Acharya Hastimalji Va Nari Jagruti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Acharya Hastimalji va Nari Jagruti" by Kusumlata Jain, focusing on the key aspects discussed:

The book, "Acharya Hastimalji va Nari Jagruti" (Acharya Hastimalji and Women's Awakening), authored by Dr. Kusumlata Jain, is a tribute to Acharya Shri Hastimalji, portraying him not just as a spiritual leader but as a complete personality, a symbol for institutions and society, a guiding force for the Jain community, and a beacon of humanity and compassion for an entire era.

Acharya Hastimalji's Universal Vision and Compassion: Acharya Shri Hastimalji embodied a life of sacrifice and non-violence. He effectively conveyed the path of peace to everyone, regardless of their background – rich or poor, Jain or non-Jain, Hindu or Muslim, Sikh or Christian. This inclusive approach demonstrated his deep concern for all of humanity.

His Spiritual Journey and Leadership: He took Jain Bhagvati Diksha at a young age of ten, receiving blessings and affection from his guru, Acharya Shri Shobhachandji. He became a shining gem in his guru-parampara, the 'Ratna Vansh'. While adhering strictly to Jain principles in his conduct and character, he lived a life of harmony, setting an ideal for all living beings. In his final days, he also observed Namaz, a practice that held personal significance due to its proximity to his birthplace, Pipad. This act exemplified his tolerance and respect towards his landlords (Thikedar), fostering an atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood that transformed Nimaj into a pilgrimage site, revered by Jains, Hindus, and Muslims alike, all touched by his divine words.

Exceptional Qualities and Achievements: Acharya Shri possessed extraordinary intelligence, ideal humility, a spirit of service, discipline, and scholarship. His exceptional qualities were evident from a young age, leading to his appointment as Acharya at just sixteen years old. At the age of twenty, in Samvat 1987 (Vaishakh Shukla Tritiya), he was formally installed as the Acharya in Jodhpur, with the presence of the Chaturvidh Sangh (fourfold Jain community). He served as Acharya for an impressive 61 years, making him a unique figure in the current era.

During his tenure, 85 individuals took Diksha, including 31 monks and 54 nuns. He completed 70 Chaturmas (monsoon retreats), with a significant eleven of them in Jodhpur. It was a fortunate coincidence that the first gathering and Chaturmas after his passing were also held in Jodhpur, a city that also had the privilege of experiencing the first Chaturmas of Heer Muni, who, like his name, embodies virtuous qualities.

Influence of His Mother and Social Reform: Having lost his father before birth, Acharya Shri received his parents' complete love from his mother, Rupadevi. He adopted her diligence, righteousness, tolerance, truthfulness, and honesty in his own life.

Acharya Shri understood the deep-rooted problems within society, which was shackled by casteism, untouchability, and social stratification. The community suffered from child marriage, death feasts, purdah (veiling) practices, superstitions, and other erroneous beliefs. The condition of women was particularly dire due to a lack of education and prevalent societal malpractices.

Focus on Women's Empowerment and Education: Recognizing that an educated and cultured woman educates her entire family, Acharya Shri placed significant emphasis on women's education. He believed that a society without women's awakening is incomplete and deficient. He promoted both practical and religious education for women, encouraging them to engage in Samayik (meditation) and Swadhyaya (self-study). He understood that without practical knowledge, life is empty, and without religious knowledge, it is void. By imparting both, he brought completeness to women's lives.

To further women's awakening, he inspired the establishment of the Shri Akhil Bharatiya Mahavir Shravika Sangh (All India Mahavir Women's Association). This association published a monthly magazine called 'Veer Upasika', which became a powerful and ideal publication for women. Annual conventions of the Shravika Sangh addressed issues such as ostentation, dowry, societal displays, fashion trends, drug use, and the use of cosmetics, promoting simplicity and moral values.

Nurturing Future Generations: Understanding that today's children are the architects of the future, Acharya Shri focused intently on women's awakening. He always made time for newlywed brides, inspiring them to practice Samayik and Swadhyaya and guiding them towards a happy and peaceful life. He provided practical knowledge on the importance of restraint and care for elements like generosity, discretion, water, fire, and vegetation. A significant portion of the current women's awakening can be attributed to Acharya Shri.

Promoting Samayik and Swadhyaya for All: Acharya Shri considered Samayik and Swadhyaya essential for every householder. By highlighting the importance of Swadhyaya, he dispelled confusion and brought stability to individuals' minds. He encouraged the study of scriptures like Uttaradhyayan and Dashavaikalik Sutras, fostering a deep interest in Swadhyaya within society and igniting a spiritual flame in every home. This led to the popular saying, "Two decrees of Hasti Guru / Samayik and Swadhyaya are great."

Fostering Unity and Social Welfare: With this goal in mind, he inspired harmony between the scholarly and business classes, leading to the establishment of the 'Akhil Bharatiya Jain Vidwat Parishad' (All India Jain Scholars Council) in 1978 during his Chaturmas in Indore. This council also included women. A comprehensive plan was implemented in Jodhpur to assist abandoned, impoverished, and widowed women.

Legacy as a Visionary Saint: Today, numerous organizations operate under Acharya Shri's inspiration. His foresight and attention to the holistic development of society and the resolution of every problem solidify his memory as a visionary and great saint.

The book concludes with a quote by Jaishankar Prasad, emphasizing the revered role of women: "O woman, you are only faith, flowing like a fountain of nectar at the feet of silver."