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Virchand Raghavaji Gandhi : Assessment of a Jaina ... : 89 VR Gandhi synergized in him, the erudition of Protap Chunder Mozoomdar ( 1840-1905), the sobriety of Hewavitarne Dharmapala (1864-1933), the philosophic outlook of G.N. Chakravarti, the sensitivity of Balwant Bhau Nagarkar (1858-1926) and the patriotic zeal and prophetic vision of Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902) - all of whom represented their respective faiths at the World's first Parliament of Religions held at Chicago in 1893. At Parliament of Religions
Virchand Raghavji Gandhi created a great impression on the Chicago Parliament by his refined manners, vast learning, and command of the English language. Although, in physical appearance, he was not as handsome as Swami Vivekananda, his tranquil and austere figure in an immaculate Kurtā - upper garment - white shawl -over the shoulders and traditional turban with golden border, his friendly disposition and gentle smile attracted one and all. His opening and closing addresses (September 11 and 27) presentation on Jainism (September 25) as well as his off-the-cuff observations during discussions, were greatly appreciated. He delineated the intricate philosophical points through metaphors, narratives, fables and quotes. In interactive and representational argument he was no less eloquent in the Parliament than Swami Vivekananda, Hewavitarne Dharmapala, Balwant Bhau Nagarkar or Narsimhachari, but he never used raw rhetoric to overawe his opponent. While presenting counterview or censuring the illiberal, he did not cross the limits of decency, and thereby won the respect of all. The American Press lauded his simplicity, scholarship, non-sectarian outlook and breadth of vision. The Boston Evening Transcript dated September 30, 1893, wrote : 'He has a refined and intellectual countenance, a bright eye and something in his manner that suggests cosmopolitan influences.' When evangelist George T. Pentecost of London concluded his address on September 24,1893 by saying that 'there were two or three oriental bubbles which have been floating over Chicago for
| SR No. | 525089 |
| Book Title | Sramana 2014 07 10 |
| Original Sutra Author | N/A |
| Author | Ashokkumar Singh, Rahulkumar Singh, Omprakash Singh |
| Publisher | Parshvanath Vidhyashram Varanasi |
| Publication Year | 2014 |
| Total Pages | 122 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Classification | Magazine, India_Sramana, & India |
| File Size | 9 MB |