Jagatguru Heervijayji Diwakar Chitrakatha 021

Author(s): Rajyashsuri, Shreechand Surana
Publisher: Mahavir Seva Trust Mumbai
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006621/1

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DIWAKAR CHITRA KATHA A Mahavir Seva Trust Presentation Jagat Guru Shri Heer Vijay Suri Vol. 21 Rs. 25.00 Puno W

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI In this world there are some towering personalities who are not only the prominent characters in history but also the makers of the history. In the sixteenth century of the Vikram era, Jain Acharya Shri Heer Vijaya Suri was one such person who left lasting imprints not only on the Jain history but also on the history of the subcontinent. He played a major role in shaping Indian history of his times. The sixteenth century of the Vikram era was a period of turmoil in Indian history. The Moghul emperor, Akbar the great, was ruling almost all of the great subcontinent with his unprecedented valor, diplomatic skill, religious tolerance, love for justice and appreciation of intellectual accomplishments. Akbar respected scholars and sages. His reverence for Jagat Guru Shri Heer Vijaya Suri reached a stage that people started commenting-Akbar has changed his religion from Islam to Jainism. Shri Heer Vijaya Suri had an extremely attractive and dominating personality. He had a unique magnetism. His speech had acquired astounding power due to its inherent sweetness and gravity backed by unparalleled scholarship. He followed the Jain doctrine of non-absolutism and became a great assimilator of ideas. Religious tolerance was natural to him. But at the same time he was steadfast in his own religious belief and was a strict and sincere follower of ascetic conduct. A devotee like Akbar repeatedly offered his services, "Guruji! What can I do for you?" His standard reply was, "Do good to others, offer amnesty to beings, remove the miseries of the masses, that is what you can do for me." This extreme detachment had impressed the emperor very much. Suriji had very close contact with Akbar for about more than three years. After this his prominent scholarly disciples Vijayasen Suri, Bhanuchandra Upadhyaya, Shantichandra Upadhyaya, etc. remained in contact with Akbar. They accompanied him in his journeys to Kashmir and Lahore and continued to inspire him towards ahimsa, public service, and animal welfare. It was this proximity with the Jain acharyas that inspired Akbar, a descendent of cruel Babar, to promulgate ordinances banning animal slaughter for specific periods throughout the country. He himself refrained from hunting and eating meat for six months in a year. These were the reasons that Akbar became famous as ahimsa lover and benevolent ruler. - Shrichand Surana 'Saras' Written by: Acharyadev Shri Rajayash Surishvar ji M. Managing Editors: Dr. Mansukhbhai Jain, Sonjay Surana Compilation: Srichand Surana 'Saras' English Translation: Surendra Bothara PUBLISHERS MAHAVIR SEVA TRUST C/O DR. M. B. JAIN, B-29/30, YOJANA APTS., S. V. ROAD, MALAD (WEST), MUMBAI-400 064 TEL.: 8892121/8811397 FEDERATION OF JAIN ASSOCIATIONS IN NORTH AMERICA (JAINA) C/O DR. P. B. GADA, 4410, 50TH STREET, LUBBOCK, TEXAS-79414 (U.S.A.) DIWAKAR PRAKASHAN A-7. AWAGARH HOUSE, OPP. ANJNA CINEMA, M. G. ROAD, AGRA-282 002 TEL.: 351165, 51789 JAIN SOCIAL GROUPS FEDERATION 4-P. VIJAY CHAMBERS, 4TH FLOOR, TRIBHUVAN ROAD. MUMBAI-400 004 TEL.: 3870724

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAYA SURI A few days later Nathibai gave birth to the fourth son. When Kooranshah looked at the new born he exclaimed IT Situated on the banks of river Banas, Palanpur was an important trade center of Gujarat. Large mansions and big markets with attractively decorated jewellery shops astonished the visitors. In Palanpur lived Kooranshah, a devout Jain householder of the Oswal community. The name of his wife was Nathibai. He had three sons named Sanghji, Soorji, and Shripal, and three daughters named Rambha, Rani, and Vimala. The forehead of this boy shines like a diamond. Why not call him Heerji. When Heerji became five years old his father took him to a school. The teacher looked at Heerji and saidKooranshah this is a prodigal child; what do you want to teach him? 1 asion onerever vnoo pagibbswww.jalnelibrary.org

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Kooranshah Sir! No matter how good a rough diamond is unless faceted and polished it does not get its brilliance. When Heerji was eight years old he started going to the upashraya' with his mother and started gaining religious knowledge from the sadhus - HIV You are right. It is the education that gives brilliance to the life of a human being. I will teach him. Maharaj!## Please tell me about religion. I like that very much. VO One day a shravak distributed sweets in the school. All the children rushed to collect sweets but Heerji continued to read his book. The teacher asked Heerji! Don't you want sweets? Sir! I am consuming the sweets of knowledge. I don't like any other sweets. One day the teacher told a story to test the intelligence of the childrenA merchant had three sons. One was brave. He learned martial arts. Later he became a king. The second entered business after his studies. He earned wealth and benefited many people by his charities. The third studied scriptures and became a scholarly sage. He devoted his life to the welfare of all beings. place of stay for Jain ascetics. #Jain ascetics ## a term of address, conveying reverence, commonly used for dain ascetics.

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After telling the story the teacher asked you Why? ww Kooranshah said JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Ex Tell me who was the best among the three...... A king protects only his state. A charitable person benefits only the poor and destitute. But a scholarly sage protects dharma. And charma is the best and greatest weath All the students remained silent. Our family is not so lucky that one becomes a sadhu. you The teacher asked Heerji- Heerji! Now me the answer.... The one who studied scriptures. The teacher was pleased with this answer. He came to Kooranshah and said This comment pinched Heerji. He at once said Father! If some one in our family wants to become a sadhu I hope you will not stop him. I want to become a sadhu. 5 MY tell Shahji! Your son Heerji will one day become a great religious teacher. 3 Ther His father lovingly embraced Heerji.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI When Heerji was just 12 years old his father suddenly died. Some time later his mother also died. Heerji was courageous enough to console his brothers and sisters. Brothers! Please don't cry, it causes bondage of karmas. The dead never return, no matter how much you cry. EXRXXXXXXXXXX One day he went to upashraya with his sister. Acharya Vijayadan Suri was staying there. On seeing Heerji he asked Sister! Who is this boy? But after the demise of his parents a gloom descended over Heerji. Elder sister, Vimala, asked Sanghuji Brother! Heerji remains gloomy and silent. Should I take him to Patan with me for some time? There he will play with my children and forget his grief. Heerji accompanied his elder sister to Patan. Heerji intervened Gurudev! he is my younger brother Heerji. Gurudev! Please make me your disciple. The boy appears to be brilliant and promising

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Gurudev thought that the playful child is joking. He said Why not, Jainism will be benefited if you become a sadhu. Heerji visited Acharyashri everyday. One day he again asked Gurudev Gurudev! Please accept me as your disciple. I am determined to accept diksha. Acharyashri called Heerji's sister and prominent people of Patan society and sought their permission to initiate Heerji. The Patan Sangh (Jain religious organization) gladly gave permission. At last boy Heerji, sitting on an elephant, was taken around in a grand procession. The onlookers exclaimed A prodigal child, Perched on the elephanthe boks as il prince Gajasukumar (a lamous character from Jain prehistory, the kid brother of Shrikrishna) has re-appeared. Yo With Heerji eight other persons accepted diksha. After the diksha Acharyashri announced Since this moment Heerji will be called Muni Heer-harsh. After diksha, Muni Heer-harsh commenced his studies. 5 www.ainelibrary.org

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Within two days he requested Guruji I completed it yesterday only Guruji! I have memorized the lesson you gave. Please give me the next lesson. I should make some special arrangements for such a sharp student That lesson was for seven days and you were able to do it in two days only? Acharyashri sent Muni Heer-harsh with two other ascetics to Devgiri. A few years later Muni Heer-harsh requested Acharyashri-7 Gurudev! I wish to go to Devgiri city to study Nyaya #. Devsi Shah, a devout householder, made all necessary arrangements. After acquiring profound knowledge of logic, grammar, astrology, etc. Muni Heer-harsh commenced his itinerant life. Wherever he went he drew large crowds. Many rich merchants, kings, Nawabs, etc: came in his contact and were impressed by his deep knowledge, eloquent oration, and polished behaviour. VON KIT # logic

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI In due course Acharyashri, with his blessings, awarded the status of Acharya to Muni Heer-harsh in the presence of the Sangh of Sirohi#. May you furl the victory-flag of Jain religion throughout India. Spreading his message in towns and cities of Gujarat, Acharya Heer Vijaya Suri reached Khambhat. One day a rich merchant, Seth Ratnapal Dosi, came and after paying homage said Maharaj! Bless me! Have mercy on me! What is your problem? My only three year old son Ramji is very sick. Every treatment has failed. Please save him Gurudev.... Seth! Life and death are dependent on the karmas of a being. No one can intervene. # Paush sudi 5th, 1610 V. (1554 A. D.) Gurudev! You are a miraculous person. Please save my darling son. If he is saved I will make him your disciple. 7

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI When the merchant persisted Suriji went to his house and put Vasakshep# on the head of the child and blessed him. The child opened his eyes and sat up. Within no time he was cured. Great is the grace of Gurudev! Oh! What a Mother! I am miracle! hungry. Please give me something to eat. Suriji smiled and said, After five years Suriji visited Khambhat again. Ratnapal came to him with his son Gurudev! This boy is the living example of your miraculous blessings. Your faith has performed a miracle. But do you remember your promise? The merchant got humiliated. He thought The merchant took some influential relatives and went to the Nawab of Khambhat, Shitab Khan MO Is Gurudev asking me to give my son as his disciple? He might turn my son into an ascetic... Sire! Heer Vijaya Suri wants to make my eight year old and only son, his ascetic disciple. Please prevent this. # A fragrant, potentized, and auspicious powder Jain ascetics keep and give with their blessings.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI At the Nawab's instruction 10-20 soldiers went to the upashraya Heer Vijaya Suri was medito arrest Suriji. tating in solitude. Where is Heer Vijaya Suri? The soldiers searched everywhere in the upashraya but failed to find him. They returned disappointed. One day Emperor Akbar, sitting in the balcony of his palace at Fatehpur Sikri, was observing a large procession. Hoards of men and women were moving with bands and music amidst loud applauds and hails of victory. 000000 After some time the attendant returned and said, The emperor called his attendant Find out what is the occasion for such grand celebrations.... Sire! A Jain woman named Champa has observed a fast for six months. She is being taken around in this procession. DOO 9 www.aine

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Akbar looked at the attendant in surprise The emperor called Mangal Chowdhary, a faithful servant, and ordered A fast for six months? Impossible! Go and find out who is The Muslims fast during Ramzan this woman Champa and but they too eat during the night. I why was she taken out know that they suffer a lot during in a procession today? this day long fasting. Fasting for six months, I don't believe Mangal Chowdhary with Kamru Khan went to Champa Bai's house in the Jain district. After greetings he asked Sister! Have you not eaten anything for last six months? Yes, I have not consumed any cereals, fruits, or milk. When needed took boiled water in sips 2. SAMAAN Mangal Chowdhary asked I cannot remain hungry even for a day, how could you do so for six months. Where from did you get so much energy? I have no energy. This is the power of Jineshvar Bhagavan, and my guru Heer Vijaya Suri. With the help of that power was able to fast for six months. VOLENO

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Mangal Chowdhary returned and giving all details Akbar was all the more surprised. said Sire! Champa Bai says that her power came through the blessings of her guru Heer Vijaya Suri. With the blessings of a guru a slim woman fasts for six months! Who is this guru Heer Vijaya Suri and where does he live.... dopod M00000 100 000 booood gooool 5000000 QOQQ0000000 DOO00000000d 00000000000 DOOO 0000000 100000000001 area The emperor asked Mangal Chowdhary Where is her guru now? Sire! Heer Vijaya Suri is at present in Gujarat Akbar asked one of his district officers, Ittemad Khan You have spent a lot of time in Gujarat. Do you know Heer Vijaya Suri? SO REST Yes Sire! He is a true saint. He has no possessions like cattle and gold, and does not even touch females. He always moves on feet and prays to God. Log DOODO 1000g 0800 I should meet such a true hermit sometime. He should be invited to our court....

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI The emperor summoned prominent Jains from Agra and Fatehpur Sikri to his court and said, T have heard a lot of praise of your guru Heer Vijaya Suri. I want to invite him here. Please write a letter to Gurudev on my behalf. AVA RE MET The local shravaks wrote a letter of request to the Ahmedabad Sangh. The shravaks of Ahmedabad went to Heer Vijaya Suri and requested earnestly Akbar sent this letter with a royal order to the governor of Ahmedabad, Shihab Khan, who, in turn, called the prominent Jains of Ahmedabad and conveyed the message of Akbar. Emperor Akbar has curiosity about religions and is an admirer of virtues. Your contact with such a person can be very fruitful. Send Heer Vijaya Suri to Agra with full royal honour and decorum including elephants, palanquins, horses etc. Appreciating the request of the sangh and the usefulness of the mission, Suriji left for Agra. 12

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI During his journey, crossing river Mahi, he arrived at This inspiration added to the enthusiasm of Suriji. village Vatadara. At night he had a grand vision. A After a long journey of nearly seven months he divine figure appeared and after greetings said to came to Fatehpur Sikri with his disciples. Suriji Emperor Akbar likes you very much. Your meeting him will help the spread of Jainism. Hearing about the arrival of Heer Vijaya Suri thousands of beautifully attired men, women, and children thronged the streets of Fatehpur Sikri and proceeded with enthusiasm to receive Suriji at the main city gate. The emperor also sent hundreds of soldiers with royal elephants, horses, camels, chariots and bands. When Suriji, his 67 disciples and hundreds of devotees came in view, welcoming drums were sounded. The royal band played the welcoming tunes. The ladies with propitious urns on their heads with, rice grains, and multicolored flowers in their hands advanced to welcome and provide auspicious signs to the arriving guests. The large crowd started hails of victory. Suriji entered Fatehpur Sikri. mannannanna on DOSTA 1 WITHOUT Het ELIT TESTU 13 www.jainelibrary:org

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI All of a sudden a Rajput warrior approached and requested Maharaj! First of all kindly set your pious feet in the humble cottage of this devotee. Suriji had to accept Jaganmull's request. That day the family of the Kachhavaha prince remained in attendance of Suriji. They also listened to his discourse. podno This warrior was Jaganmull Kachhavaha, the younger brother of King Biharimull of Jaipur. Next morning some prominent courtiers came and extended the formal royal welcome. Right in front of Jaganmull's palace was Shekh Abulfazals palace. As soon as Suriji left Jaganmull's palace Abulfazal approached Suriji stayed there with his disciples. Abulfazal had a long religious discussion with him. Some time later a messenger from the emperor arrived O Gurudev! Please make my abode pious with your feet. The emperor eagerly awaits your revered presence 14

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI When Suriji with 13 other ascetics reached the court, Emperor Akbar got up from his throne and advanced, with his three sons and other dignitaries including Birbal, to extend greetings. Suriji raised his hand and gave blessings. Akbar submitted humbly with joined palms Maharaj! I beg your pardon for all the trouble you have taken for visit at the behest of a Muslim like me. HIP SO Acharyashri smiled and said, Emperor! It is nothing. I am a sadhu and to preach is my duty. By coming here I have simply performed my duty. Maharaj! I had ordered the governor of Ahmedabad to offer you elephants, horses, chariots, palanquins, etc. Why did you not accept any of these? Was there something lacking? Acharyashri said No, Emperor! There was no fault from your side. But it is the religious duty of ascetics to walk, carry their own belongings, and seek alms to eat. NOWY 15 - www.jainelibrary org

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Akbar nodded in appreciation Great! This is true detachment. For the first time in my ife I see a hemit like you. JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI one Maharaj! Please come to the royal drawing-room. O ruler of the land! I cannot step on this carpet. Why? What is wrong with that? 16 Akbar lead the way to his private room. The floor of the large and richly decorated room was covered by a beautiful carpet. Akbar stepped on the carpet and moved ahead but Suriji paused at the gate. Akbar turned and asked ECOMA Jain ascetics follow a rule-first inspect properly and then step ahead avoiding harm to any living being bonotopor 1000 1000 J FELL Maharaj What is the matter? Why did you stop? TOTAL But this is a spofess carpet, cleaned regularly and properly. There is no chance of any creature in this vicinity.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Suriji was looking at a corner of the carpet with his penetrating gaze. Akbar saw this and he suddenly lifted the corner of the carpet. He was surprised by what he saw DOIT <<< Oh! What is this? Where did this swarm of ants come from? <<<<<< ON GD20DANYOYOYOY Suriji came into the room. Akbar took a piece of cloth and removed the ants from the spot. Yes! This is indeed a true hermit Please take your seat OBE Pomo Akbar was curious to know about Jainism. Suriji explained the tenets in brief Compassion, discipline, and austerity are the three main themes of Jain religion. CAC When his quest was satisfied, Akbar expressed his happiness. 17

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI One day finding himself alone with Suriji, Akbar said Maharaj! According to the astrologers the current position of Satum in Pisces indicates a very bad period for me. Please help me with some tantra, mantra, or talisman. Emperor! These activities are prohibited for the sadhus. However, this is nature's law that if you do good to others you will be benefited. 16 A few days later Shri Sangh of Agra requested Suriji Gurudev! Please accept our invitation for your monsoon-stay at Agra. Acharyashri accepted the invitation and came to Agra. The emperor was highly impressed What you say is correct. Please tell me what should I do? This advise got imprinted in the memory of the emperor. One day a delegation of shravaks requested SurijiMaharaj! If during the eight days of the Paryushan animal slaughter is banned, lives of millions of animals will be saved # The most important forgiveness festival of the Jains. 18 F In the state of a ruler where there is no animalslaughter, no injustice and no atrocities on masses earns blessings of millions of beings.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI An ordinance to this effect was promulgated and it was announced throughout the capital city of Agra On Acharyashri's advise a delegation of prominent shravaks lead by Amipal Dosi went to Akbar. After greeting them and offering seats, Akbar asked How is Suriji? Yes, O ruler of the land. Our eight day long Paryushan Has he sent Parva is approaching. During these days animals should any message not be slaughtered. If a royal decree to this effect is for me? issued Suriji will be very happy By order of Emperor Jalaluddin Mohamed Akbar a ban is imposed on slaughter of animals for eight day period of Paryushan Parva of Jains. Al abattoirs be kept closed for that duration For eight days all the abattoirs in Agra were closed. After the monsoon-stay Heer Vijaya Suri left with the sangh for the pilgrimage of Shoripur, the birth place of Bhagavan Neminath. There he stayed in Shekh Abulfazal's palace. The great scholar of the Moghul court had long discussions with Acharyashri. One day Akbar also visited. Abulfazal said Sire! I have come across great scholars but I have yet to see as great a scholar and as humble a person as Surji Indeed, I too have the same feeling. Scholars are generally adamant on what they say and continue to argue. But Suriji finds points of assimilation in every idea and integrates diverse views to please all. SONG After paying homage at the pilgrimage center on the banks of river Jamuna, Suriji returned to Fatehpur Sikri via Agra. Ger dication Intemational 19 www.jalnelibrary.org

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Akbar requested Suriji You have spent your valuable time and blessed me with your teachings. I have hardly repaid you. Please give me an opportunity to serve you. JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Akbar The ascetics have no needs. So why seek anything? The emperor at once instructed his attendants Go and release all birds from all the cages in the palace. You are a great renouncer. However, i not for yourself, please ask for something at least for my spirtual benefit. Hooldek of O Emperor! The thing I love most is compassion for beings. See these numerous caged birds in your palace, please get them released. I would love that, In no time the sky was filled with flying and chirping birds as if they were conveying their gratitude towards Suriji. CROXEN 20 20 Emperor Akbar was very pleased with this compassionate and kind attitude of Suriji.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Once Akbar called Suriji into his palace for a Akbar said private talk Maharaj! Today I detest the sins Gurudev! The communion I strive for universal I committed. At one time when I with you attracts me like a peace and so it is natural that used to eat tongues of 500 birds. magnet. In your proximity you experience the same in When I recall that my soul trembles. enjoy a unique mental my company, it is essential Please tell me what should I do? peace and serenity. also for my goal. To eat meat is a great sin. Stop it. Have mercy on all beings. When you work for others' peace you automatically acquire peace. Akbar immediately instructed Abulfazal Suriji's advise had a profound effect on the emperor. Gradually he abandoned eating meat for about six months in a year. One day Suriji advised - The most important Jain festival is Paryushan Parva. During these eight days there should be no cruelty towards any being throughout your empire. Add four more days for me to the eight desired by Suriji and issue a royal edict that animal slaughter should be banned throughout the empire during these twelve days. Lancia

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Abulfazal wrote the edict and put the Emperor's seal. Akbar himself presented the first copy of the edict to Suriji In Akbar's court, one day, his nine-gems including Birbal, Todarmal, | and Abulfazal were sitting. Suriji was also present there. Akbar said, I am very happy to fulfill your command today. Five copies of this royal edict have been made and sent to five regional governorsk, I have come across many scholars but I have yet to meet another like Suriji. Sire! You are absolutely correct In spite of being such a great scholar Suriji is very compassionate. He always thinks of the universal welfare. Akbar added A royal announcement was made in the court-- Today I want to honour Suriji with the title of Jagadguru (the universal teacher). ** From today Suriji be called Jagadguru Shri Heer Vijaya Suri with due honour. All the prominent courtiers on the instructions of the emperor thousands of birds, hundreds of deer, seconded this proposal. rabbit, and many other animals were released under the edict of amnesty. # The five copies were sent to Gujarat, Delhi, Fatehpur (Ajmer), Nagpur (Southern India), and Lahore (Multan). 22

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI After rewarding Emperor Akbar with spiritual benefits Acharyashri pointed at his scholarly disciples for many years one day Suriji said Shantichandra ji and Bhanuchandra ji and said Now I must go to Suriji! If you want to go, These two will stay back with you and Gujarat. please leave some of your give spiritual discourses. disciples here with me. I derive peace from the spiritual discourses Next morning Suriji left Fatehpur Sikri for Gujarat. One day Shekh Abulfazal said to The emperor Sire! My wife has given birth to a daughter in Mool Nakshatraf. People say that if she lives many troubles will be caused. Therefore she should be thrown into the river. Akbar asked Shri Bhanuchandra ji (Maharaj! What do you say? It is not proper to commit the great sin of killing a woman. I will show you the way to pacify the evil influence # An ominous conjunction of planets. 23

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Shri Bhanuchandra ji added JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Arrange for the Ashtottari Snatra of Bhagavan Shri Suvidhinath along with the chanting of Bhaktamar". All evil influence will be removed I will do as you say. The prescribed rituals were commenced in the palace of Abulfazal. Hundreds of shravaks and shravikas observed the Ayambil tap. When the masses saw and heard about this they started gossiping Call Bhanuchandra ji. The emperor and Abulfazal have turned Jain Hindus. st ochlo After Suriji left, Bhanuchandra ji and Siddhichandra ji remained in regular contact with Akbar. One day Akbar had an acute headache The doctors failed to cure him even after all possible efforts. The emperor asked in distress When the ascetic arrived Akbar said Gurudev! For three days I am suffering from a terrible headache. ge KARASCZY Mondotvoro Don't worry. It will be cured within no time. A famous miraculous panegyric. # A Jain devotional ritual. ## An austere practice where food prepared from only one type of grain is tak is taken. Jain mun 24

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Bhanuchandra ji gently stroked his head and soon the pain was removed. The emperor was pleased The courtiers gathered five hundred cows in a yard to slaughter them for the celebration. When Akbar came to know of it he asked Great! The emperor is cured! A mere touch of a hermit like you cured me at once. Why have you gathered so many cows? Beloved of God! You have recovered from your ailment. We wish to celebrate this occasion by sacrificing 500 cows. The emperor expressed his anger Fools! In this happiness you should try to make others happy. Instead, you intend to destroy other beings, what foolishness? Release the cows. When Bhanuchandra ji came to know of this he went to Akbar and said Ogreat emperor! You have done a commendable deed. Magnanimity is nothing but to share one's happiness with others. Bhanuchandra ji continued to inspire Akbar on the path of Ahimsa and truth for many years. 25

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI On way to Gujarat Suriji came in contact with many Muslim rulers. They were highly impressed with the miraculous power of his austerities and oration. They became his devotees and launched many welfare projects. Deeds of benevolence bring inner peace. Khankhana said Suriji once visited Medta when Khankhana, the son of Behramkhan# was camping there. When he saw ascetics coming he asked Oh! Heer Vijaya Suri, the guru of Emperor Akbar ... I would like to pay homage to him. Who are you and where are you going? We are the disciples of Heer Vijaya Suri and are on our way to Gujarat from Fatehpur Sikri. # The brave commander of Akbar's father, Humayun. He was instrumental in Akbar's ascension to the throne. Later, Akbar imprisoned him for his revolt. 26

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Khankhana went to Heer Vijaya Suri. He was highly impressed with Suriji's preaching. He asked When God is formless why do you worship an image? JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI As the formless soul cannot be understood and conceived in absence of the body, God too is difficult to understand and conceive in absence of an image. It is a tangible metaphor for the formless... Next day Suriji observed the Ayambil tapa and went to see the cruel Surtan. The towering personality and magnetism of Suriji impressed the cruel ruler. After the discourse he asked Maharaj! Please give me a chance to serve you. O Once Suriji arrived at Sirohi. The local shravaks requestedDon't worry. Everything The ruler of this place, Maharao Surtan, is very cruel. For no reason he has imprisoned 100 shravaks. He does not give heed to any appeal, will be all right. You are a ruler who does justice to his subjects. Why have you imprisoned the innocent merchants. To cause pain to innocents is nothing but tyranny. Go 27

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Influenced by Suriji's words the ruler issued orders Oo 0 .0.0.0.0 Acquit and release all the merchants from the prison at once. 2000 MOOOO CITATE SELL 103 After there release the merchants went to pay homage to Suriji. Once Suriji organized a large sangh for the pilgrimage of Siddhachal. He left Patan and arrived at Ahmedabad with the sangh. Akbar's son, Murad, was the governor there. When he was informed of the arrival of Heer Vijaya Suri he came to pay homage to Suriji and worshipped Suriji with plates full of gold and gems. He also extended grand welcome to the sangh. Create After the discourse, the governor said Gurudev! Please honour me with an opportunity to serve you. You should try to refrain from two things-womanizing and consuming intoxicants like Cannabis, opium, or alcohol. 28

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI The Sultan said ZAAAA I will try my best to do that. After that the Sultan made an announcement To celebrate the coming of Suriji a ban is imposed on animal slaughter in Ahmedabad today. pre Once when Suriji was stationed at Khambhat an old Brahmin came to see him. After greetings he said After looking carefully at him Suriji said Oh! Guru ji! Maharaj! Do you recognize me? He then added You have endowed me with knowledge. I should offer something to honour you, but today I am a detached Shraman. I have nothing that I can give you. 29

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The teacher shyly said Maharaj! Please don't bother. You have given me everything. I even owe my life to you. JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI Suriji looked agape at his teacher. A shravika named Sangde Sanghavan was sitting there. When she came to know that the old Brahmin was the teacher of Suriji before he turned ascetic, she got up and presented her gold bangles to the teacher. Pandit ji please accept this humble gift in the name of Gurudev! Blessed are such benevolent persons and promoters of virtues. The Brahmin was very pleased. # After the monsoon-stay of 1648 V. 30 The teacher explained-One day I was bitten by a snake. All efforts to cure me failed. And then came a shravak who chanted your name, sucked the venom, and with the spell of your name. I was cured at once and saved from a certain death. Once when Suriji was in Patan# he saw a dream one night-He is perched on a giant elephant that is moving uphill, thousands of people are standing on the flanks and greeting him.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI He narrated the dream to his disciples. One of his scholarly disciples, Somvijaya said Gurudev! This DC dream forebodes a pilgrimage to Yes! it is possible. Siddhachal. When the Patan Jain sangh came to know of this, everyone decided to accompany Surji. They also decided that they will observe Chhehari * for the duration of the pilgrimage. Thousands of men and women arrived at Palitana with Suriji where the ruler of Sorath, Navarang Khan, extended grand welcome to Suriji. ABA DOROK LIYA I welcome you in Palitana, Suriji. A few days later Suriji decided to go for a pilgrimage to Siddhachal. On the full moon day of the month of Chaitra Surji commenced the ascent of Siddhachal (Shatrunjaya mountain). He was followed by hundreds of thousands of devotees chanting the name of Adishvar Dada (Bhagavan Rishabhdev). In the year 1652 V. Suriji was spending his monsoon stay at Una. He had gone feeble due to old age. One day when he realized that the end was near, he called his disciples and said I beg your forgiveness If I have hurt any of you by my words or behaviour in any way please for give me On the occasion of the auspicious journey numerous young At these words the eyes of each and men and merchants took vows of various austerities. every disciple present became wet. # Six fold austerity--(1) to eat once in a day, (2) to sleep on the floor, (3) to move on feet, (4) to observe partial 31 Jain ascetic nows, (5) to refrain from eating anything sachit, and (6) do cremain celibate.

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JAGAT GURU SHRI HEER VIJAY SURI To this he added his last words In the evening, after doing Pratikraman he sat in the lotus pose and addressed all his disciples I take refuge in the Arihants. I take refuge in the Siddhas.... Brothers! I have completed my work and now I am going into meditation of the Arihant. You should all tread the spiritual path with courage. CYEON 13306COS osoenaar Suriji chanted four rosaries of the mantra. When he started for the fifth time, the rosary fell from his grip. A brilliant aura radiated out of his body and vanished in the sky #. Next day Suriji's funeral procession was taken out. A large crowd of | mourning people from all faiths including Jains, Hindus, Muslims, joined. WA On the seashore of Una on a funeral pyre of sandal wood the last rites of Suriji were performed with Aguru, camphor, butter, and coconuts. # Bhadava Sudi 12, 1652 V. . THE END 32

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BE Dear friends, (5) 8 ) In the previous issue we talked about the meaning of vegetarianism. In this we are going to present the views on vegetarianism by Gopinath Aggarwal who has authored the book "Vegetarian or Non-vegetarian Choose Yourself". This article describes the pros and cons of vegetarian diet and non-vegetarian diet. Let us read his views Tu Compassionate Heart Tu Tu Tu Tu ] ] GO Vegetarianism Vs. Non-vegetarianism The scholars and saints of every religion of the world-Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, Buddhists and others-have described violence, cruelty, untruth, anger and hatred as sins, Needless hurt and the infliction of pain on other living beings has been descried by all of them as equally sinful. Non-violence, kindness, forgiveness and truthfulness are described as Dharma or religion. Their main teaching is to see in every living being the image of the great Heavenly Father and to deal with them accordingly. They not only condemned eating of flesh for food but also taught mankind to treat all living beings, animals, birds etc. with compassion and feed them with grains which was described as an act of kindness. Nature has also provided innumerable tasty and nutritious vegetable products for human consumption while at the same time created various birds and animals to help and serve the mankind. These birds and animals not only lend a helping hand in maintaining the balance of nature, but on being accorded little bit of love and affection, serve the mankind from the core of their hearts and become more faithful and loyal than even their fellow human beings. It is definitely an act of total misconduct and ungratefulness that man whose body has been made by nature akin to the body structure of vegetarian species and different from that of meat-eating species, goes against nature and defies the teachings of saints and sages and consumes meat. One will always be paid in the same kind for his deeds. No action either good or bad ever goes unrewarded. Sooner or later, we are sure to be rewarded or punished for our deeds. This is an unalterable, inevitable and universal truth. Today, doctors and scientists from every corner of the world are warning that flesh-foods induce cancer and incurable diseases and shorten the life-span, whereas

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THE TRUE RENOUNCER 1. A person who abandons all objects of fondness--such as a house filled with conveniences, a beautiful woman, wealth and glory, servants, horses and chariots--with a feeling of detachment is a true renouncer. Dasavaikalika Sutra (Ch. 2, verse 3) 2. A person who is unable to enjoy any or all of such things owing to some necessity such as restrictions, dependence, physical or mental disability, etc. is not a true renouncer. Dasavaikalika Sutra (Ch. 2, verse 3) Printed at : Mohan Mudranalaya, Agra-10 Ph. 260532 The illustration explains such necessity by showing a man bound with ropes within a prison and an emaciated old man incapable of any physical activity. For Private & Persanal Use Only