Amidrishti: The Divine Attitude

Often I used to wonder – 

• Why do I have to suffer when I am not at fault? 
• How to maintain my composure and search for positivity in all moments? 
• How to obtain complete control of my anger, ego and jealousy? 

Since many years, I was in search of deeply convincing answers to such innumerable questions till the day when Writersmelon asked me to write a review of a book named “Amidrishti- The divine Attitude” authored by Param Pujya Acharyadev Shrimad-Vijay Bhuvanbhanu Surishwarji Maharaja (“gurudev”). A disciple of Acharyadev Shrimad-Vijay Premsurishwarji Maharaja, Acharya Shri Bhuvanbhanu Surishwarji has authored more than 80 books and was a master of 45 Agams (the Jain Canons). Before renouncing the world, gurudev had also acquired the prestigious GDA degree from London (equivalent to today’s Chartered Accountancy). Although, I wasn’t lucky enough to meet gurudev in person, I had read his works earlier, which were very thought provoking. 

Acharyadev Shrimadvijay Bhuvanbhanu Surishwarji Maharaja

Originally published in Gujarati as "Amichand ni Amidrishti" and in Hindi as "Amrut Drashti”, this book (translated into English by Mr. Manish Modi) is a treasure chest detailing the true “Art of Living”. The book enlightens the reader on how to overcome the precarious and turbulent situations that people face in their lives by understanding the theory of Karma and intricacies of Jainism. The book succeeds in teaching the art of inculcating self-discipline to deal with the adversities in life in a very simple way which can be easily understood even by laypersons. 

Depicted through a tale of two brothers, the book narrates the importance of equanimity and positive thinking through the life of Amichand (a virtuous Jain merchant who overcomes challenges in his life by holding on to his spiritual intelligence and complete faith in the supreme) and Vinu (his younger brother who falls in the trap of his vices). 

Along with the tale, which is spread over a series of 20 chapters, the book also beautifully describes the 13 “Ami’s” (positive attributes/ positive virtues) which the reader can learn from each aspect of Amichand’s life journey. Literally, “Ami” can be translated as a sweet nectar with miraculous properties and in the book, gurudev describes the 13 “Ami’s” as nectarous virtues which have the power to win the inner battles of the soul in a very practical and relatable way. 

What makes the book so effective is the gripping tale of the two brothers interwoven with gurudev’s teaching - As the story progresses, the reader can relate to the entire chain of events with his / her own life. The tale touches upon each aspect of human nature – one’s positive virtues, negative vices, jealousy, anger, ego etc. These attributes display the ability of a layperson to deal with arduous circumstances and turbulent situations. At the end of each chapter, gurudev gives practical tips to control one’s mind, Q&A sessions and teachings to lead a pious and virtuous life. These tips help the readers overcome their negative thoughts help in changing their perspective towards their attitude in life. 

There are so many parts in the story where the reader can deeply feel for the protagonists and relate their life experiences with the story of the two brothers. There is a sequence where Amichand has to face so many troubles that the reader feels helpless and questions arise – Why is the virtuous person going through so many pains? He did everything right, then why is he bearing the pain silently without any complaints? How can anyone remain so calm and composed in such adverse situations? Here is where gurudev comes in with the teachings of Lord Mahavir and gives the readers deeply convincing answers to each of the thoughts. 

• What are those 13 Ami’s that gurudev has described? 
• How can one come out of the adversities without complaining? 
• How can one stay happy and positive in any situation? 

To find out answers to these questions, do read this book which is easily available on Amazon. Overall I would rate the book 4/5 and would encourage all to imbibe the teachings of gurudev which have the power to change one’s thinking, one’s attitude and one’s life. 

The cover of Amidrishti. Can you guess what the image wants to convey?

Disclaimer - I received a copy from Writersmelon in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.