Tribute to 19th Century Indian Legend Shri Virchandji Raghavji Gandhi

Author(s): JAINA VRG Committee
Publisher: JAINA VRG Committee

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turning point in his life when he came in contact with Param Pujya Muni Shri Ratanchandji Marasaheb in Agra. Conversations with him brought about changes in his views in favour of 'moorti puja' (idol worship). On the basis of some ancient Jain scriptures and granths, Param Pujya Muni Shri Ratanchandji explained to him that idol worship existed many centuries ago.
Muni Aatmaramji came to North India and started preaching about his change in views. In the year 1871, he inspired and made 20 sadhus and around seven thousand people of his views. In 1875, he took diksha again in Ahmedabad from Param Pujya Muni Shri Buddhi Vijay Ji Marasaheb this time in the Shwetambar 'moorti pujak' sect and was named Anand Vijay. Now began a new chapter in the life of Shri Anand Vijay Ji. He went on pilgrimage to famous Shatrunjay Teerth. Then, for the next 19-20 years, he spent time penning religious books and composing Jain pujas. He was main inspiration behind construction of numerous Jain temples across north and west India (including present day Pakistan).
In 1886, he was bestowed with the title of 'Acharya' in Palitana (Gujarat) in the presence of 35,000 people from across India and became 'Shri Vijayanad Suri'. The title of 'Nyayambhonidhi' was conferred upon him by the people of Jodhpur in 1883. In the year 1892, he was invited to Chicago (USA) for 'Vishwa Dharma Parishad' for which he wrote 'Chicago Prashanottar' (book containing questions and answers on Jainism) and sent Shri Vir Chand Raghayji Gandhi as his representative. He passed away at the age of 59 during his lifetime; he wrote 10 granths and composed 7 types of pujas for the Shwetambar moorti pujak sect.
Information Courtesy
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Mr. Siddharth Oswal & Ahimsa
Foundation
146, Seth Sohan Lal Lane, Maharani Jhansi Road, Civil Lines, Ludhiana, Punjab 141 001
Tele 0161-5050015, E-Mail: siddharth@india.com
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