Vidaai Ki Bela

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vidaai ki Bela" (The Time of Farewell) by Ratanchand Bharilla, based on the provided pages:

Overview and Publisher's Note:

"Vidaai ki Bela" is a novel written in Hindi by Pandit Ratanchand Bharilla, an esteemed scholar and principal of Shri Todarmal Digambar Jain Siddhanta Mahavidyalaya in Jaipur. Published by Pandit Todarmal Smarak Trust, Jaipur, the book has seen numerous editions and translations into Marathi and Gujarati, indicating its significant popularity and impact.

The publisher's note emphasizes that literature serves not only as a mirror to society but also as a guiding light and a lamp. In this context, the book is highlighted as a valuable addition to Jain literature, particularly in the popular genre of narrative fiction. The aim is to present Jain philosophy in a simple, accessible language suitable for modern readers, inspiring them towards spirituality and religious benefit. The book is seen as a way to convey complex philosophical principles easily, especially to an audience that may not have the time or inclination for extensive textual study.

Key Themes and Content:

The novel, "Vidaai ki Bela," aims to guide readers towards adopting spiritual practices and principles not just in old age or at the time of death, but actively within their household lives. The core message is about living a life that leads to spiritual fulfillment, even while engaged in worldly responsibilities.

The story unfolds through the experiences and conversations of characters, particularly two elderly friends, Sadāsukhī (meaning "always happy," though he lived a life of sorrow) and Vivekī (meaning "one with discernment," but whose life was marked by poor decisions). They meet in a park and begin to reflect on their lives, their past mistakes, and the emptiness of their worldly pursuits.

Key Narrative Points and Philosophical Insights:

• Regret over Past Actions: Both Sadāsukhī and Vivekī share their life's regrets. Vivekī laments having too many children without adequate means to support them, and choosing a profession (confectionery/hotel) that involved unethical practices and a lack of time for spiritual pursuits. Sadāsukhī's regrets are deeper, involving a significant transgression against his parents, which he believes he will never forget.
• The Nature of Family and Relationships: The conversations highlight the transient nature of worldly relationships. They discuss how family members, despite appearances, often act out of self-interest. This leads to the realization that true happiness and solace are not found in these external relationships.
• The Importance of Righteous Conduct: The novel emphasizes that children often emulate their parents' behavior. It urges readers to reflect on their own conduct towards their parents and consider how they want their children to treat them.
• Critique of Materialistic Pursuits: The characters' reflections underscore the futility of accumulating wealth and possessions without spiritual grounding. They realize that money cannot buy true happiness or solve all problems.
• The Meaning of "Farewell" (Vidaai): The title itself, "Vidaai ki Bela," refers to more than just a physical departure. It signifies the contemplation of life's end and the importance of preparing for it through spiritual practice and righteous living. It's about the "farewell" to worldly attachments and the embrace of spirituality.
• The Role of Knowledge and Practice: The author, Pandit Ratanchand Bharilla, appears as a character who encounters Sadāsukhī and Vivekī. He engages them in philosophical discussions, explaining concepts like vastu-svatantrya (the independence of substances/entities), karma, samādhī (equanimity, mental peace), and sallekhanā (the Jain practice of controlled fasting at the end of life).
• Sallēkhanā and Samādhī: The book delves into the Jain concepts of samādhī (achieving mental peace and equanimity) and sallēkhanā (a gradual withdrawal from worldly affairs and sustenance, leading to a peaceful death). The author clarifies that samādhī is not merely for the dying but a way of life to be practiced throughout, starting from youth. Sallēkhanā is presented as a sacred rite, a way to make death a celebration rather than a sorrowful event, by detaching from the body and its desires.
• Critique of Superficial Spirituality: The author cautions against mistaking renunciation driven by despair or societal pressure for true spiritual detachment (vairāgya). True renunciation comes from understanding the ephemeral nature of the world and realizing the soul's true nature.
• The Story of Sukumāl: A significant portion of the book involves the author recounting stories from Jain scriptures, notably the life of Mahamuni Sukumāl. This story illustrates the profound impact of past karma and the importance of right conduct and spiritual practice across lifetimes. It shows how even the most delicate individuals can achieve great spiritual feats. The story of Sukumāl also highlights the consequences of negative emotions like anger and hatred from past lives.
• Personal Transformation: The author's interactions with Sadāsukhī and Vivekī lead to their profound transformation. They begin to understand the true meaning of life, the impermanence of worldly affairs, and the importance of spiritual pursuits. The author's wife also joins him, further emphasizing the possibility of spiritual progress within family life.
• The Importance of the Present Moment: The book stresses that true happiness is found not in the past or future, but in the present moment, achieved through equanimity and detachment.

Overall Message:

"Vidaai ki Bela" is a profound exploration of Jain philosophy presented through an engaging narrative. It teaches that true fulfillment and a peaceful "farewell" (death) are achieved through understanding the nature of reality, living a life of righteousness, practicing equanimity, and ultimately realizing the soul's true, eternal nature. It encourages readers to engage in spiritual practices like samādhī and sallēkhanā not as rituals performed at the end of life, but as an integral part of living a meaningful and happy life. The book is presented as a guide for achieving a successful and fulfilling existence, both in this life and for future ones.