Sansmarnoni Samalochana

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Sansmarnoni Samalochana" by Sukhlal Sanghavi:

This text is a review of the book "Sansmarano" (Memoirs) written by Shri Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar, popularly known as "Dadasaheb." The book was published by Gujarat Vidhyasabha. Dadasaheb Mavalankar is widely recognized and popular, particularly for his role as the Speaker of the Central Lok Sabha.

The reviewer, Sukhlal Sanghavi, highlights that "Dadasaheb" has previously written memoirs in Gujarati, English, and Marathi on various occasions, including "Manavata na Zarana" and "My Life at the Bar." The current book, "Sansmarano," is a compilation of specific memories, focusing on his experiences and interactions with Mahatma Gandhi after meeting him and working alongside him. The reviewer notes that these memories are primarily based on written accounts, and as such, Shri Narharibhai, in the preface, rightly states that the book is structured around Gandhi's letters to Dadasaheb. Narharibhai elaborates on the circumstances under which Gandhi wrote these letters and their impact on Dadasaheb's life.

Sanghavi emphasizes the immense good fortune of being born in the Gandhian era, having the opportunity to meet Gandhi, understanding his vision, and possessing the eagerness and skill to live according to it. However, he considers the greatest fortune to be actively participating in work with Gandhi in one way or another. He believes that Dadasaheb's memoirs, in this light, are a culmination of all these blessings, and any discerning reader will appreciate this upon reading the book.

The reviewer then delves into the multifaceted life of Dadasaheb Mavalankar, listing his various roles and achievements: his studies, his entry into public life, his legal practice, his leadership positions in significant institutions like Gujarat Sabha, Municipality, and Gujarat Vidhyasabha, his active participation in relief work during crises, his involvement as a soldier in the national independence struggle, his keen interest and realization of dreams in diverse educational fields, his guidance and support to young people fighting injustice, his efforts in raising funds for education and public welfare, his honest and skillful management of funds for Congress and other organizations, his trusteeship and management of nationwide trusts like Kastur National Memorial and Gandhi Memorial, his successful fulfillment of the responsibilities as Speaker, and more. Sanghavi observes that even within these limited memoirs, numerous aspects of Dadasaheb's life and the wealth of experiences are evident, directly or indirectly. He likens the book to a single drop of honey that encapsulates the essence of nectar from countless flowers of various types, shapes, colors, tastes, and fragrances.

Sanghavi identifies the core essence and foundation of these memoirs as Dadasaheb's:

• Search for Truth: His integrity and commitment to truth are evident in various instances. For example, when Gandhi suggested shortening a lengthy legal document that Dadasaheb had painstakingly drafted, Dadasaheb readily accepted the suggestion, recognizing its truth and expressing satisfaction at gaining a new perspective. Conversely, when his views on a regional university differed from Gandhi's, Dadasaheb, despite his profound respect for Gandhi, firmly presented his reasoned perspective to Gandhi, even drafting their conversation, which pleased Gandhi. This demonstrates that individuals committed to truth not only accept it from others but also tenaciously, yet humbly, adhere to their own clear convictions and present them even to those they deeply respect.
• Natural Brilliance and National Self-Esteem: His brilliance and self-respect shine through in memories number 8 to 14, particularly in how he managed student protests and strikes. His skill in swaying public opinion and his courage in admonishing the then Education Minister showcase his inherent leadership qualities and his readiness to lead satyagraha-based struggles against injustice, whether under foreign or self-rule.
• Deep Religiosity: Dadasaheb's deep religiosity is vividly illustrated in chapters concerning the efforts to open the Shri Vitthal temple in Pandharpur to Harijans, his darshan from the temple steps, the continuous discussions, the resolution for Harijan entry, and the subsequent fast of Shri Sane Guruji. Chapter 49, detailing his question-and-answer session with temple priests, and the final letter to Gandhi further highlight his truthful advocacy. Sanghavi notes that wherever Dadasaheb has undertaken a task, he has received recognition, and Gandhi held him in high regard. Dadasaheb's humility is also evident in his willingness to seek advice from elders, just like Gandhi, and he also benefited from Sardar Patel's guidance.

A significant aspect highlighted is the extraordinary resilience and courage of Dadasaheb's mother. When faced with difficult decisions, Dadasaheb would consult his mother, who, without being swayed by maternal affection, would offer advice in accordance with duty.

Sanghavi suggests that Dadasaheb wrote "Sansmarano" as a form of self-satisfaction by revisiting and connecting with his life experiences. While this might be true from an introspective viewpoint, the reviewer argues that the reader's perspective is equally important. Even if the author's primary intention is self-gratification, the reader's satisfaction is intrinsically linked. Thus, Dadasaheb's purpose extends to providing satisfaction to the readers. Sanghavi mentions re-reading the memoirs without boredom, gaining further understanding, and therefore considers them essential reading for every discerning reader. He echoes Narharibhai's sentiment that the book will be useful, interesting, and instructive to readers.

Acknowledging Dadasaheb's constant workload, Sanghavi expresses a desire for him to quickly write a detailed autobiography covering all aspects of his life, which would greatly benefit present and future generations. The reviewer commends the three appendices for enhancing the book's utility and praises the index for its accuracy and detail, noting how it effectively portrays the relationship and life events between Gandhi and Dadasaheb simply by its overview. The printing, editing, and arrangement of the book are also lauded, reflecting well on the publisher and printer. Sanghavi concludes by assuring that those who read these memoirs attentively will find much inspiration.

The text concludes by stating that this is a review of the autobiography "Sansmarano" by the honorable Shri Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar.