Tribute to 19th Century Indian Legend Shri Virchandji Raghavji Gandhi

Author(s): JAINA VRG Committee
Publisher: JAINA VRG Committee
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032441/1

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&
Jainam Jayti Shasanam SA A TRIBUTE TO 19th CENTURY
INDIAN LEGEND Shri VIRCHANDJI RAGHAVJI GANDHI
Shri Jivit Mahavirji Swami Mahuva Tirth
ant Shri Vii
say Vallabh
atmaramji
awant Shri
Bhagwant
Acharya Bh
cva Bhagwa
P.P. Achar
Marasaheb
ВРАСА
Suriji M.S
वेदन उनको बार बार जिनके उपकार हमपर अपार JAINA
Publisher : JAINA, VRG Committee. WJC On Eve of VRG Stamp release by Govt. of India on 8th Nov.2009

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Blessings of Param Pujya Gurudev
SHRI CHITRABHANUJI
Message from JAINA, President: Smt. LATAJI CHAMPSEE
Jai Jinendra! It is my privilege and honor to be part of this history-making event. Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) and World Jain Confederation (WJC) are proud to be associated with India Post, as the sponsors of the celebrations. It is a matter of great pride and pleasure that Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (1864 - 1901), our great
emissary to the west, is being remembered and stamps are being issued in his honor on November 8, 2009 in Mumbai, India. VRG twice visited abroad, after attending as a Jain delegate at the first Parliament of World Religions in Chicago, USA in 1893.
This stamp issue recognizes his great contribution in the short life span that will inspire Indians worldwide. This stamp will be a reminder of our glorious past and will serve as a memento of our cultural heritage. Let us all ponder on what VRG did in the past and in gratitude promise to follow his example. JAINA sincerely thanks India Post in particular and all those who have helped, directly or indirectly in making this a reality. This is a great service by India Post, to the nation, by giving an appropriate homage to the national heroes through the issue of commemorative postage stamps."

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Message from JAINA, VRG Chair,
Shri Pravin C. Shah
"I am sincerely happy to acknowledge that after pursuant of Federation of Jain Association In North America (JAINA), and World Jain Confederation (WIC) Department of Posts, Government of India is to issue Commemorative Stamp with first day cover, brochure and a special cancellation in memory of Great Jain Scholar, Humanitarian, Patriot and Reformer Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi on 8th November
2009, which is really like a dream come true. We really wish success of WJC & JAINA alliance for Shri VRG Memorial Museum at Mahuva, Gujarat. We appeal to our Community worldwide to help us raise awareness about VRG who could not live long enough to accomplish more to our community because of his premature untimely death. We call upon more educational organizations and Jain Organizations worldwide to commemorate the VRG's birth anniversary with lectures, seminars, symposia, essay competitions and debates for people of different ages and even an exhibition on life and work can be an innovative idea. And I am very happy to acknowledge that on eve of Stamp release our two India, JAINA VRG committee members Dr. Bipinbhai & Smt. Pritiben at their personal level under banner of Jain Academy education research centre are coming up with world class coffee table Book on VRG as on today i.e. Gandhi before Gandhi."
LIST OF CONTENTS
Page
NAVYUG NIRMATA, NAYAYAMBHONIDHI,
PUNJAB DESHODHVARAK Param Pujya Acharya SHRI VIJYANAND SURIJI
(Muni Atmaramji) Siddharth Oswal Indian Legend : Karmayogi Shri VRG Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh Brief introduction: JAINA & JAINA, VRG: Gunwant Barvalia VRG Stamp Release dream fulfilled : Prakash Mody Brief Introduction : WJC Dr. Devkumar Chakravarti VRG Memorial-cum-Museum Dr. Bipinbhai Doshi List of Contributors who revived VRG
Pravin C Shah, JAINA, VRG Chair Few Wishes on Occassion of VRG
Stamp release to JAINA & WJC

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NAVYUG NIRMATA, NAYAYAMBHONIDHI, PUNJAB DESHODHVARAK Param Pujya Acharya SHRI VIJYANAND SURIJI (Muni Atmaramji)
Shri Siddharth Oswal, Punjab
DATE OF BIRTH
PLACE OF BIRTH
FATHER'S NAME
MOTHER'S NAME
ORIGINAL NAME
DIKSHA
ACHARYA PADVI
DEMISE
: CHAITRA SUDI 1, VIKRAM SAMVAT 1894
VILLAGE LEHRA, TOWN ZIRA,
FEROZEPUR (PUNJAB)
:
:
:
:
:
:
::
SHRI GANESHCHAND
SMT. ROOPA DEVI
AATMARAM
VIKRAM SAMVAT 1910 (YEAR 1853) IN MALERKOTLA (PUNJAB) AS STHANAKWASI MUNI VIKRAM SAMVAT 1932 (YEAR 1875) IN AHEMDABAD AS SHWETAMBAR MOORTI PUJAK SADHU
VIKRAM SAMVAT 1943 (YEAR 1886), IN PALITANA (GUJARAT)
DISTRICT
JYESHTHA SUDI 7, VIKRAM SAMVAT 1953 (YEAR 1895) AT GUJRANWALA (NOW PAKISTAN).
NAYAYAMBHONIDHI,
TITLES BESTOWED : NAVYUG
NIRMATA,
PUNJAB DESHODHVARAK
Shri Vijyanand Suriji Maharaj revived Jainism & advocated education as primary necessity .He faced many hardships and oppositions in his life. As a child, he possessed extremely sharp memory and an intellectual bent of mind. Inspired by Param Pujya Muni Shri Jiwan Ram Ji Marasaheb, he initially took 'sthanak vasi' diksha at the age of 18.
For next ten years he spent his time studying the Jain shastras under the guidance of his guru Param Pujya Muni Shri Jiwan Ramji Marasaheb. He was capable of memorizing 300 shlokas in a single day. Vikram Samvat 1920 (year 1863) was a
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turning point in his life when he came in contact with Param Pujya Muni Shri Ratanchandji Marasaheb in Agra. Conversations with him brought about changes in his views in favour of 'moorti puja' (idol worship). On the basis of some ancient Jain scriptures and granths, Param Pujya Muni Shri Ratanchandji explained to him that idol worship existed many centuries ago.
Muni Aatmaramji came to North India and started preaching about his change in views. In the year 1871, he inspired and made 20 sadhus and around seven thousand people of his views. In 1875, he took diksha again in Ahmedabad from Param Pujya Muni Shri Buddhi Vijay Ji Marasaheb this time in the Shwetambar 'moorti pujak' sect and was named Anand Vijay. Now began a new chapter in the life of Shri Anand Vijay Ji. He went on pilgrimage to famous Shatrunjay Teerth. Then, for the next 19-20 years, he spent time penning religious books and composing Jain pujas. He was main inspiration behind construction of numerous Jain temples across north and west India (including present day Pakistan).
In 1886, he was bestowed with the title of 'Acharya' in Palitana (Gujarat) in the presence of 35,000 people from across India and became 'Shri Vijayanad Suri'. The title of 'Nyayambhonidhi' was conferred upon him by the people of Jodhpur in 1883. In the year 1892, he was invited to Chicago (USA) for 'Vishwa Dharma Parishad' for which he wrote 'Chicago Prashanottar' (book containing questions and answers on Jainism) and sent Shri Vir Chand Raghayji Gandhi as his representative. He passed away at the age of 59 during his lifetime; he wrote 10 granths and composed 7 types of pujas for the Shwetambar moorti pujak sect.
Information Courtesy
-
-
-
Mr. Siddharth Oswal & Ahimsa
Foundation
146, Seth Sohan Lal Lane, Maharani Jhansi Road, Civil Lines, Ludhiana, Punjab 141 001
Tele 0161-5050015, E-Mail: siddharth@india.com
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Indian Legend : Karmayogi SHRI VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI;
'Jain Asmita' Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh, Jain history researcher India Committee Member:
JAINA, VRG Committee (Great Grand Son of Sarkar Shri Laxmichandji Chandanbhanji
Hingarh (Royal Family of Godwad Region in Rajasthan)
Jainism: As per jain scriptures among all known existing religions, Jainism is one of the oldest religion founded billion of billion years ago in this cycle by Lord Adinath, first tirthankar & Lord Mahavir, 24th Tirthankar actually revived Jainism most often mis-represented as founder of Jainism.
The Jain religion, according to the Jain scriptures is eternal, revealed in every cyclic period of the universe. The time is divided into 2 equal half cycles namely Utsarpini (ascending) Kal & Avasarpini (descending) Kal. Each cycle is again divided into six divisions knows as aras. The aras of avasarpini are in reverse than in
tsarpini. There are 24 tirthankars in each half cycle. There has been infinite number of half cycles in past and there will be infinite number of half cycles in future. Jainism is based on laws of nature and truths of the universe. Therefore, Jainism has been in existence since the laws of nature have been in existence. Therefore, Jains believe that the Jain religion has been in existence since the time without beginning and will have no end.
In the sashan of Mahavir Bhagwan who is also known by another name Sanmati, two Indian legends viz Virchand Raghav Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda discovered Bharatiya Dharma in the land of America. How coincidental that both bear the first letter of Bhagwan Vir and had shone in the world through His names Vir and Vivek= Sanmati.
Karuna Sagar Param Pujya Acharyashri Vijayanandsuriji (Muni Atmaramji): Great Jain Saint, Param Pujya Acharya Vijayandsuri (Muni Atmaramji) could see centuries & ages ahead of their time. Thirst for virtues, deep knowledge of various scriptures, great intuition powers, and unbeatable desire to be under Jainism and study its highest literature was the essentia! qualities of his nature. Acharyashri Vijayanadsuri (Atmaramji) was

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born in 1821 CE in a Kapoor Khatri family. At the age of 16, he was initiated in Sthanakwasi Jain order. Later in VS 1875, he was initiated by Param Pujya Muni Buddhivijaya of tapa gaccha. In 1886, he was conferred the title of Acharya at palitana. Previous such honour of being conferred the title of an Acharya was almost four centuries ago.
Invitation to Participate in Congress of First Ever World Religions Parliament (CPWR) Chicago, 1893: Muni Atmaramji was a far-sighted Jain saint-scholar, author of several learned treatises and hence was invited to participate in first ever the Parliament of World Religions at Chicago, USA in 1893. The principles of right conduct for a Jain monk prevented him from going abroad. As one of the vows of a Jain saint is not to travel in water.
Virchand Raghav Gandhi: Since Muni Atmaramji wanted awareness about Jainism to be re-presented at this Congress, he trained and deputed 29 year-old, charismatic Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (VRG) (August 25, 1864 - August 7, 1901). VRG then was a young barrister, great exponent of Indian culture-religions, a polyglot knowing 14 languages, secretary of Jain Association of India, Mumbai and was well-versed in Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Western philosophies, Yoga, etc. Its note worthy that at age of 21 VRG became first hon. Secretary of Jain Association of India in 1885. Shri Virchand Gandhi's life was full of incidents and events, which were rare, even in the life of great personages of those times.
CPWR, 1893: 1893, World Religions parliament was held at the Columbus Hall of Art Institute of Chicago with more than 3000 delegates of different nations and religions & such conference lasted for 17 days.
VRG's Speech at CPWR, 1893 : VRG, at the Parliament of World Religions conveyed, "I will, at present, only offer on behalf of my community and their high priest, Muni Atmaramji, whom I especially represent here, our sincere thanks for the kind welcome you have given us. This spectacle of learned leaders of thought and religion meeting together on a common platform and throwing light on religious problems has been a dream of Muni Atmaramji's Life. He has commissioned me to say to you that he offers his most cordial congratulations on his own behalf, and on behalf of

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the Jaina community, for your having achieved the consummation of that grand idea, of convening a Parliament of Religions.I wish that the duty of addressing you on the history and the tenets of the Jaina faith had fallen on that able person than on me. The inclemency of the climate, and the distant voyage which one has to undertake before one can come here, have prevented that able Jaina from attending this grand assembly and personally presenting to you the religious convictions of the Jainas. You will, therefore, look upon me as simply the mouthpiece of Muni Atmaramji, the learned high priest of the Jainas in India, who has devoted his whole life to the study of that ancient faith.”
"I represent Jainism, a faith older than Buddhism, similar to it in its ethics, but different from it in its psychology, and professed by a million and a half of India's most peaceful and law abiding citizens". He expounded to them what this universe is; whether there is God as the creator of this universe; what is the ultimate purpose of life and several such other things. He explained to them navatatva, shaddravya ; chargati, panchavratha, Moksha, nyayavad , Anekanthavad . He re-presented or corrected the false and perverse impression of India as being the land of maharajahs, tigers and cobras. He narrated an incident from King Akb and praised him for respecting all other religions. He spoke as an Indian first but kept Jainism at his heart. When one consciously suppresses individuality by proper physical, mental, moral, and spiritual development, one becomes part and parcel of immutable course of nature, environment and never suffers, said VRG on Jain Yoga Philosophy.
Shri Gandhi said, "It is an astonishing fact that foreigners have been constantly attacking India and in the face of all this aggression the soul of India has stood vital and watchful. Her conduct and religion are safe and the whole world looks at India with a steady gaze." He added "Cultural distinctions, agriculture, art, artistic skill, literature, good conduct, means of knowledge, science, hospitality, feminism, love, and respect - all these are found in India in quite a different form. If that culture was purchasable, England would have purchased it, adopted it. But it has not happened, it cannot happen."
VRG a True Patriot: As a true patriot, VRG talked about

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economic and political freedom five decades before India became independent. He proclaimed at the parliament that if India became independent, she would never invade any other country with violence. Today this statement appears as a prophecy that Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) proved in attaining India's freedom with peaceful means.
VRG's Success in Abroad: VRG's speeches also created a deep brilliant image that American people were magnetically attracted towards him and at their request VRG prolonged his stay for two years and was invited twice later in 1897 and 1899. He delivered as many as 535 lectures mainly in Chicago, Boston, New York, Washington of USA, England, France, Germany and other European countries. At all these places he was well listened, felicitated and presented with medals.
Shri VRG & Shri Swami Vivekananda: VRG and Swami Vivekananda sailed at the same time to participate at the Parliament with same goals; both personalities wearing traditional turbans, made tremendous appearance and had claimed equal attention at the Congress for awakening the western world of the spiritual heritage and rich past history of India. VRG defended Hinduism at the Parliament under unjust criticism by elaborating its principles. In those days, sea voyage was considered as unholy and VRG faced unjust criticism for the same. Swami Vivekanand wrote in 1894 from 541, Dearborn Avenue, Chicago, to the Diwan of Junagadh"Now here is Virchand Gandhi, the Jain whom you knew well in Bombay. This man never takes anything but mere vegetables even in this terribly cold climate and tooth and nail tries to defend his countrymen and religion. The people of this country like him very well. But what are they doing who sent him over? They are trying to outcast him."
Swami Vivekanand's work became well-known bute unfortunately little was known about VRG's! One of the U.S. periodicals wrote while giving tribute to both of them when VRG and Swamiji died in 1901 and 1902 respectively, "The influence of Vivekanand's philosophy has been kept alive by his disciples by founding organization like Ramkrishna Mission whereas, it is a matter of great pity that no attempt has been made to keep alive VRG's memory!"
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VRG's Foreign Fans : Herbert Warren, a religious enthusiast, abandoned non-vegetarianism and adopted the Jain religion. He took notes from VRG's lectures and wrote a book on Jainism. V. Glasenapp, a well-known German scholar wrote his doctoral dissertation on the Jaina Doctrine of Karma and acknowledged VRG's influence. Hon. E. B. Sherman Master in Chancery of the United States, Circuit Court, wrote on VRG "It has rarely, if ever, been my good fortune to meet a man whose reading and culture have been so wide and varied, and who, withal, has so sweet, sincere and teachable a spirit as Mr. Gandhi', E. Allen Richardson in "Strangers in This Land" mentioned about the Parliament and VRG's interview with New York Times.
VRG covered in Western Leading Publications: Lion of the season, VRG's immense success was covered by the following list of leading newspapers, and periodicals of USA: A) New York Times, B) St. Joseph Gazette, C) The Jamestown New York, D) Editors Bureau, E) Chicago Daily Sun, F) Chicago Herald, G) Chicago Suburban Star, H) Light of Truth, Cincinnati, I) Buffalo Times, J) The Illustrated Buffalo Express, K) Morning Star, L) Buffalo Evening Times, M) Buffalo Express, N) Buffalo Courier, 0) The Evangelist, P) Evening Post, Q) Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, R) The Rochester Herald, S) Rev. R. A. White, Chicago, T) Addison Parker Pastor of leading Baptist Church.
VRG writings : VRG wrote many articles and books in Gujarati as well as in English. He wrote on topics of social and cultural reforms like education for women and custom of repenting. VRG translated many publications, including The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ in English from French in 1894 from an ancient manuscript found in Tibet. VRG's selected speeches titled "Jainism in Western Garb as a solution to the Life's Great Problems" and other compilations were also published.
VRG's success in abolishing Palitana Tirth Tax : In his last days VRG was in England for Shatrunjay-Palitana Tirth matter and succeeded in getting poll tax on Jain pilgrims abolished, risking his own life, being threatened by the Ruler.
VRG's early demise : VRG wanted to continue his activities for a long time and to accomplish much more but unfortunately he could not, as this brilliant and promising young man, full of

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hopes and aspirations died at a very young age of 37 on August 7, 1901, within two months of his returning from third journey of the West, leaving unbridgeable void. The Jain community in mourning his death kept their business closed for five days. His short life span was full of great achievements. He sacrificed his brilliant legal career for the cause of Jainism and died in service to humanity.
VRG & his fight for Sammet Shikhar Jain Tirth : In 1891, he was responsible in winning the case known as "Piggery Case" in Calcutta High Court for closing down the slaughterhouse run by an Englishman at Sametshikhar Pilgrimage. For this he had stayed in Calcutta for six months and learnt Bengali language to prepare the brief which was lost at the lower court.
VRG & his Sadharmik Seva : As a true humanitarian, he sent Ind. Rs.40, 000 and a shipload of grains from U.S.A. to India during worst famine of 1896-97.
VRG as Reformer : As a reformer he established a] Gandhi Philosophical Society, b] Society for the Education of Women in India (SEWI). Under the banner of SEWI, several Indian women came to U.S.A. for higher studies. c] School of Oriental Philosophy, d] Jain Literature Society in London.
VRG representation as a National Figure & All Asia Sole Delegate : As a national figure he attended the Indian National Congress held in Pune as the Representative of then Bombay province in 1895. He attended the International Conference of Commerce in London as an All-Asia sole delegate in 1899 where he advocated reforms of post-parcel system.
VRG & Mark Twain relationship: In my modern research I learnt that Mark Twain, father of American Literature was too impressed by Virchand Gandhi & his Jain philosophy & his newspaper Buffalo express had covered immense success of VRG & on Mark Twain's Visit to India ,VRG displayed his hospitality & accompanied him to jain temples. In MARK TWAIN, on, Biblical & Hindu Miracles - G.B. singh justifies that Virchand Gandhi had met Mark Twain on his visit to India but somehow western researcher in Inventing Mark Twain: The Lives of Samuel Langhorne Clemens by Andrew Hoffman mistook Virchand Gandhi as Mahatma Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi, at this stage of Mark Twain's travel, was living

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in South Africa.
VRG & Mahatma Gandhi : And have revealed that in several instances Mahatma (M. K.) Gandhi was misunderstood as V. R. Gandhi. VRG and Mahatma Gandhi were in intimate contacts for vegetarian diet experiments. VRG used to give legal assistance to M. K. Gandhi in preparing legal briefs for court cases. In a 1931 letter, Mahatma Gandhi clarifies to Miss Emelia, Mac Bean of Chicago when she mistook him as VRG.
Revival of VRG : In 1964, then monk, Shri Chitrabhanuji was, pioneer in initiating the celebration of VRG's Birth Centenary. This was done on 25th August, 1964 in Fort, Mumbai where he and others addressed a large gathering. Shri Vallabh Suri Smarak Nidhi played a key role in reviving VRG's contribution in exploring Jainism in the West. In VRG's birth-town, Mahuva, a statue was erected at the Chowk (Square) in 1993 as his Memorial. Jain Center of Metropolitan Chicago has installed his statue at their temple in 1995. The Ohio Historical Society, Ohio, USA had given a big bronze plaque to the Jain Center of Cincinnati/Dayton in 1994 marking 100 years of VRG's lecture in Cleveland on September 18, 1894 mentioning that VRG brought Jainism to Ohio State.
Establishment of JAINA, VRG scholarship Committee : JAINA, established VRG Scholarship Committee in 1997 as homage and in his honor, for advancing, research studies in Jainism and VRG's unpublished literature at recognized Universities/Institutions and Pravinji C Shah Chair, JAINA, VRG committee from last 10 years has displayed tremendous Passion for VRG mission.
Most awaited postal stamp release in VRG honor, due to joint efforts of JAINA and WJC, by the Department of Post of Government of India has been scheduled on November, 2009. JAINA and WJC are planning to convert VRG's birth-home into his permanent memorial-museum.
Param Pujya Acharyashri Vijayvallabhsuriji M.S: This year is truly the year of Acharya Atmaramji, for on 21 February, 2009 a commemorative stamp of Acharya Shri Vijayvallabhsuri, his disciple who led the Sangh after him was released. He carried forward dreams and principles of his Guru by building many education institutions nationwide. Today many Jains globally are

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creating history in their fields had their education from AtmaVallabh Foundation institutions.
As revival of VRG, A simplified book on VRG was published due to result of blessings & motivation of Pujya Acharya Shri Vijaya-samudrasuri Maharaj, Pujya Agamaprabhakar Shri Punyavijayji Maharaj and Pujya Shri Mragavatishriji i.e Selected Speeches of Virchand Raghav Gandhi by Shri Abheraj H .Baldota & Shri Hiralal H Dalal, Published by Shri Vallabh suri Smarak Nidhi Today Param Pujya Acharyashri Vijay Nityanandsuriji maharaj & Param Pujya Acharya Shri Vijay Dharam Dhurandhar Suri Ji maharaj are carrying forward legacy of Shri Atma-vallabh leaded sangh.
INTERESTING FACTS :
VRG Yugpurush : As per jain scriptures when yugpurush (Divine Personalities) take birth, one witnesses some auspicious sign before their birth. Similarly, before VRG's birth during renovation of VRG's house, a Jin Pratimaji of Shri Parswanathji was discovered from a room & in same room VRG's birth took place after such excavation & same is pranpratistit in Adjacent 2600 years old Shri Jivit Mahavir Swami Mahuva Tirth. And possibly same meant that for jin shasan prabhavna, a legend was born.
Mahuva (Madhumati) : It is about 10 Kms from Palitana. Adjacent to VRG's House there is World Ancient Jain Heritage i.e. 2600 years old Jain Temple of Lord Mahavir (Shri Jivit Mahavir Swami Mahuva Tirth) which was built by Elder brother of Lord Mahavir, Shri Nandivardhan during lifespan of Lord Mavavir & hence the idol of Mahavir in this tirth is also known as living God. This sacred bhoomi is birth place of many Jain Karmayogi Legends like Sashan Samrat Param Pujya Aacharya Shri NemiSuriji, Dharamvir Virchand Raghavji Gandhi, This is the birthplace of Seth Javad Shah who renovated the Shetrunjay temple for the thirteenth time in the year 108 of the Vikram era. This is also the birth - place of Seth Jagdu Shah who offered to pay one and a quarter crores of gold mohurs and put a holy garment on the idol in the times of King Kumarpal in the twelfth century. This place is regarded as one of the group of the five sacred places of Mt. Shetrunjay.. This is also the birthplace and the nirvana place of Acharya Shri Nemisuriji, the protector of this sacred place.
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BRIEF INTRODUCTION: JAINA & JAINA, VRG;
Gunvant Barvalia (World renowned Jain Scholar) Ex-India Committee Member: JAINA, VRG Chair: Saurashtra Kesri Pran Guru Jain philosophical &
literary research centre Hon. Secretary: All Indian Shwetambar Sthanakwasi
Jain Conference, Mumbai
First Jain & first Gujarati to come to America was Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi in 1893 & addressed as Father of American Jainism.
What is JAINA:
It is a Federation of Jain Associations in North America - umbrella organizations to preserve, practice, and promote Jain Dharma and Jain Way of Life. JAINA was started with the blessings from Acharya Shri Sushil Kumarji & Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji. It was initiated at the first Jain Convention held in Los Angeles in 1981 and formalized at the second Jain Convention in New York in 1983. Represents over 1,50,000 Jains and over 72 Jain organizations. Today JAINA is world's premium Jain organization. Smt. Lataji Champsee is current dynamic JAINA president.
What is JAINA Organizational Structure:
There are over 72 organizations under the JAINA umbrella. Each organization, based on their membership size appoints 1, 2, or 3 Directors. There are 110 JAINA Directors who elect the JAINA Executive Committee every two years. Also there are over 35 specialized working groups called JAINA Committees.
JAINA is certified by USAID as a humanitarian organization, and is an NGO with Special Consultative Status with The Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. With administrative headquarters in New York, JAINA is managed by an Executive Committee consisting of representatives of member organizations, supported by over 35 committees and hundreds of volunteers.
The following broad-ranging beneficial services are offered to its affiliates, Jains, visitors and other non-Jains, interested in
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learning about Jain beliefs and Jain Way of Life.
• Online Information - www.jaina.org web portal offers fresh content and on-line forums.
JAINA Convention - Every two years on July 4th weekend, this mega event attracts around 6,000 Jains and non-Jains for thematic learning. Next convention is in 2011 in Houston, Texas.
• Educational Materials Over 1,000 books and manuscripts have been translated and scanned into JAINA's online e-Library (/) and DVDs/CDs available in English for Jain Pathshala and homes; A global curriculum in Jain Study is available.
• JAINA Calendar Over 10,000 calendars with color photographs of Jain temples are mailed free of cost to Jain families across North America and many others around the world.
• Jain Digest Magazine - Reaches over 7,000 families, and now published online as e-Jain Digest.
• Tirth Yatras - Jain Pilgrimage - At least one yatra organized yearly to different Jain holy sites.
• Directory of Jains in North America Published by Jain Center of Greater Boston.
• Jain Diaspora Conference An initiative inspired by the vision of Late Shri LM Singhvi, and convened at 2007 and 2009 JAINA Conventions for promoting Jain unity across the Diaspora.
• Interfaith Dialog - Educates Non-Jains about Jain Way of Life and promotes core Jain philosophy at World Parliament of Religions and other regional interfaith events in North America.
• Mangalam TV Show A weekly feature-filled TV show about Jainism and Jain practices.
• World Community Service Offers opportunities for humanitarian efforts throughout the world.
• Public Affairs Council, Public Relations, Liaisons with Government and Mainstream - Gives Jains a voice in the polittcal process and organizes mutual exchanges for better understanding.
• Long Range Planning Develops vision and projects for future JAINA and Jain activities.
• Jiv Daya - Animal Welfare - Collects funds for animal shelters in India.
• Jain Academic Scholars - A portal for academics to connect
.
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share information on scholars.
Virchand Raghavji Gandhi Scholarships for Jain Studies Financial aid & Scholarships in memory of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi are awarded in Jain studies;
: • International Summer School for Jain Studies begun in 2005.
• Opportunities to Volunteer and Serve - Over 20 active community and infrastructure development projects are underway and are managed by JAINA volunteers.
Especially for Young Jains, JAINA offers following activities:
• Young Jains Association and Young Jain Professionals - Vibrant groups that have many regional and biennial national (conventions) events.
• Jain Milan and Networking Forum - Matrimonial networking connections organized annually.
• Campus Outreach - Connects Jain community with Jain students on university campuses.
Along with 34 Jaina Committees, JAINA, VRG Scholarship, Memorial, Stamp Committee
under chairmanship of Shri Pravin C. Shah has made its importance felt worldwide with it aims & objectives in reviving great Jain Legend Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi , also known as Father of American Jainism. JAINA, VRG Committee:
To honor Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi and to commemorate his historical visit to the West in 1893, JAINA had established this scholarship in fall, 1997. This scholarship is being awarded to bright and needy students studying Jainism and/or pursuing doctorate and/or research studies in fields like Jain philosophy, Jain literature, Jain scriptures, Jain. temple architectures at recognized Universities and Institutions. Also promote Research studies in work of VRG's unpublished literature.
Applications Forms can be downloaded from JAINA's website http://inf.jaina.org/VRGCommittee/VRG_committee.htm, clicking on VRG Committee. Forms duly filled in are to be mailed back before July 31 of each academic year as advised. JAINA, VRG Committee Objectives:
To promote and encourage studies in Jainism
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To promote message of Universal love and non-violence through education.
To commemorate historical visit of V. R. Gandhi to West in 1893 to represent Jainism at World Parliament of Religions.
To research on VRG and explore this Great Indian legend. To provide scholarship for advance studies in Jainism (M.Phil,
PhD)
Pravin C Shah: Chair: JAINA, VRG Scholarship Fund Committee
He is most dynamic, altruistic, versatile personality who has dedicated 10 successful years to JAINA, VRG committee for revival of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi at international platform. He is senior leader, the most vital force since his arrival in USA for anything and everything relating to VRG activities, be it Shri VRG stamp release, Shri VRG scholarship, Shri VRG essay competition, or coordination. His dedication, loyalty and hard work are praiseworthy. He has never feared of experimenting new things for success of VRG projects, & hence has time to time incorporated new dynamic people in JAINA, VRG USA & INDIA committee & at this age also has shown tremendous passion for VRG Mission. Time to time he has taken all efforts to publicize VRG in JAIN Magazines JAINA Convention Seminar by Mumbai University, Seminar by World Premium Jain Organization JITO , daily cocoordinating with all jain sanghs world wide creating awareness about VRG..
1
Summary of Projects by Jaina, VRG Committee:
PAST:
Fifty-two scholarships (about fifty percent of them being to non-Jains) in about twenty Universities spread over North to South and East to West in India. So far were awarded. The details such as names of recipients of the scholarship, names of the donors have been regularly published in Jain Digest, a JAINA's quarterly publication.
•
• VRG Books were published. Noteworthy was VRG's Biography 'Jyotirdharni Jiven Gatha' in Gujarati, in 2001 the death centenary year and 2600th Birth year celebrations of Bhagvan Mahavir, and later in 2003 the English version titled as "Glimpses of Jainism and Biography of Forgotten Hero Shri Virchand Raghavji
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Gandhi" written and edited by Pannalal R. Shah and Gunwant Barvalia was published by JAINA & Saurashtra Kesri Pran Guru Jain Philosophical & Literary Research Centre, About 4000 English and 3000 Gujarati prints were made available.
Extensive research on VRG by our dynamic JAINA, VRG India Committee Member
•
⚫ News Article on VRG in Newyork Times, in 1890's traced by JAINA, VRG India Committee Member
Essay Competitions on VRG.
Time to Time, Jaina VRG committee has attempted to upload information about VRG on Web & now VRG is easily searchable in major search-engines.
Current:
Alliance Projects Undertaken by WJC/JAINA:
VRG MEMORIAL STAMPS: Past JAINA President of JAINA, Dr. Dhiraj Shah initiated VRG Stamp Proposal by submitting the Memorandum on September 25, 1998 to then Prime Minister of India Shri Atal Vihari Vajpayee in New York. Later on JAINA as its follow up action initiated by its Shri V. R. Gandhi Scholarship/ Memorial committee Chair Peron, Pravin C. Shah,and JAINA then Presidents Shri Anop Vora and Shri Kirit Daftary followed up the matter.
•
World Jain Confederation's Pratapbhai, Bhogilal, Maheshbhai V. Gandhi and others put up hard efforts with the Govt., Stamp Board Member Pradipji Jain of Patna, and Doulatbhai Jain of Chennai helped a lot to make it reality.
Current JAINA, VRG project:
Essay Competition Project: Currently Essay Competition is announced in English Language for students residing in America and Canada, to create awareness about VRG. Subject is "Life and Contribution of VRG to the Society". Three prizes of US$501, US$301 and US$201 will be awarded. Last date for submission is December 31, 2009. For conditions, procedure and complete details visit the website
Future:
Alliance Projects Undertaken by WJC/JAINA:
VRG Memorial-cum-Museum: World Jain Confederation (WJC) and Jain Associations In North America (JAINA) had jointly started
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"Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi Memorial Samiti" in early 2004 with the blessings of Shri Chitrabhanuji and Shri Pratap Bhogilal, Shri Pravin C Shah, Shri N. P. Jain, Shri Mahesh V. Gandhi, Mrs. Rakshaben J. Shah, as its members. (Jain Digest Summer 2004, Page 12). A plan is proposed for conversion of VRG's birth home at Mahuva, Gujarat in to his Memorial cum Museum is also planned. It will house all the available historical materials memorable with Museum of Jainism, Lecture Hall, Religious School (Pathshala), Library and other related facilities where several activities can be done on a regular basis. The details are available online JAINA websites in VRG Memorial Brochure and also mentioned in later pages.
Future Proposed Projects by JAINA, VRG Committee:
1.
Annotation of VRG in World biographies, Dictionaries like Oxford & so on.
VRG Biography in Elementary School Curriculum: Efforts are underway to include VRG's Biography in Elementary School Curriculum in Gujarat. We have requested our Jain Leaders in Ahmedabad and Mumbai to follow up with Chief Minister and Education Minister of Gujarat Government. Once we succeed with the Gujarat Government, we shall try to introduce at national levels.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
-
Getting a Documentary on VRG broadcasted on History Channel or Discovery Channel in Documentaries on Discovery of India
Creating a VRG fan club with free membership whereby they would be informed about JAINA, VRG activities through JAINA, VRG E-bulletin within every four or six months & already same is in process.
Honoring persons on every two years with VRG Ratna Award who like him are working on Jainism. Getting articles on VRG published in various newspapers worldwide at regular intervals.
At the birth town Mahuva, Gujarat a statue of VRG was installed at the Chowk in 1993. Like wise we are pursuing for VRG Statue at Chowk/Square at Ahmedabad, Gujarat. A main road named in VRG's memory would be the next big event.
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VRG STAMP RELEASE DREAM FULFILLED By Prakash Mody, Canada, JAINA, VRG Committee Member Prominent Jain Scholar, Philatelist, JAINA Senior Leader
During the birth centenary celebrations of Virchand Raghvji Gandhi (VRG) in 1964, a suggestion was made for the issue of a commemorative stamp but it was too late for timely issue, however the then Minister promised for the same in future. In 1993 at the centenary of the Parliament of World Religions (PWR), Chicago, USA, the stamp issue was raised but nothing happened. VRG was the great Indian emissary to the Western world in those days and one who changed the wrong impression about India. VRG was the Jain delegate at the first PWR in 1893 and was awarded the silver medal. In 1998 then JAINA President Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah personally submitted the Memorandum to then Prime Minister of India Hon. Atal Vihari Vajpayee in New York, USA.
Before the Bhagwan Mahavir's Nirvan anniversary centenary in early January 2004, under Anopbhai Vora's presidency, the subject was jointly revived by Jain Associations In North America (JAINA) and World Jain Confederation (WJC). Fresh proposal was sent to the India Post who responded with 'special cover and cancellation' only, but this was not an appropriate homage for this national religious leader. JAINA pursued through correspondence, design and personal approaches, etc. and WJC's Maheshbhai V. Gandhi followed up with innumerable visits to New Delhi for getting the stamp and design approval. After lots of efforts and support of the many, the proposal was approved by the Philatelic Advisory Committee. For some reasons, the stamp issue was still getting delayed. The sponsoring bodies through their friends and contacts continued their efforts (read details in 'acknowledgements' else where in this souvenir).
In the meantime, efforts to issue a stamp by USA where VRG attended the first PWR and other countries like UK and Canada were made. In response to the request, Canada Post responded that they will consider. In a personal talk, a point was raised that has India issued a stamp for such a great personality? They suggested of having a "personal stamp" and a special cover plus cancellation may be provided.

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At last, recently the announcement is made that the stamp will be released on November 8, 2009 in Mumbai. Until this writing, no more details are officially available but it is hoped that the Se-tenet stamps with Miniature sheet, First day cover, Brochure and special. Cancellation will be issued. Preparations are going on in full swing form both the sides, sponsoring bodies as well as the India Post for the gala function to release the stamp at the hands of the Hon. Minister and great national leaders, in the presence of the many dignitaries and prominent personalities from within India and abroad.
With this stamp issue, the dream of giving most suitable homage for this forgotten Indian hero is being accomplished, that will reach millions of people globally.
.
Virchand Raghavji Gandhi
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Introduction of WJC; Dr. Devkumar Chakravarti, Prominent Jain Scholar, Assistant Director General, Indian Council of
Agricultural Research
World Jain Confederation is one of the most esteemed jain organization. Under leadership of Shri Pratapji Bhogilal, wjc has left its everlasting impressions among jains & non-jains worldwide. Shri Pratapji Bhogilal a far sighted jain social worker, a prominent industrialist, is founder & conceiver of WJC. He is currently Chairman Emeritus of WJC. He is known as man of principles with unmatched determination, dedication & is source of inspiration for many. Late Shri L.M.Singhviji , Shri Arunji Mehta, Shri N.P.Jainji, Shri Chetanji Kashyap, Shri Maheshji Gandhi & other office bearers have time to time played vital role in meeting objectives of WJC. Due to motivation of Pujya Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji after a long hard struggle , WJC alliance with JAINA has resulted in success of VRG Stamp release by Indian Post Department which is really praiseworthy.
After VRG stamp release event world wide jains are having high expectations from WJC & JAINA alliance for success of much awaited VRG memorial museum asap at Mahuva, Gujarat.
However we would like to specially mention the role played by WJC Core Committee member , shri Maheshji v Gandhi who single handedly took the cause in right earnest & tirelessly worked for more than three years & ensuring that the stamp & first day cover on VRG were sanctioned by Ministry of Communication & Dept. of Post successfully after a long struggle · Even he played important role in preparing & submitting the design concept for said release. In this effort Shri Pratapji Bhogilal , shri Pravibhai C Shah ( JAINA, VRG chair - USA), Shri Prakashbhai Mody (Canada), Smt. Rakshaben Shah (Mumbai), Shri Pradipbhai Jain (Patna -Philatelist), Doulatbhai Jain (Chennai) were of great help & assistance for the success of same. Further Shri Maheshji Gandhi has also initiated programme of Memorial which is planned for converting ancestral house of VRG into a Memorial & also to rehabilitate the family members of VRG current descendants. Designing & architecture concept is being
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conceived due to his efforts. Maheshji & Dr. Kumarpalbhai desai were able to obtain the VRG's original handwritten correspondence from USA & UK.
WJC commenced functioning its memorandum of association & rules & regulations from 6th april, 2001 being the auspicious day of the 2600th Janam Kalayanak of Bhagwan Mahavir WJC has been formed as a society under the societies registration act, 1860 as applicable to Maharashtra, India.
There exists a huge list of WJC objectives. We are mentioning only few objectives in tune with VRG mission:
To act as a world forum for representation consultation & co-ordination in the task of promoting jain way of life, Jain Ethics, Jain culture, Jain Art, Jain Heritage, Jain Philosophy & collaborate with other faiths & traditions.
*
*
To co-ordinate & organize Jain representation at important interfaith conferences & to promote interfaith harmony through networking on humanitarian & social welfare projects. To institute awards to distinguished individuals / Organization for their outstanding contribution to promotion of Nonviolence, upliftment of humanity & peace.
To Institute scholarships & chairs on Jainism at majority universities in India & Abroad.
This photo is of VRG Statue
located at Chicago Jain Temple. This statue was brought to Chicago by Nemu Chandaria and Tansukh Saligia during the 2nd Parliament conference in 1993. After the conference it was installed in Chicago Jain Temple. (This photo Coutesy : Pravin K. Shah)
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Details of Proposed VRG Memorial-cum-Museum;
Dr. Bipinbhai Doshi, World renowned Jain Scholar India Committee Member : JAINA,VRG Chair : Jain Academy Education Research Centre Promotion Trust Established Chair for Study of Jain Philosophy of
University of Mumbai Objectives of the Memorial:
1. To renovate present VRG's birth-home in Mahuva, Gujarat with modern amenities and a permanent memorial including a Museum of Jainism, Lecture Hall, Pathshala, Library and such other related activities and to rehabilitate-help VRG family members with alternative arrangement of home for them.
2. To take necessary and appropriate steps for raising an awareness of VRG's mission, perpetuate his memory and pursue with the Government of India and other State Governments, for making the home as heritage site, funding for museum.
VRG Memorial by conversion of his Birth Home into his Memorial:
The most important initiative is about bringing awareness of our glorious heritage. North America's JAINA & India's WJC are working for raising funds for a permanent Memorialcum-Museum by converting the ancestral home of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi at Mahuva in Gujarat, India, into VRG's Memorial-cumMuseum. It is planned to convert his birth home at Mahuva, Gujarat, into his memorial. Architectural plans drawings, for strengthening the present house and alternative accommodation facilities for the VRG family, are prepared by an architect from nearby Bhavnagar city, after making several visits of his (VRG's) birth home. Estimates etc. were submitted to WJC which in turn were forwarded to JAINA but lack of donations funds is holding the finalization of plans.
The detail of the planned Memorial is as under:
a) Ground floor will house a museum of VRG with his memorial.
b) First floor would be a lecture- hall (auditorium), and the Library;
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c) 3rd and 4th floors for proper housing of the family members with proper facilities;
d) Family will take care of the memorial - museum and perpetuate the VRG's memory.
The JAINA,VRG Committee is appealing for funds. The names of the donors who donate will be inscribed on the wall-board that will be kept permanently at the VRG .
For giving proper monetary help to the family members of VRG, depending upon each members' needs, WJC has suggested to coordinate the whole process through a banking channel and a lump-sum amount to be put as fixed deposited in the bank, which will act as guarantee money, in case of default of loan and act as security for availing loans to the family members. through their earnings, they would repay to the Bank and thereby financial assistance help can be provided. Family members are willing to start their business and this can provide economical aid. Further details can be mutually worked out. This proposal needs to be reviewed early and can be considered, keeping in mind the cost escalation in coming years, when Memorial project takes shape. The total current requirement for this project is
imated approximately at Rs. 45 Lakhs which includes cost of modernization, plus a nominal reserved fund to be kept aside to generate interest income to contribute towards the maintenance and other expenses. WJC can provide more specific information about details of Memorial like its structure, detailed lay out, cost estimates, etc.
AN APPEAL TO THE COMMUNITY FOR DONATIONS WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT.
Your generous, tax-deductible donation to this worthy cause will be greatly appreciated.
Donors in North America are requested to make their US tax deductible donations by cheque in US$ (U.S. Dollars) payable to JAINA, indicating VRG Memorial in the memo with the name, address, ph. #, email address details and please mail to the JAINA.
JAINA Treasurer , Rita Sheth Treasurers@gmail.com
JAINA, VRG Committee Chair, Pravin C Shah pravincshah2k@yahoo.com
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Donor in India is requested to make their tax deductible (Under Section 80G of Indian Income Tax Act. Exemption Certificate provided) donations by cheque in Indian Rs. payable to World Jain Confederation (WJC), indicating VRG Memorial in the memo with name, address, ph. #, email detail and please mail to WJC.
WORLD JAIN CONFEDERATION, Tel/Fax: +91 22 2263 2220, worldjain@mtnl.net.in & wjc@vsnl.net
For any more information, please refer to JAINA Website: http://jnf.jaina.org/VRGCommittee/VRG_committee.htm ;
Or contact any of the WJC or JAINA Committee or Subcommittee members.
JAINA'S VRG Committee:
Chair, Pravin C. Shah, Ex-officio, JAINA President, Dilip V. Shah, Ex-officio, JAINA Treasurer, Rita Sheth; Co-Chair, Chandrakant M. Shah,
USA Committee Members:
Ashwin K. Shah, Pravin K. Shah, Surendra C. Gandhi, Vinay K. Vakani , Prakash Mody
JAINA India Subcommittee:
Pravin H. Sanghavi, Dr. Bipin Doshi, Nilesh N. Dalal, Himatlal S. Gandhi, Niranjan M. Shah,
Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh, Pritiben N. Shah
Past Valuable JAINA, VRG USA & INDIA Committee Members:
Dr. Jitendra Shah (Chair), Gunwant Baravlia, Rakshaben Shah, Kantibhai D. Mepani, Ramesh Solanki, Jitendra Turakhia, Kishor J. Mehta, Leena Shah.
Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (VRG) Memorial & Stamp Release Special Celebration Committee consisting of JAINA & WJC Representatives:
Pratap Bhogilal, Maheshbhai V. Gandhi, Dilipbhai V. Shah, ExJAINA, Pravin C. Shah, USA, Prakash Mody, Canada

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LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS WHO
REVIVED VRG BETWEEN
FREQUENT INTERVALS; Shri Pravin c. Shah Senior Jaina Leader Chair JAINA, VRG scholarship, Memorial, Stamp committee & Committee Member in Numerous Organisations worldwide.
I am now to tell some of the activities in chronological order of years that have taken place since VRG's premature death in 1901
Herbert Warren, Secretary, Jain Literature Society founded by VRG in London, became VRG's follower of Jain Religion founded Mahavir Brotherhood in 1913; published a book on Jain doctrines titled Jainism but later became popular as Herbert Warren's Jainism, which he wrote simply listening VRG's lectures in London. Since first published in 1883, several reprints were done. After 1912, there was almost a vacuum for almost sixty years with some thing written here and there about him.
But when VRG's birth centenary was approaching in 1964, writer of 'Jai Jinendra' section of Mumbai Samachar, Ratilal Chimanlal aka Dharmapriya reminded for celebrating the VRG's birth centenary. Guruji Chitrabhanuji during his monk-hood initiated the celebration of VRG's Birth. Centenary in 1964 exactly on his birth date, i. e. 25th August, 1964 at Shantinath Jain Temple - Upashraya, Fort, Mumbai where he and other dignitaries including Lalchand Hirachand, an Industrialist; Maganlal P. Doshi as Vice President & C. T. Shah, as Secretary respectively and formed Shri V. R. Gandhi Birth Centenary Celebration Committee. This large gathering had the blessings of Acharya Samudrasurishwarji and inaugurated VRG's life-size oil painting as well as Biography of VRG written by Kantilal Upadhyay was released. Vadilal Sanghvi, Himatbhai Gandhi, Pannalal R. Shah, all played big role in this celebrations.
In 1963 Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya authorities went to Mahuva and brought all gold, silver, bronze medals received by VRG during his life-time in India, America and other countries; hand written notes and unpublished literature; to its Bombay (now
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Mumbai) for preserving. I had the chance to see these in 2001 by courtesy of Shri C. N. Sanghvi.
In 1964 "Selected Speeches of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi" was published by Shri Vallabhsuri Smarak Nidhi, Mumbai. In 1987 at the occasion of centenary celebration of Jain Association of India at the inspiration of Jinchandraji Maharaj "Bandhu Triputi" the book in Gujarati "Shri Virchand Gandhi and Jain Religion in Foreign Countries" was published by Pannalal R. Shah. VRG was the first elected Secretary of JAI in 1884.
In 1993 when the Centenary of 1st Parliament of World Religions and 2nd Parliament that took place in Chicago and Barcelona, then JAINA President Shri Tansukh Salagia, Institute of Jainology Nemubhai Chandria, current JAINA Education Committee Chair Pravin K. Shah, Dr. Kumarpal Desai, created an awareness about VRG.
In 1994, the Ohio Historical Society, Ohio State gave a big bronze plaque to the local Jain Center of Cincinnati Dayton, marking 100 years of VRG's lecture in Cleveland on September 18, 1894 mentioning that Shri V. R. Gandhi brought Jainism to Ohio State.
In 1993-94, Jain Center of Metropolitan Chicago installed VRG's statue at their Shikharbandhi Temple entrance. This impressive statue reminded visitor of his contribution in Jain exposure in the region. We hope other Jain Centers in North America, who are members of JAINA, will follow this traditional practice as a mark of gratitude.
A. ORGANIZATIONS INVOLVED WITH VRG:
1. Jain Association of India (VRG was its first Elected Secretary in 1884-1985)
2. Shri Vallabh Smarak Nidhi
3. Atmanand Jain Sabha
4. Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya
5. Mangrol Jain Sangit Mandali (organized 1st Welcome functionfor VRG in Aug., 1896)
6.
a. Shri Agamodaya Samiti, Mumbai and
b. Shri Mahuva Tapagachchhiya Jain Sangh: for publishing 3 (VRG) Philosphy books compiled by Shri Bhagubhai Karbhari in 1912
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7. JAINA & I.O.J.: Institute of Jainology jointly had extensive collections of VRG material exhibited at the POWR event in 1993.
8. Several Jain Centers/Organizations in North America and India for their support
9. Arham Spiritual centre Saurashtra Kesri Pran Guru Jain Philosophical & literary research centre, Ghatkopar & Mumbai.
10. WJC
B. ACHARYAS
SADHUS and SADHVIS:
Acharyashri Vijayanandsuri aka Atmaramji deputed VRG to Parliament on his behalf.
•
Acharyashri Vijayvallabhsuriji, Founder of Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya founded in 1916.
• Sadhvi Shilavatishriji (Guru of Mrigavatishriji) guided-blessed to publish VRG Books i.e. 2nd Edition of "SELECTED SPEECHES OF Shri V.R. Gandhi and Herbert Warren's Jainism .
•
Sadhvi Mahattara Mrigavatishriji, Shri Punyavijayji and Acharya Vijay Samudrasuriji blessed to publish of "Selected Speeches of Shri V.R. Gandhi 2nd Ed. and Herbert Warren's Jainism book.
•
Acharya Vijay Samudrasuriji blessed the birth centenary celebration in 1964 hosted by Chitrabhanuji.
Acharya Vijayindradinsurishwarji blessed to publish Herbert Warren's Jainism and wrote article in 'Dharmadhara' about VRG.
•
• Swami Vivekanand, who praised VRG's work in U.S.A. C. DIGNITARIES WHO GAVE WARM WELCOME FAREWELLWELL WISHES TO VRG FOR HIS VISITS TO THE WEST:
Sheth Maganlal Dalpatram Great support to Mr. Virchand Gandhi. He was born in Ahmedabad in 1901 AD in Visa Oswal Samaj. Though not much educated with his efficiency and hard work, he earned name and fame. He had very close relations with Acharya Shri Aatmaramji Maharaj. When Jain Sangh of Mumbai opposed to send Mr Virchand Gandhi to the Parliament of Religions, Sheth Maganlal put all his efforts and tried his best to convince the Sangh. Though he was not capable to afford the expense of Mr Virchand Gandhi's tour, he fulfilled the wishes of Shri Aatmaramji and sent Shri Virhand Gandhi to the Parliament. On return of Mr. Virchand Gandhi, when the Jain Samaj decided
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to outcast him Sheth Maganlal showed his solidarity to Mr. Virchand Gandhi and invited 200 eminent Jains to have meal with Mr Virchand Gandhi
* Sir Premchand Raichand, who in August 1896 presided over the meeting to welcome VRG's return to Mumbai.
Justice Mahadeo Govind Ranade, who in September 1899 presided over the meeting for his farewell for his 3rd-last visit to the West.
Nathu Manchanda- a magician from Mahuva who went with him as cook D. PUBLISHERS, EDITORS & WRITERS:
1. Abheraj H. Baldota; 2. Jagjivandas Shivlal Shah; 3. Umedmalji Hajarimalji Jain;
4. Sobhagmalji Singhi: for (All for "Selected Speeches of Shri V.R. Gandhi).
5. Dalsukhrai Malvania; 6. Dr. Nagin J. Shah (All for Herbert Warren's Jainism.) E. NEWS PAPERS, MAGAZINES:
1. New York Times took VRG's interview, when he landed in New York in September 1893 to attend the 1893 Parliament of World Religions. This interview is briefly mentioned in "Strangers in This Land (Pluralism and the response to Diversity in the United State)" by E. E. Allen Richardson.
2. Ahimsa Vol. 3 No.1 March 1993. Special Issue on VRG. About 1893 & 1993 Parliaments and Centenary of the Parliament.
3. Ahimsa Times, for publishing VRG News from time to time.
4. Ahimsa World (WJC Publication Vol. 1 No. 4, September, 2004 published coverage of several VRG articles and VRG Family Tree with recent VRG family pictures.
5 Indian and American Newspapers and Magazines for publishing VRG. List not included as running into few pages.
6:JAINA's Jain Digest printed VRG related matters, articles, scholarship program etc.
7. Institute of Jainology, UK most esteemed Jain organization published research about VRG by JAINA, VRG India Committee Member. Institute of Jainolgy (Nemubhai Chanderia, Dr. Kumarpalbhai etc.) were responsible in getting Library at Mahuva

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in the name of VRG.
8. Herenow4u , most esteemed Jain E-Magzine from germany. 9. Jain Heritages F. AUTHORS OF BOOKS - ARTICLES ON VRG:
1. Bhagubhai Karbhari: Sketch of VRG. ( He is was first to work concretely for creating awareness about VRG & his contributions & without his contributions it would have been impossible for us to revive VRG in this modern era.
2. Hiralal H. Dalal: Life Sketch. 3. Naginbhai J. Shah, brilliant exponent of Indian Philosophy.
4. Mohanlal Dalichand Desai included VRG in his "Jain Sahitya no Sankshipt Itihas (Brief History of Jain Literature)".
5. Kantilal Upadhyay, Jivan Charitra of Late Virchand Gandhi, Biography of VRG in Gujarati.
6. Prof. Prithviraj Jain about the Parliament, Vishva Dharma Parishad
7. Pannalal R. Shah, author of three books in Gujarati (1st Ed in 1964 and 2nd Ed in 2001) and in English in 2003. Last 2 books were for the JAINA, VRG Committee. He was in contact with current descendants of VRG. He along with kantibhai kora of Shri MJV , brought various original letters, writings, artcrafts, medals, cascades from Mahuva (VRG's house) to Shri MJV, Mumbai.
8. Gunvant M. Barvalia, Learned Jain Scholar, secretary of All India S. Sthanakwasi Conference, Mumbai whose 38 books are published till today & had edited the English version titled as "Glimpses of Jainism and Biography of Forgotten Hero Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi" written by Pannalal .R.Shah & Gunwant Barvalia published by JAINA & Saurashtra Kesri Pran Guru Jain philosophical & literary research centre, whereby 4000 english version & 3000 gujarati version of same was published. Gunwant Baravlia has provided his researches on VRG to script writer & editor for Drama on VRG by "Rangat the stage craft people"
9. K. K. Dikshit, who edited "The Systems of Indian Philosophy" 2nd Ed.'70. Publisher Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya.
10. Swami Niktleshswaraananda Two Heroes of Parliament of Religions.
11. Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh, 12. Smt. Rakashben Shah: The Valiant Jain Patriot, VRG, 13. Manu Doshi,
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14. Himmat Gandhi (Mumbai), 15. Pravin C. Shah, 16. Pravin K Shah
17. Ketan Mistry Chitrelekha Magazine : he revived memory of VRG during 2009 paryusan and covered cream information about VRG & also acknowledging that VRG as first gujarati to visit USA , in 1893.
18. Anand Rao- Gunjan : Covered one issue on VRG in 2009 JAINA, Convention.
G. OTHERS WHO PROVIDED (EXTENDED HELP and SUPPLEMENTAL) INFORMATION & SUGGESTIONS FOR BOOKS:
1. J. L. Jaini; 2. Pandit F.K. Lalan; ,3. Pandit H. L. Jhaveri; 4. K. P. Mody; 5. Manekchand Hirachand; 6. Prof. Hermann Jacobi; ,7. G. M. Mepani; 8. Motichand Girdharlal Kapadia.
H: FOLLOWERS & SYMPHATHISERS WHEN VRG VISITED UK & US:
• Mrs. Chas. Howard, secretary, The Society for the Education of Women of India that was founded by VRG.
• Mr. & Mrs. Gordon, secretary & eminent members of Mahavir Brotherhood founded by VRG in London. Mr. L. D. Saintier;
• Charles Boney, President of 1893 Parliament. He helped in sending grains during the 1897 Indian famine and acted as Chairman of India Famine Relief Committee,
• Dr. John Henry Burrows, Secretary of 1893 Parliament. He vacated his home for VRG to stay during his prolonged US visit.
• William Pipe, Joint Secretary of the Parliament. He came to New York to receive VRG and in his presence New York Times took VRG's brief interview. It is mentioned in 'Strangers in this World'.
I: SPECIAL APPRECIATIONS:
I. Gulabchandji Dhaddha. He and VRG were speakers at Dharma Mahotsav held at Ajmer in 1895 and discussed about VRG's followers in America.
II. Guruji Shri Chitrabhanuji during his monk-hood was pioneer to initiate celebration of VRG's Birth Centenary in 1964. This was done exactly on 25th August, 1964 (he was born on Aug. 25, 1864) in Fort, Mumbai where he, Lalchand Hirachand and others addressed large gathering. He is actually one who blessed, motivated & inspired JAINA & WJC alliance for VRG
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stamp release & VRG memorial.
III. Munishru Jinchandraji (Bandhu Triputi) gave lecture "Shri V. R. Gandhi and Jain Religion in Foreign Country" as part of 1st lecture of the Centenary of Jain Association of India at Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya Hall on Nov. 14, 1987.
IV. Muni Shri Kirtichandra Vijayji (Bandhu Triputi) gave his blessings per letter dated May 5, 1993. Published in the Souvenir of Chicago's Jain Center at the time of New temple's Pratishtha briefly mentioned " Since coming of VRG at Chicago, a century ago in 1893 Parliament as a representative of Jain Religion as deputed by their DADAGURU Acharya Atmanandji, Jainism has started from that moment in West.'
V. Pandit Sukhlalji Sanghvi, who spoke about relation of VRG and Mahatma Gandhi in later's Birth Centenary Year celebration in 1969.
VI. Padmashri Kumarpalji Desai: He is world reknowned jain scholar & committee member of numerous organizations worldwide. In 1980 in Jain Sahitya Samorah Starting Movement in modern era he was first to express about VRG in Viral "Pratibha article. Due to major efforts of Shri Kumarpalbhai at ahmedabad two statues of VRG were prepared by Institute of Jainology, UK & from same one is installed at Mahuva near NemiVihar & other at Chicago. He must have visited more than 25 times to Mahuva to find actual turban (Paghdi) of VRG. He spoke about VRG in 1993, World Parliament of religions. In Past he has also edited Yoga philosophy of VRG. Time to Time he has tried to create awareness about VRG by writing about VRG in Top Leading Newspublications, Magzines like Gujarat Samachar, DNA newspaper, Leading Jain periodicals, Jain Digest, etc. This winter seasons main highlight is that he is editing & coming up with most awaited new editions of Yoga Philosophy (english), Jain Philosophy(English), The unknown Life of Jesus Christ (English) by VRG & one Gujarati Jivancharitra.
VII. Prakashbhai Mody, Toronto, Canada, a Jain Philatelist. He pushed the matter with JAINA & VRG Committee by drafting letters and documents including Stamp designs, etc. for JAINA President for his sending to Govt. of India and Canada Post.
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During his several visits to India, he kept VRG stamp matter as his top agenda during his busy personal schedule. He prepared necessary materials for souvenir, brochure for stamp release function.
VIII. Hon. Minister Shri Thiru A. Raja, Minister of communications & IT post, Govt. of India, New Delhi. It was he who sanctioned the release of the Stamp ,FDC on Shri VRG & we thank him sincerely.
IX. Pratapbhai Bhogilal is a prominent industrialist, a trustee of many institutions including Jain Academy Trust, Mumbai and Vishvakalyan Atma Jain Foundation, Delhi. He is the founder and Chairman of Bhogilal Leherchand Institute of Indology, and Atma Vallabh Jain Smarak Shikshan, Delhi. He has played a pioneering role in the promotion of Jain scholarship at various institutions in India, Europe and the United States & who tirelessly in his ill health at this age, played a major role since 1st kick-off meeting with the blessings of Gurudev Chitrabhanuji that took place on Jan. 5, 2004 where Maheshbhai Gandhi, Pravin C. Shah, Pannalal R. Shah, Rakshaben J. Shah, Gunvantbhai M. Barvalia were present to revive the VRG's mission for issuing VRG Stamp and converting VRG's birth home at Mahuva into VRG M coordinated with many others for the issue of stamp.
X. Maheshbhai Vadilal Gandhi, Mumbai, is a Jain Industralist, Social Worker, Philatelist and WJC's Committee Member He as a coordinator of WJC-JAINA for Stamp & Museum project has always acted on various issues irrespective of the end result. During this process though our request was for a Stamp and FDC, earlier the Dept. sanctioned only "Special Cancellation" on the eve of the Parliament of World Religions at Barcelona, Spain, on September 2004 which we didn't accept and pursued for the stamp. He deserves the special credit. He made several visits to Delhi and met several Ministers, MP's, Members of the Philatelic Advisory Committee, and played a very crucial role being one Man - Mission not only in getting the approval of the Ministry but also in identifying the Artist Mr. S. Sankha forthe proposed designs of VRG Stamp, FDC, Cancellation and coordinating with him on preparing and submission of the designs and Texts to the Dept. of Post for their consideration and approval
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XI. Doulatbhai Jain, Chennai: Vice Citairman Animal Welfare Board of India (Ministry of Env. & Forest) Govt. of India. Played very crucial role in coordinating and obtaining the sanction from the Ministry Department of Post.
XII. Pradipji Jain of Patna, Jain Philatelist who helped in the issue of the commemorative stamp in honor of VRG by the Dept. of Post of the Government of India.
XIII. Dhirubhai M. Mehta, Mumbai, a leading member of the International Jury Panel for Philately and ex-member of the Philately Advisory Committee (PAC), Who guided in the project for the issue of the stamp.
XIV. Hon. Minister Mr. Dayanidhi Maran, Hon. Deputy Mister Mr. Shakeel Ahmed , Director, DDG, ADG , Dept. of Post and its staff, artist and others at the Ministry of Communications & I.T. Depts. of Post, Govt. of India.
XV. All Members of Philatelic Advisory Committee,
XVI. Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh, JAINA, VRG India committee member played important vital role in extensive research & rediscovery about VRG & his connection with Father of American Literature, Mark Twain & Mahatma Gandhi. He traced news articles from New York Times mentioning about VRG on his visit to USA in 1890's, also re-discovered Letter of Mahatma Gandhi to Miss Emila Mac bean when she mistook him as VRG .
XVII. Hon. Minister Mr. Murli Deora, Minister of Petroleum. XVIII. Hon. M.P. Milind Deora,
XIX. Hon.M.P.Jyotiraditya Scindia, Ex. Hon'ble Minister for State for IT & Communication, Dept of Post and currently Hon'ble Minister for State for Industry and Commerce, Govt. of India.
XX. Late Dr. L. M. Singhvi (MP), XXI. Dr. Abhishek Singhvi (Congress Speaker).
XXII. Vadilal Chatrabhuj Gandhi, Ex. JP., Ex-M.L.A., a noted Jain leader Industrialist, former Trustee of Shree Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya, Founder/Promoter of various Institution in the filed of Religion, Education, Medical & other fields and philanthropist from Mumbai and being early initiator for VRG cause and meet the family members of Shri VRG in presence of Smt. Indira Gandhi , former Prime Minister of India.
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XXIII. Dr. N.P. Jain.
XXIV. Shri Nemubhai Chandaria, Insitute of Jainology (IOJ) London U.K. responsible for installation of VRG's bust at Chicago 's Jain Centre in 1993.
XXV. Shri Harshad Sanghrajka (10J) who always supported in creating Awareness about VRG & also published JAINA, VRG India Committee members research on VRG with Snaps of Acharya Atmaramji, Acharya Vallabhsuriji & VRG.
XXVI. Shri Arvindbhai Pannalal Shah of Ahmedabad who got the VRG's statue for Chicago.
XXVII. Shri Somchand Devchand Shah, Nairobi who helped in statue - donating generously in helping the VRG family.
XXVIII. Shri C.N. Sanghvi who sent photos of VRG Medals and arranged to show original documents & memorials and wrote several inspiring emails since 1996 in his ill health.
XXIX. Kasturbhai Lalbhai, President, Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, .: Ahmedabad.
XXX. The following 3 gentlemen went to Mahuva brought VRG's medals, memorials, etc. and preserved at SMJV, Mumbai in 1964, for future Museum.
a. Kantilal D. Kora, Then Director-Registrar of Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya and Secretary of Jain Association of India.
b. Chandulal Vardhaman Shah, Then Secretary of Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya.
C. Pannalal R. Shah, native of Mahuva and author of several books on VRG.
XXXI. Sheth Lalchand Hirachand who presided over the meeting of VRG' Birth Centenary Celebration hosted by Guruji Chitrabhanuji.
XXXII. C. T. Shah, Secretary of VRG Birth Centenary Celebration Committee who gave warm welcome speech in of VRG' Birth Centenary Celebration hosted by Guruji Chitrabhanuji 1964.
XXXIII. Dipchand S. Gardi: Presided over Centenary celebration of Jain Association of India in 1983. At this meeting idea to start Scholarship in the name of VRG, who was the first Secretary of Jain Assoc. of India in 1885 and to promote studies in Ardh-Magadhi and Prakrit languages.
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XXXI. V. R. P. Jain who brought to USA four blown up color pictures that were put on display at the JAINA Convention, Pittsburg in July 1993 as well as at the Centennial of the Parliament of World Religions, held in September 1993 at Chicago. He traced the first lecture on Jainism in North America of VRG at the 1893 Chicago Parliament. He mentioned about VRG's disciple Mr. Herbert Warren, who wrote a short book titled Jainism that was first published from Britain.
XXXV. Ratial Chimanlal Shah 'Dharma-Priya' who expressed his shock when Jain Community took very lightly - almost forgot to mark birth anniversary of VRG in 1964.
XXXVI. Vadilal (Vijay) Sanghvi, Chief of Sandesh Weekly Mumbai Edition in 1964.
XXXVII. Himmatbhai Gandhi , Secretary of jain association of India & has written article on VRG in JOI publication article in JAI's Margdarshak Patrika, 2007.
XXXVIII. Natvarlal S. Shah, Secretary of Jain Association of India.
XXXIX. Gitaben Jain who planned for a documentary on VRG.
XL. Narendra D. Sheth, Kolkata is trying to get original case papers of Piggery Case that was successfully fought by VRG in 1891. Rai Bahadur Badridasji's family where VRG stayed for 6 months to learn Bengali language for presentation of this case and Court proceedings. Narendrabhai has promised, though in ill health, will search out the documents as well as bear the cost.
XLI. Rameshchandra Mohanlal Mehta and Harshadbhai are helping Narendra B. Sheth in the above mentioned Sametshikhar Case. Narendra D. Sheth, Rameshchandra M. Mehta, Harshadbhai all from Kolkatta who on VRG Committee's Request made 1 year search/digging for Sametshikhat Piggery. Case/Anmal Slaughter Case won by VRG in 1891 in Kolkatta High Court on Behalf of Anandji Kalyanji. To my thinking Dr. Kumarpal has dug in to in last 3-4 months. Narendrabhai Sheth is friend of Dr. Kumarpal
I. Emily Chou, a POWR current official, who sent bibliography of 1893 Parliament Publications.
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II. Surendra Singhvi and Dr. Noel King have extensively written on 'VRG at the Parliament' in their jointly written article "Jain Radiance on the Western Horizon".
III. Dr. Vastupal Parikh offered to trace VRG News of 1893 Parliament in the then published "Globe & Mail" Canada's national daily newspaper.
IV. Dr. Sumanbhai, of Mahuva for his cooperation in all VRG Memorials and family help.
V. Dr. Bipin Doshi , JAINA VRG india Committee Member, world renowned Jain Scholar & Priti Shah, JAINA VRG India Committee Member are publishing a World Class coffee table book on VRG as on today presenting different aspects of this Bharat Kesari . The book is brilliantly designed with international quality The world class book projects VRG not only as hero of Jains but as hero of our motherland India too. He was not only a Jain scholar but a great patriot who defended Indian Religions, Culture and Civilisation in the west.
VI. Naresh Jain, Co-Chair, JAINA's Interfaith Committee and President of International Jain Sangh, New Jersey, USA. He regularly attends Parliaments of World Religions and International Conferences. Dr. Hema Pokharana member of Executive of CPWR.
VII. Pravin Sanghvi, Nilesh Dalal, Niranjan Shah worked hard under Guidance of Pravin C. Shah for JAINA VRG Scholarship in India.
VIII. Arvind Vora, Chair, JAINA's Interfaith Committee and Founder President, Long Island Multi-faith, USA for sending information from time to time about VRG related articles.
IX. Kishor J. Mehta, Past VRG Committee Member sonsored VRG Committee published VRG Gujarati 2,000 Books in 2001. Doctors (surname) Dilipbhai/Dipikaben, though not VRG Committee Member sponsored VRG Committee published VRG 2,000 Eng. Books in 2003. Note: Ramesh Solanki, ex-VRG Committee Memberhad helped in Chicago Statue.
X. Dr. Shugan Jain - ISSJS India Chair- has incorporated VRG in its Curriculum.
XI. Pramod Luhadia ISSJS Bangkok on request of his close friend Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh made attempts in creating awareness about VRG in Thai Universities.
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3: JAINA PAST & CURRENT OFFICIALS:
1. VRG COMMITTEE & INDIA SUB-COMMITTEE - PAST & PRESENT MEMBERS: 1. Dr. Jitendraji B. Shah, world renowned Scholar, dedicated
Ex-JAINA, VRG India Chair has written several VRG Articles. He is Currently Dean of B.L.Institute of Indology. In 1997, CONCENTRATION A Series of Twelve Lectures by VRG was edited & published by Dr. Jitendraji Shah & Shri Chandrakantji Kadia & same was through Shardaben Chimanbhai Educational Research Centre, Shahibaug, Ahmedabad. The wellknown donor and philanthropist Shri Jagabhai Dalpatbhai
of Ahmedabad supported the original publication. 2. Lalit Shah, 1st JAINA President, donated for publishing at
1993 Parliament two books. 3. Dr. Tansukh Salagiaji, then JAINA President did research and
obtained photographs as well as posters of the 1893 events. 4. Pravin K. Shah, in 1992 he collected funds and helped
VRG's family members & has also created awareness about
VRG through JAINA education story book. 5. Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah Ex-JAINA President who had initiated
VRG Stamp issue by personally submitting the Memorandum dated September 25, 1998 to then Prime Minister of India Hon. Atal Vihari Vajpayee in New York, USA. See Jain Digest, Winter Edition, 1998, page 7. He saw the concerned ministers during his India visits. Under his JAINA Presidency JAINA
VRG Scholarship Project was approved. 6. Anop Vora Ex-JAINA President, who continued with his
efforts for VRG Stamp & Memorial with WJC. 7. Kirit Daftary, Ex-JAINA President, who vigorously followed
up for VRG stamp matter. 8. Dilip V. Shah, Ex- President of JAINA who since 1997
continutiously worked for VRG projects and under his JAINA
Secretaryship JAINA VRG Scholarship Project was approved. 9. Lataben Champsee, JAINA- President, Ex-Editor-In-Chief, Jain
Digest who published articles about VRG from time to time. 10. Girish Shah, EX-JAINA Secretary and past VRG Committee
Member who created VRG website, connecting with literaturelink from JAINA's Education Website.
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12.
11. Kamleshbhai Amin, Ex. Executive Director till recently who
diligently helped on all JAINA's correspondence from time to time. Sulekh Jain Ex-JAINA President has always motivated everyone associated with VRG Awareness Projects & he has
also incorporated VRG details in its Curriculum at ISSJS. 13. Chandrakant M. Shah & Ashwin Shah committee members
of JAINA, VRG K: ANONYMOUS OR UNKNOWN CONTRIBUTIONS:
Names of the following persons are mentioned at some places but details about their contributions are not known/not available. 1. Gautam Osval of Acharya Sushilmuni Ashram, Delhi. , 2.
Puj. Rakesh Muni. 3. Justice Mangelal Jain. , 4. Rajkumar Jain. , 5. S. K. Jain. ,6.
Dr. Hemant Shah. ,7. Inderjit Gopal Singh, Involvement of Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay: 1. Atmaramji aka Vijayanandsuri who deputed VRG to the
1893 Parliament was Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri's (Founder of
Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya in 1916) GURU. 2. SMJV has published tens of books of VRG. 3. Shri Kantibhai Kora, Chandulal Vardhaman (then Secretary),
Pannalal R. Shah of Mahuva, Alumnus visited VRG family in Mahuva (VRG's birth town) in 1964 and brought all Gold, Silver Medals received by VRG in North America, Europe, India and hand written VRG literature to SMJV, H.O./H.Q. at Gowalia Tank Mumbai for preserving the same.
I as a SMJV Alumnus (Gowalia Tank 1956-58, Vadodara 195859) was fortunate to see all those medals in 2001 at H.O./H.Q. due to courtesy shown by Shri C.N. Sanghavi (also SMJV Alumnus)
Many articles & books are written about life and works of VRG and few are listed on the Jaina VRG website under literature sub-heading. Efforts are being made for inclusions of the VRG's picture on the Parliament's website were information is noted.
I would welcome any question or concerns, if you have any. I sincerely thank you all for giving your time by patiently hearing me.
Please accept our Michamidukadam if knowingly or unknowingly we hurted anybody due to incorrect inclusions or unintentional exclusions.
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Few Wishes on Occassion of VRG stamp release to JAINA & WJC
Better late than never. I congratulate JAINA & WJC alliance success of VRG stamp release event. We wish success of alliance VRG musuem dream too by .
on
Dr. Rakshakmal Lodha (California)
VRG has done wonderful job by propogating the jain religion, indian culture & indian philosophy. Congratulations on success of VRG stamp release approval.
Vinanti Sarkar, Jain Enlightenment (USA)- Film Director VRG stamp release seems not only honouring VRG but honouring full jain community its saints & its layman. Congratulations. Wish timely execution of VRG museum too.
Pramod Luhadia, Digambar Jain Federation
Bangkok
Our sincere wishes on eve of VRG stamp release to
alliance.
1
1
Dr. S.L.Gandhi, President- Anuvibha
IOJ adores VRG & his contribution to whole world. Congratulations to alliance.
Magzine)
Harshad Sanghrajka, Secretary Insitute of Jainology, UK
He was first gujarati to visit America in 1893 & its our pleasure & priviledge to know about VRG, Gujarat ratna & his contributions representing Indian culture at the Congress & awakening the western world of the spiritual heritage and rich past history of India Congratulations.
Ketan Mistry (Chitrelekha
-
-
38
Leading International
Gujarati
International School for jain studies sends their best wishes, prayers and thanks to the pioneering work done by Shri Virchandji. We at ISJS follow his foot steps in taking Academic Studies of Jainism to the universities of North America. May his guiding spirit continue to show us and others the light to enrich the world with the beauty of jainism. Congratulations to JAINA & WJC on VRG Stamp release stamp.

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Dr. Shugan Jain, Chair- ISSJS (INDIA)
Ahimsa Foundation team is extremely happy to learn about VR stamp release & congratulates all associated with same. VRG stamp release is like recognising his selfless services to Nation & Jain community
Prakash Lal Jain, Founder Chairman Ahimsa Foundation
International Publications
My Vandan to this Karmayogi Wishes.
Hira
Legend
-
Ratan Manek, Solar Healing (USA) Living Jain
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********
1
This photo is current photo of VRG's Ancestral House. (This photo courtesy: Shri Maheshji Vadilalji Gandhi)

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This Pratimaji of Bhagwan Parshvanathji was found fom VRG's Mahuva's house by Param Pujya Shri Ragavji Saheb. He handed over same to the Adjacent Shri Jivit Mahavirji Swami Mahuva Tirth derasar and after same, VRG was born in that same room from which such divya alokik Pratimaji was discovered. This information was given to Smt. Pritiben Shah & Shri Maheshji Gandhi by fourth generation of VRG (Dhirajbhai's family). (This photo courtesy : Smt. Pritiben Shah & Dr. Bipin Doshi )
Industrialist-MLA Vadilalji C. Gandhi , Ex- Prime Minister of India Smt. Indira Gandhi & VRG's Family at VRG's Ancestral House.

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જૈન જ્યોતિર્ધર વીરચંદ રાઘવજી ગાંધી Design Concept: Gunvant Barvalia & Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh