Shripal Charitra

This Jain text, "Shripal Charitra" (The Life of Shripal), authored by Munivarya Shri Anand Sagarji Maharaj and published by Ganeshmal Dadha, recounts the inspiring life story of King Shripal. The narrative, originally in Sanskrit, has been translated into simple Hindi for the benefit of a wider audience.

The story emphasizes the profound influence of the "Navapad" (Ninefold Path) and the "Siddhachakra" (Sacred Wheel) in overcoming adversity and achieving spiritual and material prosperity. Shripal, who lived approximately 1.2 million years ago during the time of the 20th Tirthankara, Bhagavan Munisuvrat Swami, achieved immense success and spiritual merit through his unwavering devotion to the Siddhachakra. The text outlines his journey, highlighting key events and lessons learned.

The book is structured into several "Prastav" (Sections), detailing Shripal's life chronologically:

Introduction: The preface emphasizes the importance of studying the lives of great souls to foster religious inclination and spiritual upliftment. It introduces Shripal as a virtuous king and a devout follower of Jain principles.

Shripal's Birth and Early Life: The narrative begins with King Shrenik of Magadha receiving teachings from the first Ganadhara, Gautam Swami. Gautam Swami elaborates on the Siddhachakra and its significance, inspiring King Shrenik to inquire about the life of King Shripal. The story then shifts to King Prajapala of Ujjain, who had two queens, Saubhagyasundari and Rupasundari. Rupasundari, a follower of Jainism, gave birth to Madanasundari (also known as Mayanasundari), while Saubhagyasundari gave birth to Surasundari. Madanasundari is portrayed as virtuous and intelligent, while Surasundari is depicted as capricious and misguided.

Madanasundari's Education and Marriage: Both daughters receive education, with Madanasundari excelling in Jain philosophy and scriptures. A test of their wisdom involves answering the question, "What is obtained through merit?" Madanasundari's answer, focusing on ethical virtues and spiritual well-being, impresses everyone. Meanwhile, Surasundari's marriage is arranged with Aridaman Kumar.

Shripal's Adversity and Divine Intervention: The story then transitions to Shripal's early life. Shripal is the son of Queen Kamalprabha of Champapuri. Due to his uncle Ajitsen's treachery, Shripal and his mother are forced into exile. They encounter a group of lepers, and Shripal, disguised as a beggar, is taken in by them. His mother, through her devotion to the Siddhachakra, miraculously cures Shripal's leprosy, transforming him into a handsome prince.

The Siddhachakra's Power and Shripal's Trials: Shripal, with his mother's guidance and the power of the Siddhachakra, embarks on a journey. He faces numerous challenges, including a betrayal by a merchant named Dhaval Seth, who attempts to kill him. However, Shripal is protected by divine intervention and the power of the Siddhachakra. He encounters various kings and princesses, undergoing tests of his character and devotion.

Key Events and Marriages:

• Madanasundari's Marriage to Shripal: King Prajapala, angered by Madanasundari's unwavering faith in karma and her refusal to choose a suitor, marries her to the leprous Umbar Rana, fulfilling a prophecy related to Shripal's past life. Through the grace of the Siddhachakra, Umbar Rana is cured, and Madanasundari's devotion to Jainism is further highlighted.
• Shripal's Journey and Acquisition of Wealth: Shripal's travels lead him to obtain magical powers and wealth, enabling him to overcome his enemies and gather resources.
• The Five Marriages: Shripal marries several princesses, each union often involving overcoming a unique challenge or test. These include:
  • Madanasundari: His first and most devoted wife, who endures hardships with him.
  • Surasundari: His second wife, who is reunited with him after her own trials.
  • Madanasena: Married in Barbarpur.
  • Gun sundari: Won through a music competition in Kundalpur.
  • Trilok sundari: Won through a disguise and riddle-solving challenge in Kanchpur.
  • Jayasundari: Won through mastering the "Radha Vedh" skill.
  • Tilaksundari: Cured of snakebite by Shripal's divine intervention.
• Confrontation with Ajitsen: Shripal eventually confronts his uncle Ajitsen, who had usurped his kingdom. Ajitsen, humbled by Shripal's generosity and his own past misdeeds, renounces his worldly life and becomes a monk.
• Shripal's Reign and Spiritual Growth: Shripal reclaims his kingdom and rules with justice and piety. He establishes temples, promotes Jain teachings, and lives a life dedicated to spiritual pursuits. His family and subjects also benefit from the merit generated by his devotion.

The "Navapad" and Siddhachakra: Throughout the narrative, the power of the Siddhachakra and the virtues of the Navapad (Arhat, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu, Darshan, Gyan, Charitra, and Tap) are repeatedly emphasized. These principles are shown to be instrumental in overcoming difficulties, curing diseases, achieving success, and ultimately attaining spiritual liberation.

Conclusion: The "Shripal Charitra" concludes with Shripal's eventual attainment of salvation after a life filled with devotion, righteousness, and overcoming numerous obstacles. The text serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith, righteous conduct, and adherence to Jain principles. It underscores the belief that devotion to the Siddhachakra leads to both worldly prosperity and ultimate spiritual liberation.