Bhaktamar

Bhaktamar Stotra is a significant devotional hymn in Jainism, attributed to the Jain monk Mantungacharya. It consists of a series of verses praising the 24th Tirthankara, Lord Mahavira, and is renowned for its spiritual depth and poetic beauty. The hymn has inspired extensive literature, including commentaries, explanations, and ritual manuals, reflecting its central role in Jain devotional practice.

Several notable works have been published on Bhaktamar, such as the 1974 book by Hiralal Jain, which explores the hymn's meaning and devotional aspects, and the 1930 "Bhaktamar Katha" by Udaylal Kasliwal, which narrates stories related to the Bhaktamar tradition. Mahapragna Acharya's 1998 Gujarati commentary offers a comprehensive interpretation, making the ancient verses accessible to modern readers. Other works, like those by Ratnaprabhvijay and Subodhvijay, provide detailed explanations and interpretations in Gujarati, emphasizing the hymn's theological and literary significance.

In addition to literary works, ritual manuals such as Maheshbhai F Sheth's 2009 "Bhaktamar Mahapoojan Vidhi" guide devotees in performing worship ceremonies associated with the hymn. The widespread publication of these texts in multiple languages, including Hindi, Gujarati, and English, highlights Bhaktamar's enduring importance in Jain devotional life and scholarship.