Sugandhdashmi Katha

This Jain text, "Sugandhdashmi Katha" by Hiralal Jain, published by Bharatiya Gyanpith, is a comprehensive exploration of the Sugandhdashmi legend. The book meticulously details the story across multiple languages: Apabhramsha, Sanskrit, Gujarati, Marathi, and Hindi.

Key aspects covered in the book include:

• Introduction and Literary Analysis:

  • Ideal Manuscripts: Introduction to the various ancient manuscripts of the story.
  • Author and Period: Information about the author and the likely period of composition.
  • Story's Origin and Development: Tracing the foundational elements and evolution of the narrative.
  • Later Part of the Story: Analyzing the concluding sections and their significance.
  • Comparison with Foreign Tales: Examining parallels with French and German narratives (like Cinderella).
  • Post-Medieval Influence: Discussing the impact of the Sugandhdashmi Katha on later literary works.

• Multilingual Versions:

  • Apabhramsha: The original text with Hindi translation.
  • Sanskrit: The Sanskrit version with Hindi translation.
  • Gujarati: The Gujarati text.
  • Marathi: The Marathi text.
  • Hindi: The Hindi poetic rendition.

• Appendices:

  • Matsyagandha Katha (from Mahabharata): A comparative analysis of the Matsyagandha narrative from the epic.
  • Nagsri Sukumalika Katha (from Naya-dhamma-ka-hao): A tale from Jain Agamas.
  • Shravakta Katha (from Shravak-pragnyapti Tikka): A story related to lay followers.
  • Lakshmivati Katha (from Darishana-purana): Another significant narrative from Jain literature.

• The Story of Sugandhdashmi: The narrative generally revolves around a woman who suffers due to past negative karma, often involving disrespect towards a religious figure or practice. This suffering manifests as physical ailments, social ostracization, and often a foul odor (hence, "sugandha" meaning fragrance, and the story often detailing the transition from foulness to fragrance).

  The central theme is the power of the Sugandhdashmi vrat (vow or observance). By sincerely undertaking this vow, often involving devotion to Jain principles, fasting, charity, and worship, the protagonist purifies her karma. This purification leads to the removal of the foul odor, restoration of health, social acceptance, and ultimately, a favorable rebirth, often as royalty or a highly fortunate individual. The story emphasizes the transformative power of devotion and righteous deeds, especially in overcoming the consequences of past negative actions.

• Comparison with Western Tales: The book draws a significant comparison with the Western fairy tale of Cinderella, highlighting shared elements like the mistreated protagonist, the benevolent intervention (magical or divine), the festive event (royal ball), the lost slipper (or a similar token), and the eventual recognition and happy ending. However, it also points out differences rooted in cultural contexts, such as the absence of overt magical elements in the Jain narrative and its grounding in the principles of karma and spiritual discipline.

• Authoritative Lineage: The book traces the lineage of the authors and scholars involved, showing connections between various monastic orders and their literary contributions. For instance, the Sanskrit version is attributed to Shrutasagar, a disciple of Vidyanandi, and the Gujarati version to Brahm Jinadas, a disciple of Sakal kirti and Bhuvanakirti.

• Manuscript Details: The book provides detailed descriptions of the manuscripts used for its compilation, including their physical characteristics, collection locations, and any available information about their age.

• Artistic Depiction: The Marathi manuscript, in particular, is noted for its rich illustrations. The book includes reproductions of these paintings, offering insights into the artistic styles and themes prevalent during the period of its creation. The description of the paintings highlights their colors, character depictions, and thematic relevance to the story.

In essence, "Sugandhdashmi Katha" is a scholarly and comprehensive work that not only presents the sacred story in its various linguistic forms but also places it within a broader literary, cultural, and historical context, offering comparative analyses and insights into Jain traditions and artistic expressions.