Tirthankar Mahavira Smruti Granth

The provided document is the "Tirthankar Mahavira Smruti Granth," a commemorative volume published by Jiwaji University, Gwalior, edited by Ravindra Malav, celebrating the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavira. The book is structured into nine sections, covering a wide range of topics related to Mahavira, Jainism, and Jain culture.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content based on the provided pages:

Overall Structure and Purpose:

• The "Tirthankar Mahavira Smruti Granth" is a tribute to Lord Mahavira, compiled to mark the 2500th anniversary of his Nirvana.
• It aims to revisit moral values and highlight the relevance of Mahavira's teachings in contemporary times.
• The book is a collection of scholarly articles and essays, aiming to contribute to the vast knowledge base on Jain philosophy, literature, and culture.

Key Sections and Content:

• Page 1-5 (Preliminary Pages): These pages include the title page, publisher information, editor, chief editor, and the table of contents. They also feature introductory messages from the Vice-Chancellor (Har Swaroop), Registrar (Ajay Kumar Bhattacharya), and convenor of the Mahavir Nirvana Mahotsav Committee (Ravindra Malav), expressing gratitude and highlighting the significance of the publication. Welcome messages and good wishes from various dignitaries are also included.

• Page 5 (Index - Kram): This page outlines the structure of the book, dividing it into nine main sections (Khanda):

  • Prathama Khanda (First Section): Kavyanjali (Poetic Homage): Contains poems and hymns dedicated to Lord Mahavira, including devotional works from Kundakundacharya and Raviṣeṇācārya, and a 'Vandana' section.
  • Dwitiya Khanda (Second Section): Jinavani (Words of the Jinas): This section appears to be a glossary or collection of key Jain terms, with definitions and explanations of concepts like Ahimsa, Satya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha, Karma, Moksha, etc. (pages 9-22).
  • Tritiya Khanda (Third Section): Bhagwan Mahavira, Jivan-Darshan-Den (Lord Mahavira, Life-Philosophy-Contribution): This section focuses on Mahavira's life, his revolutionary impact on society, the relevance of his teachings in the modern era, his views on women's liberation, the revolutionary nature of his message, his concept of communism (or egalitarianism), and his message for world peace (pages 23-76).
  • Chaturtha Khanda (Fourth Section): Jain Dharm-Darshan (Jain Dharma and Philosophy): This section delves into the philosophical aspects of Jainism, including the concepts of Anekānta and Syādvāda, the relevance of Śramaṇa in modern times, Kundalini in Jain Yoga, the nature of Aparigraha, the theory of inference in Jain philosophy, Jain Sangha and its sects, the Jain Karma theory, and the concept of Moksha in Jain philosophy (pages 77-152).
  • Panchama Khanda (Fifth Section): Jain Sanskriti evam Kala (Jain Culture and Art): This section explores Jain archaeology and art, Jaina iconograpy, Jain music, the contribution of Jain art to Indian sculpture, and Jain painting (pages 153-214). It includes contributions in English as well.
  • Shashthama Khanda (Sixth Section): Jain Sahitya (Jain Literature): This section discusses Jain literature, the importance of good company (Sadguru-Satsang) in medieval Hindi literature, the contribution of Bhattarakas to Jain literature and culture, the pioneers of Jain literature, Sita in ancient Jain Ram literature, the contribution of Jain Acharyas to Sanskrit poetics, poets from Rajasthan, and the great scholar Todarmal (pages 215-270).
  • Saptama Khanda (Seventh Section): Vaigyanik Sandarbhon mein Jain Dharm (Jain Dharma in Scientific Contexts): This section explores the scientific dimensions of Jainism, including topics like atoms and the universe, research directions in Jain mathematics, and the scientific and medical aspects of vegetarianism (pages 271-302).
  • Ashtama Khanda (Eighth Section): Gwalior aur Jain Dharm (Gwalior and Jain Dharma) (Various Contexts): This section specifically focuses on the Jain heritage in Gwalior and its surrounding areas, discussing figures like Raidhu, Jain cultural centers, Gopadri Devapattana, and the contribution of Jainism to Gwalior's cultural development (pages 303-360).
  • Navama Khanda (Ninth Section): Vividha (Miscellaneous): This section includes book reviews and critiques of Jain literature published during the 2500th Mahavira Nirvana Mahotsava year, reports on the events organized by Jiwaji University, the establishment of the "Shri 2500th Bhagavan Mahavira Nirvana Mahotsava Smarak Nyas" (Trust), a report on the lecture series, author biographies, and advertisements (pages 361-411).

• Page 9-10 (Aamukh - Foreword by Vice-Chancellor Har Swaroop): This foreword emphasizes India's rich cultural heritage, the continuity of its traditions, and the profound influence of Mahavira and Gautam Buddha, reflecting in Mahatma Gandhi's thought. It highlights the comprehensive and research-oriented nature of the Smruti Granth and expresses confidence that it will be a valuable addition to knowledge.

• Page 10-13 (Presentation - Ajay Kumar Bhattacharya, Registrar): The Registrar expresses joy in presenting the commemorative volume, highlighting the university's role in this significant publication. He details the genesis of the project, starting with a five-day lecture series supported by the state government and the subsequent decision to compile the lectures and research papers into this comprehensive Granth. He praises Ravindra Malav for his dedication and hard work in editing and bringing the book to fruition.

• Page 13-24 (Pratkathan - Foreword by Governor Govind Narain Tandon): The Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Govind Narain Tandon, delves into India's spiritual heritage, drawing parallels between ancient Indian thinkers and contemporary figures like Mahatma Gandhi. He discusses Mahavira's philosophy, his social revolution, his emphasis on non-violence, non-possession (Aparigraha), non-stealing (Astea), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-violence (Ahimsa). He connects Mahavira's ideas to socialism and Gandhism, underscoring the relevance of his teachings for modern society and world peace. He also praises the university's initiative and the editor's efforts.

• Page 25-35 (Shubhkamna Sandesh - Good Wishes Messages): These pages contain messages from various dignitaries, including the Vice-President of India, the Governor of Madhya Pradesh (Mohanlal Sukhadia and Satyanarayan Sinha), Union Ministers (Prakash Chandra Sethi, Arvind Netam), Chief Ministers (Shyama Charan Shukla), and other prominent figures, all offering good wishes for the success of the publication and celebrating the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavira.

• Page 36-57 (Kavyanjali - Poetic Homage): This section features devotional poems and hymns dedicated to Lord Mahavira. It includes 'Mangal Sutra' (a prayer), 'Mahavira Stavana' in Prakrit by Kundakundacharya and in Sanskrit by Raviṣeṇācārya, and 'Vandana' poems. The section also contains 'Bhagwan Mahavira ke charanon mein' by Upadhyay Amar Muni, 'Manoyog dwara suno Veer Vani' by Kalyan Kumar Jain "Shashi", and 'Bhav Pushpanjali' by Shantilai Jain "Madhukar".

• Page 58-59 (Jinavani - Words of the Jinas): This section likely contains a glossary of important Jain terms and concepts, presented in a concise manner, covering ethical principles, philosophical doctrines, and spiritual practices. The terms listed range from 'Antaratma' and 'Aparigraha' to 'Ahimsa', 'Karma', 'Jnana', 'Samyak Darshan', etc.

• Page 59 onwards (Main Sections): The subsequent sections delve into detailed discussions on Mahavira's life, philosophy, contributions, and broader aspects of Jainism. The articles cover:

  • Mahavira's life and philosophy.
  • His social revolution and the relevance of his teachings.
  • His stance on women's liberation.
  • The revolutionary nature of his message.
  • His concept of egalitarianism (Samajwad).
  • His message for world peace.
  • Jain Dharma and Philosophy (Anekanta, Syadvada, Karma, Moksha, etc.).
  • Jain Culture and Art (Archaeology, Iconography, Music, Sculpture, Painting).
  • Jain Literature and its contribution.
  • Jain Dharma in scientific contexts.
  • The Jain heritage in Gwalior.
  • Miscellaneous topics including book reviews and reports.

Key Themes and Contributions Highlighted:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is presented as Mahavira's paramount contribution, revolutionizing society by emphasizing non-violence in thought, word, and deed. Its relevance for modern times and world peace is strongly emphasized.
• Aparigraha (Non-possession): Mahavira's teachings on limiting possessions and renouncing greed are presented as a solution to economic inequality and social conflict, even seen as surpassing contemporary socialist ideas in its non-violent foundation.
• Social Revolution: Mahavira's challenge to the caste system, his emphasis on the equality of all beings regardless of birth, and his advocacy for the upliftment of the downtrodden and women are highlighted as significant social contributions.
• Rationality and Science: The text points to the scientific underpinnings of Jain philosophy, particularly in its understanding of atoms (pudgala), the universe, and its emphasis on self-effort and rational inquiry over blind faith or divine intervention. Concepts like Anekānta and Syādvāda are presented as tools for understanding multifaceted reality and promoting tolerance.
• Jain Art and Culture: The book showcases the rich artistic heritage of Jainism, including its sculptures, temple architecture, paintings, and music, with a particular focus on the Dahala and South Kosala regions, Gwalior, and other significant sites.
• Jain Literature: The vastness and richness of Jain literature across various languages like Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramśa, Hindi, Kannada, and Tamil are discussed, along with the significant contributions of Jain Acharyas and scholars in preserving and expanding this knowledge.
• Gwalior's Jain Heritage: Specific attention is given to the historical and cultural significance of Gwalior and its surrounding regions in the context of Jainism, detailing the contributions of various rulers and the presence of ancient Jain monuments and literary works.
• Relevance Today: Throughout the text, there is a recurring emphasis on the enduring relevance of Mahavira's teachings for addressing contemporary global challenges such as violence, inequality, and the search for peace.

In essence, the "Tirthankar Mahavira Smruti Granth" is a comprehensive academic and commemorative work that seeks to present a multifaceted understanding of Lord Mahavira's life, philosophy, and the enduring impact of his teachings on Indian culture and contemporary society. It highlights the Jain tradition's philosophical depth, literary richness, artistic achievements, and its continuing relevance.