Arya Sthulabhadra Diwakar Chitrakatha 042

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Arya Sthulabhadra Diwakar Chitrakatha 042":

This comic book, "Arya Sthulabhadra Diwakar Chitrakatha Vol. 42," tells the story of Arya Sthulabhadra, a significant figure in the Jain tradition. He was the eighth head of the order following Bhagavan Mahavir and was renowned as a great yogi and the last Srutakevali (one who possessed knowledge of all Jain scriptures) and Dash-Purvadhar (one who knew ten specific Jain canons).

Early Life and Family: Arya Sthulabhadra was born in 411 BC in Pataliputra, the capital of Magadha, to Shakadal, the Prime Minister under King Ghananand of the Nand dynasty. His father, Shakadal, was a highly respected and capable minister, known for his scholarship, political acumen, and economic foresight. Sthulabhadra had one brother, Shriyak, and seven sisters. Despite his noble birth, wealth, and talents in archery and music (playing the Vina), Sthulabhadra was deeply detached from worldly pleasures.

Encounter with Rupakosha: An exception to his detachment occurred when Sthulabhadra attended a performance by Rupakosha, a renowned courtesan and dancer. Her artistic skill, beauty, and devotion captivated him, leading him to spend twelve years in her company, away from his home. He only returned when the news of his father's death prompted him to fulfill his family duties. Rupakosha, a wise and accomplished woman, later established a unique studio featuring art related to dance, music, and erotica. It is mentioned that Sthulabhadra's first monsoon retreat after his ascetic initiation was spent in this studio.

Education and Friendship with Chanakya: At the age of eight, Sthulabhadra was sent to Takshashila for his education. There, he befriended Vishnugupta, who was later known as Chanakya. Their friendship blossomed due to their shared intelligence and talents. Chanakya, influenced by his mother's spiritual leanings, believed in the pursuit of knowledge and a spiritual life over kingship. This friendship was encouraged by Shakadal, who treated Chanakya like his own son.

The King's Suggestion and Sthulabhadra's Transformation: Shakadal, concerned about Sthulabhadra's complete lack of interest in worldly matters, particularly women, sought Chanakya's advice. Chanakya suggested that Sthulabhadra should spend time with Rupakosha to overcome his aversion. Following this, Sthulabhadra attended Rupakosha's performance, where he was deeply impressed. He even performed on his Vina, earning praise and a bouquet from Rupakosha. This encounter marked the beginning of a closer relationship between Sthulabhadra and Rupakosha.

Vararuchi's Deception and Shakadal's Downfall: The narrative then introduces Vararuchi, an arrogant and cunning poet who composed verses for the king. Initially, Vararuchi received no recognition for his work, but with the help of Shakadal's wife, Lakshmi, he gained favor. However, Shakadal exposed Vararuchi's plagiarism of ancient verses, leading to his public humiliation. Enraged, Vararuchi vowed revenge. He devised a scheme to create a false miracle of receiving gold coins from Goddess Ganga, which initially impressed the public and the king. Shakadal, through investigation, uncovered Vararuchi's deceit, leading to Vararuchi's banishment.

Vararuchi's Conspiracy and Shakadal's Sacrifice: Six months later, Vararuchi returned and, through a maid named Ketaki, learned about preparations for Shakadal's son Shriyak's marriage and the creation of royal regalia. Vararuchi spread a rumor that Shakadal was plotting to kill King Nand and place Shriyak on the throne. This rumor, amplified by children singing a specific verse, ignited suspicion in the king's mind, leading to his distrust of Shakadal. Faced with the king's paranoia and the imminent danger to his family, Shakadal decided to sacrifice himself to appease the king and save his family. He instructed his son Shriyak to kill him and present the act as loyalty to the king, demonstrating that a true loyal minister would not be spared if doubted.

Shriyak's Action and the King's Remorse: Shriyak, heartbroken but obedient, carried out his father's wish, killing Shakadal in the assembly and presenting the sword to the king. The king, realizing the magnitude of his mistake and the loyalty of his minister, was filled with remorse and ordered state honors for Shakadal's funeral.

Sthulabhadra's Renunciation: The death of his father deeply affected Sthulabhadra. His seven sisters expressed their desire to become ascetics, and Sthulabhadra, realizing his own worldly entanglement, was inspired to follow a spiritual path. He declined the king's offer to become the next Prime Minister, stating his desire to renounce the world and become an ascetic, fulfilling his father's wish to become greater than him. Despite skepticism from courtiers and the king, Sthulabhadra remained firm in his decision. He left for the forest to be initiated by Arya Sambhuti Vijaya, marking the beginning of his ascetic life.

The comic concludes by stating that the story of Arya Sthulabhadra continues in the next issue. The book also includes information about the "Diwakar Chitrakatha" series, highlighting its role in educating about Jainism, philosophy, culture, and history through engaging picture books.