Shatrunjay Uper Thayel Pratishthano Ahewal

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shatrunjay uper thayel Pratishthano Ahewal" (Report on Consecrations on Shatrunjay) by Ratilal Dipchand Desai, published by Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi:

Overall Purpose:

This book serves as a detailed report and commemoration of a significant Jain consecration (Pratishtha) ceremony held on the holy Mount Shatrunjay. It aims to document the event, highlight its scale and importance, and serve as a historical record for future generations and those unable to attend.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Significance of Shatrunjay (Pages 1, 28-38):

   • The book begins by emphasizing the unparalleled holiness and glory of Mount Shatrunjay, referred to as "Tirthadhiraj" (King of Holy Places).
   • It describes Shatrunjay as a place of immense spiritual merit, where even animals attain higher births. Its very name is said to dispel fear.
   • The text details the profound importance of pilgrimage (Tirth Yatra) in Jainism as a means of spiritual purification and liberation from worldly suffering.
   • Shatrunjay is highlighted as a sacred mountain, a "Girirth" (mountain pilgrimage), and is deeply revered for its ancient connection to Lord Rishabhdev (Adinath), the first Tirthankar, and His first disciple, Pundrik Swami.
   • Historical accounts and legends are mentioned, including the participation of Pandavas and the influence of various great Acharyas and rulers.
   • The extraordinary devotion (Bhakti) of the Jain community towards Shatrunjay is evident in the sheer number of temples and idols built on the mountain.

2. The Role of Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi (Pages 3-4, 38-45, 139-146):

   • The book underscores the pivotal role of Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, a renowned representative institution of the Jain community, in the administration and preservation of Jain pilgrimages, including Shatrunjay.
   • It traces the historical management of Shatrunjay by various Jain Sanghs (communities) and the evolution of the Pedhi's involvement, starting from ancient times and solidifying over centuries.
   • The text highlights the Pedhi's commitment to preserving Jain heritage, undertaking extensive renovations (Jirnoddhar), and managing multiple pilgrimage sites across India.
   • The Pedhi's ethical governance, financial prudence, and dedication to the welfare of the Jain faith and its followers are consistently praised.
   • The influence and respect commanded by the Pedhi and its trustees, particularly the lineage of Nagarseth Shantidas Zaveri and later Kasturbhai Lalbhai, are emphasized.

3. The Need for the New Temple and Idol Consecration (Pages 15-26, 45-52):

   • A major undertaking leading to this Pratishtha was the removal (Uthapan) of over 500 idols from the main temple area of Shatrunjay.
   • This removal was necessitated by the haphazard installation of idols in the past, which obscured ancient sculptures, violated architectural principles, and caused "Ashata" (disrespect or damage) to the divine images.
   • The decision to remove and reinstall was made after extensive consultation with Jain Acharyas and careful consideration, aiming to restore the original grandeur and sanctity of the main temple.
   • To accommodate the removed idols and enhance the sacred site, a new, magnificent temple complex with 52 smaller shrines was constructed. This construction process itself was a significant undertaking.

4. The Pratishtha Mahotsav (Consecration Festival) (Pages 5-26, 53-126):

   • Extensive Preparations: The book details the meticulous planning and organization for the massive festival. This included forming various committees (for arrangements, food, publicity, etc.), coordinating with religious leaders, and ensuring logistical support.
   • The Consecration Day: The central event was the consecration of 504 Jain idols on February 7, 1976, at a precisely determined auspicious time. The ceremony was conducted with great devotion and adherence to Jain rituals.
   • Community Involvement: The event saw an unprecedented gathering of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 Jains from across India, along with hundreds of monks and nuns. The participation of people from all walks of life, including the underprivileged, in sponsoring the installation of idols (through a "Nakra" or bid system) is highlighted as a unique and heartwarming aspect.
   • The Procession (Rath Yatra): A grand procession (Vargodha) was a major highlight, featuring beautifully decorated chariots, elephants, horses, music troupes, and thousands of devotees, symbolizing the community's collective devotion.
   • Logistical Arrangements: The report details the immense efforts made for accommodation, free mass feeding (Navkarshi), sanitation, security, and managing the vast crowds, ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the 10-day festival. The food arrangements were particularly praised for their scale and cleanliness.
   • Publicity and Media: The event garnered significant media attention, with journalists and photographers from various national newspapers, news agencies, and radio stations covering the proceedings, highlighting the event's national importance.
   • Overcoming Challenges: The text acknowledges the opposition faced regarding the idol removal and the "Nakra" system for allocation, but emphasizes how the wise guidance of Acharyas and the strong resolve of the organizers ultimately led to the event's success.
   • Key Figures: The immense contribution and leadership of Sheth Kasturbhai Lalbhai, the head of Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, are repeatedly lauded. His dedication, vision, and ability to manage the complex event and unify the community are central to the narrative. The book also honors other key organizers and committee members.
   • Unique Aspects: The book mentions unique aspects like the voluntary closure of meat shops in Palitana on the day of the Pratishtha, encouraged by the Gujarat government, and the distribution of special commemorative silver coins.

5. Post-Festival Events and Acknowledgements (Pages 121-126):

   • Honoring Organizers: Following the successful completion of the festival, a special ceremony was held to honor Sheth Kasturbhai Lalbhai for his visionary leadership and his retirement after fifty years of service. Seven key organizers of the festival were also felicitated for their contributions.
   • Acknowledgements: The author, Ratilal Desai, expresses gratitude to the Pedhi's management, the advisory committee, various print and media organizations, and all those who contributed to the book's creation.

Structure and Style:

The book is structured logically, moving from the general significance of Shatrunjay to the specific details of the Pratishtha Mahotsav. It incorporates historical context, religious principles, logistical details, and emotional accounts of devotion. The language is respectful and celebratory, reflecting the importance of the event within the Jain tradition. It includes numerous photographs and illustrations of the temple, idols, processions, and prominent personalities, adding visual depth to the narrative.

In essence, "Shatrunjay uper thayel Pratishthano Ahewal" is a testament to the deep-rooted faith, organizational prowess, and rich heritage of the Jain community, particularly in relation to their sacred Mount Shatrunjay.