36) contrasts the benevolent rule of Nawab Mahobatkhan of Junagadh, who cared for his subjects and even animals, with the often self-serving nature of modern leaders. It highlights the Nawab's compassion for a farmer and his tired bullock, leading to the purchase of a new bullock for the farmer.
• "The Strength of Truth and Sadhana" (Pages 36-43) presents two stories illustrating the power of righteous conduct and spiritual devotion. The first is about an encounter between a hunter named Anderson and a fearless saint in India, where the saint's presence pacifies wild animals. The second story features Colonel Crowty, who witnesses the miraculous power of a meditating saint as bullets miraculously deflect from him.
• "What Rare Affection for the People" (Pages 44-51) recounts the story of Bhavsinhji, the ruler of Bhavnagar, who demonstrated exceptional compassion and justice. In one incident, he forgives a boy who accidentally injured him with a stone, later compensating the boy's family so they wouldn't have to rely on harmful activities. In another, he shows great empathy towards a Harijan man and gifts him golden bangles.
• "For the Protection of the Surrendered Rabbit" (Pages 53-58) tells a poignant tale about Charani Punsi, who sacrifices her life to protect a rabbit that sought refuge with her, highlighting the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and the duty of protecting those who seek refuge.
• "Koh-i-Noor: Mountain of Light or Shadow of Darkness?" (Pages 58-64) explores the history of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, tracing its journey through various hands and the misfortunes that befell its possessors, suggesting that wealth can often bring more trouble than happiness.
• "Unwavering Integrity in the Face of Submission" (Pages 64-71) narrates the story of Motijamal Patel from Billia village, who, despite facing pressure from Nawab Bisimillah Khanji of Radhanpur, refused to compromise his principles of protecting animals and upholding his integrity. His unwavering stance eventually leads the Nawab to respect him and seek reconciliation. The story also features a transformative incident involving Nawab Rasul Khanji, who, influenced by a saint, renounces his hunting habits and becomes a righteous ruler.
• "The Nawab's Astonishing Change of Heart" (Pages 71-81) delves into the story of Nawab Rasul Khanji of Junagadh. Initially a passionate hunter, he undergoes a profound transformation after an encounter with a saint, renouncing his violent ways and becoming a just ruler. This transformation is further tested when his past habits and the influence of his associates create challenges for his spiritual path and his reign, but his commitment to righteousness ultimately prevails, leading to his spiritual and political success.
• "How Virtuous and How Loyal is a Merchant?" (Pages 73-98) recounts the life of Ghelashah, a Jain merchant from Barwala. It details his business acumen, his courage in defending his principles, his loyalty to his ruler Thakor Harisinhji of Limbdi, and his confrontations with other rulers and the British. His life is depicted as a testament to both bravery and unwavering loyalty.
• "Unique Steadfastness" (Pages 95-108) describes the unwavering resolve of Thaker Dajirajji of Wadhwan. He stood firm against a British official's disrespect for royal protocol, even refusing to meet him, thereby upholding the dignity of his state.
• "The Inspiring Force of Akho's Whips" (Pages 100-106) focuses on the Gujarati poet Akho, known for his sharp and impactful verses that critiqued societal hypocrisy and superstitions. His personal tragedies led him to renounce worldly life and dedicate himself to spiritual introspection and poetic expression.
• "The Generous Darbar" (Pages 106-113) illustrates the benevolence of Darbar Gajabahi Gohil of Vadod. The story of Jaga Patel's attempted theft of grain and the Darbar's discreet help highlights the ruler's deep affection for his people and his commitment to justice and compassion.
• "Beneficial Earnings" (Pages 114-120) tells the story of Jogidas Khuman, a renowned dacoit who, upon learning that a village was home to the daughter of his revered ruler Vajesingji of Bhavnagar, chooses to respect the daughter's honor and leave the village untouched, even though he was in need of resources. This act of honor and respect is portrayed as a greater gain than any material wealth.

Overall, "Sanskruti's Rasdhar Part 03" is a collection of inspiring stories that emphasize moral values, righteous conduct, compassion, loyalty, and the importance of upholding cultural and spiritual principles, presented through historical anecdotes.