Kuvalayamala
Summary
The article introduces Uddyotana Suri's Prakrit campu 'Kuvalayamala' written in 779 A.D. It recounts the story of Prince Kuvalayacandra, son of King Drdhavarmana and Queen Priyangusyama, who is raised in Ayodhya and embarks on adventures that illustrate Jain moral teachings. When a gala military procession returns from battle, the prince witnesses the capture of an enemy child and hears about karma and samsara. The narrative portrays the queen's longing for a son, the birth and education of Kuvalayacandra, and his encounter with a Jain monk. In the forest, he meets the ascetic who elucidates the nature of worldly existence and explains that samsara is driven by krodha (anger), maya (deceit), lobha (greed) and moha (infatuation). Through stories of five individuals exemplifying these passions, the monk advises the prince to cultivate samyaktva (right faith) and practise self‑control. The narrative uses parables to describe the destructive effects of anger, greed and delusion, and it draws on earlier births and karmic bonds to show how souls transmigrate through different existences. Uddyotana Suri emphasises that wealth, power and sensual pleasure cannot guarantee happiness, and only by conquering passions and following Jain precepts can one attain liberation. The campu style interweaves prose and poetry, making the moral lessons engaging. The article concludes this instalment with the end of the Ayodhya‑kanda, promising continuation of the story.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
By illustrating the adventures of Kuvalayacandra, the text conveys that material success and royal power are ephemeral. Real happiness lies in overcoming the four passions and cultivating right faith. This excerpt from the 'Kuvalayamala' presents morality tales that prepare readers for subsequent episodes of the epic, reinforcing the Jain message of renunciation and self‑discipline.