Upkari Ja Upkar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Upkari ja Upkar" by Chandubha R Jadeja, based on the given pages:

Book Title: Upkari ja Upkar (Benefactor and Benefaction) Author: Chandubha R Jadeja Publisher: Z_Arya_Kalyan_Gautam_Smruti_Granth_012034.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/230043/1

This excerpt from "Upkari ja Upkar" highlights the profound impact and significant historical connection between the Anchal Gachh (a prominent sect within Jainism) and the ruling dynasty of Kutch, particularly focusing on the benevolence of the Anchal Gachh Acharyas towards the Jadeja rulers.

Key Themes and Narratives:

The Royal Welcome: The text begins by describing the grand preparations in Bhuj town for the Chaturmas (a four-month monastic retreat) of Acharya Shri Kalyansagarsurishwarji and his disciples. The then ruler of Kutch, Rawashri Bharmalji, demonstrated immense respect by entrusting all authority to the Bhuj Jain Sangh and Shri Dharshibhai Vora during the Acharya's procession.
Acharya Kalyansagarsurishwarji's Healing Intervention: A pivotal event narrated is the severe, incurable illness of Rawashri Bharmalji. Despite extensive medical treatment, his suffering persisted. Upon hearing of this, Acharya Kalyansagarsurishwarji, described as a highly influential and compassionate personality, visited the royal palace. He eloquently explained the Jain principle that suffering is a result of past karma (pudgala, karmic matter) and is unavoidable in the cycle of rebirth.
The Royal Gratitude and Historical Debt: Rawashri Bharmalji expressed deep gratitude to the Anchal Gachh. He recounted how his father, Rawashri Khangarji, and uncle, Sahebji Karamji, were forced to leave Kutch due to difficult circumstances and sought refuge in Ahmedabad. On their journey, the Anchal Gachh Yati Shri Manekmerji provided them with blessings and a significant artifact (Saang). This support enabled them to reclaim their ancestral lands ("Kachh Kamana") and establish their rule. Bharmalji emphasized that this extraordinary kindness could never be forgotten.
Echoes of Past Benefactions: The text draws parallels with historical instances. It references a statement by Mahakavi Nhanalal regarding the interdependence of King Vanraj Chavda and Shilgunasuri, and the famous connection between Maharaja Kumarpal and Acharya Hemchandrasuri, emphasizing how such patronage shaped the history of Gujarat. Similarly, it is stated that if Rawashri Khangarji had not received the support of Shri Manekmerji, the history of Kutch would have been entirely different.
The Acharya's Mystical Power and Royal Devotion: Acharya Kalyansagarsurishwarji, with his spiritual powers, alleviated Rawashri Bharmalji's pain. Overwhelmed with joy and devotion, the King offered 1000 gold coins to the Acharya. The Queen personally adorned the Acharya with pearls. However, the selfless and renounced monk did not accept these material gifts, instead directing their use for religious purposes.
A Gift of Sacredness: The very throne on which the Acharya sat during his visit was gifted to the Upashray (Jain monastery) and is still preserved in the Anchal Gachh Upashray.
Transformation of the Ruler: Through association with Acharya Kalyansagarsurishwarji, Rawashri Bharmalji embraced the noble principles of Jainism. He renounced meat consumption and, during the Paryushan festival (particularly the eight-day observances), enforced a state decree to cease all forms of violence against living beings. Furthermore, a Jinalaya (temple) was built in Bhuj during his reign.
Enduring Legacy and Royal Patronage: The text mentions that the Jadeja rulers were recognized as great scholars who embraced the Dharma. The Kutch state consistently provided patronage and issued royal decrees in favor of the Anchal Gachh. The current Maharao Shri Madansinhji recalls his own childhood initiation in a "Vadi Pishal" (a large monastery/educational institution) established by Shri Manekmerji in 703 AD (Samvat). He recounts being taught the alphabet and blessed by the deities of learning by the custodians of the institution, a tradition that continues.
Academic Contributions: The text further highlights the contribution of Upadhyay Shri Vindsagarji, a disciple of Acharya Kalyansagarsurishwarji and the author of "Bhoj Vyakarana." At the request of Rawashri Bharmalji's son, Kumar Bhojrajji, he composed this grammatical work between 1688 and 1701 AD. The "Bhoj Vyakarana" is praised in its preface for bringing joy to the minds of kings.
Philosophical Underpinnings: The excerpt concludes with quotes from the Acharaanga Sutra, emphasizing the qualities of a true hero: one who remains undisturbed in their spiritual pursuit and liberates themselves and others from the bonds of attachment.

In essence, "Upkari ja Upkar" chronicles the historical and spiritual bond between the Anchal Gachh and the Jadeja rulers of Kutch, showcasing the transformative power of Jain teachings and the enduring legacy of mutual respect and beneficence. It illustrates how spiritual guidance led to positive societal changes and the preservation of cultural and religious heritage.