Jainism in a Global Perspective - Collection of Jain papers of 1993 Parliament of World Religions, Chicago

SR No.: 014010
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Sagarmal Jain, Shreeprakash Pandey
Publisher: Parshwanath Vidyapith
Publication Year: 1998
Total Pages: 402
Language: English
Classification: Seminar & Articles
File Size: 23 MB

Page 260

Legacy of Virchand Gandhi and Jaina Philosophy
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the imprint of India. The scholarship, the impartiality of the outlook and the excellent oratory of this man fascinated the delegates of the Parliament. An American newspaper wrote-- "of all Eastern Scholars it was this youth whose lecture on Jaina religion and philosophy was listened to with the interest engaging the greatest attention."
At the conference, Virchand Gandhi made a brief but striking presentation on the fundamentals of the Jaina religion. He illustrated the specific Jaina code of conduct, the Jaina way of life and explained the cardinal principles of Jaina cosmology, comparing it with other religions. His discourses convinced the delegates that the Jaina religion has an authentic and rational religious tradition. Expressing his joy about this new knowledge, an American delegate gave his opinion about Virchand Gandhi in these words. "In this religious gathering a number of philosophers, preachers and scholars came from India and delivered lectures and each one of them presented a new perspective and a new element. Among them was an outstanding young man of Jaina religion who gave new ideas about morality and philosophy. Though he is only a house holder and not a monk or religious preacher, he can expound so well. Who must then be his Guru? This simple but striking philosophy of life is worth knowing, worth understanding".
Life Sketch
Virchand Gandhi was born in Mahuvā, a small town in the state of Gujarat in India on August 25, 1864. Virchand's parents were of modest means and well respected within the community. After completing a high school education in his hometown, Virchand Gandhi went to college in Bombay and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree with honors in 1884. Virchand Gandhi was married and had one son.
Accomplishments
Virchand Gandhi was one of the extraordinary Indians of his time. The short life-span of Virchand Gandhi was filled with the challenges. He became the first honorary Secretary of the Jaina Association of India. Through this institution, Virchand Gandhi got deeply involved in the Social reform and services to the community. Some of his accomplishments include, the removal of a head tax that was levied of the Jaina