Jainism Abroad

Author(s): Pratap J Tolia
Publisher: Vardhaman Bharati International Foundation

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of any race for learning, eloquence and religiousity but............no one of the oriented scholars was listened to with greater interest than was this young layman of the Jainas as he declared the ethics and Philosophy of his people".
The Hon. E.B. Sherman, a master in Chancery of the U.S. Circuit Courts, described him as a man of sincerity, wide and varied reading and culture. His lectures made a deep and lasting impression on many, who converted themselves to the Jaina way of life. An American called Herbert Warren wrote a book called 'Jainism' based on Virchandji's lectures. He established "The Gandhi Philosophical Society" with a view of prompt Jainism and also "Society for Education of India" (Chicago) and "The school of Orient Philosophy". He also visited England, Europe, and France established an Educational Institution in England and "The Jain Literature Society" in London.
On his return to India this great exponent of Indian culture and religion and a brilliant scholar of Jainism was felicitated by the Jain Community for his services.
His lectures (about 536) have been compiled in books entitled "The Jain Philosophy" and "The Yoga Philosophy". Virchandji's name has gone down in the annals of history of the Jain religion for his services and his brilliance. His example is well worth following for, in this day and age, the need for imbibing the very relevant principles of Jainism in our youngsters is taking on gigantic proportions.
References: Jainism in Central Asia and Punjab : Hiralal Duggad. Selected speeches of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (a Vallabhsuri - Smarak Nidhi Publication) "Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi : the first exponent of Jainism Abroad”: Munishri Chidanand Vijay.