Upmiti Kathoddhar

This document is the colophon and introductory material for the Jain text "Upmiti Kathoddhar" (ઉપમિતિ કથોદ્ધાર). Here's a comprehensive summary in English:

Book Title: Upmiti Kathoddhar (ઉપમિતિ કથોદ્ધાર) Author: Pandit Hansaratna Gani (પંડિત શ્રી હંસરત્ન ગણિ) Editor: Ac. Vijay Munichandrasuri (સંપાદક આ. શ્રી વિજય મુનિચન્દ્રસૂરિ) Publisher: Ac. Omkar Surishwarji Gyanmandir, Surat (પ્રકાશક આ. શ્રી ॐકારસૂરીશ્વરજી જ્ઞાનમંદિર, સુરત)

Core Purpose and Content:

The "Upmiti Kathoddhar" is a simplified Sanskrit prose rendition of the famous and extensive Jain text, the "Upmiti Bhavaprapancha Katha" by Shri Siddharshi Gani. The primary aim of this version is to make the profound teachings and narratives of the original work accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who may not have a deep understanding of classical Sanskrit literature or prefer concise summaries.

Key Features and Information:

• Adaptation of a Classic: The book is based on the foundational "Upmiti Bhavaprapancha Katha," which is highly regarded in Jain literature and world literature for its philosophical depth and engaging storytelling.
• Simplified Sanskrit Prose: The author, Pandit Hansaratna Gani, has meticulously recompiled the essence of the original work into straightforward and simple Sanskrit prose.
• Editorial Work: Acarya Vijay Munichandrasuri, known for his expertise in researching and editing ancient Jain texts, has undertaken the editing and compilation of this work. The publication acknowledges his significant contribution, which involved utilizing numerous handwritten manuscripts.
• Publication Context: The book is being published during a significant occasion – the centenary of the initiation of Pujyaapad Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Bhadrasurishwarji Maharaj. The publication is taking place during the Shri Jinendra Bhakti Mahotsav in Surat.
• Financial Support: The publication received generous financial assistance from the Shri Bhiladiyaji Jain Tirth Pedhi, Shri Krishnanagar Jain Sangh, and Shri Jhijhuwada Jain Sangh, specifically from their "Gyanadravya" (knowledge fund).
• Original Composition Date: Pandit Hansaratna Gani completed the composition of this "Upmiti Kathoddhar" in Vikram Samvat 1790 (approximately 1733-34 CE) on the full moon day of Maha Sud (month).
• Manuscript Basis: The editorial work and publication were based on the study and comparison of four handwritten manuscripts, with details of these manuscripts (designated by symbols V, D, L-1, L-2) provided, including their physical dimensions, number of lines and characters per page, and their provenance.
• Author's Background (Pandit Hansaratna Gani): While detailed biographical information about Pandit Hansaratna Gani is limited, his guru lineage is traced through the Tapagachchha tradition. He is noted for composing other works in simple Sanskrit prose, such as "Shatrunjay Mahabhyolekh," based on earlier texts. There is some discussion regarding his guru and potential confusion with other scholars named Hansaratna, but the text mentions his guru was likely Jnana-ratna and that he lived around Vikram Samvat 1782 (1725-26 CE). The text also provides details about his family and place of death.
• The "Upmiti Bhavaprapancha Katha" and its Legacy: The introductory sections highlight the brilliance of the original "Upmiti Bhavaprapancha Katha" by Siddharshi Gani and mention several scholars who have built upon it with their own works, including Jinachandrasuri, Devesuri, Indraras Gani, and Yashovijayji Gani. It also notes various translations and adaptations of the original work into Gujarati and Hindi.
• Content Outline (Vishayan-kram - Subject Index): The detailed table of contents reveals the book is structured into seven "Adhikaras" (chapters), covering a vast range of topics related to the Jain path, ethical conduct, the nature of the soul and karma, the cycle of birth and death (Samsara), and the means to liberation. The narrative seems to follow the journey of the soul through various life forms and experiences, guided by spiritual teachers and grappling with internal enemies like passions (kashayas) and worldly desires. The content delves into the characteristics of virtues and vices, the consequences of actions, and the path to spiritual realization.
• Purpose of the Work: Pandit Hansaratna Gani states his intention was to "uplift" or "extract" the story of "Upmiti Kathoddhar" in a simple narrative form to benefit less knowledgeable or less inclined readers. He wishes for readers to study and contemplate the text to strengthen their detachment (vairagya) and spiritual fervor (samvega).

In essence, the "Upmiti Kathoddhar" serves as a simplified gateway to a complex Jain philosophical and ethical treatise, making its wisdom more accessible through the effort of Pandit Hansaratna Gani and the meticulous editing of Acarya Vijay Munichandrasuri.