Sur Sundari Diwakar Chitrakatha 036

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sur Sundari Diwakar Chitrakatha 036":

This picture story, "Sur Sundari," recounts the life and trials of the princess Sur-sundari, a tale of how a seemingly insignificant remark can lead to profound life changes. The story is based on the ancient Prakrit narrative "Sur-sundari Chariyam" and was adapted into a novel by Upadhyay Shri Keval Muni ji and then into this picture story by Shrichand Surana "Saras."

The Core of the Story:

The narrative begins during Sur-sundari's childhood schooling alongside Amar Kumar, the son of the town's richest merchant. Amar, a bright and popular student, playfully steals seven kaudis (ancient Indian currency shells) tied to Sur-sundari's scarf while she is asleep. He uses these kaudis to buy sweets for his friends. When Sur-sundari discovers the theft, she scolds Amar, calling him a thief. Amar retorts, questioning the significance of stealing just seven kaudis and challenging her by asking if she could purchase a kingdom with them. Sur-sundari confidently claims she could.

This exchange, though trivial at the time, becomes a pivotal moment. Years later, Amar, now married to Sur-sundari, abandons her in a forest with a similar challenge: to acquire a kingdom with seven kaudis. The story then follows Sur-sundari's journey to prove her intelligence, courage, and strength of character, ultimately leading her to achieve her husband's challenge.

Key Events and Themes:

• Childhood Mischief and a Defining Remark: The initial theft of kaudis and the ensuing dialogue set the stage for the entire narrative, highlighting how words, even in jest, can have lasting consequences.
• The Challenge of the Seven Kaudis: Amar's act of abandoning Sur-sundari with the seven kaudis and the challenge to gain a kingdom with them becomes Sur-sundari's driving purpose.
• Sur-sundari's Resilience and Wisdom: Despite being abandoned in a dense forest, Sur-sundari demonstrates remarkable fortitude. She takes refuge in a cave and later encounters a benevolent Yaksha who grants her permission to stay.
• Encounter with Kamaldatt: A merchant named Kamaldatt offers to take Sur-sundari with him. However, when he attempts to take advantage of her, she displays fierce self-defense by jumping into the sea, further showcasing her courage and commitment to her chastity.
• Rescue by Vidyadhar Chandragati: Sur-sundari is rescued by Vidyadhar Chandragati, a powerful being who recognizes her distress and protects her. He treats her with respect, recognizing her virtue and piety.
• Divine Guidance: Sur-sundari practices austerity and devotion, leading to a divine vision from Goddess Chakreshvari. The goddess informs her that she will meet her husband after twelve years in the town of Venatat.
• Transformation and Acquiring Skills: Following the goddess's advice, Sur-sundari lives with Chandragati's family for twelve years. Chandragati teaches her five special divine powers, including the power of transformation.
• The Man Vimalyash: To navigate the world safely and achieve her goal, Sur-sundari transforms herself into a handsome young man named Vimalyash.
• The Magical Fan and Healing the King: As Vimalyash, she creates a magical fan with flowers, imbued with a mantra. She sells it to a merchant who cures his son of leprosy. This act attracts the king's attention.
• Curing the King's Leprosy: Vimalyash uses the magical fan to cure the king of his incurable leprosy, earning his favor and a portion of his kingdom.
• Rescuing Princess Kanakvati: Vimalyash uses his powers to rescue Princess Kanakvati from a brigand, further solidifying his position with the king.
• The Reunion with Amar Kumar: Amar Kumar returns from his business ventures to Champapuri, the same kingdom where Vimalyash is now a respected figure and the king's confidante.
• Confrontation and Recognition: Vimalyash confronts Amar Kumar, recognizing him from their childhood. He tests Amar's character by assigning him the task of applying oil to his body without spilling a drop. This is a test of discipline and honesty. Amar's childhood mischief of stealing kaudis is revealed.
• Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Sur-sundari, in her disguised form as Vimalyash, confronts Amar. She reveals her identity, and they reconcile. Amar expresses deep remorse for his actions, and Sur-sundari, demonstrating her magnanimity, forgives him.
• The Lesson of Forgiveness: The story powerfully illustrates the destructive nature of pride, anger, and revenge stemming from trivial incidents. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, forgetting past grievances, and nurturing mutual love and faith for lasting peace.
• The Enduring Impact of a Remark: The narrative concludes by reiterating how a single, seemingly insignificant remark from childhood profoundly impacted their lives for twelve years, underscoring the theme that such matters should not be allowed to fester.

In essence, "Sur Sundari" is a Jain tale that highlights the consequences of actions, the power of resilience, the importance of virtuous conduct, and the transformative power of forgiveness. It teaches that even seemingly small incidents can lead to significant life changes, and true happiness lies in letting go of past hurts and embracing love and understanding.