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Pandit Shri Gopaldasji Baraiya's life story :
The original author of the Jain Sidhdhant Praveshika was Pandit Shri Gopaldasji Baraiya. The following is a brief description of his life.
In the history of India, many bright people existed, who have left the lasting impression on the minds of people with their ideal life and luminous character. Pandit Shri Gopaldasji Baraiya was one such prominent personality. His renunciation, penance and service to the community and the country were remarkable, and because of these traits, the Jain community is proud of him.
Gopaldashji was born in Agra, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, according to Indian calender, on 12, the second half of the month Chaitra, Vikram Samvat 1923, i.e., A.D. 1867 He was not Jain by birth; however, in the city of Ajmer, India he became acquainted with a Jain scholar, with whom he discussed the philosophy and literature of Jainism. Thereafter occurred a transformation in his life, which involved a newfound faith towards the religious philosophy. Witnessing the indifferences shown to the ancient literatures in Sanskrit and Ardh maghdhi languages disturbed him greatly. As a result, he established the Sanskrit University. To make the study of Jain literature well spread, he also established the All India Digambar Jain Examination Board. Selflessly, he gave priorities to the work of education, literature and cultural activities. He was enthusiastically involved in the propagation of the religion by giving lectures about the philosophy all over the country. Because of his wisdom and the dedication for the religion, the Jain society gave him many honorary degrees, such as Syadvad Varidhi, Vadi Gaj Kesari and Nyay Vachaspati.
Gopaldashji started his literary career by starting a magazine called 'Jain Mitra' (Friends of Jainism). After moving from Bombay to Solapur, he was unable to continue the editorial responsibilities, and as a result, Shri Sitalprasadji then handled the publication. Today, the magazine is published from Surat, India.
Gopaldashji gave extensive critiques on the Jain philosophy and also contributed in the creation of many novels. In books, he explained the details of the Jain philosophy in very simplified versions, such as Jain Sidhdhant Darpan, and Jain Sidhdhant Praveshika. His famous novel, Sushila, was written about the apathy people had towards the religion.
The root cause for his success in his life was his selfless service to society. One of many ways he showed his dedication to the Morena Sanskrit University was by having given scholarships to many needy students in the university. He never expected any personal gain from all the religious activities he performed. He dedicated his life to uplift every human being in the society.
