Shantidoot Amrender Muniji

Author(s): Padmini Atal
Publisher: Universal Ahimsa Foundation

Page 23

Banga in the Doaba area. The people of Banga had entreated Gurudev to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti with them and Gurudev had agreed. There was a festive atmosphere in the air.
Amar decided that he would ask Gurudev for initiation on this auspicious occasion. He was now 14 years old. In happy anticipation he told everyone who would listen about his intentions. People started going up to Gurudev and telling him : Sir it is very good that you have decided to grant initiation to Amar at this time. Gurudev was surprised; He asked them: Who has told you this? When they said that it was Amar himself who had told them, he replied: No, I have no such intention.
"Parents permission is required”
Gurudev Shri Shukal Chand Ji Maharaj immediately called Amar to him and asked him:
Amar, have you been telling everyone that I am going to give you initiation?
Amar replied: Yes sir.
Gurudev replied: You should not have done this. The reason is that we are Jain monks and in our Order we do not initiate anyone without the permission of the parents.
Amar remonstrated with him: Gurudev, it has been two or three years that I have been in your protection. I have accepted you and you alone as my father and mother. Why do I need anyone else's permission? I have seen you giving initiation to others, then why not me? This Mahavir Jayanti you must give me initiation.
Gurudev placed his hand on Amar's head and lovingly said: Amar, I know the immense love that you have for me. I know that you believe that the Guru is all important in a disciple's life. However I still want
amrender muni ji maharaj