Viroday Mahakavya Aur Mahavir Jivan Charit Ka Samikshatmak Adhyayan

Based on the provided text, here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Virodaya Mahakavya Aur Bhagwan Mahavir Ke Jivan Charit Ka Samikshatmak Adhyayan" by Kamini Jain:

Book Title: Virodaya Mahakavya Aur Bhagwan Mahavir Ke Jivan Charit Ka Samikshatmak Adhyayan (A Critical Study of Virodaya Mahakavya and the Biography of Lord Mahavir) Author: Dr. Kamini Jain Publisher: Bhagwan Rishabhdev Granthmala, Shri Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra Mandir Sanghiji, Sanganer, Jaipur (Rajasthan) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006158/1

Overall Summary:

This book is a PhD dissertation by Dr. Kamini Jain, published by Bhagwan Rishabhdev Granthmala, which critically examines Acharya Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj's "Virodaya Mahakavya" in conjunction with the life and biography of Lord Mahavir. The work is presented as a scholarly research paper that delves into the literary, cultural, social, and philosophical aspects of both the epic poem and the life of the 24th Tirthankara.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Subject Matter: The book undertakes a comparative and critical study of Acharya Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj's monumental Sanskrit epic poem, "Virodaya Mahakavya," and the life, teachings, and philosophical underpinnings of Lord Mahavir, the last Tirthankara of Jainism.

2. Structure of the Dissertation: The study is meticulously organized into six chapters, further divided into 23 sections (Parichhed).

   • Chapter 1: The Tradition of Tirthankaras in Shraman Dharma and Lord Mahavir, along with the Development and Significance of Mahavir Charita Literature: This chapter provides a historical and literary overview of the Tirthankara tradition, focusing on Lord Mahavir. It traces the evolution of literature depicting Mahavir's life across Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Apabhramsha languages, highlighting significant works and the importance of Mahavir's biography.
   • Chapter 2: Acharya Gyan Sagar Ji and a Review of His Mahakavyas: This chapter focuses on the personality and literary contributions of Acharya Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj. It reviews his other major works like "Jayodaya," "Sudarshanodaya," "Bhadrodaya," and "Dayodaya Champu," analyzing their themes, historical context, and impact, particularly in relation to the Mahavir Charita tradition.
   • Chapter 3: The Nature of Virodaya and Lord Mahavir's Complete Life Philosophy: This chapter delves into the "Virodaya Mahakavya" itself. It discusses its core themes, the socio-religious and historical context of India before Mahavir's birth, his past lives (purva-bhav), and his comprehensive life philosophy. It also covers the impact of his teachings on contemporary rulers, the description of household and monastic dharma, the Samavsharana, the significance of divine speech, the exposition of principles, the attainment of omniscience, Mahavir's departure to liberation (moksha), and glimpses of mythological narratives.
   • Chapter 4: Poetic Evaluation of Virodaya: This chapter undertakes a critical analysis of the epic's poetic qualities, examining the poet's skill, use of meters (chhanda), figures of speech (alankara), aesthetic experiences (rasanubhuti), language and style, the distinctiveness of its dialogues, and a comparative analysis with other literary works.
   • Chapter 5: Cultural and Social Analysis of Virodaya Mahakavya: This chapter explores the cultural and social fabric depicted in "Virodaya." It covers social portrayals, the caste system (varna-vyavastha), family structures, societal organization, ethical frameworks, discipline in society, customs, attire, lifestyle, religious rituals, vows (vrat), fasting (upvas), education and pedagogy, compassion towards all living beings, tolerance, and artistic depictions (painting, sculpture, architecture).
   • Chapter 6: A Critical Study of Lord Mahavir's Principles in Virodaya: This chapter examines the philosophical and ethical principles of Lord Mahavir as presented in the "Virodaya Mahakavya." It discusses the nature and importance of Dharma, devotion to deities, scriptures, and gurus (Dev-Shastra-Guru bhakti), the nature of the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya), the discussion of merit and demerit (punya-pap), the doctrine of karma, ethical conduct (sadachar), vegetarianism (shakahar), and the importance of the four Purusharthas.

3. Author's Perspective and Methodology: Dr. Kamini Jain's work is grounded in rigorous academic research, adhering to university standards. The study is enriched by the blessings and guidance of prominent Jain monks, including Munishri 108 Sudhasagar Ji Maharaj, reflecting a deep engagement with both textual scholarship and spiritual traditions.

4. Significance of "Virodaya Mahakavya": The book highlights "Virodaya Mahakavya" as a significant literary achievement of the 20th century, reviving the tradition of great Sanskrit epics. It is praised for its poetic brilliance, profound philosophical insights, rich cultural depictions, and its adherence to Jain principles, particularly emphasizing the path to spiritual upliftment. The poem is seen as not only a literary masterpiece but also a historical document due to its mentions of kings, kingdoms, and their capitals.

5. Focus on Lord Mahavir's Teachings: A central theme is the exploration of Lord Mahavir's life and teachings, emphasizing his role as a revolutionary reformer, a guide for humanity, a proponent of universal brotherhood, and a personification of compassion, courage, and self-discipline. His principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession (aparigraha) are analyzed within the context of the epic.

6. Literary and Artistic Merit: The study appreciates Acharya Gyan Sagar's mastery of language, his skillful use of various poetic meters, figures of speech (alankaras), and the evocation of different sentiments (rasas), especially Shanta Rasa (the peaceful sentiment) which is considered the primary rasa in "Virodaya." The detailed analysis of these elements contributes to understanding the epic's aesthetic value.

7. Cultural and Social Depiction: The book underscores how "Virodaya" serves as a window into the cultural and social life of ancient India, particularly during the period of Lord Mahavir. It examines aspects like social customs, family life, governance, religious practices, and the prevalent philosophical ideas, showcasing the blend of scholarly research and devotional reverence.

8. Dedication and Acknowledgment: The work is dedicated to Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj and Munishri 108 Sudhasagar Ji Maharaj, recognizing their profound influence and inspiration. The author also expresses gratitude to her research guide, Professor Dr. Suman Jain, and other scholars and family members who supported the research.

In essence, Dr. Kamini Jain's "Virodaya Mahakavya Aur Bhagwan Mahavir Ke Jivan Charit Ka Samikshatmak Adhyayan" is a comprehensive academic and devotional tribute to both Acharya Gyan Sagar Ji's literary genius and the timeless teachings of Lord Mahavir, presented through a detailed scholarly lens.