Jain Digest 2011 04

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/527119/1

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Jain Digest
A Publication by the Federations of Jain Association in North America (JAINA)
णमो आयरियाणं
ਹੈ
Acharya Vidhyananda
Acharya Shiv Muni
May 2011
Only
Acharya Mahapragya
Namo Aayariyanam
Acharya Yashovijay.org

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JAINA is an umbrella organization of local Jain Associations in U.S.A and Canada. The purpose of the organization is to preserve, practice, and promote Jain Dharma and Jain Way of Life. JAINA Headquarters: 43-11 Ithaca Street, Elmhurst, NY 11373 Tele: 718 606-2885, Email: jainahq@gmail.com, Web: www.jaina.org
JAINA Executive Committee
President:
latachampsee@gmail.com
416-441-2200, 416-877-1442 (Cell)
First VP:
skjain99@gmail.com
eJAIN DIGEST
A publication of the
Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA)
514-631-1393
VP-West:
Lata Champsee
703-208-1861, 240-277-3039 (Cell)
Secretary:
punatar@hotmail.com
Dr. Sushil Jain
937-848-3228
Treasurer: jainatreasurers@gmail.com
918-398-6024, 918-812-7802 (Cell)
VP-Canada:
jyotvora@hotmail.com
Dilip Punatar
Rita Sheth
Jain Piscation International
Lalit Vora
Ashok Domadia
ashokdomadia2009@gmail.com,
510-979-9312
VP-South West: Udai Jain
udaijn@yahoo.com,
281-980-0741, 832-567-2298 (Cell)
VP-South East:
Dr. Deepika Dalal
kdeepika@aol.com, 954-431-5957, 954-980-8730 (Cell) VP Mid West:
Dr. Manish Mehta
manishm@ncms.org. 734-668-0348, 734-604-7989, VP North East: yokjain@yahoo.com, 781-856-0769 (Cell) VP MidEast: profgaryshah@yahoo.com,
Yogendra Jain
Gunvant Shah
732-246-4030
Past President: Dilip V. Shah
dilipvshah@gmail.com,
215-561-0508, 215-868-0381 (cell)
YJA: Vaishali Shah & Mitesh Shah
vaishali.shah@yja.org & mitesh.shah@yja.org 630-992-1031
& 334-655-3339
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
YJP: Sejal Lakhani & Suchita Gala sejal_lakhani@yahoo.com & suchita_gala@yahoo.com & 703-938-5582
917-273-2160
Please go to inside back cover for the list of JAINA Committees. Other Directors, Trustees, Association members, & Affiliate's information is available on www.jaina.org
eJAIN DIGEST Editorial Team 510-770-9976,
Email: jaindigest.info@gmail.com Chetan V. Sanghvi
Dr. Deepika Dalal
Dilip Parekh
Heena Nandu
Reena Shah
Shami Shah
Vimal Shah
eJAIN DIGEST Associates Rupal Doshi
Sharmila Ranka (Cover Designer) MIS Section: Dr. Mukesh Doshi mukusha@gmail.com, 1-847-517-2505 The Editorial Team endeavors to publish material submitted but reserves the right to edit, reformat, or not publish any material for clarity, space, or policy reasons. The views expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editorial Team. These articles are published with the authors' names. The articles written or compiled by the Editorial Team are published as a joint contribution of the entire Editorial Team, and do not necessarily represent the views of JAINA

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
From the President
Jai Jinendra! My term as the President of JAINA is coming to an end and, I would like to look back at the entire term with a sense of pride and satisfaction. The honor and respect I received while carrying out my responsibilities has been a humbling experience. Today, JAINA is a very well known and well-respected organization not only in North America but also around the globe. My visit to over 25 centers took me all over the continent. I travelled over 100,000 miles in the last two years. My meetings with many Jains gave me a better insight of our community. During my visits, I was pleased to meet members of various Jain Centre office bearers. JAINA Directors, exchange views, and participated in a question-answer session about their expectations from JAINA. Their faith in JAINA has touched my heart. My trips to India were very fruitful as I represented JAINA at the Palitana handicap camp and the Bidada Medical Camp. As a JAINA representative, I also
participated in the opening of the JIWO chapters, and the inauguration of Arhat touch. I had the opportunity to meet the Chief Minister of Gujarat - Narendra Modi, His Holiness Dalai Lama, Pujya Maharaj Naypadmasagarji. Acharya Chandnaji. Gurudev Rakeshbhai Zaveri and many other learned and dynamic individuals. I will cherish these memories for the rest of my life. The accomplishments and activities, which made my Presidency so rewarding, are summarized below: Victorious Ones: Jain Images of Perfection Art Exhibit (Rubin Museum of Art, NY) - I represented JAINA at the unveiling of the exhibition, which had over 65 displays of Jain art, including some, which have never been publicly displayed. The Exhibit was sponsored by a lead gift from Shital and Suman Jain Family and coordinated by Phyllis Granoff - Professor of Religious Studies at the Yale Graduate School. V.R. Gandhi stamp: Indian Postal Department recognized the renowned Jain Scholar and writer Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi by releasing a multicolored stamp, first day cover and a brochure in his honor in November 2009 at Sanmukhanand hall, Mumbai. This became a reality with the tireless efforts of Pravin C Shah of New York. Arhat Touch Inauguration: I had the pleasure of inaugurating Shrimad Rajchandra Arhat Touch program (SRA) in Toronto under the blessings of Gurudev Shri Rakeshbhai Zaveri. This event attracted a large participation from the community. Inauguration of JIWO chapter: I attended the inauguration of JIWO (Jain International Women's Organization) chapter of Juhu, Mumbai on behalf of JAINA. Kanji Swami Janma jayanti in Los Angeles: Annual Jain-Swadhyay Seminar for four days was held at Los Angeles Jain Center in May 2010. This was the 121st Janma Jayanti of Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami. I had the honor of inaugurating the seminar. These seminars are being organized for more than ten years now at different places in North America. About 300 mumukshus from North America, Europe and India participated in this Jayanti. Tribute to Acharya Mahapragya: Jain Vishwa Bharati, New Jersey, under the guidance of Samani Sanmati Pragya and Samani Shukla Pragya, organized a memorable event "Path of Ahimsa- A tribute
Table of Contents on Page 9

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
to Acharyas", in October 2010. The event has special references to Acharya Mahapragya, who interpreted Bhagwan Mahavir's message of Ahimsa to common masses. The event marked the release of a book entitled Let Us Learn To Live Twelve Golden Principles of Holistic Living written by Acharya Mahashraman and translated by Samani Sanmati Pragya. I had the pleasure of releasing the book. The program featured a plethora of guest speakers including Dr. Dipak Jain, former dean of Kellogg's School of Business, NJ Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula as the chief guest, Woodbridge Mayor John McCormac, myself, and representatives of various Jain organizations from the tri-state area. More than 500 guests attended the event. Record Turnout At Palitana Medical camp: JAINA participated in the Palitana Camp for the disabled. The Camp was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Narendra Modi and blessed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. JAINA raised about One Crore Rupees to cover the expenses of the Camp. Total of 28,549 physically handicapped and hearing-impaired individuals of all ages benefitted at the camp. 8341 Calipers were distributed, 664 Jaipur foot were fitted, 3200 crutches were given out to the needy, 671 wheelchairs were given to severely handicapped individuals, 1622 tricycles were given and 11,789 hearing aids were given to hearing-impaired individuals.
Haiti Earthquake Victims: JAINA members contributed over $35,000 towards Haiti relief fund. In May 2010, a group of 13 professionals with various backgrounds embarked on a humanitarian medical mission to help the neediest people in western hemisphere. They were, Lata Champsee, Fery Saremi, RN, Kelly Cornilliac, Nayna Patel, Alexa Reeves, MD, Donna Reeves, MD, Ramesh Shah, Nitin Shah, MD, Sushil Jain, MD, Minaxi Patel, MD, Vasant Bhatt, MD, Tuesday Cook, MD and Prakash Mehta went to Port Au Prince, Haiti from May 6 to 13 on a Medical Mission. The trip was organized under the umbrella of JAINA. We were all housed in a big tent. About 125 people slept on small cots covered with mosquito nets.
During the day, temperature reached up to 125 F and it was humid. We did not have running water that we could use freely. There were 4 cold-water showers that about 200 people shared. This was an eye opening and humbling experience. In spite of such conditions, our team worked 12 hours a day and performed many surgeries. We all could contribute towards the betterment of Haitians! It was very gratifying experience. Bidada Camp: This year JAINA was one of the sponsors of 37th Bidada Medical and Surgical Camp at Kutch, Gujarat. JAINA raised US$50,000 for this purpose. This year's camp started with Urology camp, where over 60 surgeries were successfully performed, followed by ENT camp, which performed surgeries and distributed hearing aids to children. During the general surgery camp 152 surgeries were performed. During the cardiac camp 400 patients were triaged out of which 62 patients including 20 children were sent to Mumbai for cardiac surgery. It was another busy year for eye camp, where 646 cataract surgeries were performed. For the first time during gynecologic camp state of the art cervical cancer screening on 125 women were done. They also performed 31 hysterectomies, in addition to many other procedures. The child health program had another successful year where our volunteers and doctors educated 4000 children and completed 1,200 eye exams of school-aged children. The

www.jana bay.org

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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
breast cancer-screening program screened and educated 437 women, of which 13 lumps were sent for further testing. The smoking cessation program ran during the entire camp, educating patients and family members of the dangers of smoking and the harm of tobacco chewing. Total of 25,554 patients were treated and 1042 Surgeries were performed in addition to 157 major surgeries scheduled for Mumbai.
JAINA Website: We revamped the JAINA website completely. It is dynamic, interactive and informative. This was the first task handled by present committee. We needed to get this done through professionals and we had to spend some money. Now you can log on to Jaina.org and see
the results. Infrastructure is in place to develop it further. This was possible with the efforts of many. Yogen Jain and Chandrakant Vora provided the leadership.
JAINA Education Committee: A flagship committee under the leadership of Pravinbhai Shah of NC does tremendous amount of work. Over the past 9 years the committee has distributed more than 50,000(valued at $200,000) JAINA Education books to the Pathshala students of North America and other countries. There are more than 3500 students attending Jain Pathshalas across North America. Committee also conducts Jain Academic Bowl competition. For the past six years, Virendra Shah and Bharat Shah of Los Angeles handle the entire operation of the Pathshala Book distribution system. Jain eLibrary Project: Over the past 16 months, more than 6100 eLibrary users from 64 countries have registered to download the literature available on the website. During this time, 44,000 books have been downloaded by the members. Meanwhile we continued to add 15,000 pages every month of the Jain literature on the website. The website now contains more than one million pages of scanned images of Jain Literature. You can order the JAINA Education materials, eLibrary DVDs, and pay for your order or donate to JAINA Education and eLibrary activities on this website.
JAINA Calendars: JAINA is delighted to present 2010 and 2011 calendars to Jains of North America. JAINA calendars depict rich Jain art and architecture of Jain Temples. 11,000+ JAINA Calendars are shipped free of charge. The response to our 2010 and 2011 Calendars like always was an overwhelming one. Most Jains look forward to receiving this calendar. The JAINA Calendar takes about 4 months to produce, involves over 15 people in 5 cities and over 1,500 man-hours of work. JAINA TV Show: JAINA Media Production Committee produces the only JAIN TV show in North America. The aim is to present Jain religion through television medium in nonbiased non-sectarian way, with special focus on our next generation. The show "MANGALAM" the only Jain TV show in North America is on air, broadcast on weekly basis for the past four years. It has given Jains of North America an important presence in the media world. It is on SAHARA TV every Saturday morning at 9:00am JAINA Jivdaya Work: To promote non-violence and the practice of Ahimsa - non-injury to life. This Committee has so far distributed about 1.2 Million Rupees to Various Panjarapols and Animal Centers in India and is run under the able leadership of Pramodaben Chitrabhanu.
Leadership Conference at Siddhachalam in April 2010: 5th Leadership Conference marked in history as the inflection point in accelerated growth of JAINA and its infrastructure. The theme of the conference was How to Deliver on a National Infrastructure for JAINS, JAINA, JAINISM, and JAIN Organizations. More than 50 participants attended the conference for two and a half days at Siddhachalam in the wonderful atmosphere of tranquility and positive energy. The conference was led by Dr. Dipak Jain, the past Dean of Kellogg's School of Management, and LRP team. After extensive discussions, the team agreed that the following critical infrastructure support is needed to service our members and meet our vision of "To Live and Share a Jain Way of Life."
1. Financial sustainability-short and long term

www.jainelibc5

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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
2. Executive office - serving Jain community, Jain Centers, and the broader society 3. Jain Membership Management
4. Jain Unity
5. Mentorship for young Jains in North America.
YJA Convention 2010: A Grand Success: 700 + attendees from ages 14-29, 100 volunteers and 60 guest speakers made this convention a visual and spiritual spectacle. The combination of thoughtprovoking daytime sessions, magical social events, sumptuous Jain food and marvelous decorations brought YJA convention to a new level. Keynote speakers were Parag Mehta, Michael Tobias, and Dr. Vinod Shah. Attendees got an opportunity to do networking with people from around the world. Young Jain Professionals Convention: Three-day YJP convention was held in June 2010 on a cruise from Miami to the Bahamas. The purpose of this convention was to bring everyone together and discuss various issues that affect us as young Jain professionals, in a setting that would be enjoyable and different from the usual conventions. At the end, group parted with a strong feeling of closeness and friendship.
Jain Milan: This event was arranged to support and facilitate matrimonial activities in the Jain Community. It was organized in New Jersey in 2010 and in San Jose in 2011 under the leadership of Gunvantbhai Shah. Over 100 individuals participated in the event.
Jain Digest is Going Green: Following JAINA 2009 Convention's theme of Ecology - The Jain Way, JAINA Executive Committee decided not to distribute a hardcopy but instead offer the publication in the electronic format. eJain Digest is available on both a print-ready PDF and a web-friendly version on www.jaina.org website.
JAINA Directors: We have started to strengthen the engagement and support of our 104 directors through dialogue and regional teleconferences.
Jain Diaspora: Jain Diaspora is the JAINA initiative to connect all the Jain communities living in 36 countries outside of India and thereby drive greater unity and cohesiveness in the global Jain community. The purpose is to unite Jains around the world under one umbrella; this will empower the next generation to preserve our traditions, and become significant players in global affairs. Late Dr. LM Singhvi envisioned Diaspora Conventions and chaired the first convention that was held in 2007 in NJ, USA. The 2nd Jain Diaspora Conference is being organized on Sunday, July 3, 2011 during JAINA Convention in Houston, Texas. Invitations have been sent to engage leaders from India, UK, Belgium, Kenya, Kuwait, Singapore, Australia and other communities to present talks. The goal of this 2011 Jain Diaspora Conference is to form an intercontinental group for maintaining regular contacts across unified global Jain communities - significant size populations are resident in at least 36 countries of the world. Parliament of World Religions: JAINA through its Interfaith Committee managed a strong presence at the Parliament of World Religions meeting in Australia, December, 2009.- JAINA members played a superb role in sharing the core values of Jainism with the world. Various topics like, "How a Jain Starts the Day: The Rituals" (by Kirit Daftary), "Preksha Meditation" -(by Vinay Pragyaji and Samani Akshay Prajnaji), "Basic tenets and Karma" in Jainism (by Davendra Keertiji and Dr Narayan Kachhara), "Jainism and the environment" (Pravin K shah and Sohan Lal Gandhi) and "Ancient Jain mantra: sound and spirituality" (by Maharaj Amrender muniji) were presented and discussed.
Multifaith Conference in Indonesia: US National Security Council, State Dept. and White House organized a multi-faith conference in Indonesia. 20 religious leaders from USA and 20 members from Indonesia gathered in Jakarta in January 2010. It was a matter of pride for us to know that our Interfaith Chair of JAINA, Arvind Vora was selected to represent JAINISM at this prestigious world forum, thus granting a much-needed acknowledgement to Jainism in a world forum.
Task Force for Global Initiatives: Task Force for Global Initiatives for Faith, Health and Development had its first meeting in the White House in July 2010. Approx. 25 people attended it. It is initiated, hosted and supported by Center for Interfaith Action. The second meeting was in October 2010 at the UN. The primary purpose of such initiatives is to discuss how different faiths can work together to solve some of the most pressing human problems.
tein Beation International

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A manual on Treating Patients of Other Religions and Ethnicities: JAINA, under the leadership of Arvind Vora was part of a project on preparation of a manual on "Treating Patients of Other Religions and Ethnicities". The purpose of this manual is to provide a brief overview of various religions and cultures within the United States and to effectively address specific medical issues concerning patient care. This document will be available shortly as a link on the National Interfaith Alliance website and will also be linked with the American Medical Association and state medical societies. This will enable the physicians to access the information online prior to entering the patients' rooms. This information will help the medical personnel to be sensitive and understaining of the different religious and cultural health care traditions.
Child Nutrition Act HR 5504: In the past three decades, the problem of growing obesity among hildren has tripled. According to public health experts, diet-related diseases are also increasingly common, one in three American children will now eventually develop diabetes. With more access to plant based (vegetarian) meal options, students are better able to protect their health. A veggie burger, for example, is similar in protein content to a hamburger, but has one third of the fat content, does not have cholesterol, has fewer calories and more fiber. Menus in most school lunch programs are too high in saturated fat and cholesterol and too low in fiber. Nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes HR 5504 would allow more children to have access to healthful plant-based options. The Healthy School Lunch Campaign encourages schools to offer healthier low fat, cholesterol-free options, including reimbursable meals and beverages, a la carte items, and vending machine items.
JAINA to Work with Boy Scouts of America: JAINA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with BSA (BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA). According to this, Jain religion is now recognized by BSA and JAINA is authorized to liaison with BSA. JAINA is in the process of further follow-up steps like getting the Label/Pin/Medal done by a supplier, informative brochure and criteria of awarding, etc. Also Scouts Executive, a person who can look after and liaison with others for the PRAY program is to be appointed. This was possible with the efforts of Prakash Mody of Toronto. More information can be obtained at. (http://www.jaina.org/)
JAINA Goes to Washington: "Celebrating Non-Violence" on Capitol Hill: This conference was cosponsored by JAINA, American Jewish Congress, AAPI and NAACP, held in October 2009. Speaker at the conference included US Congress Chaplain, Rev. Daniel P. Caughlin, Congressman John Lewis, Congressman Jim McDermott, Congressman Frank Pallone, Congressman Ed Royce, NAACP Washington Bureau director Hilary O. Shelton, and White House representatives Paul Montero and Daniell Borin. This conference gave us a big opportunity to network and develop contacts with the US Government officials.
President Obama talks about Bhagwan Mahavir: As a direct result of Dr. Sushil Jain's networking with the White House, President Obama talked about Bhagwan Mahavir and Jainism at the White House Diwali function.
Visits To Various Sanghs: I had the opportunity to visit over 25 Jain centers. To list a few: Ashtapad Pratishtha in New York: - I attended the Ashtapad Pratishtha in New York, a unique event that took place in June 2010 at Jain Centre of America, New York. Shri Ashtapad Mountain sculptured from 59 pieces of crystal blocks each weighing 50 to 750 lbs. along with the steel frame weighing 1 ton was imported from Jaipur, India. All of 24 idols were carved out of real gemstones.
Pratishtha at Cleveland: JAIN Society of Greater Cleveland had a grand Pratishtha Mahotsav of their new Temple in July 2010 in Richfield, Ohio. It was a four-day celebration and I had the opportunity to be a part of this grand celebration. Pratishtha was for Mulnayak Shri Dharmanath, the 15th Tirthankar, Shri Rushabhnath and Shri Mahavir Swami. All the events were well organized and there was a lot of enthusiasm amongst the members. Everyone was happy to see that their long due dream came true. Jain Society of Greater Detroit: Jain Society of Greater Detroit celebrated its 35th Anniversary in June 2010. I was impressed by the cohesiveness of Detroit Jain community. An exhibit was organized which displayed unique memorabilia, literature and photographs collected over the years. I had the opportunity to address the members.

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Jain Center of Northern California: I was present at the joyous and eventful 10th Anniversary celebration of the Jain Bhawan held in Milpitas, California in August 2010. The celebration brought together a host of Jain religious leaders, scholars, followers and dignitaries who participated in a comprehensive series of events focusing on the theme: Non-Violence, Peace & Harmony. The cumulative reach of these events was impressive, with more than twenty speakers. The event was attended by over 3000 people.
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
Visit to Las Vegas: I visited the Las Vegas Sarvadharma Temple, which had Hindu and Jain Murtis. It is a beautiful Temple located on a hill, about 15 miles from "The strip". A small group of Jains displayed lot of dedication.
Visit to Phoenix Center: In August 2010, I visited Jain Center of Phoenix. After their regular Puja, I gave a talk on JAINA activities and visited their pathshala, which was humming with activities. I also had an informal meeting with Jain Center of Greater Phoenix EC, BOD.
Visit to Fort Myers: 15-20 Members were gathered at Mahendrabhai's (JAINA Director) home for an informal meeting to discuss Jain activities in Fort Myers.
Visit to Orlando: I received a very warm welcome during my visit to Orlando Jain Temple. Most members attended the Town Hall meeting and the participation of youngsters was superb. Deepikaben and I stayed overnight at a member's home and enjoyed the hospitality of Orlando Sangh.
Visit to Tampa Jain Sangh: I attended a Snatra Puja at Tampa Jain Center. It was attended by more than 150 members. A town hall meeting was held after the Puja and members were interested in knowing about JAINA. Members were happy to see a JAINA President visiting their center.
Jain Studies at FIU, Florida: A Historic Milestone - Florida International University is establishing a perpetual professorship in Jain studies and is a first ever initiative and a historic milestone for the Jain Community.
Visit to Miami: I attended a Town Hall meeting at Jain Center of Southern Florida (JCSF). About 5060 people attended the meeting and most members were interested in knowing about JAINA. JCSF is a relatively small organization, with a current membership of 80-100 Jain families. In late 2005, JCSF bought 4000 sq. feet of commercial office space in the newly built complex.
Jain Center of Greater Boston: Jain Center of Greater Boston has moved into their much larger temple in June 2010 in Norwood, MA. JCGB's first temple was one of the first in North America. Pratishtha in Richmond, VA: A grand Pratishtha celebration was held in Richmond Temple in November 2010. Pratishtha was for Mahavir Swami, Tirthankar Adeshwar and Tirthankar Parshwanath. This was a big achievement for a small sangh.
Visit to Montreal: I participated in the celebrations of Mahavir Janma Kalyanak in Montreal. Program
started with Snatra Puja and ended with a sumptuous dinner. Around 60 people were gathered for the event in which I gave a talk on JAINA activities to the gathering.
Visit to Houston: Sushil Jain, Deepika Dalal, Manish Mehta and I visited Houston for Convention planning. We had a very fruitful visit. Visit to Dallas: Sushil Jain, Nitin Shah and I visited Dallas Jain Center to promote JAINA Convention 2011. Members present were very enthusiastic about the convention being held in their backyard. We were given the tour of the newly acquired building to house their temple. Visit to Los Angeles: In the last 3 years, I have visited LA more than 8 times. I consider this as my Sangh. During my official visit as JAINA
President, I met with EC, BOD of JCSC and had a fruitful discussion on issues related with JAINA.

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JAINA office: Jain Center of America (NY) has continued to offer office space for JAINA Headquarters in their center. JAINA is thankful for their generosity. JAINA Convention: This is the first time a convention is held in Southern part of United States. The volunteers from Houston Jain Society are working very hard to make this convention a big success. A unique play "Gandhi vs. Gandhi" will be presented by artists coming from India. A good daytime programming, excellent entertainment is planned for the benefit of attendees. The registration trend has been very positive so please register, if you have not had a chance to do so. Please note that many JAINA volunteers are doing an excellent work quietly and without much fanfare. The list of events mentioned above is the result of their dedication and hard work - for which, I remain very grateful. None of this would have been possible without the support of JAINA EC, Board of Directors and Jain community of North America. I hope that JAINA continues to grow and my best wishes are with next administration. See you all at the Convention in Houston. With warm Regards
LA
Lorew
Lata Champsee, President JAINA, http://www.jaina.org "Each day, well-lived, makes yesterday a dream of happiness and each tomorrow a vision of hope. Look, therefore, to this day, for it and it alone is life."-- Ushavandanam by Kalidasa
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......
Table of Contents From the President..
.............3 The Jain Digamber Sampraday .. Jai Jinendra - Jain Digest Editorial Team .......... 10 Acharya Vidhyanandji. SADHUTVA .......
.11 Acharya Vidya Sagar Maharaj ... Indian Tradition of Sainthood ....... ................. 12 Acharya Devnandiji Maharaj. The Everlasting Tradition of Jain Sadhutva.................. 13 Munishri Tarunsagarji................ Tribute to the Acharyas.
. 17 Shri Deevendrakirthiji ......... Acharya.........
........... 18 Lead me closer to the Moksha Marg....... Jaina Monks From Mathura: . ..........................21 List of Digamber Acharyas .......... Jain Traditions and Spirituality in North America 22 Jain Sthanakvasi Sampraday...... Historical Perspective......
..22 Acharya Shree Shiv Muniji ............................... Jainism in Northern America (Past & Present))............22 Acharya Raghavi Swami.... Challenges.............
Acharyashri Virendra Muniji (M. A.) ................ Future.
Gurudev Pujya Namra Muni........................... Spirituality among Jain families..........
341
Extol of ......... In Search for Happiness ..............
Agamoddharak Shri Ghasilalji Maharaj........... Jain Centers & Temples in North America.....
A Tribute to Acharya Mahapragya ................... Jain Monks and Scholars in North America.....!
Acharya Mahashraman ...... Muni Shri Santbalji - A Great Social Worker ...
Elloflol ELL... Murtipujak Jain Sampraday .......... Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji............
Spreading Jainism Globally.... Unleashing The Power of The Ego-less Self....
Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj (1926 - 1994).70 Acharya Vijay Nandighosha Suri
Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji. Darshan of Acharya Jaishekharsuri...................
40 An Extraordinary Life of Acharya Chandanaji ....73 List of Acharyas of Murtipujak Samudays..........
37 38
......71
Jain Education Interational

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Jai Jinendra from the Jain Digest Editorial Team
Namo Aayariyanam! It has been some time now since our last issue of eJain Digest, and it has been even longer since the last print version of Jain Digest was published. It is a pleasure to bring to you this issue dedicated to Acharyas / Sadhus or Jain Teachers who have not only devoted their lives to lead the Jain Way of Life but also to teach others about Jain philosophy and tradition. This is a humble effort to compile immense amount of information on Jain Acharyas and Sadhus for a small issue of this kind. As we embarked on this task, we realized that there was a lot to cover and an exhaustive compilation is a very tall order. Clearly, we could provide only limited information even after delaying the release of this issue by over three months. The current issue of Jain Digest, offers information on the lives of a few Acharyas / Sadhus in the limited time we were able to spend on this subject. After reaching out to the community to gather information on Acharyas / Sadhus from all traditions (sects), we attempted to compile a list of the names of all the Acharyas living in the current times. There are bound to be omissions in compiling such large lists, but they would not be for lack of trying on our part. We would really like the readers, to continue sending us information about the Acharyas / Sadhus who were missed in this list so we can continue to compile this information in one place and make it available to all our readers. You will notice that we have detailed information on some of the Acharyas/Sadhus and not all of them. This is due to the wonderful opportunity that some of the members on the editorial team got to actually speak with these great Acharyas. This does not in any way suggest that the other Acharyas are of any lesser stature or importance - it is just that we did not have the opportunity to speak to them, nor anyone from the readership reached out regarding their experience with them. Again, we will be happy to include your experiences or write-ups on this in the future issue, so please send them our way. It was very impressive to see the range of style and the depth of knowledge, which each Acharya/Sadhu uses to spread the message of Jainism, and different philosophies that go with it. They are all different and unique in some respects, at the same time their message and purpose is strikingly similar. We are left with a few concerns about the role of next-generation of Jain community living in North America. Will this generation have the opportunity to interact with and benefit from coming in contact with Acharyas / Sadhus ? As the new generation keeps putting down firmer roots in this land, their travel to India and thus opportunity for such interactions will continually decline. So how do we ensure that our spiritual journey continues in this land of opportunity and Jainism finds a permanent home here? We have posed some of these questions as food for thought. and we are quite certain that we will be able to find a way to face these challenges with your feedback and suggestions. In this issue, we have started with a note from the first female JAINA president. We have also ended this Jain Digest issue with a write-up of the only female Jain Acharya. Our heart-felt Micchami Dukkadam (apologies) if we have missed any Acharya/Sadhu, from any tradition (sect) or hurt your feelings in the way we have written about the ones we have covered. While. we tried our best to present the interaction with an Acharya to the best of our ability, it is quite likely we may have misrepresented a particular conversation. In that context, we offer our sincere apologies to these great souls. Thank you and we look forward to engaging discussions on this and other topics with you.
With Warm Regards Jain Digest Editorial Team jaindigest.info@gmail.com
in Education intamalonal
For
P
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& Personal use only
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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
SADHUTVA
जयं चरे जयं चिट्टे, जयमासे जयं सए।।
जयं भुंजंतो भासंतो, पावं कम्मं न बंधई । । Walk, stay, sit, and go to sleep, eat, and speak with awareness so that the bad karma is not acquired.
- Dasavaikalika
Vardhaman at the age of 30, came out of his palace, and with thousands of eyes watching him, he removed all the clothes and ornaments attached with his body, plucked out his long hair, and chanting "Namo Siddhanam", he left without even looking back at his palace. Thus began the long journey of 12 and half years for Shraman Mahavir. This twelve-year period of spiritual practice that entailed, deep and undisturbed meditation, rigorous penance, extreme tolerance of pain, and ultimate equanimity, has served as the leading example of spiritual practice for Jain sadhus for many generations and will continue to serve as an example for many generation to come. The above was a glimpse of Veetrag Mahavir. Let us now present a short narration of how a person in modern times undergoes a complete change in one's lifestyle, due to some strong inner feeling of veetrag. Chunabhatti is a laid-back lower-middle class
locality right in the center of the growing metropolitan. It is home to the first cotton mill in Mumbai (Bombay), which was registered in 1886 by Jamshedji Tata. The history of a Jain temple in
Jan 6, 2010 - Miss Neha Godani enjoying vacation with family
Jan 20, 2010 - Miss Neha getting ready for Diksha
For P PE only
Jan 21, 2010 Sadhavi Nandishyra Shreeji

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Chunabhatti can also be traced back to this
Samkhya and Yoga are two early and very period. Recently on Jan 20, 2010, this locality was important philosophies that follow the Shramana full of activity. The streets were crowded and a philosophy and whose existence can be traced huge procession was on its way. Young, Miss from archeological finding and related research of Neha Madanlal Godani, college-going girl, dear- the Indus Valley period of about 3000-2000 BCE. pet (laadaki) of her father, was on her way to take Yoga is probably the most important Shramana diksha under Acharya Kirtiyash Suri. On Jan 21, practice to date, which follows the Samkhya 2010, she became Sadhavi Nandishyra Shriji. philosophy of liberating oneself from the grip of Father Madanlal, told us, "It is very difficult to see Prakriti (nature) through individual effort. Jain your young one leave you after 22 years, it
literature credits the beginning of this tradition to specially hurts when one imagines the kind of Bhagwan Rushabdev. While the literal translation hardships one faces in the path of Sadhavi. of the dates in the Jain canons do not match with However, when I am calm, the thought of my the scientifically derived dates of the ancient determined daughter committed to the cleansing human civilization, logical extrapolation would put of her soul makes me immensely happy." When this period at the end of the Stone Age and the we asked Sadhavi Nandishyra Shriji about the beginning of the Agriculture Age. motivations that led her towards the path of sadhutva, she told us that she had come to realize The Sangh of Mahavir that every worldly relationship was temporary and Tirthankar Mahavir swami established a superficial. On the other hand, she saw her elder Chaturvidh sangh-the four community pillars of sister and masi (aunt), both of them were currently Jainism. The sangh pillars are Male monk (sadhu), sadhavis, who were undergoing hardships but Female monk (sadhavi), Male family person were still very happy. So instead of building and (shravak) and Female family person (shravika). As engaging in superficial relationship, it was better to per Jain tradition. Tirthankar leads the sangh while build a permanent relationship with Parmatma. he lives, and continues to be shashan-nayak When we inquired about the hardships she was (head-creator of the order) until a new Tirthankar undergoing as a newly initiated sadhavi, she was arrives. After the Tirthankar attains Nirvana, honest enough to admit to us that it was hard Acharyas who have at least 36 gunas (good sometimes and that she would get emotional at qualities) lead the sangh. times, but her resolve was complete and she had
After Mahavir swami's nirvana in 523B.C., the 5th no shanka (doubt) about the correctness of her
Ganadhar Sudhamaswamy became the first decision.
Acharya. Ganadhar Jambuswamy, the second
Acharya was the last follower of Mahavir Bhagwan Indian Tradition of Sainthood
to attain kevalgyan (omniscience) and ultimately Shramana is one of most ancient ascetic traditions became a siddha in this time cycle. The lineage of of India. A shramana is one who renounces the
the undivided sangh as per the different traditional worldly life and leads an ascetic life for the
and other accounts is given in the figure on the purpose of spiritual development and liberation.
next page. Shramana tradition asserts that human beings are
There are varying accounts about the split responsible for their own deeds and reap the fruits
between Digamber and the Shwetamber sect. of those deeds, for good or ill. Liberation.
There is Shwetamber view, Digamber view, and therefore, may be achieved by anybody
an outsider's view based on certain historical irrespective of caste, creed, color or culture (in
evidences and archaeological findings. A contrast to certain historical caste-based
summary of interesting research done by Prof. traditions provided the necessary effort is made.
Jaini is included in this issue of Jain Digest. A The Sanskrit word shramana is derived from the
terrible twelve-year famine occurred in Magadha Sanskrit verbal root śram "to exert effort, labor or
in 293 B.C and the origins of the great schism can to perform austerity". "Shramana" thus means "one who strives" in Sanskrit. The older Aarhat
be traced to this event. The date of the famine
also is different in different Jain traditions, Dharma or Nirgranth Dharma (Pre-Mahavir names
however, reliable date is 293BC based on reign of of Jain philosophy) would consider this word
Chandragupta Maurya. If one takes into account derived from the original word Saman that means
the historical evidences, and traditional data the one who believes in Samata, i.e. equanimity.
together it seems the separation occurred
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gradually. Even though different groups may have been formed earlier, there was still some interaction between the different groups (possibly more than 2), the formal split possibly occurred in 79 or 82 A.D.
The Everlasting Tradition of Jain Sadhutva Even after 2600 years, one of the most interesting aspects of Jain heritage is the consistency of

Tirthankar Mahavir Swami
Shri Prabhav Swami
Shri Sayyambhav Suri
Shri Yashobhadra Suri
Stha. Susthit
Shri Sudharma Swami (Nirgrantha Gachh)
Shri Jambu Swami
Shri Sambhutivijay
Stha. Sthulbhadra
Arya SuhastiSuri
Stha.Supratibhadhha
Shri Kotik Gachh
Stha. IndradinnaSuri
Stha. Dinnasuri
Aa. Sinhagiri
Aa. Shri Vajraswami
philosophical approach, ultimate goal, and basic observance in which Sadhutva is practiced across different Jain traditions or sects. There are ofcourse quite a few differences in the practice between the different sects and traditions, but for an outside observer, these differences seem to be more semantic, cultural or situational rather than a result of any deep philosophical divide. The sacred
Breakup Of Sangh
Per
Shwetember
Tradition
Around
196BC
Shwetember Lineage records Digambar Lineage records
Common Records
Vishnudeva
Nandimitra
Aparajita
Govardhana
Shri Bhadrabahu Swami

Visakha
Shri Gautama Swami
Prosthila
Kshatria
Jayasena
Nagasena
Siddhartha
Dhritisena
Lineage of Acharayas From Mahavir
Vijaya
The most reliable date of the great famine is 293BC (Chandragupta Maurya). In all likelihood differences in the sangh started at that time. Formal split most likely did not occur till 79AD.
Breakup
Per Digamber Tradition
Around
373BC
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Acharanga Sutra and the Dasvekalik Sutra of the Shwetamber tradition details the conduct of a Jain ascetic. The Moolachar sutra and the Anagar Dharmamrita provide particulars on sadhutva for the Digamber sects. Below is a picture of Jain monks, representing the different sects and gender. The estimate of the total number of monks in the different Jain Sampradays (sects) currently is given in the table below. The picture on the next page gives the time-line of the different. traditions.
Life during Sadhutva
Acharya Umaswati (or
Umaswami) was probably the last popular Acharya accepted either as part of lineages or as a revered scholar by all current sects of Jainism. The following is a quotation from Acharya Umaswati's Tattvaarth Sutra:
"The life of an ascetic is exacting. It imposes hardships and strains. An ascetic accepts food and drinks according to an uncompromising code. An ascetic endeavors to live in harmony with nature. He/she keeps few possessions and lives in an ordinary residence with meager facilities and protection from the elements. It is expected that an ascetic will encounter afflictions of hunger, disease, reviling, and the like. As part of ascetic discipline, a mendicant voluntarily and patiently undergoes painful experiences such as hunger and thirst, heat and cold, and, discomforting posture and uncomfortable repose. Through such trials and tribulations, the sage becomes conditioned to face unforeseen afflictions, physically and mentally. When afflictions befall at random, due to past experiences, he/she maintains equanimity and does not falter from the path of spiritual pursuit. Confronting hardships patiently strengthens the resolve of aspirants to
Sampraday (sect) Shwetamber Murtipujak
Shwetamber Sthanakvasi
Shwetamber Terapanth
Digamber
TOTAL

No. of Acharyas
164
12
1
57
234
No. of Sadhus
1,927
599
154
614
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
pursue asceticism. It also leads to stoppage of inflow and shedding of karmas."
'Virati means giving up feelings, thoughts and conduct of sin. 'Sarvavirati' means giving up all sins for life. The individual who takes the vow to
give up all sins follows the path of sadhutva. This
worthy individual renounces the worldly life and all the attachments, and is initiated into the Jain order of monkhood (diksha), the man is called Sadhu, Shraman or Muni and the woman is called Sadhavi, Shramani, or Arya. Their renunciation is total which means they are completely detached from the social and worldly activities and they do not take any part in those activities anymore. Instead, they spend their time in spiritual pursuit, uplifting their souls and guiding householders such as ourselves how to uplift our souls.
When individuals get initiated into the life of Sadhus and Sadhavis, they take five major vows and act strictly in accordance with those vows. The five great vows are: Pranatipätaviraman Mahavrat - Vow of absolute Non-violence.
First vow of Pranatipätaviraman Mahavrat means sadhu and sadhavis will never cause harm or violence to any living being including even the tiniest creatures.
Mrishavadaviraman Mahavrat - Vow of absolute Truthfulness
Second vow of Mrishavadaviraman Mahavrat means they will not lie.
No. Of Total Sadhavis Monks
6,600
3,012
525
515
8,691
3,623
680
1,186
10,652 14,180
3,294
% of Total
61%
26%
5%
8%
100%
Adattadänavira man Mahavrat - Vow of absolute Non-stealing
Third vow of Adattadänaviram an Mahavrat

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
United Mahavir Sangh
400 BC
Formation of Gaccha 01: Kharatara Gaccha 02: Aachala Gaccha 03: Tapa Gaccha
Some Important Acharyas •1: Acharya Umaswati •2: Acharya Kundakunda •3: Acharya Samantabhadra .4: Acharya Siddhasen Diwakar •5: Acharya Devarddhi kşamäśramaņa .6. Acharya Pujyapada •7: Acharya Haribhadra Suri .8: Acharya Akalanka .9: Acharya Acharya Jindattasuri • 10: Acharya Hemachandra Suri •11: Acharya Abhaya Deva •12: Acharya Yasovijaya •13: Acharya Bhikshu
Gradual splits of the
Sangh
O AD
200 AD
400 AD
.
600 AD
Yapania (Absorbed by Digambar in 1400 AD)
• Digambar Bispanth
Shwatember Murtipujak
800 AD
1000 AD
.9.10 .11
1200 AD
1400 AD
1500 AD
1474 AD Lonka
1600 AD
.12
1664 AD
1663 AD 1760 AD
•13
1800 AD
Digambar Taranpantha
Expanded-2x
Kanji Swami Panth
Dig. Terapantha
Shrimad Rajchandra-1901
Sthanakvasi
1900 AD
Terapanth
Expanded-2x
2000 AD
Jain Traditions and Important Acharya's Time-line
means without the permission of the owner they will not take anything from anywhere.
Maithunaviraman Mahavrat - Vow of absolute Celibacy

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Fourth vow of Maithunaviraman Mahavrat means (unless specifically a specific tradition is they have to observe the celibacy with an absolute mentioned) follow the following lifestyle: adherence to it. The sadhu or sadhavis should not 1) Male Digamber monks do not wear any even touch a member of the opposite sex
clothes and are nude. They practice nonregardless of their age.
attachment to the body and hence wear no Parigrahaviraman Mahavrat - Vow of absolute clothes. Shwetamber monks and nuns wear Non-attachment.
white clothes, Shwetamber believe that monks
and nuns may wear simple un-stitched white Fifth vow of Parigrahaviraman Mahavrat means
clothes as long as they are not attached to they do not possess anything and do not have any
them. attachment for things they keep for their daily needs.
2) They are always bare footed and bare handed.
They do not use caps or umbrellas or put on Monks not only commit to follow the above vows,
boots, chappals or sandals. they will not ask others to commit actions resulting 3) Jain monks do not use vehicles of any sort. in such sins and will not support anybody
They travel on foot. committing such sins.
4) Jain monks do not possess any house. They In addition to the 5 Mahavrats, each ascetic also stay in Upashrayas of pausadhshalas or any takes the vow of three Guptis and five Samitis.
other similar place where they can perform The three Guptis are:
their spiritual practices. Managupti: Control of the mind
5) They do not stay permanently in any one • Vachanagupti : Control of speech
Upashrayas (place of temporary residence). Kayagupti: Control of body
The maximum they remain confined to one
place is for four months during the rainy The five Samitis are:
season. They move from one place to another • Trya Samiti : Carefulness while walking
during the remaining eight months and preach Bhasha Samiti : Carefulness while
religion to people. communicating
6) Shwetamber monks keep an Ogho (a small Eshana Samiti : Carefulness while eating
cloth broom) and a muhapatti (cloth to cover Adana Nikshepana Samiti : Carefulness
the mouth) with them and a stick when they while handling their flywhisks, water gourds, travel. The Shwetamber Sthanakvasi sects etc.
wear the muhapatti most of the times. Pratishthapana Samiti or Utsarga Samiti :
Digamber monks keep Morpichhi (peacock Carefulness while disposing of bodily waste feathers broom) and a Kamandal (small matter
wooden pot for water). The peacock feathers In almost all sects, new aspirants of Jain sadhutva Morpichhi used by Digamber monks have to undergo rigorous training prior to initiation. During be naturally shed by peacock and found on the that training, they learn about the Jain philosophy, ground. the Jain scriptures, and the special code of
7) Monks do not travel or go out of their conduct for monks and nuns. They learn to detach Upashrayas after sunset. themselves from all their worldly ties. The training 8) Jain monks do not take water or food before ensures that the candidates have determination
sunrise and after sunset. Shwetamber monks capability and the aptitude to withstand the
can take food, etc. 48 minutes after sunrise. hardships that a sadhu or sadhavi may have to
The Shwetamber monks collect their food from face during their lifetime. Once they get used to
different houses (Gochari) in wooden vessels, this life of detachment, they can decide to
and return to their Upashrayas to have food. undertake the role of sadhutva. They should not Digamber monks take food standing and with be under any pressure to make this decision. The the help of knotted upturned palms and in one final decision to accept an aspirant as sadhu or
house only where their sankalpa sadhavi lies in the hands of the Acharya. In
(preconceived idea) is fulfilled. Digamber Shwetamber Terapanth sect, the training aspirants monks have only one meal a day. are formally called Mumukshu. In the Digamber 9) Most Shwetamber monks drink only boiled tradition trainee ascetics are known as Ailaka or water. Certain Shwetamber Sthanakvasi Kshullaka. The Ascetics from most traditions
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e sse
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monks drink ash-filtered water. Digamber responsibility of practicing and propagating monks also use filtered water.
adhyatmic life and uplifting society through religion 10) Jain monks after initiation do not cut their hair and education. Bhattarakas are expected to follow
or shave their heads; nor do they get these the full Nirgranth sadhu stage at the terminal stage things done by a barber. However, twice a of his life. year or at least once a year, they pluck off
Any change or reform in religious traditions is their hair or they get the hair plucked by
bound to attract criticism and the Bhattarak others. This is called Keshlochan or Loch. This movement has also received its fair share of way they are not dependent on others to carry
criticism. Regardless of these censures, one
criticism Regardless of these censure out their needs. It is also considered as one
cannot deny that the Bhattarakas have not only kind of austerity where one bares the pain of served the cause of Jain dharma immensely but plucking of the hair calmly.
they have saved dharma from sinking down during 11) Sadhus do not touch any females, while
the pre-patta period of Digamberism, i.e. roughly sadhavis do not touch any males.
during the two centuries before the Turkish 12) In addition a monk is required daily practice of: conquest of Northern India. Bhattarakas • Samayika - a compulsory 48 minute self- Sakalakirti Shubhachandra, Prabhachandra and study, meditation, chanting, etc.
Gyanabhushana have also been named as great Pratikraman - a prayer for atoning for sins Jain scholars. Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarak committed knowingly or unknowingly and Pattacharyavarya Swamiji, the present pontiff of confessing them before the preceptors and Shravanabelagola stands as the main propagator of asking for forgiveness from them. This is of religion since assuming the peetha in 1969. normally performed twice a day.
Upadhyayas The Bhattarak tradition
This title is given to those sadhus who have The Bhattarak tradition mainly found among the acquired a special knowledge of the Jain canons Bispanthi sub-sect of Digambers, most likely and philosophical systems. They teach Jain started around 1100 AD. Its primary purpose was scriptures to sadhus and sadhvis. While to take cognizance of Shravaks to lead them understanding the scripture an Upadhyay needs to through right path of Dharma. The term Bhattarak continue to meditate and concentrate upon the is used to imply - the most honored. Bhattarakas nature of the self soul) and understand the true are mainly responsible for the religious preaching meaning of the shastras. This tradition and propagation. The early, Bhattarak followed the Upadhyavas is rigorously followed in the practice of nudity and possessed only a Morpichhi Digamber tradition, but not that much prevalent in (peacock feathers broom) and a Kamandal (small the Shwetamber tradition. wooden pot for water). It was during the 14th century, the reign of Firoz
Tribute to the Acharyas Shah Tughlug, that the tradition of Bhattarak was The survival of Jains, though as a minority formally defined. It was also during this period that community, for the last so many centuries in IndiaBhattarak gave up the practice of nudity out of the can be safely attributed to a great extent to the necessity to interact extensively in King's courts. glorious and continuous tradition of Jain saints. The role of Bhattarak was to lead the life pattern of They never attempted to lead a solitary life in a Rajaguru with all the paraphernalia: royal honors isolation from others. On the contrary, these saints and privileges. They personify sacrifice, learning led by their Acharyas have always tried to capacity, literary interest and exhibit great
preserve contacts with the general masses so as organizational abilities. The organization of
to encourage them to lead a religious life. Their religious conferences, collecting and publishing contribution goes a lot beyond the day-to-day religious works, protecting classic works of the religious activities. They have contributed to logic, religion, and maintaining important temples and mathematics, language, literature, architecture, holy places are the duties rested with them. They ethics, culture, metaphysics, and propounding evince keen interest in the development of art spiritualism that extends traditional religious literature, architecture and sculpture and also the boundaries. At the core of all Acharya's thinking is performing arts such as music, dance or drama. the message of the Tirthankar and secret of their However, the primary purpose of Bhattarak is the strength is their own soul taking inspiration their

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guru, and the greatest of the great souls
austerity, supreme renunciation, supreme (Paramatma - Arihants & Siddhas). They have
possessionlessness, and supreme celibacy. served as ambassadors of Ahimsa, and influenced Twelve kinds of Tapa: Fasting, taking reduced some of the most barbaric rulers towards a path of diet, putting of special restrictions or and peace and tolerance. Over the past 2600 years,
above the usual, observations, abounding the Jain community had to face many calamites
food-taste, lonely habitation, mortification of testing the very existence of the faith. Starting
body, expiation, reverence (paying respect to from the severe 12-year famine, the Shivite
holy personages), services to saints, study, backlash, and brutal Muslim invaders, the
renunciation and meditation. Acharyas had to come up with appropriate
Five Types of Observations (Samiti): solutions to effectively keep the sangh united and Carefulness in walking, carefulness in talking, provide the necessary encouragement to face the carefulness in taking food, carefulness in difficult times. On the other hand with changing
giving - taking things, carefulness in removal times the old traditional values and thoughts had of excreta. to be reevaluated and in some cases modification . Six Essentials: Vandana, stutis (prayer to was required. The challenge always was how to
Tirthankar), samata (equanimity), pratikaman, handle change and yet at the same time ensure
pratyakhyan (vows), and kayotasarga. Bhagwan Mahavir's message was fully preserved. . Three Gupti (Hidden Things), Man gupti, In many such situations, the Acharyas made
vachan gupti, and body gupti. appropriate changes to traditions while
In addition an Acharya has eight additional special emphasizing certain aspects of the philosophy to
skills: ensure shout-term survival and of a long-term
1) Aachar. - right acts according to laws of monks blossoming of the Jain society. Yes, it is true that
2) Sutra: - knowledge of all agamas (sacred in the process different sects were formed and
texts) and their meanings there were serious disagreements among sects,
3) Sharir. - impressive body and aura but it is still a tremendous testament to all the
4) Vachan: - descent and serious speech Acharyas for having preserved the core essence
5) Vachana: - good teacher of Jain way of life. We humbly pay tribute to these
6) Paug: - Expert in discussions and debates great souls.
7) Mati: - sharp memory and mind Acharya
8) Sangrah: - good store keeper to keep all
stocks required by monks An Acharya heads the fourfold Jain community. He/She guides, defines rules, does administration
It is not practical to list all the thousands of of saint order, and directs the community (sangh)
Acharyas whose unique contribution has not only in the proper direction. This position shoulders
preserved Jin's teaching but also made it relevant great responsibility not only as the spiritual head
despite the changing times and circumstances. but also ensures that the benefits and the essence We have however listed the names of few great of the Dharma are spread in the sangh. Such
souls; we sincerely apologize for not mentioning responsibility should under no circumstances be
names of many Acharyas whose contribution to misconstrued towards any form of political power
the Jain community was equally large and or political influence. In many respects, one can
valuable. The work of Prof. Dr. Kamal Chand say they have tremendous responsibility without
Sogani is noteworthy in listing some of the any real power. The only power they possess is
influential Jain Acharyas (see website the power of their own character and the respect
http://www.herenow4u.de/pages/eng/sections/issis they get due to the commitment to the others' well
/StudyNotes/InfluentialJainaAcaryas.htm). being.
Acharya Umaswati or Umaswami is the author In Jain tradition Acharyas have 36 gunas (referring of Tattvartha Sutra, a popular Jain text. Both the to both rites and qualities):
Digamber and Shwetamber sects claim him. He • Ten Characteristics of Religion: Supreme
was a mathematician and one of the most forbearance, supreme modesty, supreme
profound thinkers and critical analyzers of the Jain straight-forwardness, supreme contentment,
philosophy. Very little is known about the exact supreme truth, supreme self-restrain, supreme
period of his life, accounts about his life span vary but he must have lived sometime between the

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200BC to 200AD, most likely in the first century AD. It is likely that at this time, no clear division of the Jain Sangh had emerged, and thus both sects may be right in claiming him. The claims of both Digamber and Shwetamber groups differ a lot, and within their own claims there are contradictions. The colophon given at the end; Bhashya that he composed great work either explicitly expressed or implied in the city of Kusumapura (modern Patna) can give the best analytical clue that he possibly did spent lot of time in the North. This may also imply that he interacted with both Shwetamber and Digamber leaning groups. Acharya Samantabhadra was possibly the first Jain saint to write not only on religion but also on general subjects, such as ayurveda and Sanskrit grammar. Some consider him to be in the lineage of Umaswami. Digambers place the period of his life between AD 120 and 185.
Acharya Devarddhi Kşamāśramaņa. The credit of saving, and possibly re-writing the Jain canon (Agams) in a preserve-able form goes to this great Acharya (5th cent. A.D.).
Acharya Akalańka (8th cent. A.D.): Many consider him to be the father of Jain Logic. His works are: Nyaya Viniścaya (Perception, Inference and Authority), Siddhi Viniścaya - (Pramāņa, Naya & Nikşepa), Tattvärthavärttika -
Acharya Kundkund (also Kundkund) is a celebrated Jain Acharya, and great Jain scholar of (Commentary on Tattvärthasūtra of Umāsväti), the 2nd century CE. He is the composer of and Aştasati- (Commentary on Apta Mimänsä of spiritual classics such as: Samayasara, Samantabhadra). Niyamasara, Pancastikayasara, Pravacanasara, Atthapahuda and Barasanuvekkha. He occupies a very high place in the tradition of the Jain Acharyas, especially among Digambers. For many Digambers, his name has auspicious significance and occupies third place after Bhagwan Mahavir and Gautama Ganadhar. Though his real name was Padmanandi, he is popularly referred to as Kundkund because he was born in a place named Kaundakunda in South India. Acharya Kundakunda has been called "Light of this Dark Age".
Acharya Siddhasen Diwakar was a highly intelligent Jain Acharya of his time. He was like the illuminating lamp of the Jain order and therefore came to be known as Siddhasen Diwakar. He is credited with the authorship of many books but sadly most of them are not available. Sanmatitarka is his best book on logic and is widely read even at present. The wellknown Kalyanmandir Stotra, a monumental work in Sanskrit poetry was also composed by him. Acharya Pujyapada, who lived in the 5th century CE was a renowned grammarian and saint belonging to the Digamber tradition of Jains.
Before initiation as a Jain ascetic, he was known as Devanandi. He was heavily influenced by the writings of his predecessors Acharya Kundkund and Samantabhadra.

Acharya Haribhadra Suri lived around 650700AD but is traditionally believed to have lived from 459-529AD. He was a Shwetamber mendicant Jain leader and author. Haribhadra identifies himself as a student of Jinabhadra and Jinadatta of the Vidyadhara Kula. There are several, somewhat contradictory, accounts of his life. Tradition ascribes some 1400 different works to him. A more creditable number is in the vicinity of 100, some of which are among the most highly regarded works in Jainism.
Acharya Jindattasuri (1075-1154) was renowned Acharya having a huge impact on Jain religion and society. He formulated new rules and regulations. He revived the Khartargachchha sect. He abolished many malpractices prevailing all around and he inspired 500 shravaks and 700 shravikas for initiation. In Rajasthan Atmaya Jindattasuri was known as kalpavriksha, a wishyielding tree.
Acharya Hemachandra Suri (1089-1172) was a great Jain scholar, poet, and polymath who wrote on grammar, philosophy, prosody, and contemporary history. Noted as a prodigy by his contemporaries, he gained the title Kalikal Sarvagya, (all knowing of the Kali age). A prodigious writer, Hemchandra wrote grammar of Sanskrit and Prakrit, texts on science and logic and practically all branches of Indian philosophy. His best known work, the epic poem Tri-shashthishalaka-purusha-charitra (Lives of Sixty-Three Great Men), is a hagiographical treatment of the sequence of teachers and their pupils who were instrumental in defining the Jain philosophical position, their asceticism and eventual liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth, as well as the legendary spread of the Jain influence. Acharya Abhaya Deva a 12th CE, Agamic scholar, author of various Tikas that expounded

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the various aspects and meaning of many obscure Mahatma Gandhi. Shrimadji was not an Acharya Agamic texts.
or a Sadhu in a traditional Jain way, but he was respected by many Jain Acharyas due his level of knowledge and spirituality being in complete conformance with the Jain Philosophy. It is for this reason Jains across all traditions respect Shrimadji teachings.
Acharya Yasovijaya a seventeenth century (1624-1688) Jain philosopher-monk was one of India's greatest philosopher and logician. He was a thinker, prolific writer and commentator who had a strong and lasting influence on Jainism. He was a disciple of Muni Nayavijaya in the lineage of famous Jain monk Hiravijaya (belonging to the Tapa Gachchha tradition of Shwetamber Jains) who influenced Emperor Akbar to give up meat eating.
Acharya Bhikshu (1726-1803) was one of the great revolutionary saints and reformers of Jainism. He was the founder and first spiritual head of Jain Shwetamber Terapanth sect. He was Agamic scholar and a prolific writer who initiated a reform movement that has had a significant impact on the spread of the Jain philosophy both within and outside the Jain community. His successors have built on this movement to expand the influence across, caste, religion, and national boundaries.
New Groups / Sects
Shrimad Rajchandra (1867-1901) was a prominent Jain philosopher. Raychandbhai Ravajibhai Mehta (popularly known as Shrimad Rajchandra) was not a typical Jain sadhu. In fact, he was never initiated and he reportedly was at the threshold of complete renunciation when he contracted an illness from which he never recovered. Though young in age, he was spiritually matured, and remained in a state of heightened awareness. He wrote some of the most intriguing spiritual poems at the tender age of nine. Despite a powerful intrinsic attitude of detachment and a burning desire for total renunciation, at the age of 20, he had to tie the knot of marriage and engage in business. He was also a prolific writer and is famous for his work, Atma Siddhi Shastra. He was the spiritual guru of
With 20tion International
Kanji Swami (1889-1980) was a Jain scholar, philosopher and spiritual leader. He was the founder of the Kanjipanth within the Digamber Jain tradition. He was originally initiated as a Sthanakvasi Jain monk at age 24, however subsequent influence by the writing of Acharya Kundkunda made him follow the Digamber tradition. The are however few difference in the interpretation of Acharya Kundkunda's writing between the traditional Digamber groups and Kanjipanth.
Dada Bhagwan: Ambalal Muljibhai Patel, also known as Dadashri (1908-1988) was the founder of a now fairly popular religious movement. For most part, the group accepts most of the tenets of Jainism, but does have some fundamental differences. Paying lot on emphasis to selfrealization, the group considers Simandhar Swami (living Tirthankar by Jain Tradition) as their highest source of inspiration. Their fundamental premise is that self-realization can be achieved by direct contacts with a another Akram Vigyani (a selfrealized person), and need not go through the elaborate process of Karma Nirjara, in other words, a short-cut path to Self Realization. Further, such window of self-realization is open for a very short period of time. According to the group, though ultimate liberation is not possible in the current time cycle, with Akram science, it possible for one to attain a level of spirituality whereby a person has only one more life before final salvation. Interestingly, the group considers Hindu Load Shiva and Lord Krishna were Akram Vignani. In a short period of time, this group has gained a large following, primarily in Gujarat.
Only Guru can show path of Moksha Only Guru can provide Enlightened Knowledge Only Guru can remove one out of Delusion (Misery) Only Guru can lead one to permanent happiness (Bliss)

Pragna Prakash Sutra

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Abstract of the Paper
Jaina Monks From Mathura: Literary Evidence For Their Identification On Kusana Sculptures
Seated Jaina Ertharikara, headless. Mathura, red sandstone, 3rd century A.D. (Courtesy of American Institute of Indian Studies, Varanasi.)
Among the thousands of Jaina images found throughout India, those from Mathura produced during the Kusana period are unique, for they alone contain representations of unclothed Jaina ascetics holding a single small piece of cloth in such a way as to cover their nudity. These curious figures cannot be identified with monks of the present-day Jaina sects of the Digambers, who practice total nudity, or of the Shwetamber, who wear two long pieces of unstitched white cloth wrapped around their bodies and occasionally a white blanket over their left shoulders.
Iain Education International
By Padmanabh S. Jaini, University of California at Berkeley
Cool following Mahavir's example where he kept a cloth during his initial period of renunciation. Other texts would indicate that certain monks started this practice at the time of the terrible 12-year drought that eventually lead to the Shwetamber tradition. The style of research and investigation performed by Prof Jaini is fairly well demonstrated in this paper. Using literary evidences form various Digamber, Shwetamber, Buddhist, and other texts, Jaini has tried to trace the history and practices of Jain monks and tried to correlate the relationship between the Kusana sculptures and clothing of Jain monks as described in scriptures and text of different traditions.
These figures are referred by some scholars as Ardhaphdlakas (monks with partial covering) and some speculate that these figures might be those Yāpaniya monks, another Jain sect that is now extinct. Certain text would indicate that they were the forerunners of the current Shwetamber order
Seated Jaina Ertharikara, headless. Mathura, red sandstone, 3rd century A.D. (Courtesy of American Institute of Indian Studies, Varanasi.)
Relief fragment showing a Kinnara and a Jaina monk. Mathura (Kurikali FIG), red sandstone, 1st century B.C. (Courtesy of American Institute of Indian Studies, Varanasi.)
This paper demonstrates Jaini's in-depth knowledge in Digamber, Shwetamber and Buddhist literature and Practices. The paper shows the systematic, rigorous and unbiased approach followed by Jaini to analyze the problem. We hope this will inspire you to read the entire paper. Please send us an email to
jaindigest.info@gmail.com with your request and we will send you a PDF copy of the entire paper.

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Jain Traditions and Spirituality in
North America
Historical Perspective
traditions are dependent on dravya (substance), kshetra (space), kaal (time), and bhaav (form). Faced with changing time, social, and climatic conditions, the great Jain Acharyas, throughout history, provided leadership to the community to adapt the traditions in such a manner that the core message of Jainism was preserved over generations. We have many examples of such situations in the history. The survival of the stringent ascetic tradition among Jain monks was under huge strain during the 12-year drought around 300 BCE. While the great Advaita philosopher Adi Shankara revived the Brahmanic faith (Sanatana Dharma) by his propagation of logic through debate, the subsequent followers of that faith put the Digamber tradition under severe attack in southern India. Similar was the situation when outside invaders and Muslim rulers started attacking Jain temples and establishments. In all such situations, the Acharyas made appropriate changes to traditions while emphasizing certain aspects of the philosophy to ensure the survival of a longer term blossoming of the Jain society. Yes, in the process, there were many disagreements resulting in the formation of different groups or sects, but in all cases, the core essence of Jain way of life was preserved.
Sri Sammeta Sikharji - A symbol of Jain Tradition, where Jains believe the twenty
Tirthankars have attained Nirvana. Jains believe that Jainism has existed ever since there have been rational, logical thinking individuals, and from time immemorial Tirthankars have been guiding and reviving religion. Even historians agree that the basic concept of Jainism existed in all likelihood even during the period prior to that of the 23rd Tirthankar Parshwanath Bhagwan (800 BCE). Tirthankar Mahavir Bhagwan presented Dharma, the ultimate path to salvation, in a multifaceted way that could withstand the onslaught of changing times. Various torchbearers from Mahavir's Ganadhars to Acharyas, Upadhyays and Sadhus, throughout history, played a vital role in passing the message of Bhagwan Mahavir, down the generations. Nevertheless, the task of maintaining, spreading and propagating the Dharma without diluting the core message has never been an easy task. Since the earliest of human civilization, communities have formed traditions, which are passed from one generation to other. Almost all religions have formed traditions that are passed down to generations. Imbibed in these traditions is typically the message of faith. Traditions, by their very nature, are dependent on the social norms and accepted culture at a specific time, location, and situation of the society. In a broader sense, according to Jain philosophy, we can say,
Jainism In Northern America (Past) If Swami Vivekananda introduced the eternal spiritual values of India to the western audience by his famous
ભારત INDIA 500 "Sisters and Brothers of America" speech, Virachand Raghavji Gandhi
वीरचंद राघवजी गांधी VIRCHANDRAGHAVA GANDHI presented a strong case to follow the timeless religion of nonviolence. In the first World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, Virachandji presented that even after countless invasions and foreign occupations the soul of Indian Heritage was untarnished. This unique national strength comes from a culture of tolerance that shuns dogmatism, developed over many centuries through a process of non-violence. Virachand Raghavji Gandhi

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Swami Vivekananda (Center) and Shri Virachand Raghavji Gandhi (Far Right) part of Inidan spritual deligation to World Parliament
of Religions in Chicago in 1893. brought the flag of Jainism and eastern human values to North America (NA). A replica of a Jain temple was constructed at the St. Louis World Fair in 1904-5 and the remains of that structure are currently located in Jain Society of Southern California. Though the fascination for eastern spirituality in USA began in the early part of the twentieth century, immigration to NA from India prior to 1965 was minuscule and isolated, with some traces of NA Jain families going back to 1944. (The exception was the large contingent of Sikh farmers and laborers who migrated to western USA during the period 1899-1914). With
Chatrabhanuji's Lectures in 1970 -helped create a distinct identity of North American
Jains. members started migrating to USA, and with that also started the significant migration of Jains in NA. The early Jain communities mostly celebrated the religious festivals jointly with their Hindu counterparts, a tradition that is followed even today in many smaller metropolitan cities of NA. The formation of Jain Center of America in New York in 1966 and the visit backed by a series of lectures of Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji in 1970 saw the beginnings of a distinct identity of the Jain community shaping up in NA. This landmark event was followed by the visit of Acharya Sushil Kumarji in 1973, which in many respects contributed to the building of the spiritual foundation of Jainism in NA. Soon after 1970, various local Jain societies were formed in different cities. The NA Jain community had its first convention in Los Angles in 1981 and JAINA was established in 1983. Since its formative years, the Jain Society of North America has taken several steps over the past few decades in bringing the Jain community together, centered on the preaching of Bhagwan Mahavir:
It has taken advantage of the rich traditions of building dedicated places of Worship. Preaching of the Jain philosophy has been supported actively by the visits of various Jain monks and scholars from India. Jain society has taken various steps to promote the education of Jain philosophy targeted to different age and social groups.
Recent Ashtapadji Pratishtha at New York at the center that was established in USA in 1966
the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Services (INS) Act of 1965 large number of Indian
professional, businesspersons and family Jain Education Intenational
For Private
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Society has created avenues of communication
among the Jain Northern American community.
The Jain community has clearly established its presence by building some of the most unique and exquisite Jain temples in many NA metropolitans. In some of the smaller cities, the Jain community has joined hands with the larger Hindu community to build a common place of worship. The unique Shikharji replica at the Siddhachalam inspired by the late Acharya Sushil Kumarji has become a Tirth in NA. The three JVB centers where Samanijis are present throughout the year, the meditation center of Gurudev Chitrabhanuji, and certain other Jain or Jain philosophy based meditation centers, established a firm footing for Jainism in NA. The full list of temples and place of Jain worship in NA is included in this edition.
Acharya Sushil Kumarji
Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago
435 Houte 50, Martin, IL 60103 (630) 837-1077/1099
Pratishtha of many temples in 1990s
Jain tradition for centuries has been kept alive by succession of Acharyas and their monk followers. They have not only followed the rigorous physical and mental discipline to purify their own soul but have also tirelessly preached the path of righteousness among the Jain sanghs. However, the tradition of Jain sadhus prescribed in the ancient Jain canons to avoid the use of vehicular travel, limits travel of such great saints to NA. However, most Jain sects have come up with their own solutions to spread the message of Bhagwan Mahavir in NA. To begin with, certain groups have accepted that modern time, requires changes to certain traditions and have effectively accepted limited vehicular means of travel. Frequent travel and eloquent lectures by monks like Acharya Sushil Kumarji, Acharya Chandanaji, Roop Chand Maharaj, Munishri Munichandraji Maharaj (and his younger brothers - Triputi) and Muni Amrendra
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have benefitted the Jain community of North America. Other Jain sects that refuse to accept vehicular travel for
sadhus have instead preferred to send their blessing or message to the NA Jain community via scholars or pundits. The late Acharya Tulsi of the Terapanth sect came up with a unique solution by starting a new order of Samans and Samanis, who were given limited freedom of vehicular travel, till their Guru allowed them to take the full diksha. From the Digamber Jain tradition, NA had visits from Bhattarak, scholars and in some cases Ailaka (trainee ascetics) who have been granted limited permission by their guru to travel. The eloquent Sri Rakeshbhai Zaveri, who is a follower of Shrimad Rajchandra, not only travels frequently to NA, but also uses long distance learning techniques to conduct shibirs. The influence of these scholars and monks, especially those who are mostly resident in NA, have inspired many members outside the Jain community to believe in certain tenets of the Jain philosophy. For example, Gurudev Chitrabhanuji has influenced Non-Jains to adopt vegetarianism. Similarly, samanijis at the JVB centers have a large Non-Jain following. Jainism In Northern America (Present) The Jain Centers and JAINA are very actively

Late Bhattarakh Devkirtiji- Digamber Influence in NA
Pathshala students performing at Jain Center of Southern California

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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
Samanijis interacting with Dalai Lama during a Jain Studies at Florida International University Program.
members are also very active in the Parliament of World religions and other interfaith dialogs. This Jain Digest magazine, JAINA calendar, and the www.jaina.org website, are all geared towards increasing community communications. There are various other initiatives taken by JAINA and the respective centers to improve the overall wellbeing of the society. The community has been involved in various philanthropic and Jiv Daya activities across the globe. On May 22, 2010 for the first time, a Jain prayer was recited at both the US congress and US senate. Also for the first time a US President (Barak Obama) mentioned Bhagwan Mahavir's Nirvana in his Diwali greeting meant for general Indian community.
involved in promoting Jain education. Dedicated community volunteers over a period of time have published a series of Jain pathshala curriculum books in English. Taking advantage of these books, many Jain centers run a successful pathshala program, which is especially popular among the younger children below age 14. The educational initiative as the first of its kind,
Bhagwan Mahavir Professorship of Jain Studies at Current Model of Jain Practice in NA Florida International University, inspired by Acharya Mahapragya is showing a profound impact on many university students. The JAINA e- important to cognize the community's background.
To understand the model of Jain practice in NA is
library containing over 4000 books and 3000 articles, is widely used by the community members. In addition the, ISJS education initiatives, and other lectures at the Jain centers are noteworthy. All these activities have not only helped the migrant Jain families to maintain its rich
Most Jain migrants came to this country with a motive to grow financially or professionally. No wonder the Jain community is one of the most professionally and financially advanced community in USA (considering the size of 100,000 individuals in NA). The need for religion
tradition, but have become instrumental in spreading the teaching of Jainism and the philosophy of non-violence to a wider USA population. In addition, the technological advances are enabling Jain aspirants of North America to be in better touch with religious scholars and sadhus from India through long distance learning opportunities made available by almost all Jain sects; recorded lectures from renowned Jain sadhus and scholars, and the remote degree program at Jain Vishwa Bharati University.
JAINA and the Jain society in general have created various avenues for both religious and cultural communication among the community members. The extremely popular JAINA convention held every alternate year brings the North American Jain community together. In addition to the above large convention, there are smaller Young JAINA and Young JAINA Professional conventions, targeted specifically towards the youth of the community. JAINA

Finally, there is recognition among the community both at JAINA and the individual center level that the community needs to build and groom nextgeneration Jain community leaders. Initiatives towards these objectives have been undertaken at both JAINA and the center's level.
h Biennial JAINA Convention
2009-JAINA Convention at Los Angles. Over 2000 participants attended.
in many cases arises when people realize that their children may lose touch of the culture with which the immigrants grew up in India. The second need of the community is the strong desire for social interactions as most Jain migrants come from highly social families (as opposed to small

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families living an individualistic lifestyle). The third need is truly traditional, a subset of migrants in any given metropolitan have grown-up with strong traditional roots and would like to continue their personal life in the same traditional way. These fundamental needs coupled with the professional outlook (some may say American outlook) which the migrant Jains have picked up from the American society in many respects influence the nature, operation and the model of the Jain centers of NA.
Jain Center of Northern California - a classic example of multi-tradition under one roof.
The exact operating model differs from center to center, some centers are more sect or tradition based while others try to be more tradition and language-agnostic, by encompassing all traditions under one roof. No matter which model has been selected, it has enabled the teaching of Jainism to young and old, as well as provided an opportunity for the community to come together as a sangh and participate in social and cultural activities. The approach of a unified model of practicing all traditions under one roof has seen good amount of success, especially among the centers where no single group or sect dominates the events of the center. These centers normally also play the larger role of a Jain Community center. The strength in numbers derived from this unity can be crucial for the long-term survival of Jainism in North America. However, this brings to mind a few questions: Do temples following multiple traditions (within Jainism) or centers dilute the message of spirituality and focus more on the "sansaric" community needs? Jains believe (almost all traditions) that the path to Moksha is through a compassionate guidance of a guru. How will Jains of NA find their spiritual guru?

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Challenges
Jain Community of North America has successfully established the symbol of the essence of Jainism in building Jain Centers across the continent. In spite of all various activities and utilizing modern methods of bringing people together, the community mostly follows the traditional modes of imparting and acquiring knowledge. But looking at future, there are challenges that it will have to address. A substantial challenge that all Jain temples of North America will face is the same challenge that Jainism as a whole has faced over the last 2600 years, and successfully tackled. When challenged by other faiths, by environmental conditions etc., how will Jains of NA adapt while staying true to the essence? In the past, diverse opinions resulted in the breakup of the community in multiple groups or traditions, but each of these groups maintained and passed down the core essence of Jainism imbibed in their traditions and at the same time it offered spiritual aspirant the complete guidance and opportunity for selfpurification. Will Jains of NA as a community become leaders for Green change, like the Jain Acharyas in the past brought about positive social changes (the changes that the society of the time was in dire need of)? How well will the NA Jain community preserve the core Jain message over generations? How will individuals take their first baby-steps towards their ultimate salvation? The social environment of North America, the globalization effect due to rapidly changing technology, and the mostly materialistic Jain community of NA presents a challenge to staying true to the essence of Jain spirituality.
New generation's challenge The challenge lies ahead, when the new generation takes over the leadership of the community. Will this leadership predominantly be of the traditionally conscious new migrants from India (as has been the case so far, and more will continue to come), or traditional liberal youths brought up in a different social environment? Over the past few decades, people who came from India and grew up in different, albeit, structured, and traditional environment have run Jain Centers of North America. They may have more modern outlook, but their roots are still traditional. When the new generation takes over the leadership of the community, will this leadership predominantly be of those traditionally

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environment. Therefore, practice of the religion
is bound to change. The young NA born affluent and educated Jains from various backgrounds will bring a set of diverging approaches and they will defiantly question the tradition base. On the other hand, we will have young immigrants who will be more inclined to retain the Indian traditional base. Further, considering the trend in many Jain centers of a majority of the dedicated young volunteers are actually new immigrants and not natural born NA USA citizens, there is a serious danger of losing the NA born Jains from participating in the Jain Centers. The responsibility of setting up a framework that will facilitate maintenance of all the key elements of the Jain faith while ensuring the participation of next-generation Jains by adapting to the different thinking and multifaith, multi-cultural lifestyles still lies on the shoulders of this generation.
conscious new migrants from India (as has been the case so far, and more will continue to come), or traditionally liberal youth brought up in a different social environment? Over the next few decades we will see a mix of immigrant Jains with traditional outlook, while on the other hand there will be the second generation of Jains growing up in US with their fairly agnostic outlook towards both traditions and languages. Can Jain Centers of NA centers that have largely tried to unify under the banner of Jain heritage, but have still been based on a traditional outlook attract the next generation to practice and understand the essence of Jain heritage? The factor of common cultural roots that has helped the Jain community of NA to cement may lose its effectiveness in the next few decades. This is not a criticism, but a fact of life. We bring with us our experiences based on our environment and learning, and incorporate the same in our personal, professional as well as other aspects of our lives. Let us understand the environment and make-up of the second-generation Jains. i. Based in socioeconomic survey of South Asian
Indian (specific survey of Jain was not available), and the general business aptitude of the Jain community, we can safely say that over 75% of the Jain youth will attain a bachelor's or a higher degree and many of them will be involved in high income, generating jobs or enterprise. This will put the next generation in the elite USA category in
terms of education and prosperity. ii. Next, let us examine cultural heritage, just as
children today are growing up color-blind to various skin colors in the melting pot of US, most youth of coming generation will grow up tradition-blind. Most of these children may not have the opportunity to absorb traditions from grandparents and other family members as their counterparts in India. (Studies have shown that the most meaningful gift grandparents give are memories and traditions) It is important to realize the difference between value systems and traditions. Traditions are procedural, while value systems are set of principles that a person believes in. While, parents play a huge role in the child's value-system, grandparents invariably play a huge role of passing the
traditions. iii. Many of the second-generation Jains may
marry a non-Jain spouse, and thus their children will grow up in an inter-faith
The affluent and educated young
NA born Jains
Future
Attracting and grooming Future Leaders The difference in approach of different generations is already evident in some of the challenges we are seeing today. In spite of very successful Pathshala programs at all the Centers, where the number of students in lower grades is increasing year after year, these programs in general seem to have failed to maintain the same level of interest amongst children in higher grades - the defining years in a young person's life. We have to be able to sustain the momentum seen in younger grades by being able to retain the students as they go further up in grades. The

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message from the youngsters is clear - they want to learn in various ways they are used to learning in this society. They want to debate and learn how to apply the teachings of Jainism in their lives. This could mean reevaluating the teaching methods and combining the best of traditional eastern and successful open methods of the west; training the teachers and providing them with resources to educate, and inspire and empower the future leaders of the Jain community.
Looking at the young professional NA bom Jains, we can take immense pride in their incredible success in all walks of their lives. Given a forum to participate in, an opportunity to innovate and a cause to lead, they have done a fabulous job in organizing the YJA Convention over the years. Does that enthusiasm disappear or get deflated over the years? We have to figure out how to attract and mold our next generation - the young adults and young professionals. Recently an interesting observation was made at most major universities and companies like Google, Microsoft, and Cisco where there are decent numbers of immigrant Indians working with NAs of Indian origin: The NAS of Indian origin joined their immigrant cousin to enjoy watching world cup cricket; likewise, the immigrant Indians joined the NAS of Indian origin in watching the games of March madness. Learning from the observation, we can clearly say, the roots are common, we just have to find avenues and means for collaboration. Many of these young NA born professionals are expressing their Jain values in many nontraditional ways, such as leading the green cause (vegan life style), making a commitment to live a life of honesty and integrity, helping the underprivileged of the society and some even believe in meditation and self-introspection. If we ask our youth to take over and run the Jain organizations, they will not be successful if we limit them within the strict bounds of an established tradition, they will have to be given freedom to make changes to our traditions. This is bound to generate conflict. However, if we understand Jainism, it never condemns conflicts, as a matter of fact, in many respects it encourages discussing conflicts. Conflicts are a natural outcome of our karmic state, what Jainism teaches is a method to resolve such conflicts or find amicable way to work around conflicts and in the process ensuring core message of Jainism is not lost. Acharya Umaswati (or Umaswami) revered by both Shwetamber and Digamber
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fractions could not resolve the conflicts between the two groups, but his classic Tattvartha Sutra ensured continuation of Jain values for many generations to come.
Looking at the broader aspect of the sangh-Jain community of NA, let us not forget that religion is only one aspect of Jains of North America, just as it is of a person's life. Let us not forget the social and cultural aspects - it is the whole package that will be needed to attract and bring back the young professionals a platform for the new generation to come together to bond, network and relate to each other - spiritually, culturally and professionally.
Spirituality among Jain families
During our interview with various Acharyas in India, we were amazed to find similarity in their answers related to spirituality in USA. In one of the earlier visits Acharya Mahapragya once explained to us the importance and difference of Upasana (tradition) and Adahyama (spirituality). There is no difference in spirituality. among all the Jain traditions, in fact concept or spirituality extends the boundaries of a specific religion. The difference is in the traditions, traditions are required to maintain a sangh, help in propagating the religion, and set a stage for inspiring spirituality. Thus, a tradition by its very nature has cultural influence, its spirituality that helps in the ultimate self-realization. In a classic Jain sense one can view spirituality as the practice of Veetrag. Veetrag or the practice of Veetrag is development of the internal state that is free from attachment and aversion.
Let us do a small probabilistic evaluation of spirituality from a sadhutva perspective. One can assume some amount of spiritual feeling is innate among certain individuals. Taking the population of Jains in NA to be around hundred thousand compared to ten million in India, about hundred sadhus should be living among us (compared to about 10000 sadhus in India). This, not being the case, it would imply that either the environment is not conducive for people in NA to leave sansaric life, or the population distribution is such that they are not prepared to take up the path of Sadhutva. In all likelihood it is some combination of the above two situations. Yet among the next

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generation Jains, many of them being agnostic to traditions we will find some individuals who if inspired would decide to give up material world and prefer to live a life of sainthood. The abstract of Vinit Talsania (included in this magazine) is a living example.
When we asked Acharya Yashovijay Maharaj. about ways to inspire spirituality among the NA population, he responded saying the most important thing was sanskar. The surrounding, the day-to-day interaction with parents, interactions with other family members and family associates, friends, and the overall social environment
influences the value systems of a child. Sanskar is somewhat deeper. Some portions of Sanskar are innate, while some portions of it are a result of the parents and the elders influence. Sanskar starts by setting an example, the child is constantly noticing his/her elders. The second part of sanskar is encouraging the goodness of a child, something that is inborn in all humans, but not allowed to bloom. The third part is discussing the family values and let the child absorb them as he or she grows. If somebody does things out of fear of parents, elders, or society it is not sanskar. If a child grows with proper sanskar, spiritual feeling is bound to arise during the course of his life.
From as early as I can remember, I have always wanted happiness.
I spent most of my youth like most normal American kids do in search for happiness - chasing the opposite sex, money, material things, popularity, etc. I never thought of myself as religious since I only went to the deraser on the "big" days like Mahavir Jayanti and during Paryushan, and even then the main reason for going was to socialize. Having been born in a Jain family, I was naturally raised as a vegetarian. And I knew I was a vegetarian because of the key principle in Jainism called Ahimsa. I knew the Navkar Mantra. I did Athai (8 days of only water) during Paryushan when I was a sophomore in high school, mainly since my Dad kept telling me I wouldn't be able to do it. And after I successfully completed the 8 day fast, loads of family and

Studies done on close-knit Jewish families show that children of these families invariably return back to their family roots. It is not a surprise then that Jainism pays tremendous weightage to their traditional sanskar when bringing up a child. Guru in Jain dharma occupies the highest position. It is the guru that nurtures the practice of veetrag in an individual. Jain scriptures clearly state that the path of a soul to moksha is only through the guiding hand of a guru. Will the nextgeneration youth have to rely on finding their guru, who predominantly resides in India, or the Jains of North America will produce their own spiritual practitioners of the religion who will help adapt the message to the local area's dravya, kshetra, bhaav and kaal while maintaining the core message of Bhagwan Mahavir? Other religions like Buddhism have succeeded in adapting and prospering in their new environments even after moving away from their native regions. Can Jains of North America rise to that challenge?
If we rise to the challenges in front of us, the Jain community of North America will not only be unique but will start a trend that can bring about a fundamental change in our larger society.
In Search for Happiness
Vinit Talsania
Vinit.talsania@gmail.com
friends came to see me and gave me cash and gifts amounting to over $2000. I was pretty skied to say the least!
Happiness was always directed outward. Even while I was at Rutgers University and was more interested in studying personal development, the focus was to improve myself so that I could create the best possible outcome in my relationships, business, social circle, etc. I wanted to eat healthy and have a nice body so I could impress people (mainly girls). I wanted to do something great for the world so that I could, as a by-product, become super wealthy, be somewhat of a celebrity, and known for how I was such a "good" person. I was persistent in this belief because I really did want this amazing happiness that I did not have and could only dream of.
Possibly because of my strong commitment to search for true happiness, I was fortunate enough

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that before I wasted an entire lifetime trying to find happiness in the materialistic world, that I started looking somewhere else; I started looking within. This Master whom I have known for five years and who I now refer to as my Sadguru (True Guru), is whom I owe all the credit for this simple, yet significant, change in my life's direction. His name is, respectfully, Pujyashri Rakeshbhai Jhaveri.
Rakeshbhai Jhaveri (whom I now refer to as Gurudev) is a disciple of the Jain Saint, Shrimad Rajchandra. He has many qualifications that could impress anybody like a PhD, thousands of disciples across the globe, lots of knowledge, well spoken, and of course an all-white attire, but those are not the things that attracted me to Him. What attracted me to Him was his non-insistence (being an American youth this was very important!) and modern, and yet spiritual, approach to living a happy life.
In these past 5 years, I've only met Him personally a handful of times. They were mainly when He had visited the US to give lectures. Each time our conversations were very friendly and informal. I wasn't much interested in His lectures at the time since they were mainly in Gujarati. Once or twice when He visited our house and mainly because my parents insisted, I would pose some questions to Him that were of concern to me. I asked Him once, "How can I be as happy as I am when I drink (alcohol), and maintain that same state all the time?". Each time I would ask Him, He would listen and then logically give some points for me to ponder. At the end of it though, the choice was always left in my hands, which was very relieving. Little did I realize at the time that he was always hinting me to search within. I wasn't ready to give up my search for happiness in worldly matters, and am still not sure in many ways, but I now know that I have a Self Realized Guru guiding me each step of the way, and I feel very much at
ease.
Because of the mystical nature of my Guru's relationship with me, I find it difficult if someone asks me to describe my relationship now. If a relationship is all about how you "relate" to another person, then just as quickly as I change, grow, and purify myself, so does my relationship with him changes, grows, and purifies as well. The biggest leap that our relationship took was approximately 11⁄2 years ago. Gurudev had come to New Jersey in December 2008 and had
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casually mentioned that they were going to Rajasthan in January for the annual youth retreat. I was working, but I managed to take off one week to attend the retreat in India with Gurudev and approximately 700 youth who were part of the organization He has established - Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram - Dharampur.
During that retreat, I was so uplifted by the sessions and by the energetic atmosphere that I decided I could no longer work for the company I was working for, since it conflicted with my moral values now. Despite being a vegetarian, I had allowed myself to eat eggs when in baked goods, but after giving up eggs, I could not justify selling the same product in large quantity any longer. I immediately went to the business center of the resort where we were staying and wrote an email explaining the situation to my boss. Little did I know, that one small decision of attending one shibir would change my life forever. I extended my stay in India since I no longer needed to rush back to work. My cousin, her husband, and their two kids had recently moved to Ahmedabad and insisted I stay with them. During the weekdays I would go to their office (a software company) and on the weekends I would get away to either the Ashram in Dharampur (Gujarat) or Mumbai by train. During the weekends that I would be at the ashram, I would be in a serene atmosphere attending Gurudev's satsangs. When in Mumbai, I would be in the noisy and hectic metropolitan city. In both environments, Gurudev would teach us to remain detached. I was getting trained and was starting to realize that I didn't want this trip to end.
Nine months went by like this and finally I decided it was time to return "home" to the US. But this was not my final return, but just a visit. For my real home now was India. All my dreams to live in California were thrown out of the window and I decided to live in Mumbai, a city, where I could never think of living.
I've been in India for over 18 months now and Mumbai for the last 9 months and am really happy with my new life. I do miss my old friends and familiar environment, but I'm learning more and more to enjoy change, since that is the only thing constant in this world. In many ways, I'm still the same person I was before, but the difference is that my values and my goals have changed. Instead of hanging out in my spare time, I choose

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to spend my time around Gurudev and other followers like myself.
I'm not yet married, and am not sure if I really want to. No offense to my ex-girlfriends, but along with the joy, comes some amount of sadness and seperation. There is another option that a handful of people are choosing every year in Gurudev's group. This option is something that I am seriously considering and striving to prepare myself for. I want to be an Atmarpit. The Atmarpit group is for individuals who want to live a highly dedicated and spiritually focused life. They have a certain amount of sadhana (spiritual practices) and seva (service) that they are required to complete daily. along with a vow of brahamacharya (celibacy). Depending on their family's financial situation some of the Atmarpits are still working to support themselves and their family. This is a diksha
Jain Center of Greater Phoenix, Scottsdale, AZ Jain Center of S. California-Los Angeles, CA Jain Center of Northern California, San Jose, CA Jain Sangh of N.J.- (Cherry Hill)
Jain Society of Central Florida, Inc., Indianatic, FL Jain Center of South Florida, Miami, FL
Jain Vishwa Bharati, Orlando, FL
Jain Society Inc. of Tampa Bay, Palm Harbor, FL Jain Society of Greater Atlanta, Atlanta,, GA Jain Society of Metro Chicago, Chicago, IL Jain Sangh of New England, Burlington, MA Jain Center of Greater Boston, Norwood, MA
Jain Centers & Temples in North America
Centers with Jain Temple or Dedicated Place of Worship
Centers with Shared Place of Worship (Joint Hindu-Jain Temple)
Jain Society of Alberta, Edmonton, AB Jain Society of Greater Sacramento, Macero, CA Jain Society of San Diego, San Diego, CA Jain Center of Colorado, Highlands Ranch, CO Jain Center of G. Hartford, S. Glastonbury, CT Jain Association of Northeast Florida, FL Augusta Jain Community, Martinez, GA Jain Association of KC., Overland Park, KS
although they are not full-fledged monks yet, but you can say they are like monks in training. Getting married or not getting married is never an easy decision. - the two sides of the argument do not always agree. However, with my goal of Self Realization, I no longer see so much value in marriage. I have still not decided one way or another. The attraction towards the opposite is sex is strong, but I do find myself getting less and less pulled in that direction each day. As more happiness is manufactured inside, less dependency is left on the outside.

This may just be a first small step towards Moksha, but I would not have it any other way. Whether or not one believes in rebirth, I feel I've been reborn this year and am starting my life from scratch. With an out-of-this-world Guide and with such a simple, yet high goal, I can only imagine what is yet to come.
Jain Soc. of Metro Washington, SilverSpring, MD Jain Center of Greater Charlotte, Charlotte, NC JVB New Jersey Center, Iselin, NJ
Jain Center of N.J. - Essex Fells, Jersey City, NJ Jain Center of America - Bellerose, NY Jain Center of Cincinnati/Dayton, Fairfield, OH Jain Center of Central Ohio, Columbus, OH Jain Society of Greater Cleveland, Richfield, OH Jain Society of Toronto Inc., ONT Jain Vishwa Bharati, Houston, TX
Jain Society of N. Texas/Dallas, Plano, TX Jain Society of Houston, Sugar Land, TX Jain Society of Greater Detroit, Inc., MI Jain Society of Seattle, Bothell, WA
Jain Society of Southern Louisiana, Gretna, LA Jain Society of Greater Lansing, Okemos, MI Jain Center of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN Jain Center of Greater St. Louis, Ballwin, MO Jain Study Center of N. Carolina, Raleigh, NC Atlantic Jain Sangh, Galloway, NJ
Jain Society of Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV Jain Community of Buffalo, Lockport, NY Jain Society of Capitol District-Albany, NY Jain Sangh of Hudson Valley, Poyghkeepsie, NY

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Jain Center of Syracuse, Baldwinsville, NY Jain Society of Rochester, Pittsford, NY Jain Center of Toledo, Sylvania, OH Tulsa Jain Sangh, Bixby, OK
Jain Samaj of Niagra Falls, Toronto, ONT Jain Society of Pittsburgh, Monroeville, PA Jain Sangh of Samarpan Temple, Hamilton, NJ Jain Center of Allentown, Bethlehem, PA Jain Center of South Central PA, PA Richmond Jain Society of Virginia, VA Jain Religion Center of Wisconsin, Mequon, WI Jain Center of Greater Charlotte, Charlotte, NC Jain Society of Toronto Inc., Toronto, ONT Jain Center of Cincinnati/Dayton, Fairfield, OH Fayattsville, NC.
Harrisburg, PA
Lynchberg, VA
Mr. Chandrakant Mehta Pdt. Dharma Chandra (Shastri) Pdt. Dheeraj Lal Mehta Dr. Dipak Jain
Jain Monks and Scholars Visiting or Stationed in North America
List of Monks
Shri Amrendra Muniji Maharaj Shri Atmanandji Maharaj Shri Ashwini Prajnaji
Shri Bhuvnesh Muniji Maharaj Acharya Chandanaji Gurudev Chitrabhanuji Bhattarak Charukeertiji Shri Jinchandsuriji Maharaj Shri Jinchandraji Maharaj Shri Keertichandraji Maharaj Shri Manak Muniji Maharaj Shri Roop Chandraji Maharaj Mataji Subhmati
Sadhvi Subhamji Sadhvi Shilapaji
List of Participating Jain Scholars in NA
Pdt. Abhay Kumar Jain
Mr. Anand Kumar Jain Mr. Anop Vora Shri. Anupam Shah Mr. Bhadrabahuvijayji Jain Prof. Bhagchandra Jain Mr. Bharat S. Shah

Pakifssy, NY
Other Jain Centers
Jain Center of British Columbia - B.C., Jain Center of Connecticut - CT, Delaware Jain Sangh PA, Jain Assoc. of Palm Beach
& Treasure Cst - FL, Jain Center of Ft. MyersFL, Shri Dharmvihar Upashrya - FL, International Jain Sangh - NJ, Greater Binghamton Jain Sangh - NY, Jain Association of Elmira - NY, Jain Association of OttawaCarleton - ONT, Jain Society of Oregon, OR, Samarpan Jain Sangh - PA, Jain Sangh of North East PA, Montreal Jain Association - QC, Jain Society of Greater Memphis - TN, Jain Society of Middle Tennessee - TN.
-
Saman Shrut Pragya Swamiji Samani Sanmati Pragyaji (Stationed in NJ) Samani Jayant Pragyaji (Stationed in NJ) Samani Akshay Pragyaji (Stationed in Houston) Samani Parimal Pragyaji (Stationed in Houston) Samani Bhavit Pragyaji (Stationed in Orlando)
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
Mrs. Dipti Shah Ms. Falguni Zaveri Mr. Girish Shah Mr. Harendra Shah Mr. Hemant Gandhi
Mr. Hermann Kuhn Mr. Hitesh Shah Dr. Hukamchand Bharill Mr. Jagdeeshchandra Doshi Dr. Jagdish Jain
Pdt. Jay Kumar Upadhyaya

Samani Vishad Pragyaji (Stationed in Orlando) Samani Chaitania Pragyaji (Stationed in FIU) Samani Unnate Pragyaji (Stationed in FIU) Samanijis: Other Samanajis from India travel as needed.
Dr. Jitendra Shah
Mr. Jyotindra Doshi
Dr. Keertibhai Shah Pdt. Khemchandra Jain Mr. Kirit Gosalia
Ms. Kokilaben Doshi
Dr. Kumarpal Desai
Mr. Lalit Dhami Veer Senik Mr. Yogesh Shah Veer Senik Vidhikar Manoj Kumar Haran Mr. Manubhai Doshi

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Mr. Vijay Doshi Prof. Vimal Prakash Jain Dr. Yashwant Malaiya
Dr. N.P. Jain Vidhikar Narendrabhai Nandu Mr. Naresh Shah Pdt. Nareshbhai Doshi Mr. Nautam bhai Vakil Mr. Niraj Jain Mr. Nirmal Dosi Shri. Nirmal Sagarji Dr. Padmanath Jaini Mr. Pavan Kumar Jain Ms. Pramodaben Chitrabhanu Prof. Pratap Kumar Toliya Dr. Pravin Doshi Mr. Pravin Shah Mr. Pravin C Shah Dr. Pravin L Shah Dr. Premchand Gada
Mr. Pulkit Shah Mr. Rajendra Dalal Mr. Rajendra Kamdar Mr. Rajendra Shah Mr. Rajnibhai Shah Dr. Rakeshbhai Jhaveri Mrs. Raksha Shah Mr. Ram Gada Mr. Ramesh Mehta Dr Rameshbhai Parekh Dr. Sagarmalji Jain Dr. Shekharchandra Jain Dr. Snehrani Jain Mr. Subhash J. Sheth Ms. Tarla Doshi Prof. Vastupal Parekh
Other JAINA Convention or YJA/YJP schlolars Dr. Bruce (Balbhadra) Costain Mr. Arvind Bhandari Mr. Gabriel Figueroa Prof. Gary Francione Mr. Yogendra Jain Mr. Rajiv Jain Mr. Amar Salgia Ms. Rae Sikora Dr. Michael Tobias Prof. Anne Vallely
Muni Shri Santbalji - A Great Social Worker (1904-1982)
Muni Shri Santbalji was born in 1904 in the village disapproved of him as a mendicant and Tol of Morbi Taluka where Shrimad Rajchandra boycotted him. and Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati were also He was fully determined to be amongst people born. Shivlal took Diksha in 1929 in the presence and he moved to the backward villages of Bhalof thousands of Jains and non-Jains. He became Nalkantha region of Gujarat He started COan ardent disciple of Shri Nanchandraji Maharaj operatives encouraged Khadi and cottage and later became famous as Santbal,
industries, adopted improved agriculture methods, He came to be known as Shata Vadhani (one who activated village panchayats, started the system remembers one hundred verses at a time). His of arbitration for village disputes, clinics, scholarly attributes earned him the title of Bharat experimental unions and several other institutions, Ratna. He converted the four scriptures- He wanted to build the society based on single Uttaradhyayan, Dashvaishalik, Acharang and religion of equality, sympathy and honor for all. He Avashyak into simple Gujarati language with opposed injustice by non-violent methods and effective narrations. He also translated Tattvarth made all out efforts to ensure truth & justice. Sootra in Gujarati poetic form.
He breathed his last on Friday, March 26, 1982, Breaking the traditional boundaries, he He was an activist and said, "Service to society is expressed revolutionary ideas to create society service to Self" and advised everyone to based on the principles of core Jain beliefs. As a remember this principle. result, the Sangh that granted him Diksha,
Information provided by Mr. Pravin K. Shah
Jain Munishri Maitriprabh Sagarji has been arrested by UP police for his non-violent protest of fast unto death at Baraut, Baagpat (U.P). He started his fast on April 26, 2011 in protest of issuing 10 new licenses for new slaughter-houses. All the proposed ultra-modern slaughter-houses will have a capacity to butcher 10,000-20,000 animals per day and the meat will be exported out of India. You can send post card/Fax/email to different authorities. Please see more details on the JAINA web site.
E
B

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Murtipujak Jain Sampraday
1) Shri Sudharma Swami (Nirgrantha Gachh)
2) Shri Jambu Swami
3) Shri Prabhav Swami
4) Shri Sayyambhav Suri
5) Shri Yashobhadra Suri
6) Shri Sambhutivijay
Shri Bhadrabahu Swami
7) Stha. Sthulbhadra
Stha. Nandanbhadra Stha. Yashobhadra -Stha. Upnandanbhadra Stha. Yashobhadra And More
Stha. Yagyadatta Stha, Somdatta
And More
8) Arya Suhasti Suri
Arya Mahagiri
The Murtipujak Jain Sampraday traces its origin directly from Bhagwan Mahavir. The sampraday's records give a very detailed lineage of Acharyas, with the current Acharyas falling between the 75th to 80th in the line after Shri Sudharma Swami (the fifth Ganadhar of Bhagwan Mahavir). The adjacent figure shows the level of detail maintained by Tapa Gachh Jain Sampraday. The Murtipujak Sampraday is split into Achalgachh, Khatargachh, Paychandgachh, Tapagachh and Tristutik sects. The Tapagachh is by far the largest of these sects. In fact the number of monks in Tapagachh are more than all other sect's Jain monks (including Digamber and Sthanakvasi), and accordingly the following is comparatively large. The complied list of all Murtipujak Acharyas is given at the end of this section. We have included the profiles of very few Acharyas whom we had a chance to meet, or if any of the community member provided such information.
Stha. Rohan 9) Stha. Susthit 9) Stha. Supratibhadhha
Stha. Uttar -Stha. Shrigupt Shri Kotik Gachh
Stha. Kaudinya Stha. Yashobhadra
Stha. Dhanadhya And More 10) Stha. IndradinnaSuri
Stha. Rohgupt -
And More Stha. Priyangrantha
11) Stha. Dinnasuri
Stha. Vidyadhar Stha. Rushidatta
12) Aa. Sinhagiri
Aryashanti
-Stha, Dhangiri
13) Aa. Shri Vajraswami
-- 15) Stha. ChandraSuri (ChandraGachh) 202BC
More Digamber Split
Stha. Aa. Samit
Stha. Arhadinna
16) Shri Samantabhadra Suri (Vanvasi Gachh) 257BC
36) Shri SarvadevSuri (Vad Gachh) 937 AD
H---------------> Khatargachh - 1157 AD 41) Ajitdev Suri
----- Anchalgachh - 1166 AD 42) VijaysinhaSuri
44) Shri JagachhandraSyri (Tapa Gachh) 1228AD
->Paychandgachh - 1513 AD 56) Anandvimalsuri
77) Shri RamchandraSurishvarji (1897-1992)
Lineage of Acharayas (Tapa Gachh) (Source: Shwetamber Tapa Gachh Records, may not be in full agreement with all Jain Sects)
Murtipujak Sect Number of Monks % Split % In Entire Jain Sangh
Tristutik Tristutik
246 2.83%
asalah gachh
312 3.59%
lapa: gachh
7785 89.58%
Paychand- Khatar g achh gachh
68 280 0.78% 3.22%
Total
8691 100%
1.73%
2.20%
54.90%
0.48%
1.97%
61%
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Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji
A seven-year-old Kantilal was having his favorite meal, when a beggar came at his doorstep. The child looked at the beggar then looked at his tasty meal and finally decided to give the whole meal away to this beggar. Confused about the whole situation the child hid in a corner crying for more than an hour. He finally approached his father and asked him the reason why some people had to suffer so much. His father explained to him, jive hinsa results in unhappiness, while jive ahimsa is the source of real happiness. As he started to imbibe the message of Ahimsa, he was attracted towards a lifestyle in which he could live without hurting others. He would learn later that Sadhutava was that lifestyle where one could live without hurting others. At a tender age of thirteen, Kantilal joined his father towards the path of Sadhutava. This caring and compassionate child grew up to be Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji.

NUORTA
Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji was born to Jiviben and Gagalbhai in Bhorol, a pilgrim town near Palanpur, Gujarat. Acharyaji took Diksha along with his father at a tender age of thirteen. Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji's father Shri Gagalbhai later known as Acharya Gunayash Suriji became the disciple of great Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji. Acharya Gunayash Suriji became Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji's Guru; immediate predecessor in the line of succession in Jain Shwetamber Murtipujak Tapagatch tradition. Trained under
Acharya Shri Ramchandra Surishwarji. Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji has wide knowledge on Jain architecture, literature, Agam and rites and rituals of Jainism.
During our meeting with Acharyaji we asked how. one could justify the Jain tradition of Child Diksha. He replied giving his own example. He had fond memories of his parents, specially his mother who was very loving and like every mother would fulfill every desire of the child. His father on the other hand was a disciplinarian. For a child, his mother is his world and if a child is willing to give up mother's tender love, he can give up everything else in the world. It is true that a child may not have the capacity to express all his feelings and some inner thoughts, but a child still has the capacity to understand and perceive the truth. It is the feeling that one senses but cannot express. That bhav (feeling)
is identical in a child and an adult. Giving another example, Acharyaji further added that the bhav resulting from deep sadhana is difficult to be expressed in words. In this case both a child and an adult could have similar experiences and neither of them would be capable of fully expressing their experiences. The bhav that drives one towards sadhutva is internal, and is very independent of what the world understands as adult maturity.
Acharya Kirtiyas Suri Maharaj (Acharyaji did not give specific permission to photograph him neither did he instruct us to not do so. We had to wait for a while to capture an appropriate pose. Photograph was edited to present a proper portrait.)
In our next question, we tried to understand the level of detachment in the life of a great sadhu.

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Taking his own life as an example we asked him about the possible attachment that a father and son could share as Acharya Gunayash Suriji was both his Guru and father. Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji while explaining the personality of his father recalled that regardless of the fact that he was the only son of his parents, his father (a true
disciplinarian) never passed any undue favors but ensured his proper development and upbringing. Gagalbhai (sansaric name of Acharya Gunayash Suriji) had a great sense of duty towards his family but not attachment (mooha). Acharyaji went on to describe various other instances that demonstrated this relationship. Another such instance is when; Acharyaji developed a serious leg infection, couple years after his diksha. During this period, Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji wanted his disciple Muni Gunayash Suri to undertake a long journey, while concerned about health of the teenage Muni Kirtiyash Vijay. Expressing his concern, Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji asked Muni Gunayash Suri if it was advisable for him to undertake the long journey leaving the teenage Muni behind. Muni Gunayash Suri did not hesitate to tell his Guru that as a sadhu it was his duty to follow his guru and that the well-being of teenage Muni Kirtiyash would be looked after by the head of the congregation, Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji.
Giving a second incident exemplifying the relationship, Acharyaji talked about a serious roadside accident that he met three to four years ago. Lying in the hospital in a very critical condition, his Guru Acharya Gunayash Suriji came
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Muni Samvegyash Vijay
International
29.01
CHILD DIKSHA ACCEPTED BY GOVT. TO BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH JAIN SCRIPTURES -
JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Bal Diksha has been opposed for many years and these protests have increased over the last 100 years. The opposition to this, many centuries old religious practice from some social activist was mainly due to lack of understanding of the whole purpose of Diksha. It was important to educate the masses the deeper and real meaning of Diksha and how Bal Diksha was a part and parcel of this concept. Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji Maharaj and Sagarsuri Maharaj had taken up the challenge of proving that Bal Diksha was not only an age old religious practice but also an appropriate path of spiritual progress for certain select individuals. Though Ramchandra Surishwarji Maharaj passed away 20 years ago, he started a great movement to educate the people the purpose of Bal Diksha. Acharya Kirtiyash Suri Maharaj, Acharya. Ramchandra Surishwarji's grand disciple, took over the mantle and continued the campaign.
•
In a memorandum issued in Government of India Gazette dated April 27, 2009, it has been announced that 'diksha' of Jain children not below the age of 8 years is permissible and is quite in accordance with the Jain scriptures. High Courts of Rajasthan and Mumbai had earlier accepted child diksha as a religious activity and was permissible if the parents gave their consent. This ruling that Bal Diksha is beyond the scope of Juvenile Justice Amendment Act and therefore it is not an unlawful act, has now been cleared both by the Apex courts and the Government of India.

to visit him. The Guru's message was very simple, "You realize that suffering is a result of past karmas, handle them with samata (Equanimity)". Ten days later when Acharyaji's health had somewhat improved his Guru again visited him, and offered a different message "You cannot afford to sleep anymore; we have a lot of responsibility towards Dharma and the Sangh." Acharyaji depicted the life of a sadhu through this simple narration. He highlighted the deeper

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
meaning of equanimity (samata), compassion, and chance that he heard the discourses of commitment towards duty
Acharya Ramchandra Surishwarji and Acharya Acharya Shri Kirtiyash Suri is a very inspirational Kirtiyash Suri (then Muni Shri Kirtiyash Vijayji) and popular speaker (Pravachan Prabhaavak) and which transformed his life. He then went on to hundreds of people come to listen to his daily
become a disciple of Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji. discourses. His speeches leave a deep
Bowing and touching the feet of Acharya impression on the listener's mind. Some
Kirtiyash Suriji was a unique experience. It is individuals have changed their entire path of life difficult to describe in words the blissful feeling after simply listening to his discourses. Prior to that this interviewer experienced when joining the path of monkhood, Muni Samvegyash Acharyaji touched the back of his head. We Vijay was an executive involved in marketing encourage our readers to visit such great computing systems. He had a degree from Acharyas and experience firsthand, the energy of Mumbai University and was least interested in care and compassion. Jain tradition or philosophy. It was a sheer
Unleashing The Power of The Ego-less Self
We asked Acharyaji about the reason for staying A young sadhu barely eleven years old, learns
in maun. Acharyaji explained by giving the the basic principles of Jainism from his esteemed example of writing a book. He asked a few simple Guru but still struggles to find his real self--Who questions, "How could one write a book unless it am I? The Guru says, "I can guide but only self was blank to start-with? What was the use of any can realize the true nature of self". At the age of knowledge if our preconceived notions or thirteen sadhu embraces maun (a state where he delusionary concept corrupted it?" Giving credit does not speak) and stays in that state for over 30 again to his guru, he told us that his guru first years. This sadhu is popularly known as Acharya helped him to erase his book and subsequently Maharaj Yashovijay Suriji.
helped him to write the book with real knowledge, At the age of eight, Acharyaji fell seriously ill, and of which some portion of it he could not even most people including doctors were not sure if the express in day-to-day language. Laying a lot of
emphasis on introspection, he told us a few things: child would survive. At that point, his mother made a vow that she would allow him to take
"knowledge remains superficial unless one diksha if he
absorbs its survived. Later
deeper meaning
through his mother would tell him, "Child
introspection. Our
likes and dislikes you have come to this world to live a
keep us in the life of Sadhu".
external world. The child never
These likes and looked back, an
dislikes evaporate
once we realize inner power took over him and the
that all these are only thing he
a result of our
own fault or our thought was diksha. At a
delusion. Words tender age of
are only required eleven, Acharya
to stay in the Maharaj
outer world, no
words are Yashovijay Suriji
required to stay took diksha under his guru Ohmkar
close to the soul. Suriji.
Unless one stays
within we cannot Acharya Yashovijay Suriji

Jain Education Interational
37

Page #38

JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
understand the reality of self." Acharyaji stayed in living was to stay within the bounds of reality and moun until he was able to realize his self-Who I not delusion. am? - That name-less self.
For people living in foreign countries, he laid As the discussion progressed from maun to to his emphasis on the importance of imparting right decision to come out of the maun state, Acharyaji sanskar, to the younger generation. A simple tensaid:
minute prayer prior to the meal could go a long નિશ્ચચટ્ટષ્ટિ હૃદયે ઘરીજી
way. A lively discussion of human value systems
could also have a profound impact on the young જે પાળે વ્યવહાર.
minds. However, his most pertinent observation
was that children always observed their parents Only after one realizes the power of ego-less self,
and unless they lived a life of Dharma (not just in one can give the message of truth to the outside
the traditional sense but in sense of basic integrity world.
and human values), all later efforts could go "My Parmatama's message was to first realize the waste. power of the ego-less self. With that realization
At the end of the interview, Acharya Maharaj came a unique joy (anand). The second part of the
Yashovijay Suriji explained the Jain teaching in message was to guide others to realize the same
few words: "Mere observation does not result in anand. A book of knowledge only provides the
karmas; being in a state of equanimity is outline, but the joy of one's soul can inspire
meditation (which is elimination of karmas), a another soul to the same joyful state." - Acharyaji.
desire to do something results in karmas. To Coming to the topic of Sadhutva, Acharyaji understand the finer implications of the shastras explained how to look within and realize the
one has to look within to understand the true immense anand of the soul to be able to motivate nature of self. others to feel the same anand was the essence of Sadhutva, everything else was just a procedure or tradition. Dharma was nothing but learning and practicing the true art of living. Deep introspection brought one to reality of self (soul) and the art of
Acharya Vijay Nandighosha Suri
Acharya Nandighoshavijayji is a revered monk who is exploring science and studying its compatibility to the Jain scriptures. He is very certain that it is essential to represent the scientific principles that lay hidden in our Jain scriptures. He received his vows of monkhood almost 37 years ago under Gacchadhipati Acharya Shri Suryodayasuriji. He was born as Nirmal Kumar Nagindas Shah and was a keen student of math and science. After almost 8 years of monkhood and having mastered Sanskrit and Prakrit, he was able to study
the Jain scriptures in depth. This study along with his keen interest in science enabled him to relate to the scientific thoughts in the Jain scriptures with modern day science. In addition to the routine chores of a Jain Monk his celestial mind is also occupied with pure physics, Einstein's theories, quantum leap etc. He has made a deep study of various profound topics in mathematics and physics along with the Jain Agams vis-à-vis modern theories. He got the book "Jainism through Science" published in English and Gujarati.
Acharya Vijay Nandighosha Suri
38

Page #39

What
http://convention.jaina.org
Hosted by the Jain Society of Houston
Best Regards
Sushil Jain
Udai Jain
Himanshu Ajmera
Phone:(832) 447-8495
Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji
Acharya Shree Chandanaji
Gurudev Shree Rakeshbhai Zaveri
HTS

Dear Friends:
Jai Jinendra!
JAINA cordially invites you and your family to its 16th biennial convention to be held at George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas from Friday, July 1 to Monday, July 4th, 2011. The theme for the 2011 JAINA convention is "Live and Help Live".
Blessings from:
We have planned a wide variety of discussions, lectures, and panel discussions with dignitaries and scholars from all over the world to convey the message of Jainism and non-violence. We will learn, inspire, vocalize and understand the key Jainism messages through meetings, discourses, debates and discussions during the convention.
AND
Visit www.Jaina.org web-site for more details on the upcoming convention, including registration information. We look forward to welcoming you to Houston.
Chalo Houston
Friday-Monday July 1-4, 2011
LIVE
HELP

LIVE
JAINA CONVENTION 2011 July 14th | Houston | TX
With over 2,500 attendees already registered, we expect registration to sell out quickly. So, take action today without delay. Join your friends and family this July 4th for an amazing experience and memories of a lifetime. Register online at http://convention.jaina.org or complete and mail a paper registration form. We are waiting for you!!!
Shree Jinchandraji Maharaj
Bhattarak Shree Charukeerti Swamiji Samani Shree Charitra Prajnaji
16th Biennial JAINA Convention

Page #40

Convention Hotel
Hilton Americas Houston
Convention Cente
George R. Brown Convention Cente
Sessions
⚫ Religious & Spiritual Discourses Entrepreneurship & Development Workshops
Jain Unity & Interfaith
⚫ Science & Jainism
✦ Jain Tirth, Jain Art, Jain History Jain Way of Life Healthy Lifestyles for Seniors ⚫ Seniors Sessions
On Site Kids Club

Transportation
Convention Highlights
NASA - An Out of This World Experience
Discovery Green Eco Park
Children's Museum, Waterworld
From 3 to 13 yrs of Age Group Participate in Convention worry free Supervised fun activities for kids Fun, educational, and spiritual activities
Over 2500 people have registered!
Registration Fees:
May 16 Jun 24 = $169/Adult and $129/Child Jun 25 - on-site = $175/Adult and $135/Child
Gateway to Cruises
Moody Gardens and IMAX at Galveston Island Recognized Theaters, Museums and Temples
Airline booking discounts available Houston Airport Shuttle (IAH and HOU) Private buses from your Center to Convention can be arranged
Optional local area and excursion tours Valet Parking will be available
Friday-Monday July 1-4, 2011
http://convention.jaina.org
Events
Networking Opportunities JAIN 21, JNF, Youth Forum Show your Culinary skills - Jain Way Networking with Professionals Reconnect and make new friends Family, Group, and Community Reunions
Available Sponsorships
Sanghpati ($31,000)
Corporate ($25,000)
Platinum ($15,000) Diamond ($11,000)
& more... (Less then $11,000)
• Professional entertainment
Jain & Vegan Food
LIVE
15 meals planned Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tea Time and Snacks Healthy Jain & Vegan diet choices
Chalo
Houston
• Keynote Speeches on "Live and Help Live" Sessions on Science and Jainism, Panel Discussions Exhibits, Vendor booths, and Poster sessions International Jain Leaders Forum - "Diaspora" ⚫ Cultural Programs by Jain Centers "Jains got Talent" competition Garba-Raas-Bhangra
AND
Phone: (832) 447-8495
JAINA CONVENTION 2011 July 1-4 Houston | TX
16th Biennial JAINA Convention
HELP
Reunion
LIVE
&
Networking
DIAMOND

Page #41

Professional Tracks (Tentative)
Track
Jainism in West
Live Help Live
Entrepreneurship
Seniors
Health
Interfaith
Jain Dharm for Layman (basic)
Jain Tenets (intermediate)
Advanced Jain dharma
Way of worships (Rites & Rituals)
Science & Jain dharma
Jain History
Topic 1
Academic Studies: Strategies for Growth
Religious Tracks (Tentative)
Track
Topic 1
Community Service & Share your experience (Panel)
Workshop-ABCD of Entrepreneurs (Panel)
Social Challenges for Seniors
Principles of various religions
Doctrine of Karma in Jain Philosophy
Jalain food temnational
Ahimsa
Agams & Siddhant
Speech on Pooja - Swetambar tradition
Medical Treatment overseas Preventing Heart Disease
Jiv Daya (Help Live) practiced by Tirthankars
Pros and Cons of Veganism
Topic 2
Perceptions of western visitors of Jain Temples in India
Agams and Help Live
Jain way of running business
Prep for retirement
Tracks and Topics
Karma Theory of various religions
Topic 2
Jainism IQJeopardy on Jainism for adults
Aparigrah
Sthanak to Gunsthanak
Speech on Pooja - Digambar tradition
Practicing ecology in daily life
Sadgati ka Marg
Non-violence, Peace & Harmony
Sahyog ka Vyahavar
Trends in
Entrepreneurship - Health, IT, Green Energy
Yoga/ Diet for Seniors
Overview of Diabetes
Topic 3
Basic principles of Jain Dharma
Anekantwad
Darshan to Samyak Darshan
Topic 3
Samyak Darshan
Jainism and Sustainability
Importance of "Tirth"
Jain Food as Medicine - Panel
Topic 4
Four Dhyan & Five Aachaar
Understanding and Control of Kashayas
Nav Tatva
AND
Mukti through Bhakti
Anekantvad & Science Study of Religion
LIVE
HELP
Community Outreac (Panel)
JAINA CONVENTION 2 July 1-4 Houston I
Topic 4
LIVE
Social Challenges
Protecting from medical mistakes
Topic 5
Karmic Theory

Page #42

A HELD
Evening Entertainment
JAINS got TALENT
Vrchand Gandhi
Great Hero who represented Jain community in 1st Parliament of World Religions held in CHICAGO, 1893. Great Patriot who defended Indian Religions, Culture and Civilization.
FIRST EVER Jains Got Talent Competition in Houston, JAINA Convention 2011 . If you have talent, come join us!
Prizes! • Singing
Awards! • Dancing • Unique Talents
Publicity! • Two Categories: 18 & Under, Above 18
** Separate event on its own**
Please visit http://convention.jaina.org Click on 'Program Information' for more information
For more information, JGT2011@jaina.org
Gandhi
Gandhi
before
Indian Idols coming to JAINA, 2011 Jam the evening away to these entertainers...
Melodious Bhoomi Trivedi
Rocking Rakesh Maini
Soul stirring Sreeram

Page #43

JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
His Work:
theory of special relativity according to jainology, Acharya Nandighoshavijayji has set out various the Muni (currently Acharya) has made an attempt themes that indicate Jain concepts of science in
to point up drawbacks in Einstein's Special Theory accordance with modern science. The Jain
of Relativity (STR) by putting forth arguments concept is qualitative but the modern concept of derived from the interpretation of Jain philosophy, science is quantitative. His articles in the book
with support from the hypothesis on the existence "Jainism through Science" discuss intricate topics of "techyon", which are currently postulated to like the concept of time, origin and development of have a velocity higher than light. universe, Darwin's theory of evolution, Wave Dr Vaidya, a renowned mathematician theory of light and many more such topics. The observed, "The results of these comparisons basic scientific introduction has been followed up may not be acceptable to all, but that does not with a detailed discussion according to Jain
diminish the importance of these writings". Philosophy. He uses strong logical arguments to Einstein once wrote, "Science without religion is put forward his view. He uses strong logical
lame and religion without science is blind". arguments to put forward his view. For instance, Acharyaji in his book has challenged certain an article in the book, on the shortcomings of the shortcomings of Einstein's Special Theory of
Relativity (STR), by putting forth arguments Gacchadhipati Acharya Suryodaya derived from interpretation of Jain scriptures. Suri attained Kaldharma
Research Institute Jaina Education Committee deeply mourns A Research Institute to explore the ancient Indian the sad demise of Gacchadhipati Acharya
religious and philosophical traditions and to reShri Suryodayasuriji and conveys their deep establish the religious culture amongst the youth, sense of sorrow.
has been recently established at Ahmedabad by Acharya Shri has attained Kaldharma on May
the inspiration and guidance of Acharya Nandi 4. 2011 3:10 AM India time. He was 78 years Ghosh Vijayji Maharaj. Dr. P.C. Vaidya old. He was the Guru Bhagvant of Acharya inaugurated the Institute. Shri Shilchandra suri and Acharya Shri
Contribution to JAINA Nandighosh suri.
Acharya Nandighosh Suri has assisted JAINA by He was very supportive of JAINA education
editing and correcting most of the Pathshala activities. He supported the activities of
education books. JAINA Education Books and eLibrary through his disciples Acharya Shilchandra Suri and His Ideas & Thoughts: Acharya Nandighosh Suri.
Acharyaji says that being a Jain Monk has Acharya Shilchandra suri has provided about limitations regarding practical work in the field of 150 high quality Jain literature books
science. He says he has not tested the scientific including entire publication of Kalikal
principles laid down in Jain scriptures practically. Sarvagya Shri. Hemchandracharya Navam Acharyaji however, seems to be set on a lifetime Janmshatabdi Smruti Sanskar Shikshannidhi
course of comparative study of scriptures and to JAINA eLibrary. Acharya Nandighosh Suri science. What he inscribed on a copy of his book edited most of our Pathshala education
is his motto: "Knowing is not enough. We must books.
apply. Willing is not enough. We must do."
Jain Education Intematona

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
Darshan of An Ever Smiling, Ever Blessing Acharya
Jaishekharsuri
to the mother and asked her "can you voharav Jayant had made the impossible possible, his
something very nice that nobody would". Puzzled leadership skills coupled with an excellent batting the mother had no answer. After some time performance had enabled the seventh graders Jayanandsuri Maharaj asked her "Can you beat the 11th graders team. The cricket coach of voharav your eldest son?" The puzzled mother Kabubhai High School was already seeing a asked the Maharaj if he was talking about this kid "Pataudi" in making
(Jayant) who has nothing (Tendulkar was probably
but cricket in his mind. not even born). The
Maharaj replied, "you will coach was probably
see after 11 months". thinking of Bombay's
Acharya Jaishekharsuri upcoming prestigious
Maharaj, to this day, Harris Shield
remembers the exact tournament. However,
time on the clock at that Jayant was not destined
moment - exactly 11.00 to be a “Tendulkar", his
am - the point when Guru had other more
Jayant's life changed important plans.
drastically - new Like any typical Jain
boundary lines were Gujarati woman,
drawn. He would Jayant's mother was
constantly think about his concerned about her
Guru and the religious son's future. She would
teachings. see him spending every
After about eleven spare moment with
months, Acharya cricket bat and ball. She
Pratapsuri gave diksha finally managed to Acharya Jaishekharsuriji
to Jaishekhar Maharaj. convince him to at least
Under the supervision of attend pathshala. Jayant started attending the
Acharya Pratapsuri, Acharya Dharmasuri, pathshala simply to please his mother. However,
Acharya Jayanandsuri and various other
pundits, Jaishekharji underwent rigorous stotras came naturally to him. Jayant himself
education for 7 years. He studied Jain Agams, never cared much about his newly gained skill but various stotras. Ardha-Magadhi and various other his pathshala teachers were clearly impressed. Jain literature and commentaries. When things Pathshala influenced Jayant to attend some would become tough, Acharya Pratapsuri's simple Acharya Jayanandsuri's lectures. One day Jayantincentives and gentle approach would encourage casually asked Jayanandsuriji that while he visited him to work hard. Jaishekharji had found his various families in the neighborhood for gochari, comfortable new unconventional home (or nowill he also visit his home. Maharaj replied with home as some would say). He realized that life as smile "your home" and then proceeded to say such was very simple and natural. The inner "yes". Few days later Jayant's mother asked him anand (joy) increased day by day. to go and request Acharya Jayanandsuri to come The joy of the soul is beyond description of our for gochari as they had cooked a special meal.
human language. However, seeing Acharyaji's Jayanandsuriji accepted the invitation and went
constantly smiling face one can only sense along with Jayant to his home. The mother was
something extra-ordinary. It reminded this very pleased on seeing Swamiji at her doorstep. interviewer of a description of Bhagwan Mahavir in She immediately asked Jayant to voharav (give
Mahasena gardens, the day after he attained food to) Swamiji. Instead, Maharaj turned around Keval Gvan on the banks of river Rijuvaluka. One

Jain Education Intemational 40
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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
passerby told Indrabhuti that the place was packed to brim with thousands of visitors but not one came out disappointed. This interviewer had a similar observation for Acharya Jaishekharsuriji; Hundreds would visit Acharyaji daily, but none would return disappointed. Acharyaji's ever smiling face and ever blessing behavior reflects the four bhavanas of Jainism; Maitri (being a Friend), Pramod (appreciation), Karuna (Compassion) and Madhyastha Bhavana (neutral or unattached). He is friend to everyone and has amazing capacity of remembering everyone's names. He owes all his positive qualities to his Guru. Acharyaji also does not fail to appreciate the positive qualities of people meeting him, encouraging them to grow further. What stands out the most is his caring nature and a deep desire for the welfare of everyone who comes to meet him. Acharyaji would always make himself available to people seeking his advice to resolving issues troubling them. He would then regularly follow-up to check on their well-being. At all times he would maintain his neutrality and remain unattached to people seeking his help. On further inquiring what the source of this energy as, Acharyaji told that it all started with his guru asking him to recite one Nokarvadi with full concentration prior to going to sleep. It turned out to be one of the most pleasant experiences of his life. One Nokarvadi increased to three and with it started meditation, ohm and other Japs both early in the morning and late in the evening. The Japs and meditation were the source of his energy. When asked how he found time for these prolonged Japs in his busy schedule, his answer was simple, "sleep two hours less".
Acharya Shri Vijay Ramachandrasuriji Samuday
1.
We also asked him, if these interactions with all kinds of people cost him emotionally? Initially, he just smiled, but when we pressed further, he replied, "we a committed to our soul, but we also have the responsibility of the sangh. Some of these interactions do take a toll on our emotional well-being or the state of equanimity. We just have to be aware of these changes, go back to our meditation (jap) and retain our balanced state."
List of Acharyas of Murtipujak Samudays (Sub-groups)
Gachchha Sthavir Acharya Lalitshekhar Suri
Acharyaji is an excellent orator. He is specially known for his extempore examples that relate directly to audience's concerns and questions. He credits his guru Jayanandsuri Maharaj and Pratapsuri Maharaj for this skill. One day when a large attendance was expected, both Pratapsuri Maharaj and Jayanandsuri Maharaj excused themselves, leaving the then young sadhu Jaishakhaerji alone in front of the audience. The young nervous Jaishakhar Maharaj had no option but to give his first extempore vyakhayan; a lecture that was highly appreciated. Three days later he was addressing a huge gathering with his guru sitting beside him!

Acharyaji raised concern about the Jain Society in India. He feels that beyond the practice of vegetarianism and certain Jain traditions, many in society are morally bankrupt. He has noticed a fundamental change in the social structure, due to small independent families. The elderly have nowhere to go. They are not welcomed at their children houses and at the same time they are neither financially nor physically capable of living independently. After a small experiment at Palitana he is convinced of a need for elderly homes. Family members can visit them or they can visit their family but they would have an independent home of their own. Acharyaji also sees a need to improve education among Jain youths. He realizes the value of English as a medium of education in the modern world. He wants Jain philanthropists to come forward and build quality schools that would provide education with Jain Heritage in mind.
The following beautiful Sanskrit subhashit (saying) best describes Acharya Shri Jaishakharsuri. Prabodhaya Hitaya Cha, Prashamaya Vivekaya Cha.
Samyak Tatvopadeshena, Santasuktih Pravartate.
A life of a Saint (Sadhu) is to awaken the others, ensure welfare of others, assist other in emotional purification, guide other to discriminate and learn what is correct and share the knowledge of Truth.
234
Ji
Acharya Rajshekhar Suri ji Acharya Prabhakar Suri ji Acharya Veer Shekhar Suriji

www.jamellbrary.org

Page #46

5.
Acharya Jaykunjar Suri ji
6. Acharya Purnachandra Suri ji Acharya Mahabal Suri ji
8. Acharya Punyapal Suri ji
9. Acharya Muktiprabh Suri ji
10. Acharya Kanak shekhar Suri ji 11. Acharya Narchadra Suri ji
12. Acharya Chandragupta Suri ji 13. Acharya Narvahan Suri ji 14. Acharya Gunsheel Suri Ji
15. Acharya Ajitsen Suri ji
16. Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji 17. Acharya Shreyansprabh Suri ji 18. Acharya Kamalratna Suri Ji
19. Acharya Darshanratna Suri ji 20. Acharya Ratna bhushan Suri ji 21. Acharya Ajitratna Suri ji
22. Acharya Nayvardhan Suri j
Acharya Shri Vijaya Prema Bhuavanbhanu Suriji Samuday
1.
Gachchhadhipati Acharya Shri
Jayaghoshha Suriji
2.
Acharya Shri Harikant Suriji
3. Acharya Shri Rajendra Suriji
4. Acharya Shri Hemachandra Suriji
5. Acharya Shri Kalyan bodhi Suriji
6. Acharya Shri Abhayashekhar Suriji 7. Acharya Shri Jagachandra Suriji 8. Acharya Shri abhayachandra Suriji 9. Acharya Shri Gunaratna Suriji 10. Acharya Shri Rashmiratna Suriji 11. Acharya Shri Jagavallabha Suriji 12. Acharya Shri Ratnasundar Suriji 13. Acharya Shri Kulachandra Suriji 14. Acharya Shri Jayachandra Suriji 15. Acharya Shri Varabodhi Suniji 16. Acharya Shri Punyaratna Suriji 17. Acharya Shri Yashoratna Suriji 18. Acharya Shri Raviratna Suriji 19. Acharya Shri Ajitashekhar Suriji
Acharya Shri Sagaranand Samuday
1.
Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Suryodaysagar Suriji
Acharya Shri Ashoksagar Suriji
Acharya Shri Dolat sagar Suriji
2.
3.
4. Acharya Shri Nandivardhan sagar Suriji
5. Acharya Shri Harsh sagar Suriji
6. Acharya Shri Jitendra sagar Suriji
7. Acharya Shri Pramoda sagar Suriji Acharya Navaratna sagar Suriji
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
9.
Acharya Shri Naradevsagar Suriji 10. Acharya Shri Nityodaya sagar Suriji 11. Acharya Shri Kayan sagar Suriji 12. Acharya Shri Rajatilak sagar Suriji 13. Acharya Shri Jinachandrasagar Suriji 14. Acharya Shri Hemachandrasagar Suriji 15. Acharya Shri Niranjansagar Suriji 16. Acharya Chandrashekhar sagar Suriji 17. Acharya Shri Chandranan sagar Suriji 18. Acharya Shri Ratnashekhar sagar Suriji 19. Acharya Shri Devachandra sagar Suriji 20. Acharya Shri Apurva ratna mangal Suriji 21. Acharya Shri Jinratna sagar Suriji 22. Acharya Shri Chandraratna sagar Suriji 23. Acharya Shri Jayaratnasagar Suriji 24. Acharya Shri Muktisagar Suriji 25. Acharya Shri Chandrakirtisagar Suriji Acharya Shri Vijayanemi Suriji Samuday
1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Suryodaya
Suniji
2- Acharya Shri HemachandraSuriji
3- Acharya Shri Prabodhachandra Suriji
4- Acharya Shri Shreyans Chandra Suriji Acharya Shri Kundkund Suriji
5
6
Acharya Shri Prdumna Suriji
7
8
Acharya Shri Shilachandra Suriji Acharya Shri Indrasen Suriji 9- Acharya Shri Somachandra Suriji 10- Acharya Shri Simhasen Suriji 11- Acharya Shri Dharmadhvaj Suriji 12- Acharya Shri Mahayash Suriji 13- Acharya Shri Jinottam Suriji 14- Acharya Shri Ratnaprabha Suriji 15- Acharya Shri Nandighosh Suriji 16- Acharya Shri Harshasen Suriji 17- Acharya Shri Hitavardhan Suriji 18- Acharya Shri Rajahansa Suriji DadaShri JinaVijayaji Samuday
1- Gachcha Sthavir Acharya Shri Lalaprabha Suriji
Panyas Shri Dharmavijayaji (Dahelavala) 1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Abhayadev Suriji
2- Acharya Shri Yashobhadra Suriji
3
4
Acharya Shri Vimal bhadra Suniji Acharya Shri Ratnachandra Suriji 5- Acharya Shri Jagatachandra Suriji
6- Acharya Shri Jayanand Suriji
Acharya LabdhiSuri Samuday

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Ashok
ratna Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Amarsen Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Punyanand Suriji
Acharya Shri Mahasen Suriji 5- Acharya Shri Hiranyaprabha Suriji 6- Acharya Shri Rajayash Suriji 7- Acharya Shri Ratnayash Suriji
Acharya Shri Varishen Suriji 9- Acharya Shri Vinayasen Suriji 10- Acharya Shri Kalpayash Suriji 11- Acharya Shri Amity ash Suriji 12- Acharya Shri Chandra yash Suriji Acharya Buddhisagar Samuday 1- Acharya Shri Manohar kirtisagar Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Udayakirti sagar Suri 3- Acharya Shri Kalyan sagar Suriji
Acharya Shri Padmasagar Suriji
Acharya Shri Vardhaman saga Suriji 6- Acharya Shri Amrutsagar Suriji 7- Acharya Shri Arunodayasagar Suriji 8- Acharya Shri Vinaya sagar Suriji Acharya Siddhi Suriji (Bapaji Samuday) 1- Acharya Shri Aravind Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Yashovijaya Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Rajapunya Suriji 4- Acharya Shri Bhagyesh Suriji 5- Acharya Shri Munichandra Surji 6- Acharya Shri Nararatna Suriji Acharya Dharma Suri Samuday 1- 1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri
Kanakratna Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Mahanand Suriji
Acharya Shri Chandrasen Suriji 4- Acharya Shri Mahapadma Suriji 5- Acharya Shri Suryoday Suriji 6- Acharya Shri Rajratna Suriji 7- Acharya Shri Purnand Suriji 8- Acharya Shri Kalapurna Suriji 9- Acharya Shri Padmanand Surju 10- Acharya Shri Jayashekhar Suriji 11- Acharya Shri Lalit sen Suriji Acharya Himachal Suriji Samuday No current Acharya. Acharya Shantivimal Suri Samuday 1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Prdhyumna
vimal Suriji Acharya Shri Vijayakesari Samuday
1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Hemaprabha
Suriji Acharya Shri Bhakti Suri Samuday 1- Tapagachchadhipati Acharya Shri Prema
Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Kalpavijaya Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Shantichandra Suriji 4- Acharya Shri Ranashekhar Suriji Shri Mohan Lalji Maharaj Samuday 1 - 1 - Gachchadhipati Acharya Kirtisen Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Mukitiprabha Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Suyash Suriji Acharya Shri VallabhaSuriji Samuday 1- 1-Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Ratnakar
Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Jagatchandra Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Dhrmadhurandhar Suriji Acharya Niti Suriji Samuday 4- Acharya Shriv padma Suriji 5- 2- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri
Hemaprabh Suriji Acharya Amrut Suri Samuday No current Acharya. Shri Trishtic Gachchha Group 1 Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri
Jayantsen Suriji Group 2 Gachchadhipati Acharya Hemandra,
Suriji Shri Achala Gachcha Sampraday 1- Gachchadhipati Acharya Shri Gunodaya
Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Kalaprabha Suriji Shri Prashva gachcha Sampraday
1- Gachchadhipat Shre Vijayachandra Suriji Others
1- Acharya Shri Yug bhushan Suriji 2- Acharya Shri Kirtiprabh Suriji 3- Acharya Shri Kirtisen Suriji
Acharya Shri Nayaprabh Suriji
Acharya Shri Yashodev Suriji 6- Acharya Shri Labdhiprabh Suriji 7- Acharya Shri Anand ghan Suriji 8- Acharya Shri Pradipchandra Suriji 9- Acharya Shri Premprabh Surii 10- Acharya Shri Rajachandra Surii
NOWN
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The Jain Digamber Sampraday
The history of Digamber
that is, religious
authorities known as sect for the first six
Bhattarak who are also centuries is very hazy. The
the heads of Jain Maths Digambers unlike
(monasteries). The Shwetambers did not write
Bisapanth, in their detailed historical accounts
temples, worship the idols of their sect, and what has
of Tirthankars. They also been written seems to have
worship the idols of been created around the
Ksetrapala, Padmavati 6th century AD (based on
and other deities. the inscription found in
Digamber Terapanth Shravana Belgola).
arose in North India in the According to Digamber
year around 1664 AD as tradition, the breakup of
a revolt against the joint sangh began with
domination and conduct Vishakha, who was a
of the Bhattarakas. As a disciple of Bhadrabahu.
result, in this sub-sect, the Many believe that it was in
institution of Bhattarakas the 2nd century AD that
lost respect in North India. Acharya Kundakunda set
In their temples, the the Digamber tradition on a
Terapanthis install the firm footing. Today most
idols of Tirthankars and Digamber traditions revere
Shravanbelagola, located 51 km not of other deities. The Acharya Kundakunda more south-east of Hassan in Karnataka
Terapanthis are more in than Vishaka and
is one of the most important Jain Bhadrabahu, who are pilgrim centers of India. It is
number in Uttar Pradesh, especially sacred for the Digamber otherwise above in the
Rajasthan, and Madhya community. The Statue of the Jain lineage of saints.
Pradesh. saint Gommateshwara (AD 981)
Taranapanth is known Digamber Sampraday, in carved out of a mountain, said to be
after its founder Taranarecent centuries, has been one of the tallest and most graceful
Swami or Tarana-taranadivided into the following statues in the world, is situated in
Swami (1448-1515 A.D.). this small town atop the Indragiri sub-sects: hills. The colossal monolithic
This sub-sect is also Major sub-sects:
statue is 58 ft high, with 26 ft wide called Samaiyapantha 1. Bispanth shoulders, 10-ft of its feet.
because its followers 2. Digamber Terapanth Strikingly simple and beautifully
worship Sarnaya, i.e., 3. Taranapanth or chiseled features of this statue have
sacred books and not the embodied serenity for over 1030 Samaiyapanth years. For an historical and
idols. Taranapanthis Other sub-sects: archeological standpoint, this
strongly refute idolatry but location stands out due to the a. Gumanapanth
they have their own many ancient inscriptions found at temples in which they b. Totapanth this location.
keep their sacred books c. Kanji-Panth
for worship. Taranapanthis give more importance Bispanth, according to some, is the original
to spiritual values and the study of sacred group of Digamber sect and has the highest
literature instead of any ceremonial pujas. The following among all Digamber Jains. Bispanth has
Taranapanthis are few in number and are mostly a large following in Karnataka, Maharashtra.
confined to Bundelkhand and Malwa area of Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Gujarat. The followers of Bispanth support the Dharma-gurus,
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Madhya Pradesh, and Khandesh area of Maharashtra Gumanapanth is a very small sect. This sub-sect was started by Pandit Gumani Rama or Gumani Rai, a son of Pandit Todaramal, a resident of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Gumanapanth originated in the 18th. Century A.D. and flourished mainly during that century. It is found now in some areas of Rajasthan around Jaipur. Totapanth came into existence as a result of differences between the Bispantha and Terapanth sub-sects. Many sincere efforts were made to strike a compromise between the Bis (i.e. twenty) Panth and the Tera (i.e. thirteen) panth and the outcome was sadhesolaha i.e., sixteen and a half)-Panth or 'Totapanth'. That is why the followers of Totapanth believe to some extent in the doctrines of Bispanth and to some extent in those of Terapanth. The Totapanthis are very few in number and are found in some pockets of Madhya Pradesh.
Kanji-panth or followers of Kanji Swami are a part of this new sect. Saint Kanji Swami largely succeeded in popularizing the old sacred texts of the great Digamber saint Acharya Kundakunda of South India. The influence of Kanjipanth is steadily increasing around the Sonagarh in Gujarat and Jaipur in Rajasthan. The complied list of all Digamber Acharyas is given in the end of this section. We have included the profiles of very few Acharyas whom we had a chance to meet, or if any of the community member provided such information
Acharya Vidhyanandji
To give up the attachment towards Jeen and to embrace Jin; was the expression Acharya Vidyanandji used to explain the goal of Sadhutva. (Jeen is the term used for leather saddle, here referring to the physical body.). The main purpose of Sadhu is to lead a life that maintains the awareness and focus towards the permanence of the soul and the transitional nature of the physical body. The attachment towards the transitional body is the key
hindrance for the soul's complete independence. Born in a small village called Shedwal in Karnataka, Surendra (later known as Acharya Vidyanandji), was a very determined child right from his childhood and had tremendous amount of perseverance to pursue his goals. His oratorical skills coupled with his leadership skills saw the birth of a scholarly and
renowned Acharya Vidhyanandji
personality. The
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temple to his house played an important role in his life. As a child, he was very different from other kids and would always do selfless things to help others. While growing up, he realized the futility of material comforts and education about physical things (bhautik gyaan). Nothing interested him or could even hold his interest, as he wanted to do something for the betterment of his soul and not his body. Acharya Mahavirkirtiji's chaturmaas in Shedwal, changed Surendra's life forever. Surendra grew closer to the Acharya and realized that renouncing the world would bring him closer to his goal in life. He finally decided to take diksha. When we (JD team) specifically asked him about this same question: "what inspired him towards diksha?" Acharyaji smiled and simply gave us a photograph showing the great Acharya Bhadrabahu inspiring and guiding young disciples towards quest for larger truth. By giving an indirect answer, Acharya Vidyanandji paid homage to his guru, the senior Acharya who first inspired him and the tradition of Jain shashan that change his life for better. In the process, he also instilled some amount of spirituality in our wandering souls. His unwavering decision and determination to take Diksha was obvious when someone questioned him if it was really necessary to give up everything, and he responded with a firm conviction, "Gentleman, my inner inspiration to take diksha is very powerful, so you are adding to your negative karmas by telling me not to take diksha." On July 25, 1963, he took diksha after the Shobha Yatra, a grandeur that no one had witnessed in the history of Delhi. He became the disciple of Acharya Deshbhushanji. He attained the padvi of Upadhyay on December 8, 1974, the same day when the foundation of Mahavir Smarak was laid. He received the Padvi of Acharya on June 28, 1987. In the formative years after diksha, Acharyaji stayed in a state of moun for most of the time. He focused on gaining knowledge by reading and grasping a wide range of Jain scriptures and related religious texts. As he would explain to us the importance of knowledge by quoting the following sloka: णाणेण झाणसिद्धि, झाणादो सव्वकम्मणिज्जाणं। णिज्जरणफलं मोक्खं, णाणब्भासं तदा कुज्जा। ज्ञान से ध्यान सिद्ध होता है, ध्यान से सब कर्मो की निर्जरा होती है, निर्जरा का फल मोक्ष है, इसलिए ज्ञान का अभ्यास करें।
Enlightened knowledge leads to a meditative state, Meditation results in Nirjara (reduction of Karmic bonds); the benefit of Nirjara is Moksha; thus gaining enlightened knowledge is important. Acharyaji who had delved deep to understand the message of Jin, gave his first lecture on the auspicious Sudpanchami day in the city of Jaipur. Thus, from Jaipur the great oratory journey of this scholarly monk began. His popularity and audience grew in leaps and bounds. His depth in understanding the scriptures, overall knowledge, and ability to present the essence of religious message appropriately to the target audience won people's hearts and many of them became his devotees. He did not limit himself his discussion to Jainism but extended it to Vedic culture and other traditional Indian philosophies. He went out of his way to prisons to convince the prisoners of hope if one makes an effort to change one's lifestyle He is one of those saints who is renowned not just as a Jain saint but is famous as national saint who promoted nonviolence to the vast Indian community. His vast knowledge and studies have given him recognition worldwide. His lectures attracted Hindus, Christians, Sikhs and Muslims. Muslims at times felt as if he was their Sufi sant. Understanding that bhajans were a very good method to get community participation, he encouraged his devotees to prepare bhajans that would have mass appeal. From his inspiring words Shraman Jain Bhajan Pracharak Sangh was established and gradually they collected and recorded lots of bhajans. This became an initial media to spread the message of Ahimsa to some of the most remote parts of the country, His powerful words had an impact to bring some amount of truce in dispute of control of Sammed Shikharji (Sammet in Shwetamber tradition) between the Digamber and Shwetamber sects. He was able to arbitrate the dispute and help start renovation work at Sammed Shikharji. For a person who many consider to be one the foremost experts in understanding and practice of Ahima, he was humble enough to give credit to Gandhiji for demonstrating the practical and political use of Ahimsa to bring about a fundamental change in the society. Explaining the nuances of Ahimsa he would ask his secular audience to follow Gandhiji's philosophy of truth, love and nonviolence. He believed that society could be transformed by following these principles. Leading by example he would ask his audience to stay
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away from artificial or superficial flamboyant behavior. Just as a monk he did not waste any food and took only that was absolutely required, he campaigned against national waste. While personally following a strict Digamber Jain tradition, he neither imposed nor emphasized any specific ritual or tradition.
He travelled across the breadth and length of the country to make people realize the good in every individual. He firmly believed that everyone could be happy if they always saw goodness in people and didn't indulge in finding faults in anyone. Our thoughts should be good and we should use positive words which express affection because these words have immense power. He believed that Sadhu is like a mirror, through whom a society can look at their weaknesses and shortcoming. A sadhu and society are interrelated, one wouldn't exist without each other. On the way to Badrinath, in Haridwaar, he gave a very impressive pravachan to the Digamber samaj that people recall even today. He was the first saint in the present century to go to Badrinath. Travelling through difficult and cold paths Acharyaji went from Badrinath to Srinagar and did his chaaturmaas there. He inspired a lot of people to write and publish articles/poems on Jainism. He inspired one person to write an anthology of poems on Lord Mahavir.
Acharya Vidyanandji's powerful address to the society and politicians in Delhi in a Sarva Dharma meet, was a big eye opener and served as a guide for them to understand and appreciate the role of Jains in the past and current society. He pointed out the contribution of Jains to the society at large by telling everyone that Jains had opened aushadhalaya/hospitals, provided scholars, philanthropists, schools, and publishing houses funds and had helped large number of people in the community. To commemorate the 2500 nirvana anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir, he urged people to do things that would be in the welfare of the society and country. He would not teach people but would urge them to become an example of what they would want to teach to people, that way people would watch/observe and follow them. He urged Jains and members of other communities to work towards the betterment of society and learn to respect the good in others. With this lecture, he not only inspired Jains to contribute more towards the wellbeing of the society, but also brought in forefront the ills spread within the government structure and

society at large. He accosted the audience to stop focusing only on individual gains but to do things for the betterment of our country. To commemorate Bhagwan Mahavir's 2500 years of nirvana, he motivated people to donate for building an establishment, which would work towards developing and maintain all ancient Jain Canons and literature. Mahavir Sthali in Delhi was established at the initiative of Acharya Vidyanandji on the land granted by the late Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi.
His largest contribution to the Jain community was to bring together the different sects to speak in a common voice. He was very instrumental in resolving various conflicts between Shwetamber and Digamber Jain sects by making them realize that they would do better if they complemented each other in whatever they undertook instead of fighting with each other. As a renowned scholar of not only of Jain Digamber scripture but also Jain Agams (as accepted by Shwetamber tradition to be original Jain text), he was in a unique position to expose the futility of the sometimes exaggerated conflicts between the two sects. He was the inventor of the five color Jain
flag, now commonly used by all Jain sects. He was the initial proponent of a common Jain symbol, where he worked and conferred with different Acharyas to come up with a Jain symbol acceptable to all Jain sects. In the process of such discussion, he developed a unique respect and friendship with different Jain Acharyas with whom he had an opportunity to exchange ideas and views. He developed a very special relationship with the Terapanth Acharya Mahapragya. The two great scholars spend many hours together discussions all aspects philosophy, relevant methods and messages for the current time, and spreading the message of Ahimsa to bring peace in the society. When we specifically asked him to tell us about his interactions with Acharya Mahapragya, he responded by telling I have already written about him, but if my health and time permits, I would like to write a lot more about that great soul.
Acharya Vidyanandji, is one of the most senior Jain monks of Digamber sect. For more than five decades, he walked the land, in good weather and bad, through forests and mountains, preaching and practicing the creed of the Jinas, the gentle spiritual conquerors till the elements no longer bothered him, nor did afflictive emotions.

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The author of this write-up still remises the sensation of the vital energy flowing thorough him when he touched Acharyaji's feet and Acharyaji gave his blessings by putting his pious hand on the author's forehead. That pure aura does bring out the spiritually within us.
The above write-up was produced based on one interview with Acharya Vidhyanandji and further augmented by information from Satish Jain's book "Vande Tadgunalabdhaye".
Acharya Vidya Sagar Maharaj
Sanskrit texts: Niranjana Shataka, Bhavana Acharya Vidyasagarji is one of the most widely
Shataka, Parishah Jaya Shataka, Suniti known Digamber Jain Acharya of modern times..
Shataka and Shramana Shataka. He is recognized for his scholarship, tapasya,
Hindi epic: Muka Maati, published by inspirational speeches and dialogs, large number
Bharatiya Jnanpith. of disciples, and a very large following.
Verse
translations of Introduction:
classics: Yogasara, Vidya Sagarji
Ishtopadesha, Maharaj was born
Samayasar in a Digamber Jain
(Kundakunda ka family as Vidyadhar
Kundan), Gomatesh on October 10,
thudi etc. 1946 in Sadalga
Verse district in Belgaum,
translation of Karnataka. His
Samana Suttam father Shri
He has initiated Mallappa later
more than 125 became Muni
monks, a number Mallisagar and
unmatched in the eventually attained
past 9 centuries for samadhi. His
the Digamber mother Shrimati
tradition. Acharya later became Aryika
Vidyasagarji also Samayamati also
initiated two of his attained samadhi.
brothers Muni Acharyaji adopted
Yogasagarji and the Brahmacharya
Muni Samaysagarji Vrat at a very early Acharya Vidya Sagar Maharaj
as Monks. Several age .He was
Panch kalyanak and initiated as a monk
Gajrath Mahotsavas have been organized in the in Ajmer on June 30, 1968 by Acharya
holy presence of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar and his Gyansagarji, who belonged to the lineage of
Sangh in various places like Drongiri, Chattarpur Acharya Shantisagar. He was elevated to the
(M.P.), Bina Baraha Sagar (M.P.), Morena (M.P.), Acharya status on November 22, 1972.
Madanganj Kishanghar AjmerRaj, Khajuralro His Work:
Kundalgri,Koniji , Jabalpur etc. Acharya Vidyasagarji is an expert in classical Acharya Vidya Sagarji has inspired people to languages like Sanskrit and Prakrit and several initiate many welfare institutions. Some of these other languages like Hindi, Marathi and Kannada. institutions are as follows: Several researchers have studied his works for 1. Brahmi Vidya Ashram, Sagar. Masters and Doctorate degrees. His works
2. Acharya Vidya Sagar Sodh Sansthan include:
Pisanhari Madhia, Jabalpur.
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3. Sri Varni Digamber Jain Gurukul, Pisanhari
Madhia Jabalpur. 4. Bharat varsiya Dig 5. Acharya Vidyasagar management Science
Institution, Bhopal. 6. Gyanoday Vidyapeeth. 7. Gyanoday Viklang Punarvas Prashikhan and
Sodh Sansthan. 8. Gyanoday Limbs. 9. Bhagyoday Tirth, Saga. 10. Acharya Vidyasagar Scholarship Trust,
Atishay Chhetra Mahuwa. 11. Goshalas - More than 60. Acharya Sri Vidya Sagarji is also responsible for the construction, development and renovation of Jain temples all over India. Acharya Sri has worked relentlessly to invite eminent scholars to give discourses on different subjects. Acharya Sri has also initiated classes to teach different Granthas to his disciples. More than hundred
books articles have been written on Acharya Sri 108 Vidya Sagarji by eminent scholars and dedicated devotees. Mr. Shrish Jain (most likely a US resident) in his blog wrote about his inspirational visit to Acharyaji on Dec 14 2008. Here is a quote from his blog, "I left the place in the afternoon. And I was more than satisfied to visit him. I was personally thinking when I would be fortunate to become a saint, but seemed my time is too far-may be in next births. I could very well extrapolate-how Moksha state would be infinitely full of bliss, when the saints are so blissful."
Param Pujya Pragyashraman Rashtra Santa Saraswatacharya 108
Shri Devnandiji Maharaj
He was born in 1965 at Shangrah in Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh. His parents were Shri Prem Chandra and Shreemati Sheela Devi Jain and his birth name was Mulayam Chandra. He left home at the age of 16 and became a Kshullak on Feb 5, 1981 under the guidance of Acharya KunthuSagar ji. He took Muni Diksha on March 31, 1982 and Acharya Diksha on April 5, 1998 at Aurangabad under the guidance of Ganadharyachrya Shri 108 Kunthu Sagar Ji. He travelled far and wide within India (from Maharashtra to
Karnataka to Bihar and Tamil Nadu). His knowledge extends to Vastushashtra, Spiritual Philosophy and the history of Jainism. On a recent visit to South India, some of us were fortunate to meet Acharya Shri Devnandji at the Jin Kanchi temple. He explained at length the history of the temple, how it was built about 2000 years ago, why the idols were situated in a particular direction and how the pillars of the temples had stories inscribed on them (similar to the pillars in Khajuraho temple).
Acharya Shri Devnandji Acharya Shri Devnandiji Maharaj has written number of
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Dharma Sakal Sukh Den, Dev Shilp, Sagar Pravah, Ahankar Se Kaise Bachen, Prakriti Ka Santulan, Sansar Kisi Ka Ghar Nahin, Samyag Darshan Ki Mahima, kaid Mein Bhi Aatma Mukt Hai, Dharma Bina Koi Nahin Apna, Ahar Vidhi Vigyan, Maitri Bhav Jagat Mein Mera, and Dhyan jagran. Under Achryashri's leadership, about 20-25 Adhiveshans and conferences were organized in Jaingiri, Drongiri and Khajuraho. He also conducted a Yuva Mahila Adhiveshan Mahasabha for women and started the Mahavir Yuva Sangathan for young adults. He has participated in 21 Muni Dikshas, 3 Eilliaks, 9 Kshullaks, 12 Aryikas, 9 kshullikas, 34 Panch Kalyanak Pujas, 10 Vedi Pratishthas and 20 Samadhis. He has
mastered languages like Sanskrit, Prakrit, Kannada, Hindi, Marathi and English. An Excerpt from his lecture on KARMA: "Mind, Speech and Action are the doors to invite the Karma. Avoid Anger by observing tolerance and supreme forgiveness, Avoid ego by humility, deception by honesty, greed by purity, Sanyam and Parigrah Trishna by charity. Abstain from all pleasures of raag by Self-restrain (Sanyam). Speak the truth which helps others but does not hurt them." "Dharma, Seva, Kshanti, Mridutvmrijuta, ch Shotmath, Satyam Akinchanyam, Brahm, Tyagshch, Tapashch, Sanyamshcheti."
Munishri Tarunsagarji The Revolutionary Rastra Sant Jain Monk of 21st Century
Munishri Tarunsagarji speaking to Maratha Light Infantry Regiment
The Digamber saint Muni Shri Tarun Sagarji is considered a Revolutionary Saint in the Jain community. "Remember I have come with the sword of revolution and not with a message for peace, because under the present circumstances in the country and society, peace is not possible without a revolution". These words of Muni Shri Tarun Sagarji Maharaj during his address in Meerut stimulated the people to come in large numbers to listen to his speeches. History & Background:
Munishri Tarun Sagarji Maharaj was born on June 26, 1967 in Guhanchi district in Madhya Pradesh as Pawan Kumar Jain. His parents were Shri Pratap Chandra and Smt. Shantibai Jain. He took Diksha in 1982, at the young age of 14, under his guru Acharya Shri 108 Pushpadant Sagarji Maharaj. He soon got the degree of Jaineshwari. Acharya Pushpadant Sagar understood the capability of this young saint and knew that one day he would be addressing a very large audience. No, wonder this Revolutionary Saint addressed an audience of around 5 lakh people from the rampart of Red Fort, Delhi. He has a
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natural gift of both humor and oratory. His contention is that Lord Mahavir is not the asset of only Jains but that of all humanity. He discourses are not limited to topics on Jainism and Mahavir, but mixes the speech with subject matters from Ramayana, Sant Kabir's poems, Patanjali, words of Gurunanak, Buddha, Vivekananda and Osho. Muni Shri Tarun Sagarji is a Digamber Jain Saint who attracts not only Jains but also members of all communities to his speech. Wide range of audience attends Munishri Tarunsagarji's discourses because he speaks the truth for the welfare of society. Munishri Tarunsagarji addressed the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment on September 21, 2005. Tarunsagarji is the first saint to have received the Guard of Honor from the Indian Army.
His Work & Literature:
Muni Shri Tarun Sagarji is the director of "Anand Yatra". "Anand Yatra" arranged by Munishri is pleasant in real sense of the word anand. Anand Yatra (journey) is a miraculous and unique experiment, where Munishri makes the listeners laugh on one hand and hands over valuable asset of knowledge with a humorous touch on the other. When Munishri stops, the yatra of anand continues and when the journey proceeds, there is anand of yatra again. He says, "I eat pleasure, I drink pleasure, I wear pleasure, I distribute pleasure and live in pleasure." Anand Yatra is a journey without journey.
Shri Deevendrakirthiji
A Global Torchbearer of Jain Traditions Shri Deevendrakeerthi Bhattarak Swamiji was consecrated to the Bhattarak seat at Humcha, Karnataka at a young age of 22 years in 1969. He had an erudite knowledge on Jain philosophy and was known for his scholarly discourses on Jainism across the world. He is one among the few Jain pontiffs who had taken keen interest for the propagation of Jainism globally. Popularly called as Deevendrakirthiji, he had a huge followership in India and overseas cutting across religions boundaries.
Many Jain temples have been constructed under his guidance and leadership in India and across the globe. He was also instrumental in the renovation of numerous ancient Jain temples in Karnataka. He represented Jainism and
Muni Shri Tarun Sagarji has authored many religious books. His literature is read with great interest and various editions of each book are published. The literature of Munishri is a mirror of his own emotions and experiences in which the art of amending the direction and condition of life is discussed. The literature of Munishri is the outcome of his devotion to his soul, his personal experience, and his inner most imagery. His books are targeted to alleviate people from mental worry. It is a raga or composition vibrating from the notes of life where Veetrag is merged. His book" Mrityu Bodh" (Perception of death, a formula of revolution in life) presents the foot print of the holy journey of Munishri and the holy water pot of the importance of life for the people. His speeches come straight from the heart. They capture the listeners to the extent that they eventually become unaware of the outer world. He says, "I want to escape from the temples. That is why I have stopped giving pravachans in temples. I give pravachans in the squares of roads, because I want to see Bhagwan Mahavir out of temples. I want to spread Mahavir's thoughts among the masses". He adds, "Mahavir's message, his conduct; and his ideal life should be visible to the entire world." His aim
is to spread the philosophy of Bhagwan Mahavir - "Live and Let Live"

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delivered discourses at World Parliament of Religions held at Chicago (1993), Cape Town (1999), Barcelona (2004), Monterrey (2007) and Melbourne (2009). Devendrakirthiji has made a huge contribution in the development of Jain heritage and culture in North America. He had made regular visits, given numerous lectures and sermons, and participated in various temple pratishthas. Many in the Digamber Jains of North America consider him as a torchbearer who ensured the continuation of the rich
1.
-Ashok Sethi Resident of Silicon Valley - Bay Area; Member JCNC.
About twenty years ago, when I was visiting India, I happened to meet two great Sadhus Yuva Muni 1008 Shri Suvidhisagarji and Muni 1008 Shri Kshamasagarji.
They both inspired me a lot and changed my life. I got inspired to learn about our religion and to start working towards the path of Moksha. Muni 1008 Shri Suvidhi Sagarji gave me personal lessons on the six elements (Six Dravyas). He also gave me personal copy of the Kalyanmandir Stotra and taught me how to recite them. Muni 1008 Shri Kshamasagarji motivated me to learn about the Karma theory, and start the process of shedding my karmas. I invariably listen to his pravachans on the Karma theory. He was also the source of my inspiration to learn the recitation of the Mahaveerashthak stotra, based on his cassette.
2345
The meeting with these two saints has made me realize the impact these great souls can have on our life. Every time now when I visit India (almost once every two years), I make it a point to do darshan of as many Muni as possible and every time I learn something new. I wish we could have Sadhus in the US who would continuously give us the inspiration to work towards getting rid of our karmas and ultimately get out of the cycle of birth and death. Until then, we should always try to meet and get inspiration from our Sadhus when we visit India. Reading the biographies of the great saints will also inspire us towards vairagya and lead us closer to the Moksha marg.
6.
7.
8.
Lead me closer to the Moksha Marg.
JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
Digamber Jain tradition in North America. He won the hearts of the Jain community by his non-sectarian approach, his deep knowledge in Jainology, and his commitment to support all Jain traditions in North America.
On 14 July 2010, his Holiness Bharata Gaurava Swasti Sri Deevendrakeerthi Bhattarak Swamiji passed away due to cardiac arrest. His demise was grieved all across the globe. His contribution to the Jain community and Jain Heritage was enormous, and he will always be remembered
Acharya Abhinandan Sagarji Acharya Amritsenji Acharya Anand Sagarji Acharya Atamnandi
Acharya Bharat Sagarji
Acharya Chaityasagarji
Acharya Chandra Sagarji (disciple of
Acharya Sanmati Sagarji)
Acharya Chandra Sagarji (disciple of Acharya Shree RayanSagarji)

List of Digamber Acharyas
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Acharya Darshan Sagarji
Acharya Daya Sagarji
Acharya Dev Nandiji
Acharya Devsenji
Acharya Dharambhushanji
Acharya Dhyan Sagarji
Acharya Gandharachrya Shree Kunthusagarji
Acharya Gundhar Nandiji Acharya Gun Nandiji

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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
32.
33.
34.
23.
24.
25.
26. Acharya Kanak Sagarji Acharya Kumud Nandiji
27.
28.
Acharya Kushagra Nandiji
29.
Acharya Merubhushanji
30.
31.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
Acharya Gupti Nandiji
Acharya Gyan Bhushanji
Acharya Hem Sagarji
49.
50.
Acharya Jai Sagarji
Acharya Kalapvarksh Nandiji
Acharya Kalpshic Nandiji
Acharya Kalyansagarji Acharya Kanak Nandiji
Acharya Namit Sagarji
Acharya Nemi Sagarji
Acharya Nirbhay Sagarji
Acharya Nirmal Sagarji (disciple
Acharya Shree VimalSagarji
Acharya Nirmal Sagarji (disciple of
Acharya Shri Vimalsagarji
Acharya Nishant Sagarji
Acharya Nishaya Sagarji
Acharya Padam Nandiji
Acharya Pushpadant Sagarji
Acharya Rayan Sagarji (disciple of Acharya Shree Dayasagarji
Acharya Rayan Sagarji (disciple of Acharya Shree SanmatiSagarji
Acharya Sambhav Sagarji
Acharya Sanman Sagarji
Acharya Sanmati Sagarji (Hupari) Acharya Sanmati Sagar (Tapasvi samrat)"
Acharya Sanmati Sagar (Vudhyabhushan)
Acharya Saubhagya Sagarji Acharya Seemandhar sagarji Acharya Shanti Sagarji 'Namokar Wale'
Acharya Shanti Sagar ji 'Porsa Wale' Acharya Shanti Sagarji 'Podanpur

51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64.
65.
66.
67.
68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
Wale'
Acharya Shrut Sagarji Acharya Shiv Sagarji Acharya Siddhant Sagarji Acharya Subahu Sagarji Acharya Sudarshan Sagarji Acharya Sudhramsagarji Acharya Sukumal Nandiji Acharya Sunil Sagarji Acharya Suriya Sagarji
Acharya Surratan Sagarji Acharya Suvidhi Sagarji Acharya Syadwad Sagarji Acharya Vairagya Nandiji
Acharya Vardhman Sagarji Acharya Vasupujya Sagarji Acharya Veer Sagarji Acharya Vidyanandji
Acharya Vidya Sagarji Mahraj
Acharya Vimal Sagarji
Acharya Vipul Sagarji
Acharya Virag Sagarji Acharya Vishad Sagarji Acharya Vishuddha Sagarji Acharya Vivek Sagarji Acharya Yogindra Sagarji
The following Acharyas have attained Samandhi in the last few years
Acharya Bahubali Sagarji (Samadhi: 11 May 2010 Chulgiri, Rajasthan)
Acharya Bharat Sagarji (Samadhi: 21 October 2006 at Aninda Parasvanath, Rajasthan) Acharya Varduttsagarji (Samadhi: 22 June 2006 at Kothli, Karnataka)

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The current Sthanakvasi sect has its origin from an older reforming sect, the Lonka sect of Jainism. Lonkashaha, a rich and well-read merchant of Ahmedabad, founded the Lonka sect around 1474 A.D.
Jain Sthanakvasi Sampraday
Apparently Lonkashaha's job involved coping books with included the ancient scriptures. While writing these books, he was struck by the fact that idol worship was not mentioned in any of the ancient scriptures. When he brought this to the notice of the monks, a huge debate took place on the desirability of idolatry. He opposed the rites where any form of violence or injury was involved. He finally started his own sect that got named after him. Lonka sect was able to become popular due to certain amount of slackness and internal squabbles prevailing within the then Shwetamber sect. In addition, the destruction of the temples
The Sthanakvasi Divisions (2009)
Name of Sangh
Shraman sangh
Swatantra Sampraday
Ratna Vansh
Gyan Gachchha
Sadhumargi
Jayamal
Sadhu Sant Kranti
Nanak
Madan Sudarshan
Hagamilalji
Arihant Margi
Maya Ramaji
Madan guru sangh

JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
and idols by the Muslim invaders may have also helped Lonkashaha to spread his doctrine. At a later state in or about 1476 Lonkashaha took sanyas without actually being initiated by any Acharya. He in effect became the Acharya of his disciples.
A another set of reform took place when a merchant named Lavaji (Varaji by some accounts) from Surat took initiation as a sadhu and followed a very strict from of sadhutva as per the doctrine of the scriptures. Impressed by his commitment to sainthood, most members of the Lonka sect joined him and the Sthanakvasi sect was formed in 1663 AD. Since then the Sthanakvasi sect has undergone some more splits, the most notable being the Terapanth.
Name of Acharya or Head
Acharya-1; Sadhu-243; Sadhvi-839; Total-1082 Acharya Shri Dr. Shiv Muni
(This section of Sthanakvasi Divisions is continued on Page 62)
11 sub sect -8 Acharya, 219 Sadhu; 997 Sadhvi - Total 1216 Acharya Hirachandraji
Gachchadhipati Prakashmuniji
Acharya Shri Ramalalji
Acharya Shri Shubhchandraji
Acharya Shri Vijayyarajaji
Acharya Shri Sudarshanlalji
P. Ratna Shri Padamchandaji Shashtry
Acharya Shri Abhaykumarji
Acharya Shri Gyanchandraji Acharya Shri Subhadramuniji Shri Prakash chandraji

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
"Dhammo Mangal Mukkitham, Ahimsa Sanjamo Tavo,
Deva Vi Tan Namasanti, Jass Dhamme Saya Mano."
Acharya Shree Shiv Muniji
The Enlightened Dharma(Religion) is NonViolence, Self-Control, and Penance. Even heavenly gods worship the one, whose mind is always engaged in Enlightened Dharma.
Following the tradition of Varsilap sadhana
initiated by Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the
fourth Acharya
Samrat Dr. Shiv
Muniji (who
heads and leads the
Shwetamber
Sthanakvasi
Shraman Sangh with more than
1300 Sadhus
and Sadhvis under his guidance), is currently doing his 25th varsitap (penance). The Shraman Sangh was formed 60 years ago by uniting 22 Sampradays. It began with Jain Acharya Samrat Atmaramji, Anand Rishiji, Devendra Muniji and now Acharya Dr. Shiv Muniji. Acharya Dr. Shiv Muniji is currently the spiritual head of the sangh. He is an extremely pious soul whose inner piety and goodness is revealed in divine splendor on his face.

History & Background:
Shiv Muniji was born in a very affluent and respectable Oswal family in a small town called Malaout in the Malwa region of Punjab on September 18, 1942. He was known for his sharp intellect and power of comprehension. He had nurtured an intense desire to know and realize spiritual truth ever since his childhood. His acquisition of higher academic knowledge further intensified his desire for higher spiritual knowledge. During his student life he traveled far
and wide throughout America, Canada, England and several other countries. The wealth and material comforts of worldly life failed to tempt and bind him. He thoroughly studied the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, Jain philosophy and theology. This stirred his inner being and he made a firm resolve to renounce this worldly life and take to the life of an ascetic. He got his doctorate from the Punjabi University, Patiala, on the topic of "Doctrine of Liberation in Indian Religions, with special reference to Jainism". On May 17, 1972 he was initiated in the Shraman Sangh as a
disciple of Gian Muniji. Gian
Muniji was a wellknown Jain
scholar and a
disciple of
Acharya Atma Ramji. After his initiation into the Shraman Sangh, on his Guru's directives, Shiv Muni travelled throughout India preaching Jain
tenets. Shiv Muni sojourned through the interiors of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and other states. It was during this sojourn that the Shraman Sangh selected him as its first Yuva Acharya on May 13, 1987 at Pune and on June 9, 1999 he was declared the Acharya or the spiritual head of the Shraman Sangh.
Acharya Shree Shiv Muniji
Spiritual Journey & Meditation:
Through meditation, he has constantly been on the upward move of his spiritual journey. During the course of this inward sojourn, he has had wonderful experiences with truth called Atma Dhyan or Self Meditation. For more than two decades, he researched various methods of

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
mediation and developed his own result-oriented technique called Atmadhyan. It is based on the Acharang Sutra. Millions of people have benefited from his method of meditation. He trained several meditation instructors who travel across the country and around the globe to organize camps to give practical training of meditation to interested people and enable them to bring about a positive change in their lives. In the meditation camps, Acharyashri inspires people to clean the five sheaths of bodies of our being: physical body, aural body, mind body, intellectual body and bliss body. His meditation study is divided into four parts:
Basic Shibir l: 3 hours for 3 days with prayer, faith, help, yogasana, some methods of dhyan where one learns to get a glimpse of self. Advance II: 4 days with complete silence. Special pratikraman, kayotsarg and Mangal Maitry is used for the experiment. Advance III: This is a 7 day practice, where one learns to go from Bhed to Abhed. Self meditation teaching workshop: Where
one learns how to teach others. Acharyashri is of the opinion that management is about shifting the goal of an industry from being profit oriented to service oriented industry. Companies and entrepreneurs undergoing mediation training under Acharyashri's guidance have found increased cooperation and harmony
among their employees. His books like Dhyan Ek Divya Sadhana, Nadi Nav Sanjog, The Jain Tradition, and The Jain Pathway to Liberation have benefitted thousands of people. Simple Messages from Acharyaji: Detachment, Austerity, Enlightenment and Meditation have been the four pillars of his pious life. His message to all of us is as follows:
Sadhana-Atmadhyan -Self meditate Seva- Help Others Shiksha-Get Knowledge Who am I? = KOHAM and I am that Soul = SOHAM. This is the Truth. Sthanak Vasi = People Living in their Soul
-Thanag Sutra Acharya Shiv Muniji asks us to, "Use body as a vehicle to go towards the soul. Meditation is carried by the body. Soul only experiences it as knowledge" - Gnata Drashta Bhav Namaskar brings humility (Vinaya) and reduces ego in the words of Suvrat Muniji: "The holy vibrations that surround Shiv Muni and his meditation powers come directly from the blessings of Tirthankar Simandhar Swami". Web site.www.jainachaya.com E-mail: shivachryaji@jainachrya.com
Acharya Raghavji Swami
The time is 11.30 am in a small town of Kutch Andelivery captures the audience's heart and mind.
The lecture is highly interactive, where the monk elderly Jain monk is spotted walking alone on the
fields questions to his audience, or answers streets with gochari (food collected by sadhu)
questions raised from the audience. The monk vessels in his hand, head bent little downwards
even had a simple question for a small child though focused on the streets - sometimes
sitting close to him. As the end of the vyakhayan stopping to bless people who are bowing to him,
(lecture), the great soul has touched every soul in sometimes smiling at kids playing on the street,
the audience. unperturbed by dogs barking, the saint finally reaches his sthanak., The sthanak is fully packed
In the above 3-hour snapshot here, we have tried with devotees now at 1.55pm. Two saints are
to visualize a picture of Pujya Acharya Raghavji sitting on top of a small pedestal. A small group of
Swami. Pujya-saheb (as his devotees called him) visitors visiting from Mumbai moves to the front
who humbly requested others not to take his and are taking with the saints holding a
photographs. While, we do not have a portrait of handkerchief in front of their mouth. It is now
Pujya-saheb's physical body, we do have some exactly 2.00pm, the elderly sadhu after reciting
glimpses from a life-long portrait of a great soul. In the Navakar mantra starts his vyakhyan talking
the above paragraph, we have attempted to about the soul. His clarity of thought and superb
present some of his unique attributes. We began For Private & Personal use only
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મારા ધર્મગુરુ, આચાર્ય ભગવંત પૂજ્ય સાહેબ શ્રી રાઘવજી સ્વામી કેવા હતા?
શ્રી આઠ કોટી નાની પક્ષ સ્થાનકવાસી જૈન સંઘ (કચ્છ) સંપ્રદાયના સાતમાં પાટે આચાર્ય ભગવંત પૂજ્ય સાહેબ શ્રી રાઘવજી સ્વામી, ભગવાન મહાવીર સ્વામી એ ચિંધેલા માર્ગ પર ચાલ્યા હતા.
પ્રાણના ભોગે પણ સિદ્ધાંતોનું પાલન કરતા. અહિંસા, સત્ય, અચૌર્ય, બ્રાહચર્ય અને અપરિગ્રહ એ પાંચો મહાવ્રતોનું ચુસ્ત પાલન કરતા. રાત્રી ભોજન કે દવા ઉપચારના સંપૂર્ણ ત્યાગી હતા. પાંચ ઇન્દ્રિયોને સંપૂર્ણ કાબુમાં રાખતા. ક્રોધ, માન, માયા, લોભ પર સંપૂર્ણ વિજય મેળવેલ આમ આ ચાર ચાંડાલ ચોકડી ને તેમને જીતી લીધેલ.
ક્ષમાના ભંડાર હતા. વાત્સલ્ય મૂર્તિ, પ્રેમળ, કુશળ અને સમયના જાણ હતા. દુરંદેશી થી ભવિષ્યનું આયોજન કરતા. મન, વચન અને કાયાથી દરેક વખતે શ્રાવકો પર ધર્મ દલાલી કરતા. જ્ઞાન, દર્શન, ચરિત્ર, તપ ની ભાવ પૂર્વક આરાધના કરતા અને બીજાને પણ કરાવતા.
અશાતા વેદનીય કર્મના ઉદય વખતે પણ હમેશા સમતા ભાવ સાથે આત્મ કલ્યાણના ભાવોમાજ વિચરતા. તેઓ નીડર હતા. મરણનો ભય ક્યારે પણ અનુભવ્યો ન હતો. દરેક ધાર્મિક ક્રિયામાં ભાવપૂર્વક ઓતપ્રોત રહેના
પાંચ સમિતિ, ત્રણ ગુપ્તીમાં પોતાના મન, વચન, કાયાને સ્થિર રાખતા, છ કાય જીવોના રક્ષણ કરનારા હતા. શ્રાવકોને પણ આવોજ ઉપદેશ આપતા. કોઈ પણ પ્રકારના અભિમાન થી સંપૂર્ણ દુર રહેતા. આચાર્ય પદને શોભાવનાર એવા છત્રીસ ગુણોથી સંપન્ન હતા. સુત્રોનું ઘણું સારું જ્ઞાન હતું. ચર્ચા, વિચારણા : ઉપદેશ પણ તીર્થંકર ભગવતીએ પ્રીત સુત્ર સિદ્ધાંત ના આધારે દાખલા દ્રષ્ટાંતો થી સમજાવતા.
એક વખત આવા ધર્મગુરુ શ્રી રાઘવજી સ્વામીના પરિચય માં આવનાર વ્યક્તિ એમના સદગુણોને જીવનભર યાદ કરતા. આચાર્ય પદે બિરાજમાન છતાં પણ એમનાથી દીક્ષામાં નાના સાધી-સાધ્વી પ્રત્યે સંપૂર્ણ આદરભાવથી જ જોતા. દરેક નાના-મોટા શ્રાવકો પ્રત્યે સમાન ભાવે જોતા.
"
હે જીવ ! તું શાંત પળોમાં વિચાર કર " આવો હિત ઉપદેશ, શિખામણ વાત્સલ્ય ભરી, પ્રેમ ભરી ભાવના થી આપતા. "ઘર સભા" અને "ધર્મ સભા" ના મુલ્યો સમજાવી મતભેદોને દુર કરાવતા. ધર્મમાં જાગૃતિ લાવવા માટે જ્ઞાન સત્ર, બાળ સત્ર, સામુહિક ધર્મ આરાધના વગેરો નો પ્રચાર કરતા.
અનંત પુણ્યોદયે મને આવા ધર્મગુરુ, આચાર્ય ભગવંત પ્રાપ્ત થયેલ. એમને ચિંધેલા માર્ગ પર ભાવ પૂર્વક શુદ્ધ સમકિત સહીત જ્ઞાન, દર્શન, ચરિત્ર તપની આરાધના કરશું તો પંચમ કાળમાં આપણે પણ આત્મા કલ્યાણ કરી શકશે.
-ક્ષ્મીકાંત શિવલાલ શાહ
with his humility, regardless of being topmost in

the hierarchy, of the Nani Paksh order, he would himself go to collect gochari, when it would be his turn. Next was his compassionate nature; always willing to help every soul that would come in touch with him. His walk reflected his state of constant awareness. His smile reflected his simplicity and friendliness. Being unperturbed in somewhat adverse conditions reflected his state of equanimity. Guiding his chelas (monks under his guidance) at every stage showed his commitment towards their growth and well-being. Finally, it depicts his unique ability to inspire everyone; ranging from new visitors to diehard followers, from the most humble to the most affluent, and from the very young to the very old.
Pujya Raghavaji Swami had been one of the most inspiring and impressive personalities of our times. Born on February 5, 1931 at BhujpurKutch, he was influenced by the Jain religious teachings from his childhood. His parents Tejbai and Nenshi Shah also motivated him to follow the religious path. The turning path in Raghavji Swami's life came when his cousin died at a very young age. This generated a feeling of detachment in his mind. He wanted to enter ascetic path. However, his mother was reluctant to grant him permission for asceticism. It was due to the persuasion of Pujya Shamji Swami, Gorani Devkuvarbai Swami and Meghbai Swami that Tejbai allowed his son to take Diksha. He was given Diksha on November 24, 1949 by Pujya Shamji Swami, and he joined the monk order of Aath Koti Nani Paksha Sthanakvasi Jain sect. The monks of this Jain sect do not travel outside boundaries of Kutch-Gujarat. They are known to follow an extremely rigid sadhutava doctrine, and are very selective about letting anyone join the monk order. Only individuals who are mentally prepared to handle the hardships that come in a typical sadhu's life are allowed to join the sect. Even today, they avoid the use of any form of technology, such as mike, photographs, metal parts, or other electrical or electronic gadgets. In a relatively short period, the young sadhu had studied 32 Āgams. His first chaturmas was at Bhujpur. His simple and very friendly nature allowed others to freely communicate with him. He brought about subtle changes in the outlook of the others with his sheer simplicity. Raghavji Swami would invariably use some of these simple examples from life while interacting with different people. This would encourage a two-way dialog

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among his audience during his vyakhayan, increasing the possibility of positive influence. His modest and affectionate speech would win over many hearts. Through his vyakhayans during the chaturmas of Mundra, he inspired Tulsidas (traditionally non-Jain), the collector of Mundra to start following the Jain Way of Life.
Once one rich householder asked Pujya-saheb if he could spend a large sum of money in the activities deemed fit by Sahebji. Pujya-saheb replied that they did not accept money and that money was of no use if there was no need for it. In his simplistic style, Sahebji had imparted the message of futility in materialism. The shravak was very much impressed, changed his outlook towards life and became a staunch follower of Pujya-saheb. This modest outlook is noticed in all sthanaks of the Aath Koti Nani Paksha, which are all very simple structures, with no fanfare.
On June 6, 1993 Raghavji Swami became Acharya (head of the sect). He was the seventh Acharya of Aath Koti Nani Paksha in the lineage of Pujya Hansrajji Swami. His first male and female disciples were Jayeshji Swami (Bagda) and Manjaribai Swami (Karagoga). Under his leadership, 8 men and 12 women took Diksha. He possessed all the 36 qualities of Acharya. He started the concept of Gharsabha and Dharmasabha. Through Gharsabha he was able to resolve many of the household disputes. Dnansatra, Balsatra and Samuhik Dharma Aradhana were also initiated by him.
During the chaturmas of Kandagara, an individual threatened to kill Pujya-saheb if he would continue to travel on his regular route. His followers advised him to avoid the route. Not only did Pujya-saheb stick to his schedule and route, but also requested that his schedule be made
JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
known to the potential killer. Pujya-saheb was more concerned about this aggressor's karmas than his own life, he wanted the aggressor to realize his mistake. Within no time, the individual realized his mistake and apologized to Pujya saheb. While doing so, Pujya-saheb explained the real meaning of Ahimsa to him. In another instance when a medical practicing doctor was arguing that the real religion was serving other people, Pujya-saheb agreed with the ideal of service, but at the same time pointed out that service should be for all living beings in the universe. According to him, serving one set of beings and hurting other set of beings could not possibly be religion. Giving such simple but pointed arguments, he had convinced the doctor about the value of vegetarianism. Similar interactions had impressed Maneka Gandhi about the purpose of following an eco-friendly life-style. During his life-time he did 61 chaturmas. In spite of being Acharya, he would take his turn to bring gochari for the younger ascetics. He would visit the households of Jain as well as non-Jains to inspire them on the noble path. He always remained active throughout his life. If any of the ascetics were not in good health, he would immediately visit them, even if it meant walking many miles. His memory was so sharp that he would remember the name and family details of any shravak even after a gap of few years.
- Acharya Virendra Muni These simple yet profound words speak about the simplicity of Acharya Shri Virendramuniji. A sadhu with few words, but an intent listener,

Acharyaji knew it was time to move on. He took the vow of fasting unto death. He died on February 27, 2011. His palkhi was carried on February 28, 2011. As the Maha-atma continuing the journey towards Moksha, it inspires many thousands of other wandering souls in the same direction of Moksha.
Acharyashri Virendra Muniji (M. A.)
Shashtry Achar (Action,
વિનય એટલે ભક્તિયોગ, વિદ્યા એટલે જ્ઞાનયોગ, અને વિવેક એટલે ચારિત્રયોગ, આ ત્રણમા થી એકની પણ ઊપેક્ષા એટલે મોક્ષમાર્ગની ઉપેક્ષા
Behavior) is Religion
reminds one of psychiatrist like qualities in him. His guidance and counseling to his sangh makes him a true guru.
Virendra Muni is the 28 Acharya of the Dariyapuri Sthanakvasi Sampraday. He has about 120 followers (sadhus and sadhvis). Acharyashri Virendra Muniji was born on April 26 1944 as Vinodbhai. His parents were Ramanlal and

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Kantaben Mehta. He lost his father at a very early age and thus became very close to his grandfather who taught him Samayik and also inculcated the sound values of humanity and humility at a very early age. Due to his liking for religion from a very tender age, his grandfather would lovingly call him "Bhagat". At the age of 12 he could recite Pratikraman in the Upashray during Paryushan. Right after high school, he was inclined to take Diksha. However, his family wanted him to be more matured and asked him to wait until he finished college. As his quest for spiritual knowledge increased, he began to spend more and more time at the Upashray. After acquiring his bachelor's degree in Philosophy with a subject like Ardh Magdhi, he once again sought permission from his family for taking Diksha. The family kept delaying his decision by convincing him this time to finish his Master's Degree. Nothing could stop this determined young man from taking diksha and he finally gave up all worldly possessions and became a Sadhu named Virendra Muni on May 4, 1968. In his 38 years of monk-hood, he has grown immensely in terms of knowledge, faith, and conduct. His guru Acharya Shri Sahantilalji would fondly say "My Viru is unbreakable like a copper pot and he shines even more with every new challenge.". On February 19, 2000, he received the Acharya Pad in Mumbai and was inducted as an Acharya in the Dariyapuri Sthanakvasi Sangh.
His knowledge of Sadhak Sahachari (Spiritual Guide) is very deep. Sadhak Sahachari are important verses compiled as a poem in Gujarati by Munishree Santabalaji from Uttardhyan Sutra and Dasa Vaikalika Sutra. His humility, respect for all life forms and simplicity is quite extraordinary. He explains the rules of Jinshashan to all like a parent would teach to a loving child. His peaceful personality and detachment from the worldly
Pujya Shri Namra Muni Maharaj Saheb, a Jain Muni of Gondal Sampraday was born on September 26, 1969 in Nagpur. After he lost his father at the age of three, he moved to his native place Lathi, in Saurashtra and from there to his maternal uncle's place in Delhi. At the tender age of six years, he had farsighted vision. One night in his dreams, he heard a divine voice saying, "Your life is very short do whatever you want to do."
expectations attracts shravaks who want to meet him over and over again. Monk and Acharyas of other sects have also appreciated his deep sense of spirituality. He is extremely vigilant towards his duties. His quest for knowledge (Gyanpipasa) makes him a true learner. He is a source of motivation and inspiration to his Sangh. His contribution to the society by way of arranging Dhyan Shibirs (meditation camps), working towards preparing directory of the Sangh or counseling people makes him a true Karm Yogi and Dharma Yogi. He truly fulfills the Acharyapad 'Acharam Acharati Param, Param Acharvanti eti Acharya."
in Education International
Question Answer session with Guruji:
Did you have any difficulty in the beginning when you started giving lectures?
Yes, In the beginning, a lecture that would take an hour to prepare and would conclude in 15 minutes. However, working with Gurudev and learning from him it became easier.
How do you like to teach?
"Padhamam Nanam tao daya, Avam Chitthai savva sanjayeAnnani kim kahi, kim va nahi say pavagga"-Das Vaikalika Sutra. Most important thing is Knowledge followed by action (Daya), which leads to Nirvana.
What is more important - Humanity or Jain Religion?
Humanity is a part of Jainism. But we cannot neglect introspection for humanity.
Yuva Hridaya Samrat Gurudev Pujya Namra Muni
He narrated this dream to his mother who instead of ignoring his dream encouraged him to take Diksha and make his life worthy. He then left for Jodhpur to study religion and learnt the 32 Agams and their meaning. He took Diksha at the age of 21 and came to be known as the Jain Saint Namramuni Maharaj. When he was 22 years of age, he fell critically sick. He started chanting "Shri Uvvasagarah Stotra" which he had never heard nor learnt before. As the doctors continued
Can you tell us what is good or bad about life? Don't live with memories of yesterday or think about what the future will bring. Khashanam Jana hi Pandit- The one who knows this moment and lives in the present is a real knowledgeable person.

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with their treatment, he went on reciting the stotra What is the difference between Dharma (Religion) and was saved miraculously. He spent one
and Sampraday? Is Sampraday important for the chaturmaas with tap Samrat Pujya Gurudev Shri future generation? Ratilalji Maharaj and became his disciple. After
Religion is a quality of the soul. Sampraday is one his Guru's death, he propagated his teachings
of the roads to reach the final destination. Religion and preachings. Gurudev Namra Muni has put in
is the same for everyone, but the journey from tremendous effort to spread Jain religion and Jeev to Shiv Atma to Siddhatma there are multiple hence the title of "Shashan Prabhavak" was
paths (Sampraday). There need not be any claims conferred upon him.
from any Sampraday Namra Muni's teachings
about their path being the target the youth and
only correct one. children of today. Gurudev
Reaching the higher started the Arham Yuva
destination is a more Group in November 2005
important goal than the in Mulund, Mumbai to
kind of path taken to channelize the youthful
achieve it. By respecting energy and thoughts in
others and accepting good the right direction. "The
from everyone helps us meaning of the word
improve our knowledge. Arham" is to overcome
True Dharma or religion is anger and ego to become
a feeling that comes when a self-composed human
Pujya Namra Muni
one experiences the being. Gurudev wishes to
nature of one's own soul. bring youngsters together and help them get rid of it comes with Deed (Action) not by Words. their ego, pride, anger, and guide them to walk on
Is Puja (Worship) necessary? the religious path. The group that began with only 50 members grew fast with over 2000 members
There are two kinds of Puja: Sakar( keeping the now. Look and Learn group was targeted towards
figure as a medium) and Nirakar (keeping Soul as children. Pujya Gurudev felt that if the children
a medium). Each Puja has its own position in were taught the principles of religion with modern
each one's life. It is improper to feel that one technological aids, more kids would attend
might be better than the other. Pathshala willingly and regularly. He worked
Could you comment on the debate of 40 Loguss relentlessly for two years to publish a fascinating
vs. 20 Loguss for each Kaussag? book on Samayik and Pratikraman with colorful
The most important thing is to detach the body illustrations. It is an extremely detailed book and
from physical activities and concentrate or has chapters written in three languages (Ardh
meditate towards the self. Previously it was meant Magdhi, Gujarati & English). Approximately 40
to go for 100 respirations, which was difficult to Pathshalas and 400 teachers worked on this
practice, therefore Acharyas taught us to use project. The goal for Look and Learn was to
Loguss which became a tradition. We should create a loving and playful environment, which
focus on remaining detached from outside fostered the moral and spiritual development of
activities to focus within and not on the number of children. According to Guru Namra Muni,
Loguss we can say. "Religion is about, bringing a positive change in one's day to day life and a lasting change in one's
Is Punya good or bad? Can doing a good deed be attitude and behavior." The Kolkata Parasdham
bad? and lately Pavandham have also been started by Punya is a byproduct of good religious behavior. Namra Muniji.
Punya is not a Hay or Upaday, but it is a Gnay. Meeting with PujyaNamramuni Maharaj:
Without Punya receiving healthy human life,
meeting proper person (Sadguru), developing One of our editors was fortunate to meet and seek
faith, learning and practicing right way of living is his blessing in July 2010. Here is a brief excerpt
not possible. Punya is the vehicle to help us from the question and answer session that took
towards our goal of Moksh. place in this meeting:
Message to the people:
G
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People today forget that Bhagwan Mahavir lived in the jungle for 12.5 years and went through severe penance to become Arihant. Currently many Jains are preoccupied only with rituals. It is like a turtle living in a lake. We should aim to be a turtle living in the ocean. Bhagwan Mahavir does not belong to Jains only. We need to cultivate
awareness, look at the present, learn from the past and revise our plan for the future to spread Bhagwan Mahavir's message of Ahimsa, Anekantvad, Aparigrah and equanimity to the world. "We have a very short stroke of time to do things fast and with perfection."--Namra Muni
आचार्य भगवन्त श्री हस्तीमल जी जिनके विमल प्रताप से, हुआ हिताहित ज्ञान ।।
'भक्तियुक्त गुरूदेव का, धरूँ हृदय में ध्यान ।।। मेरे आराध्यदेव मेरी असीम श्रद्धा के केन्द्र पूज्य गुरूदेव करते थे और जब कभी बात करते थे तो केवल धर्मध्यान। आचार्य भगवन्त श्री हस्तीमल जी म.सा. का जब भी स्मरण करती आत्मोत्थान एवं कर्मों से मुक्ति सम्बन्धित ही बात करते थे। वे है, मन प्रमोद एवं उत्साह से भर जाता है। मैंने उनके दर्शन अधिकांश समय लेखन अथवा ध्यान आदि साधना में लीन रहते। सर्वप्रथम आज से 38 साल पहले सन 1972 में पाली, राजस्थान थे। गुरूदेव के मौन दिवस के दिन भी उनके सानिध्य में बैठने से में किये थे। उस समय हम सपरिवार उदयपुर, केसिरिया नाथ जी आनन्द का अनुभव होता था। उनके दर्शन मात्र से ही मन में एक गये था लौटते समय रास्ते में गरूदेव के दर्शनार्थ हम पाली अनोखी संतुष्टि सी मिलती थी। जब भी मौका मिलता मरा भावना। रुका शाम का समय था. हमें जयपुर पहंचने की जल्दी थी, उनके दर्शनों के लिए जाने की रहती थी। समय के साथ साथ इसलिए हम उनके सानिध्य में ज्यादा नहीं रूक पाए। उस समय मेरी श्रद्धा बढ़ती गई और साथ साथ धार्मिक भावना भादढ हात मेरी उनसे कोई बातचीत नहीं हुई थी। हमने वापस लौटते समय गई।। उनसे मांगलिक फरमाने के लिए कहा, तो उन्होंने कहा कि अभी।
उनके प्रवचन भी बहुत प्रभावी रंग प्रेरणास्पद होते थे। जयपुर जा रहे हो क्या? हमने जब हाँ कहा तब उन्होंने अगले।
जब भी मैं गुरूदेव के प्रवचन सुनती ऐसा लगता था कि, जैसे दिन जाने को कहा। लेकिन हम लोगों ने उनकी इस बात पर
उनके प्रत्येक वाक्य मेरे लिए ही है प्रत्येक शब्द जिनवाणी का गौर नहीं किया तब उन्होंने मांगलिक फरमा दी। उसके पश्चात
सार प्रत्येक वाक्य जीवन का उद्धार करने वाला और आत्मा को। हम पाली से जयपुर के लिए रवाना हो गये। हमारे परिवार के।
अन्दर तक स्पर्श कर देने वाला होता था। सदस्य दो गाडियों में थे करीब 8-10 कि.मी. ही चले होंगे कि। हमारी एक गाडी बीच जंगल में खराब हो गई। गाड़ी का कोई
सन 1990 में मेरे पति के स्वर्गवास के बाद मेरे जीवन। पजा टट गया था, उसके लिए हमें वापस पाली ही जाना पड़ा। में काफी समस्याएं आई पर आपकी कपा से सभी का समाधान। गाडा ठाक हात हात काफा रात बाचचुका था अतः हमने सुबह हो गया। मैंने कभी भी गुरुदेव से अपनी समस्या नहा कहा आर। होने पर ही रवाना होना उचित समझा। गुरूदेव की बात याद कभी कुछ नहीं मांगा। उसके बाद गुरूदेव का देवलोक 1991 में आइउन्होंने कहा था कि सुबह चले जाना, पर हमने उस समय हो गया था। उनके प्रति जो श्रद्धा थी, उसी से हमारी समस्याओं उनकी बात नहीं मानी थी। शायद उन्हें तो इस घटना का पहले का समाधान हो जाता था। ही आभास हो गया था। सुबह रवाना होने से पहले हम गुरुदेव
आज में सब जिम्मेदारियों से निवत हो गई है। अब मेरे। के दर्शन करने पहुंचे, और रात बीती सारी बात कही, लेकिन ।
जीवन का लक्ष्य सिर्फ धार्मिक स्वाध्याय ही है। गुरूदेव का बाया गुरूदेव मौन रहे, और मांगलिक फरमा दी।
हुआ बीज मेरे अन्तर में पनपता रहा, और आज वह आध्यात्मिका उसके पश्चात मैंने 1976 में बालोत्तरा, राजस्थान में भावना से लहलहा रहा है. यह सब उनकी ही कृपा से है। आज गरुदेव के दर्शन किये और उसके बाद में लगभग हर वर्ष उनके वे शारीरिक रूप से हमारे बीच नहीं है पर उनका स्मरण हमेशा । दर्शन करने जाती थी। वे हमेशा सामायिक करने की प्रेरणा देते रहता है।। थे। जब भी जाती थी तो यही पूछते थे कि सामायिक बराबर चला
'ऐसे श्रद्धास्पद गुरूदेव को कोटिशः वन्दन नमन।। रही है ना। न तो कभी परिवार सम्बन्धित कोई बात पूछते और ना कभी अन्य किसी सांसारिक बात की चर्चा करते। वे कम ही बात।
-रतन करनावट
Agamoddharak Shri Ghasilalji Maharaj
Jain Acharya and a literary giant, Ghasilalji Maharaj was a great intellectual in the Sthanakvasi Jain community. Shri Ghasilalji was born in 1885 at Banol village, which is known for
its great warriors near Jashwantgadh in Mewar region. Shri Ghasilalji's personal appearance was very impressive. Anybody who saw him predicted that the boy would be a great man in the future.
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He was a disciple of the great Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji Maharaj. His sound knowledge of Jain literature established him as a profound thinker and his literary creations reflect his holy, restrained and vow-full life. Ghasilalji did not attend any school but learnt everything from nature. He learnt the virtues of tolerance, renunciation, satisfaction, appreciation of other's virtues, fearlessness, simplicity, equal feelings for all, and self-support from nature itself. He would go away to the nearby forests to think about life & nature. Ghasilalji was deeply influenced by Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji Maharaj'
s preaching. Ghasiramji expressed his desire to take Diksha. Acharya Shri told him, "It is very difficult & painful to follow vows but it is the only way to be free from the bondage of deeds". Ghasilalji at once replied, "I shall suffer all pains with total determination to follow the restrained life because restraint always brings happiness in this life as also in future lives." Noticing Ghasiramji's firm commitment over a period of time Acharya Jawaharlalji granted him Diksha in 1952 at Jashwantgadh. He mastered 16 languages. He also had deep knowledge of grammar, logic (Nyaya), darshan & literature. He spent his monsoons in many regions of India spreading the Jain scripture knowledge to the wider Indian community. Accepting requests from several devotees from all
over India, he started the work of translating 32 Agamic scriptures. For this task, he worked continuously at Ahmedabad for 16 years. Finally, people had access to these scriptures in a language they could understand. He translated the original scriptures first in the form of prose & poetry and then later with detailed comments and meanings. The Jain community will always be grateful to Acharya Ghasilalji for his contribution of translating the Jain scriptures in Gujarati & Hindi. His greatness and vast learning is evident from his works. He was endowed with the virtues of simplicity, nobility, sweetness of speech, largeheartedness, tolerance, self-supporting nature etc. It was for this reason people of all communities respected him. He always advocated love for all, friendship and spiritual tolerance. Shri Ghasilalji was awarded the titles of Kolhapur Raj Purush and Shasanacharya because of his great knowledge and literary work. The Karachi Jain Sangh conferred on him the titles of Jain Diwakar and Jain Acharya because of his total renunciation, penance and restraint. Finally, as his health started failing him, he embraced Sallekhana vow (fast unto death) and on February 2, 1973 at the age of 88 Acharya Shri Ghasilalji passed away.
(Continued from page 54) Bruhad Gujarat Samuday3 Acharya; 139 Sadhu; 1091 Sadhvi Total 1,230 Cha(6) Koti Limdi
Gadipati Shri Labhchandraji Gondal
Gachchashiro.Jayantilalji Limadi Ajaramar
Shri Dhirya Muniji Dariyapuri
Acharyashri Virendra Muniji Katch Mota Paksh
Gadipati Pranlalji Katch Nani Paksh
Acharya Shri Raghavaji Swami (Recently after taking a vow of fasting upto death, he passed
away on February 27, 2011) Botad
Shri Amichandaji Khambhat
Acharya Shri Aravind muniji Gondal Sanghani
P.Ratnashri Narendra muniji Barawala
Gachchadhipati Shri Saradarmuniji Halari
P.Ratnashri Keshav muniji
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The Legend and the Legacy
A Tribute to Acharya Mahapragya
"Muni Nathmal was in a
affectionate towards him.
There was no formal profound meditative state
school in Tamkor village pondering over the
in those days and embedded meaning of an
Acharyashri did not Agam verse". This
receive a formal sentence depicts the
education. He complete devotion of a
nonetheless had lessons prodigy sage, Muni
on letters and Nathmal, to comprehend
mathematics tables from the truth passed on by
local teacher(s). He was Bhagwan Mahavir. Right
inspired towards from the beginning, at the
spirituality by his mother's tender age of ten, he
religious devotion and by devoted himself to the
the lessons learnt from study, research, and
sadhus who visited the correlation of the rich
village from time to time. treasures of the Jain
Eventually he conveyed Agams and related Jain
to his mother his wish to canons for over thirty
become a monk. On years. Continuously
January 29, 1931, at the guided, encouraged, and
age of 10 Acharya sometimes even prodded
Acharya Mahapragya
Kalugani initiated him into by Guru Acharya Tulsi,
the Jain Shwetamber Muni Nathmal would dwell deep into a particular Terapanth order. Assigned under the me subject matter, analyzing it from multiple angles
of Muni Tulsi; a guru-chela relationship that grew and ultimately realizing the very essence of the
exponentially as time passed. The combination message as if it was delivered directly by Kevali
and somewhat complementary skills of these two Mahavir. He was able to master the Nirgranth
masters not only grew the Terapanth sangh far faith (the original name of Mahavir's philosophy) in bevond the confines of Rajasthan's few northern its original form and find applicability for it in districts, but also made its deep impact on the modern times by filtering off the possible
Indian nation and its influence spread throughout distortions of language, time, social changes, and the globe. traditionalism. Appreciating the great knowledge,
Thoughts churned out from the depths of his discipline, and the wisdom of his disciple, Acharya
meditation are lasting and effective. In his singie Tulsi brought this great personage out of seclusion
famous quote - "Soul is my god. Renunciation is and presented him to the world by endowing additional honors and responsibilities. Acharya
my prayer. Amity is my devotion. Self-restraint is
my strength. Non-violence is my religion." - Tulsi honored him with the qualitative epithet of
Acharya Mahapragya defined the essence of Mahapragya (highly knowledgeable) on 12
Dharma, sainthood, and his own path to salvation. November 1978. The Legend, whom we know as Acharya Mahapragya, became known to public.
At the same time, he inspired mankind to follow
the path founded on fundamental human strengths Nathmal (Acharyashri's childhood name) was born and values to Tola Ram Choraria and Baluji in the small
The word Mahaprajna (spoken as Mahapragya) village of Tamkor in the Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan. He lost his father when he was just two
means "Highly knowledgeable". Acharya
Mahapragya's disciples refer to him as Gurudev and half months old. Growing up in an extended
and saw him as a Karunadhari (companionate - family, he gained support from all the family members, Nathmal's mother was very fond and
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infinite knowledge, always providing blessing and in the form of Preksha Dhyan (Perceptive guidance for their upliftment and empowerment. Meditation), a new meditation technique relevant Besides being a philosopher-thinker lost in
for the modern times. The simple steps of Preksha philosophy, he was also an extempore and
Dhyan calm the most fickle and wandering mind, inspirational poet. His verses in both Hindi and rejuvenate the physical body, and ultimately sow Sanskrit reveal his subtle delicate feelings and the the seed of spirituality. depth of his philosophical understanding.
Modern educational systems have been Sambodhi, Ashruvina, Mukulam in Sanskrit) and standardized towards intellectual development and Rishabhayana, Shraman Mahavir (in Hindi) are
imparting knowledge. Acharyashri realized that some of the jewels contributed by him to the world the ills of the society cannot be resolved unless of literature. Acharyashri's early scholarly works
the basic moral value system is instilled in the were read and personally recognized by Dr.
youth right from the formative years of their Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of education. Acharyashri introduced Jeevan Vigyan India, and India's most influential scholars of
(Science of Living) system with the intent of comparative religion and philosophy. Rashtrakavi holistic development of students that includes their (National poet) Ram Dhari Singh Dinkar said,
emotional, intellectual and physical development. "Mahapragya is a Modern Vivekananda". In 2004
Combining Pranayam, Yoga postures, Meditation, Indian President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, mentioned and contemplation techniques with other Acharyashri's name in his Republic Day Speech to scientifically validated affirmation techniques, the nation. This is the first time in Indian
Science of Living Education inculcates positive Parliamentary history that the name of a religious
attitude and helps in the development of a leader was mentioned in a national speech. The
balanced personality. recognition that the basic Jain principles can
Transformations in social outlook can occur become the cornerstone of peace and harmony in
through movements that touch the goodness the country is a matter of pride for the entire Jain
inherent in human psyche that invariably remains community.
dormant. Under the guidance of Acharya Tulsi, When one of the authors of the Jain Digest met
Mahapragyaji played an instrumental role in the him in Ladnun, Rajasthan, it was that time of the
Anuvrat movement. The ultimate aim of the year when over 5000 devotees had gathered to
movement is to create a nonviolent socio-political celebrate the annual Maryada Mahotsava.
world order with the help of a worldwide network of Acharyashri still managed to find time for people
self-transformed people. This grassroots who wanted to meet him. When asked about
movement is making slow but effective progress religious sects he said, "If you are not a religious
across the globe. fanatic, everybody is yours and if you are a
The economic growth, steered by phenomenal religious fanatic, whatever is yours also doesn't
globalization and advances in technology, has remain with you any more". He further went on to
also become the amplifier of human greed and the emphasize the importance of spirituality over
thirst for power. Such strong unrestrained theology and tradition, but at the same time, he did
emotions result in terrorist attacks, communal and not discount the need for tradition. In that short
ethnic clashes, and increased disparity between time span, he showed certain meditation
the rich and the poor. Acharya Mahapragya techniques, and emphasized its importance. In the
started a mass movement - a long journey end we ran out of questions, Acharyashri did not
christened Ahimsa Yatra, to act as an antidote to run out of time. In the end, he gave an advice to
the spread of human negativism. Ahimsa Yatra start taking simple steps to remain inside while
would influence people from all walks of life with living in the outside world.
the power of Ahimsa. Covering nine states and Acharyashri spent years studying and
thousands of villages, towns and cities by foot, experimenting on various meditation techniques
Acharyashri would first bring the problems of all described in various ancient Jain scriptures.
forms of violence into sharp focus, then find Correlating the results of his experimentation with common around in differing ideas and views, and Yoga science (as described by various eastern
finally, by persuasion, convert negative thoughts scholars), Biology, Physics, Naturopathy and
and emotions into positive and constructive views. Ayurveda, Acharyashri realized the wonderful
Ahimsa Yatra inspired over 40,000 volunteers, benefits of meditation. He formalized his discovery who would work at local levels, resolving conflicts
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and bringing peace and harmony to the community. Those who have extensively practiced nonviolence have not only made profound positive impact on society but have also given us hope for a harmonious future. Acharyashri realized that he and his dedicated disciples, alone, could only do so much. He needed to team up with other likeminded individuals to spread the power of Ahimsa. Mahapragyaji went out of his way to meet and collaborate with other Jain Acharyas and leaders to spread Jain philosophy and the essence of our ancient heritage. He also interacted with leaders of other faiths finding common ground and advancing the cause of Ahimsa. Acharyashri successfully convinced and motivated various renowned academicians, sociopolitical personalities, professional and business leaders towards projects leading to social upliftment constructed on the principles of Ahimsa. The collaborative work with Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is a classic example of such endeavor. In the book, The Family and The Nation, written jointly by Acharya Mahapragya and Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. They put forwards compelling argument of needing both adhyatma (spirituality), and vigyan (science - but broadly defined as economic growth) for the country to progress. They prescribe a process to build ethics at all levels in the country: • A nation has to have ethics in all its tasks for
sustained economic prosperity and peace.
• If a nation is to have ethics, society has to
promote ethics and value systems. • If society is to have ethics and value systems,
families should adhere to ethics and value
systems. . If families have to evolve with ethics and value
systems, parenthood should have inbuilt ethics. Parental ethics come from great learning. value-based education and creation of clean environment that leads to righteousness in the
heart. How do we define a great master? Is it by the legendary qualities or by the legacy? The question was answered by Jain Sashan - we bow to Arihants before we bow to Siddhas. While the enlightened soul departed from the physical body on May 9, 2010, Gurudev Mahapragyaji lives on and his legacy remains alive. As we welcome the new Acharya Mahashraman, a gift to the world from his Guru, Acharya Mahapragya; , someone educated, nurtured, groomed and eventually empowered under his guidance, to carry forward the message of Bhagwan Mahavir. Acharya Mahashraman will not only advance the legacy of Acharya Mahapragya, his Guru, but in time, will establish his own legacy.
Acharya Mahashraman A Glimpse of a Great Soul
Tulsi and Mahapragya had reserved some of the Jain Dharma has given immense importance to
choicest words for their most worthy disciple the role of a guru in a soul's journey towards Mahashraman. An English translation of these enlightenment. Blessed
words would not do are those who have
justice as it would fail to received the kind and
define the unique nature insightful guidance from
of an enlightened soul. It the great spiritual
is only through leaders; especially if
Anupreksha (deep these spiritual gurus
meditation on selected include the visionary
words or phrases) that Gurudev Acharya Tulsi
we begin to understand and the legendary
the deeper meaning of scholar Gurudev
these seemingly simple Acharya Mahapragya. It
words that define the seems both Acharya
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Terapanth Lineage Acharya Bhikshu (1760-1803) Acharya Bharmal (1803-1821) Acharya Raichand (1821-1851) Acharya Jeetmal (1851-1881) Acharya Maghraj (1881-1892) Acharya Manaklal (1892-1897) Acharya Dalchand (1897-1909) Acharya Kaluram (1909-1936) Acharya Tulsi (1936-1996) Acharya Mahaprajna (1996-9th May 2010), Acharya Mahashraman (From May)
capabilities and charitra of Acharya Mahashraman. "Mahashraman Aachaar Nishth Hai, Adhyaatma Nishth Hai, Vinmra Hai Aou Sub Prakar Se Saksham Hai. Main Bhavishya Ke Lie Nishchint Hun."
-Acharya Tulsi "Mahashraman is a legend in leading a pure life, firm conduct observance, and highly enlightened Saint. He is enormously capable. The future is in good hands." (the translation is intended to give the overall meaning instead of it being a paraphrase.) "Mahatapasvi Veh Hota Hai Jisme Indriya Sanyam Hota Hai. Mahashraman Ka Indriya Sanyam Anuttar Hai." - Acharya Mahapragya "A high profiled ascetic is the personality who has disciplined his mind, body and instincts blissfully. Mahashraman is an extra ordinary example of it. Therefore I recognize him an exemplary ascetic." Acharya Shri Mahashraman was born as Mohan Dugar on May 13, 1962 in Sardarshahar, Rajasthan in western India. His profound religious pursuits became manifest in his early formative years, along with an intense quest for in-depth knowledge and truth. A few days shy of his twelfth birthday, this child prodigy convinced the, then Acharya Tulsi to initiate him as a monk and thus began the meticulous nurturing and training that turned him into an outstanding saint and eminent Jain scholar. At the same time, he was also transformed into an extraordinary leader under the astute guidance and prudent prodding not only of his late grand guru but also of the late Acharya Mahapragya, for whom he has had the utmost devotion and reverence. Being a Yuvacharya, he was involved inseparably in all of Acharya Mahapragya's work. Acharya Mahapragya used to experience 'oneness' with Acharya Mahashraman. One witnesses rare coincidences in Acharya Mahashraman's life every 12 years. Every 12th year brought a new direction and responsibility in his life. He took diksha at the age of 12, he became Acharya Mahapragya's close subordinate at the age of 24, he became a Yuvacharya (designated Acharya) at the age of 36 and finally became the Acharya at the age of 48. Similarly, the month of May has been special in Acharya
Mahashraman's life; he was born on May 13, took his diksha on May 13, became Acharya Tulsi's disciple on May 13, and became the group leader on May 14. With his recent induction as the 11th Acharya of Terapanth, on May 23, 2010, in his hometown of Sardarshahar, the coincidences of 12 years and the month of May continues. Tirthankar Mahavir showed the path of liberation from karmic bondage through enlightened faith or perception (samyak darshana), enlightened knowledge (samyak jnana), and enlightened conduct (samyak charitra) 2600 years ago. Now it seems that three great Terapanth Jain saints of the modern era have become symbols of this three pronged concept. Acharya Tulsi laid the foundation by creating an institution that puts emphasis on the basic tenets of the Dharma while deemphasizing (not rejecting) certain age old traditions. It is an institution that encourages belief in reality that leads to rational perception. Belief in the core Jain philosophical concepts resulting from rational perception rather than blind faith is much stronger and clearer. Acharya Mahapragya built further on the foundation laid by Tulsiji. Many of Acharya Mahapragya's disciples describe him as an "Ocean of Knowledge". An ardent researcher and investigator, Mahapragnaji gained deep knowledge of the Jain Agams, other Jain canons, and various other eastern and western philosophical works. He subsequently showed the relevance of his mastery of this ancient treasure in every walk of life, including its positive impact on each and every aspect of our diverse modern society. The great efforts of these two masters would remain incomplete unless we in the society start imbibing these core values within us. This
Total Monk in Terapanth Sangh Acharya-1. Sadhu-153, Sadhvi-518, Saman-1. Samani-98. Mumukshu(Trainee Monks -43
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mountainous task of convincing and motivating the society to start living the value system so lucidly described by his gurus is now in the hands of Acharya Mahashraman. The distinct qualities of Acharya Mahashraman allows him to lead us with his own example. What stands out is Mahasharaman's unparalleled amount of humility and equanimity. It seems his keen sense of awareness is active all the time, the same quality he subtly induces in people who come in contact with him. Under his otherwise quiet persona there is a deep sense of purpose and remarkable ability to bring about a change in the society. Practicing meditation in the peaceful ambience at the dawn of the day is an important part of his daily life. Even as the day progresses and he engages in various activities and programs, he continues to present the same peaceful and equanimous nature. He is a living example of the concept of the Sthitapragya as described in Shrimad Bhagwat Gita. This is the reason why every person entering his aura feels purity, peace and solace. The very presence of this saintly aura coupled with his great oratory skills, not only
leaves a lasting impression, but also influences a shuttle change towards spirituality in his audience. While, Jain Agams have always been the basis of his speeches, he would, on many occasions dwell deep into teachings of Shrimad Bhagwat Gita and Buddhist scripture Dhammapad. With his clear beliefs that texts, sacred notes, religious orders or saints can be different but their learning experiences and facts are the same, his talks would have lasting impact on various non-Jain members of our society. This unique strength was aptly demonstrated during his tour of the remote tribal areas, where Acharyashri explained the significance of the principle of Ahimsa. Many tribal people not only listened and understood Ahimsa but also accepted it practically by renouncing hunting, addictive substances, non-vegetarian food and innocent killing. Glorious in peace, sharp in silence, humble in learning and specialty in simplicity this young Acharya is beacon of hope and a solace in this era of dwindling morality, intolerance and unrest. Humankind can look to this brightly shining star for a path to salvation.
જ્ઞાનીની દશા દેહ છતાં જેની દશા વર્તે દેહાતીત
તે જ્ઞાનીના શરણમાં હો વંદન અગણીત This Article in Gujarati is based on the writing of Pujya Shri Rakeshbhai Zaveri, who has been inspired by the
teaching of Shrimad Rajchandra.) દેહધારી હોવા છતાં જે વિદેહી દશામાં સતત વર્તે છે, રાગ- થાય છે. એજ છે સમ્યકદર્શન, આત્માની અનુભૂતિ. આ કાળે દ્વેષ અને અજ્ઞાન જેમના ટળી ગયા છે, જેમને અનંત ઐશ્વર્ય આત્મા અતિન્દ્રિય આનંદપણે વેદનમાં આવે છે. અખંડ યુક્ત સ્વસ્વરૂપ પ્રગટ કર્યું છે, જેઓ શાંત રસમાં ઝુલી પ્રયાસથી મેળવેલી આ જ્ઞાની દશા અત્યંત અદભુત અને અમૃતસાગર થયા છે, જેઓ કૃતકૃત્ય થઇ સહજાત્મ પદ આનંદમય હોય છે. કલ્પનાથી સમજાય કે વાણીથી વર્ણવા પામ્યા છે, તે ભગવાન સ્વરૂપ જ્ઞાની પુરુષોને અત્યંત જેવી નથી. જેમ ગોળના ગળપણની કે ઘીના સ્વાદની કથા ભક્તિભાવ થી કોટી કોટી વંદન હો.
સાથે તુલના કરી શકાય નહિ, તેમ આ સહજાનંદને કોઈ જ્ઞાનીની આવી મહત્તા, જૈન અને જૈનેતર, બધાજ સાહિત્ય બીજી ઉપમા આપી શકાય નહિ. અનાદિ કાળથી દૃષ્ટિ પર માં કરેલી છે. આવા જ્ઞાની તે કોણ? આવી અદભુત દશા ઉપર હતી, વિપરીત હતી; તેથી એ દશામાં દુખ હતું. હવે કેવી રીતે પ્રાપ્ત થાય ? એ જ્ઞાનીને કેવી રીતે ઓળખવા?
દિશા અંતરની તરફ છે. દિશા સવળી થતા દશાં આનંદમય પ્રસ્તુત લેખમાં આપણે પૂજ્યશ્રી રાકેશભાઈ ઝવેરી આ બાબતમાં શું સમજાવે છે એ ટૂંક માં જોઈશું.
આવા જ્ઞાનીના લક્ષણો શું કે જેથી આપણે જ્ઞાની અને જ્ઞાની કોને કહેવાય? જેણે આત્માનું જ્ઞાન મેળવ્યું છે, જેણે
અજ્ઞાનીમાં નો ફેર સમઝે? આત્માનો અનુભવ કરેલો છે તે જ્ઞાની. જે સાધક, શ્રી ગુરુ - ૧) સ્વરૂપ રમણતા પાસેથી શુદ્ધાત્મસ્વરૂપનું જ્ઞાન મેળવી, તેની પ્રાપ્તિ માટે નાની સ્વાનભતિના કાળે પોતાના આનંદ શાંતિ જ્ઞાન આદિ પ્રયોગાત્મક અભ્યાસમાં નિષ્ઠા અને સાતત્ય પૂર્વક રત રહે અનંત ગણોની અદભુત પર્યાયોમાં રમતા હોય છે. દ્રવ્યદ્રષ્ટિ છે. તે ભવ્ય આત્માને કોઈ પણ ધન્ય પળે શુદ્ધાત્માની પ્રાપ્તી થઇ હોવાને લીધે ગમે તે સ્થળે. ગમે તે સંજોગોમાં પોતાના
બને છે.
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સુખનીધાન પોતાની સાથે જ રહે છે. જ્ઞાનીએ પોતાનો સ્વભાવ જાણ્યો છે. આત્માનો સ્વભાવ સંપૂર્ણ સ્વતંત્ર, પોતાથી જ પોતામાં પરિપૂર્ણ, સુખરૂપ છે. તેથી જ્ઞાનીને કદી પણ પોતાના સુખ માટે પરાશ્રયની જરૂર લાગતી નથી. આવી દશા પ્રાપ્ત કરવા, તેને સહજ બનાવવા માટે બેહદ પુરુષાર્થ આવશ્યક છે. કલાકાર કુશળતાથી ચિત્ર દોરી શકે છે કે અદાકારી કરી શકે છે કારણકે એની પાછળ વરસોની તપસ્યા છે; એમજ જ્ઞાનીની આ સહજતા નિરંતર અભ્યાસથી આવે છે.
અજ્ઞાની પોતે પોતાના સ્વભાવને ભૂલીને, ઉંધી માન્યતાથી પરની ગુલામી સ્વીકારે છે; પરંતુ જ્ઞાની સ્વભાવના જોરે પરાશ્રયરૂપ ગુલામીના બંધનને સર્વથા છેદીને, સંપૂર્ણ સ્વતંત્ર દશામાં બિરાજે છે. સંસારની સર્વ પ્રવૃત્તિઓમાં તેઓ ઉદાસીન થઈને નિશ્ચલ વૃત્તિને ધારણ કરે છે. નીજાનંદનો અનુભવ થયો હોવાથી તેમને વિષયો પ્રત્યે વૈરાગ્ય હોય છે.
"સકલ જગત છે એઠવત, અથવા સ્વપ્ન સમાન" પ્રતીત થાય છે, તેથી તેમને વિષયસુખ ભોગવવાના પરિણામ થતા નથી.
૨) અપૂર્વ જાગૃતિ
જ્ઞાની પૂર્વ કર્મોદયના કારણે સંસારની પ્રવૃત્તિમાં પ્રવર્તે છે ત્યારે પણ એમની વૃત્તિ નિજભાવમા જ રહે છે. સંસારના કાર્યોમાં પણ તેમને પોતાના શુદ્ધસ્વરૂપની પ્રતીતિ તેમજ જ્ઞાન વર્તે છે. તેઓ ગમે તેવા ઉપાધી પ્રસંગમાં પ્રવર્તતા હોય તોપણ તેમના શ્રદ્ધા-જ્ઞાન ઘેરાઈ જતા નથી,વિપરીત થતા નથી. જેમ એક નાવને કિનારે બાંધેલી હોય તો પાણી અને પવનના કારણે તે હાલકડોલક થાય પણ છૂટી ન જાય; તેમ જ્ઞાની પૂર્વબદ્ધ કર્મના ઉદયરૂપ મોજાંથી અઘાપાછા થતા જણાય, પણ પોતાના લંગર નાખેલા સ્થાનથી તેઓ જરા પણ હટતા નથી, સ્વરૂપલક્ષ ચુકતા નથી.
આવા ઉદય પ્રસંગોમાં તેમને ક્યાંય ગમતું નથી, ઉત્સાહ આવતો નથી, હોંશ કે ઉમંગ ઉછળતો નથી. તેમની પ્રવૃત્તિ તપેલા લોઢા ઉપર પગ મુકવા જેવી હોય છે. જેમ તપેલા લોઢા ઉપર પગ મુકતા તરતજ આંચકો અનુભવાય છે, પગ ત્યાં ઝાઝો વખત ટકી શકતો નથી, તરતજ આપોઆપ ખેંચી લેવાય છે; તેમ સંસાર પ્રવૃત્તિમાં જ્ઞાનીઓ એકદમ આંચકો અનુભવે છે, એમાં ઝાઝો વખત સ્થિતિ કરતા નથી, ત્યાંથી તરત પાછા વળી જાય છે. જે પ્રવૃત્તિ કરવી પડે તે અત્યંત નીરસપણે, અંતરંગ ખેદ સહીત કરે છે.
સંસાર પ્રવૃત્તિ કરતી વખતે જ્ઞાની પોતાના સ્વરૂપ પ્રત્યે જાગૃત રહી, ઉદયથી ઉપયોગને છૂટો પાડે છે. તેમનો ઉપયોગ આત્મામય રહે છે. કોઈ પણ પ્રસંગમાં સ્વરૂપ જાગૃતિ ચુકતા નથી. તેઓ ખાતા, પીતા, બેસતા, ઉઠતા "હું માત્ર દ્રષ્ટા છું" એવી જાગૃતિ રાખે છે. પોતાને જે સંગપ્રસંગ

JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
પ્રાપ્ત થાય એની સાથે તેઓ એકત્વ કરતા નથી. એમાં ખોવાઈ જતા નથી. કર્મના ઉદયે જે ફરઝ આવી પડે તેને તેઓ સારીરીતે, સાક્ષીભાવ નિભાવે છે. તેઓ બધી ફરજોનું પાલન કરવા છતાં એમાં લેપાતા નથી.વિષય કષાયની પ્રવૃત્તિમાં હોવા છતાં તેઓ જળકમળવત રહે છે. ૩) અપરિગ્રહ
જેમણે સમ્યક દર્શન પામ્યું છે, તેઓ આ રીતે સંસારિક પ્રવૃત્તિમાં અનાસક્ત રહે છે. તેમની દૃષ્ટિ તો આત્મા પર જ રહે છે. પરમાં સુખ બુદ્ધિની કલ્પના છોડી, નિજ શુદ્ધ ચિદાનંદ પૂર્ણ સ્વભાવમાં સ્થિરતા કરતા અનુપમ અતીન્દ્રિય સુખ પ્રગટે છે. તેના આસ્વાદથી અદભુત તૃપ્તિ થાય છે. આવી સ્થિતિમાં સંસારિક પદાર્થોમાં રસ રહેતો નથી. પોતાના પાસે
કેટલું છે એ માપ ન રહેતા પોતાને શેના વગર ચાલે છે એ સમૃદ્ધિનું માપ થાય છે. આવા જ્ઞાની કહે છે કે કિંચિત માત્ર ગ્રાહવું એ સુખનો નાશ છે. એ કહે છે કે બહારથી જેટલો તું ભરેલો છે તેટલો તું અંદરથી ખાલી છે. અજ્ઞાની જીવો સુખની ભ્રાંતિ માટે પ્રથમ પદાર્થો ભેગા કરે છે અને પછી તેને રક્ષવાની, વધારવાની અને ભોગવાની ચિંતામાં દુખી રહે છે. પણ જેમને વિતરાગ માર્ગની યથાર્થ સમજણ થઇ છે તેઓ આત્મ મહિમાને લીધે પરિગ્રહથી દૂર રહે છે. ૪) નિર્લેપતા
જ્ઞાની બાહ્યથી સંસારને ભજતા દેખાય તોપણ તે ભજનમાં આત્મભાવ, આદર, આસક્તિનો અભાવ હોય છે. તેમની દ્રષ્ટિ તો નીજાત્માં પર જ હોય છે. મત્સ્યવેધ વેળા અર્જુનની આંખ નીચે પાણીમાં સ્થિર થઇ હતી. માત્ર વિચક્ષણ જન જ પકડી શકે કે અર્જુનની આંખ નીચે મંડાઈ હોવા છતાં એની દ્રષ્ટી તો માથા પર ફરી રહેલ માછલી ઉપર જ ચોંટેલી હતી. તેવી જ રીતે જ્ઞાની સાંસારિક ક્રિયાઓ કરતા દેખાય, પરંતુ તેમની દ્રષ્ટી તો શુદ્ધાત્માંરુપી માછલી પર જ સ્થિર હોય છે. સંસારમાં રહ્યા છતા તેમની દ્રષ્ટી શુદ્ધાત્માંમાં જ સ્થિર હોય છે.
જીવમાંથી અજ્ઞાન ટળી જતા જીવનમાં આવું પરિવર્તન આવે છે. ઉપરથી જોતા જીવનમાં કદાચ કોઈ ફરક ન લાગે, તો પણ અંદરથી તે સમગ્રપણે બદલાઈ જાય છે. એક રીતે જોઈએ તો બધું તે જ હોય છે કે જે પહેલા હતું, પરંતુ બીજા અર્થમાં પૂર્વ અવસ્થા પૈકીનું કશું જ રહેતું નથી. દોરીને
જમીન ઉપર ગોઠવીને બાળવામાં આવતાં દોરી તો બળી જાય છે. પણ તેની આકૃતિ તો પહેલાં જેવી જ રહે છે. આકૃતિની દૃષ્ટિએ કોઈ પરિવર્તન આવ્યું ન હોવા છતા દોરીપણું તો સમૂળગું નાશ પામ્યું હોય છે. દોરી બાંધવાના કામમાં આવે છે, પણ દોરીની આકૃતિએ રહેલી રાખ કોઈ કામમાં આવતી નથી. જ્ઞાનીપુરુષનું જીવન આવું હોય છે, જ્ઞાનાગ્નીમાં જયારે અજ્ઞાન બળી જાય છે ત્યારે માત્ર

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JAIN DIGEST .. May 2011
આકૃતિ જ બાકી રહે છે. તેમને જીવનમાં રાખની આકૃતિ આવે છે અને ક્ષણમાં ચાલ્યા જાય છે. એક એક સમયમાં સ્ત્રી સિવાય બીજું કઈ રહેતું નથી. અર્થાત જે રહે છે તે સાંસારિક પુત્રાદીની પર્યાયો પલટાઈ જાય છે. જ્ઞાની એ પલટાતી અપેક્ષાએ કોઈ કામનું રહેતું નથી. બાહ્યમાં તેમની પ્રવૃત્તિ પર્યાયને જાણે છે તેથી તેમાં સુખબુદ્ધિ કરતા નથી. ધ્રુવ ઉદાયાધીન હોય છે, પણ દર્શનમોહરૂપી દોરી બળી ગઈ આત્માનો આશ્રય કરતા અસ્થિર સંયોગમાં હર્ષ શોકનો હોવાથી ભાવની અપેક્ષાએ સઘળું બદલાઈ ચુક્યું છે. તેઓ અભાવ થઇ જાય છે. ખાય છે, પીએ છે, હસે છે, ચાલે છે, પણ ખરેખર તો ખાતા
૭) સતત ભેદવિજ્ઞાન નથી, પીતા નથી, હસતા નથી, ચાલતા નથી. આ કશામાં
જ્ઞાનીને ક્રોધાદી વિકારનો ઉદય હોય ત્યારે પણ અક્રોધી તે જાણે છે જ નહીં ! તેઓ જ્યાં દેખાય છે ત્યાં હોતા જ
સ્વભાવની જાગૃતિ વર્તે છે. આ સમયવર્તી ક્રોધવિકારયુક્ત નથી. તેમની વૃતિ નીજભાવમાં જ વહે છે. ગમે તે
પર્યાયની નીચે અત્યારે પણ દ્રવ્ય તો હમેશની જેમ શુદ્ધ, અવસ્થામાં તેમનું સમ્યકદર્શન અખંડ રહે છે.
પરિપૂર્ણ શુદ્ધ જ રહ્યું છે. આ ભેદવિજ્ઞાનમાં જ તેમની ૫) સહજ વિરક્તિ
સફળતાની - નીર્જરાની ચાવી છે. મિથ્યાત્વનો અભાવ થયો "આત્મામાં અનંતો આનંદ છે" એવી શ્રદ્ધા થઇ હોવાથી હોવાથી સંવર પ્રગટે છે અને સ્વાનુભુતિના કારણે સ્વરૂપની જ્ઞાનીઓને વિષયમાં સુખબુદ્ધિ રહેતી નથી. આત્મા સિવાય જે ખુમારી વર્તે છે, તેનાથી નિર્જરા પરિણમે છે. પૂર્વ કર્મના ક્યાંય સુખ લાગતું ન હોવાથી પાંચ ઇન્દ્રિઓના વિષયોથી ઉદય અનુસાર જ્ઞાનીને રાગ થાય તો પણ તે રાગ વખતે તેઓ ઉદાસ થઇ જાય છે. પાંચ ઇન્દ્રિયોના વિષયોની પ્રવૃત્તિ તેનો નિષેધ કરનાર સમ્યક શ્રદ્ધા-જ્ઞાન વર્તે છે. એ રાગ તેમને ઝેર જેવી ભાસે છે, તેથી તેઓ એમાં અટકતા નથી. શ્રદ્ધા-જ્ઞાનને મિથ્યા કરતો નથી. રાગ વખતે રાગને રાગ આત્માનંદમાં તેઓ એવા લીન થઇ જાય છે કે તેઓ બીજો તરીકે જાણી લીધો ત્યાં તે જાણનારૂ જ્ઞાન રાગથી જુદું રહ્યું કોઈ વિકલ્પ કરતા નથી. જ્ઞાનીનું બાહ્ય જીવન કર્મના ઉદય છે. જો જ્ઞાન અને રાગ એકમેક થઇ જાય તો રાગને રાગ અનુસાર - પૂર્વપ્રારબ્ધ અનુસાર હોય છે અને તેમનું તરીકે જાણી શકાય નહિ. રાગને જાણનારૂ જ્ઞાન આત્મા સાથે આંતરિક જીવન ગુરુની આજ્ઞા અનુસાર હોય છે. અનેક એકતા કરે છે અને રાગ સાથે ભિન્નતા કરે છે. જ્ઞાની જ્ઞાનને પ્રકારના ચિત્રવિચિત્ર ઉદય પ્રસંગોમાં તેમને સહજ વિરક્તિ પોતાપણે અંગીકાર કરે છે અને રાગને બંધન તરીકે જાણી રહે છે. એમની દ્રષ્ટિ ધ્રુવ આત્મસ્વભાવ ઉપરજ રહે છે. તેને છોડી દે છે. રાગ વખતે "આ રાગ જણાય છે તે મારા પોતાની પર્યાય ઉપર પણ દ્રષ્ટિ જતી નથી તો શરીર આદી જ્ઞાનનું સામર્થ્ય છે, પણ રાગનું સામર્થ્ય નથી" આમ જેને બાહ્ય પદાર્થો ઉપર દ્રષ્ટિ ક્યાંથી જાય?
રાગથી ભિન્નપણે જ્ઞાન સામર્થ્યની પ્રતીતિ કરી, તેને એકલું ૬) સમતા
જ્ઞાતાપણું રહી ગયું. અને એના જોરે બધાય વિકારોનો આત્મતૃપ્ત જ્ઞાની ગમે તે પ્રસંગમાં, અનુકુળતા કે
કર્તાભાવ ઉડાડી દીધો. એટલે કહ્યું છે કે જ્ઞાનીના ભોગ પણ પ્રતિકુળતામાં, અનિષ્ટબુદ્ધિ કરતા નથી. સમદશાએ વર્તે છે..
નિર્જરાનું કારણ છે. અજ્ઞાનીને સ્વ-સ્વરૂપની જાગૃતિ નથી. એટલે ઇન્દ્રિય
આમાં "ભોગ સારા છે" એવું બતાવવું નથી પણ દ્રષ્ટીનું વિષયોના ગ્રહણકાળે તે શોક કે હર્ષ કરે છે. જગતના
મહાભ્ય બતાવ્યું છે; તેનો મહિમા કર્યો છે. ભોગની લાગણી પદાર્થોની મુખ્યતાના લીધે “આ સારું, આ ખરાબ” એવું માને વખતે પણ શ્રદ્ધામાં બંધન નથી. સદાય પોતાના મુક્ત છે. જ્યાં સુધી સંસારી સુખ, સંસારી પ્રસંગોમાં વ્હાલપ વર્તે સ્વરૂપનો આશ્રય હોવાથી સમ્યકદ્રષ્ટિને સદાય મુક્ત કહ્યા છે, ત્યાં સુધી પોતાનું સ્વરૂપ ભાસવું અસંભવ છે. સંયોગ છે. તેમના અંતરમાં પ્રજ્ઞાનો પ્રકાશ પ્રગટ્યો છે, જગતના વિયોગ એ આ દેહના ધર્મો છે. ધ્રુવ ચૈતન્ય સ્વભાવમાં
સમસ્ત પદાર્થો અને ભાવો પ્રત્યે ઉદાસીનતા પ્રગટી છે. આ પરના સંયોગ વિયોગ છે નહિ એનું ભાન ન હોવાને લીધે
ઉદાસીનતા જ ક્રમશ: વિકાસ પામતી પામતી નિર્વાણપદની અજ્ઞાની રાગ દ્વેષ કરે છે. જેમ વાદળા ભેગા થાય છે અને પ્રાપ્તિમાં સહાયકારી બને છે. વિખરી જાય છે તેમ જગતમાં સ્ત્રી પુત્ર વગેરેના સંયોગ
Spreading Jainism Globally.
message of Mahavir. Their have made a significant impact on the North American Jain Community
Jain tradition for centuries has been kept alive by succession of Acharyas and their monk followers. We now cover those specific Acharyas and Monks who have taken the bold step to travel beyond the shores of India to spread the
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Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj (1926 - 1994)
Just as cakes become sweet when they are coated with sugar frosting, so do places in this world
become holy and pure when a saint abides in them."
- Nirvanbhakti verse 31, Vidhyadhara Joharapurakar, 1965. Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj was not only a nature and the five elements. Embedded in this visionary Jain Monk but was also a Poet, Writer, lies Om whose positive energy moves in one Historian and Speaker. He was the first Jain direction to the Supreme, completely and monk to leave India and to use transportation wholeheartedly. In the center there is an while continuing to remain a Jain monk. Jain unmoving flame of fire burning brightly. This is monks are permitted to travel
Arhum, the power of the soul. It is by foot only, yet Acharya
the Arihant, the soul in its Sushilji broke the ancient
perfected state. The meaning is restraint order for the monks to
that you are the universe or share the Bhagwan Mahavir's
Hreem. Your entire energy is Om, message of nonviolence and
and your soul realizes its highest peace with the whole world.
state of perfection, Arhum. By this He was born on 15th June
system you can know the world, 1926 at Shikhopur (Shusilgarh)
you can see how energy moves in the State of Haryana, India.
and you can see your self, how all At the age of seven Acharya
powers awaken. Sound is the left his family to live with a Jain
base of this knowledge. monk Shri Chotelaliji Maharaj.
Insititutions It is said that while he was a
Acharya Sushilji founded many little boy, he was inspired by
organizations which include in Shri Roop Chandji Maharaj,
1950, World Fellowship of who appeared to him in spirit
Religions; in 1957, Vishwa and told him to become a Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj Ahimsa Sangh, the Kundalini monk. Shri Roop Chandji
Science Center; 1978, the Maharaj was an enlightened Jain monk who lived International Mahavir Jain Mission; 1979, Arhat during the 19th century. On April 20th, 1942 at the
Sangh; 1981, World Jain Congress and the World age of fifteen Acharya Sushilji became a Jain
Center of Nonviolence, 1985, Ahimsa Women's monk and was initiated into the Jain Sthanakvasi
Polytechnic sect at Jagranwa in the Punjab, India. He
Acharya Sushil Ashram, Ahimsa Bhawan, pursued an academic career and obtained a
Shanker Road, New Delhi was Guruji's first degree of Shastri, Acharya, Vidya-Ratna, and
ashram and the Karmabhoomi of Guruji. Sahitya-Ratna.
Foundation stone of this ashram was laid by 1st Acharya was a master of
Prime Minister of India Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru in meditation and in the science
1963 for building an Ahimsa Library. of sound. His teaching is
Overseas Travel: In 1975, Acharya Sushilji called "Arhum Yoga". Arhum
undertook his first international tour and visited Yoga encompasses all
Boston. The local Jain Community not only aspects of philosophy and
welcomed him but also started a public relation yogic practice in the Arihant
campaign with media. As a result, Acharya Spiritual Tradition. Arhum
1 The Arhum Yoga Yoga logo highlights the
Logo
Sushilji and members of the Jain community were
invited to participate in a local television show. significance of three sounds -
Professors from Harvard and Boston universities Om, Hreem and Arhum. They symbolize
interviewed Acharya Sushilji. The interview was knowledge of the external, the internal and the
aired on television on November 18, 1975, in a Supreme. They are Right Knowledge (Arhum).
Sunday morning show called the "Show of Faith." Right Faith (Om) and Right Conduct (Hreem). First on the outside is Hreem; this is the universe,

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Acharya Sushilji has help found many ashrams Committee and a founder of the Vishwa Hindu and centers in the East and West under the
Parishad International Mahavir Jain Mission. His main
Besides his involvement in inter-faith and global ashram is Siddhachalam, located in Blairstown,
peace movements, he has made contribution to New Jersey. Siddhachalam. The temple on this
the literature by writing following books and 108 acre premise houses both Digamber and
tracts:Shwetamber tradition Pratimas (Idols). It is the
History of Jain Religion, Commentary on Shrimad first Jain
Bhagwat Geeta, Roses & Thorns, Goswami Tulsi pilgrimage
Das, Bhagwan Mahavir, Words of Mahavir. place (Tirth)
Ahimsa Diary, Prakrit Grammar, Kundalini Yoga in outside of
Jain Religion, Jain Yoga, Healing & Meditation India which
through Jain Religion, Science of Namokar & was
Matrika Vidya, Science of halo(Abha), Science of established
colour & sound, Different books on different in 1983
Religions, Muni Roop Chand Ji Personality & The layout
performance, Numerous independent writings and of Siddhachalam mirrors the layout of Tirthraj Shri
Song of the Soul. Sammed Shikharji's 30 tonks and Jal Mandir of India.
He started a slew of journals & magazines viz:
Naya Sahitya, Pariksha, Dharam Bhaskar, Acharya was great proponent of Non-Violence
Bhaskar Vani, Vishwa Dharam, Non-Violence, and firmly believed that peace and harmony were
Ahimsa, Arham News Letter, Cosmic Science, essential for the survival of mankind. He defined
Sidhachalam, Arhat Jain Times etc. non-violence as the absence of hatred, tension, anger and discontentment. He worked to establish For over five decades Acharya Sushil Kumarii a sense of universal brotherhood amongst the
dedicated his life to asceticism and self less conflicting religious traditions
service in the name of of India. Throughout the
Acharya Sushilji's Message to The peace, unity and universal years he had organized and
World.
brotherhood. He did much to presided over a significant "If we desire to establish peace and
uplift all living beings. number of World Religious to conquer the haunting nightmare
Acharya passed away at the Conferences. He was the of war and discord, we must be free age of 68 years, in his honorary president of the
from three evils - Atheism, Ashram on April 22, 1994. World Conference of
Materialism and Violence." His message to the world Religions for Peace, director
"Love, Live and Let all Live. of the Temple of Understanding, a founding
do not take the life of living beings and member of the Global Forum of Spiritual and
enlightenment is the ultimate goal", will be a Parliamentary Leaders on Human Survival,
source of inspiration for all time to come. president of the Punjab Peace and Unity
Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji
Opening the Doors of Jain Dharma to the West Chitrabhanuji was born as Raju Rajendra in
known contributions to the Jain community has Tumkur near Bangalore on July 26, 1922. His been this immortal song, "Maitri Bhavnu Pavitra father's name was Chogulal, mother's Chuniben Jharnu Mujh Haiya Maa Vahya Kare". He wrote and his sister was Megi. He lost three important the lyrics of this beautiful song when he was in people, very early in his life; his mom when he Mount Abu. Another major contribution that was only a child, sister when he was a teenager Gurudev Chitrabhanuji has made is to reveal and his best friend when he was around 19 years Jainism and its principles to the Western World. It of age. These life-shattering incidents drove him was his teachings that motivated many towards the spiritual path and he finally took
westerners to embrace vegetarianism. His Diksha on February 6, 1942. One of his well- western followers can easily recite the Navkar
on n
ational
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Mahamantra and the Mangalik. "The Wave of Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji was also the first Bliss-Impact Of Chitrabhanu on the Western
Jain to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti at the U. N. World" by Dr N.P.Jain (Indian Ambassador to The Chapel. He was the first Jain Master to be an United Nations) chronicles Gurudev's work and inspiring messenger of Ahimsa and a founding massive following in the West.
father of a Jain Center in the West. This is similar Jainism in the West
to building an airport where the plane of Dharma As the first Jain Master in more than 2600 years,
can land. For this cause, he traveled thousands in the year 1970, Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji
of miles from the East to the West. brought to the Western world, Ahimsa and
In 1973 he founded the Jain Meditation Reverence for Life, the essence of Jain Dharma.
International Center - JMIC - in Manhattan, New His life story is an inspiring account of how he York City near the United Nations. This Center touched millions of lives
became the mother of all in a new land. He
Jain centers conducting established the sound
various activities and principles of Lord
events. To arouse Mahavir's teachings in
people's awareness of the West.
the beauty of Ahimsa,
Anekantavada and Early Years:
Aparigraha (the simplicity The first five years of his
of life) - the nectar for of his monastic life, were
mankind's survival - he spent in silence
spoke at various (maun).During this period
academic and learning of maun he also traveled
institutions such as by foot in the mountains,
Harvard, Princeton, woods and villages and
Cornell, New York experienced the silence
College at Purchase, and that stills the logic of the
United Nations. Today mind and awakens from
he guides people by within the deepest
sowing in them the intuition of the spirit. It
seeds of Dharma and was in 1969 that he was Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanuji
then nurtures them like a invited to speak at the
gardener. Second Spiritual Summit Conference in Geneva,
In 1975 he sponsored a dynamic personality from Switzerland for the Temple of Understanding. It
India, Acharya Sushil Kumarji to come to the was not a simple decision for him to take, but in
West. With the tireless efforts of Pujya Gurudev his mind he knew it was time for the world to learn
Chitrabhanuji and Acharya Sushil Kumarji, Jains of Lord Mahavir's teachings of non-violence, multiplicity of viewpoints and the law of karma.
today are a vibrant, throbbing community in North
America under the umbrella organization of The law of karma is the consequence of one's
JAINA: Federation of Jain Associations in North actions and all are inherent potential souls to be
America - which now has more than 100.000 free from demanding desires of mind and its sensuality. He flew to Geneva in 1970 and
members, 67 centers and 12 affiliated
associations. inaugurated the conference there. His presentation was received with a standing
For the last 37 years Gurudev Shree ovation. He also received an invitation to the Third
Chitrabhanuji has been helping transplant and Conference in 1971 from the Dean of Harvard
expound the age-old essence of the Jain Divinity School, Boston, Massachusetts in the US.
teachings on Western soil and because of his The Secretary of the Vatican also extended an
vision, thousands of Westerners have become invitation to him to have an audience with Pope
vegetarians and have started practicing the Paul VI in Rome. His arrival to the United States
essence of Reverence for Life and Jain Dharma in of America and these events were clearly, what
their daily life. opened the door of Jain Dharma to the West. Further Spiritual Growth
ucation International

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Practicing never stops for a true aspirant. In 1981, driven by inner quest Gurudev Chitabhanuji and Pramodaben left New York and went to San Diego, near the ocean to spend some time in a peaceful atmosphere for silence and deep meditation. There Gurudev attained the enlightened state of self-awareness on a higher level of initiation through further purification of his consciousness. This resulted in renewed vows and in extending Reverence for All Life to a global mission. Pramodaben also experienced light and started sharing the deep insight of peace with aspirants. Unique Honor: In 2001, for the first time in the history of the United States of America, Jain Dharma and JAINA received the unprecedented recognition and honor of having a prayer in the U.S. House of Representatives. On May 22, 2001, in celebration of the 2600th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavira, Shree Chitrabhanuji delivered the opening prayer in the U.S. House Of Representatives. In July of 2005 in California, at the 25th Anniversary Convention, JAINA honored and recognized Pujyashri Chitrabhanuji and the late Acharya Sushil Kumar Muniji for their spiritual
leadership, guidance and unwavering dedication to the "propagation of Jain Dharma in North America." Gurudev... "Vishva Manvi": Pujyashri Chitrabhanuji is known to the Western world as a man of vision and a pioneer. He is the first Jain Master in more than 2600 years who after following 30 years of monastic life in India - brought to the West the essence of Ahimsa Dharma which is the heart of Mahavira's teachings. The new generation of Jains find Gurudev's teachings very inspiring and continuously seek guidance from him in their search for spiritual growth and development. The roaring success of YJA - Young Jains of America - an arm of JAINA, gives hope that the seeds have taken roots and are blossoming with fragrant flowers. Today, many scholars are following Gurudev's footsteps. Gurudev belongs to the entire world and not just to the Jain community. He does not discriminate anyone based on caste, color, creed or country. He is a 'Vishva Manvi' - a global citizen and rightfully so. His actions speak louder than his words and we can learn a lot from his teachings.
An Extraordinary Life of Acharya Chandanaji "Instead of creating temples in a village, Let us make an effort to make the entire village a
temple" - Acharya Chandanaji Veerayatan began as a dream of the great Indian Guru Amar Muniji scholar, Upadhyaya Shri Amar Muniji Maharaj. to uplift the povertyDetermined to transform Pujya Upadhyaya Shri stricken state of Amar Muniji Maharaj's vision into reality, Acharya Bihar in India, Shri Chandanaji ventured into extremely hostile keeping in mind the conditions in Bihar, India to establish the first qualities portrayed Veerayatan site in 1973. Veerayatan, built near through the life and the birth and Nirvana place of Tirthankar
teachings of Mahavir, is the result of tireless effort of
Bhagwan Mahavir, Acharya Chandanaji. She showed to the
Chandanaji took on world that the concept of service was an
this challenge with
efforts to extend integral part of Mahavir's Dharma.
compassion, Acharya Chandanaji was born on January 26,
friendship and love 1937, as Shankutala, in a Jain Katariya family in to all humanity. Maharashtra. Her spiritual journey began at the
"Veerayatan", a age 14, when she took Diksha. She took a 12
non-profit, nonyear vow of maun (silence) to study Jain
governmental Scriptures, ponder on the meaning and purpose
registered of life, explore the beauty of different religions,
organization was and discover a way to connect religion with the life established in 1972 of the common man. Inspired by the vision of her
Acharya Chandanaji
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to uplift and empower humanity through humanitarianism, education and spiritual development Veerayatan has centers in Bihar, Gujarat (Kutch). Maharashtra and many other places in India. There are also centers in USA, UK, East Africa, Singapore, UAE, Australia and other countries. These centers provide health care services, education and social services to those who would otherwise not have access to such services. Veerayatan is run by a dedicated team of sadhvis, trustees, committee members, professional staff and volunteers. The humanitarian work at Veerayatan in Bihar includes a 200 bed medical center (offering eye, orthopedic, dental care and general surgery), several schools providing education for 1500 village children, a college with 200 students studying for a B.Ed. degree. At the Rajgiri center, polio corrective surgeries are performed on a regular basis. Over one million eye patients have been treated free of charge and since 1973, over 150,000 successful eye surgeries have been performed in ultra modern facilities. Projects such as KIDS and Shrutam, provide literacy and hygiene education to hundreds of slum and working children. The Navalveerayatan,.established near Pune in the state of Maharashtra in 2000 is devoted to inner development. This holds training courses on yoga, meditation, stress management and new age health therapies. The center at Kutch, Gujarat, provides free education to over 1000 children. Children are also provided free uniforms and food. In fact, the center in Kutch is the offspring of the work done by Chandanaji in the immediate aftermath of the devastating earthquake in 2001. Chandanaji believes "Education is the future of humanity. It is not merely achieving degrees and qualifications but the refinement of the inner world which will bring everyone together." Some of Chandanaji's other accomplishments include the task of translating the "Uttaradhyayana Sutra" (a major Jain Scripture) in 33 days. She also hand crafted the panels honoring the themes of non-violence, love and the oneness of humanity which can now be found in Veerayatan Shri Brahmi Kala Mandiram in Rajgiri.
It has been visited by over 4.5 million people to date.
Chandanaji believes that creativity is the best way to fulfill oneself spiritually and therefore she is constantly evolving and re-examining all aspects of her work. She is of the opinion that, "Learning brings out the spirit of creativity and creativity brings knowledge. Knowledge is indeed an asset for the nation. Veerayatan intends to create outstanding individuals with exceptional creative abilities". A post graduate in philosophy, Chandanaji has a profound understanding of Jain Scriptures and other faiths. Her message of inner development, social responsibility and compassion are espoused as values supplemental to, but not in place of religion. Chandanaji is keenly aware of the untapped potential of the youth of today and is intent on ensuring that programs and lectures are tailored to ensure the inclusion of young people, who she feels have a profound lack of spirituality in their lives.
Chandanaji is the first Jain Sadhvi to be raised to the position of Acharya, but this has, in no way, caused her to confine herself to one religion. Man's relationship with his fellow man is religion, she says, and to respect other people's feelings and emotions is a way of worship. "There are no rules that say that taking sanyas means that you only have to meditate and search for God. Service and prayer go together. When I understood this, I felt I'd finally found what I had been seeking as a child”, says Chandanaji. "Everything we do affects us here and now: even the future is too far away, let alone the next life. Every good deed is divine." She exhorts us to love what we do, do it with happiness, and to take pride in our happiness. Many awards have been bestowed upon Chandanaji; the Shri Devi Ahilya National Award for her humanitarian service and animal welfare activities; the Mahavir Foundation award; the Sant Balaji Award; Woman of the Year award and many other national and international awards. These awards and her fame have not deflected her from her life of asceticism. She is first and foremost a spiritual leader, whose service to others is part of that spirituality.
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JAIN DIGEST.. May 2011
JAINA Committee Name Academic Liaison Adhyatmic
Calendar & Mini Library Campus Outreach Program Governmental & International
/
Organizations Relations Interfaith Activies / World council of Jains
Jain Network Forum (JNF)
Jaina Education
Jaina Exhibition
Jain Milan
Jaina Public Affairs Council
Jivdaya
Long Term Planning
Media Production
Media / Public Relations Marriage Information Service North American Jain Families Assistance Program
Pilgrimage
Planned Giving committee Technology
Tirthodhdhar
Veerchand Raghvji Gandhi Scholarship Fund World Community Service Young Jains of America
JAINA Committees

Contact Person
Mr. Girish P. Shah Mr. Hasmukh M. Shah Mr. Rajeev Pandya
North American Jains History Mr. Jasvant Mehta
Patron Program
Mr. Udai Jain
Mr. Dilip V. Shah Mr. Yogesh Kamdar Mr. Girish P. Shah Mrs. Usha Maru Mr. Akash Jhaveri
Mr. Ashok Domadia Dr. Tansukh Salgia
Mr. Arvind Vora
Mr. Sunil Jain
Mr. Pravin K. Shah Mr. Sudhir Shah Mr. Gunvant Shah Dr. Manoj Dharamsi Mrs. Pramodaben Chitrabhanu Mr. Yogendra Jain Dr. Mamta Shaha Mr. Nitin Talsania 'Mr. Mukesh Doshi Mrs. Ila G. Mehta
Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah Ms. Vaishali Shah
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www.jaba75

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