Adarsh Gaccha Adarsh Gaccha Nayak

This document is the first publication in the "Shasan Samrat Bhavan Granthamala" series, titled "Adarsh Gaccha Adarsh Gaccha Nayak" (Ideal Sect, Ideal Sect Leader), authored by Acharya Vijay Shılchandrasuri and published by Shri Bhadrankoroday Shikshan Trust, Godhra in 2015.

The book is dedicated to the memory of Acharya Vijay Suryodayasurishwarji, the visionary and guide behind the "Shasan Samrat Bhavan".

The Publisher's Note highlights that "Shasan Samrat Bhavan" was the final dream of Acharya Vijay Suryodayasurishwarji. The book itself showcases the life and contributions of Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji, who is revered as the 'Shasan Samrat' (Emperor of Jain Governance). The Bhavan features exhibits dedicated to his life and teachings. The publishers express gratitude to Acharya Vijay Shılchandrasuri for his consent to publish and to the artists and printers for their work.

The introductory sections extensively praise Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji, referring to him as a "Great Personality of the 20th Century" and a significant figure in the Tapa Gaccha. He is credited with:

• Revival and Renovation: Rejuvenating the Tapa Gaccha, which had weakened in the 19th-20th centuries due to a decline in practicing monks and the influence of lax practices.
• Spiritual Prowess: Possessing immense spiritual power, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to Jain scriptures, discipline, and protection of the Jain faith.
• Contributions:
  • Restoring and renovating numerous pilgrimage sites and temples.
  • Commissioning and consecrating countless Jina idols.
  • Preserving, promoting, and publishing Jain scriptures.
  • Authoring and inspiring the creation of religious texts.
  • Nurturing learned and disciplined monks.
  • Promoting righteous conduct and guiding those straying from the path.
  • Undertaking unparalleled acts of compassion and animal welfare.
  • Influencing kings and rulers towards righteousness.
  • Guiding the Anandji Kalyanji firm.
  • Organizing significant Jain congregations and providing strong leadership to the entire Shvetambar Murtipujak Shraman Sangh.
  • Establishing knowledge repositories (Gnan Bhandars).
  • Resolving disputes within Jain communities.
• Ideal Leadership: He set the benchmark for what a leader of the Jain Sangh and Gaccha should be – unique and exemplary.

The text then delves into the "Search for the Path", detailing the history of the Tapa Gaccha and its revival. It specifically focuses on the transformative journey of Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji (originally Namschand).

Key aspects of his life journey highlighted include:

• Early Life: Born in Mahuva, Gujarat, on the auspicious day of Diwali, his birth was foretold by a saint. He initially ventured into the stock market (satta bazaar) but soon felt disillusioned with worldly affairs.
• Spiritual Inclination: Renouncing the business world, he sought spiritual knowledge, initially instructed by his father to seek guidance from Acharya Vriddhichandrasuri Maharaj in Bhavnagar.
• Under the Guidance of Acharya Vriddhichandrasuri: Namschand received spiritual guidance and studied Sanskrit under Acharya Vriddhichandrasuri, who was a revered monk known for his simple and detached lifestyle. This period solidified his resolve for a spiritual life.
• Encounter with the "Path of the True Path": Through his studies and observations, he realized the deviation from the true Jain path, particularly concerning the practices of not tying a cloth over the mouth (muh-patti) and idol worship. He faced significant opposition and even threats from those adhering to different interpretations.
• Embracing the "Sanghi Marg" (Path of the Sect): Despite challenges, he eventually embraced the practices of the "Sanghi Marg" (which included idol worship and not necessarily the strict muh-patti), and was formally initiated as a monk. This marked a pivotal moment in the revival of the Tapa Gaccha.
• Struggle and Perseverance: His path was fraught with challenges from his family, societal opposition, and attempts to obstruct his spiritual journey. However, his unwavering determination and the support of his guru and like-minded individuals helped him overcome these obstacles.
• Impact on Followers: The book details how his spiritual aura and conduct influenced those around him, including his father, who later expressed profound admiration for his son's spiritual path.
• Devotion to the Faith: His life was characterized by deep devotion to Jain principles, including adherence to the vows, rigorous study, and service to his guru.
• Upholding Jain Principles: He actively worked to resolve disputes, promote righteousness, and ensure the welfare of the Jain community.

Significant actions and contributions attributed to Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji are further detailed:

• Revival of Rituals: He played a crucial role in reviving important Jain rituals like 'Anjanshalaka' (consecration of idols), 'Ahamant Pujan', 'Brih Sanghavartan Pujan', and 'Siddhachakra Pujan', which had become rare or were being performed incorrectly. He meticulously researched and re-established the correct procedures, often facing opposition but ultimately succeeding in reinstating these practices.
• Pilgrimage Site Revitalization (Tirthoddhar): A major focus of his life was the restoration and renovation of ancient Jain pilgrimage sites and temples. The book details his efforts in rejuvenating sites like Khambhat, Rohishala, Sherisa, Kumbhariya, Ranakhpur, and Kadambgiri, often overcoming significant obstacles and demonstrating remarkable courage and determination.
• Tirth Raksha (Protection of Pilgrimage Sites): He was a staunch protector of Jain pilgrimage sites and their rights. A significant example is his leadership in the protest against the Palitana Thakur's imposition of a 'pilgrimage tax', which involved a two-year boycott of the pilgrimage until the injustice was rectified through a peaceful resolution brokered at the highest level.
• Animal Welfare (Jivadaya): He was a champion of animal welfare, intervening to save animals from slaughter, encouraging fishermen to abandon their violent trade, and advocating for the cessation of animal sacrifice in religious rituals. He also played a significant role in supporting and revitalizing animal shelters (panjrapoles).
• Knowledge Dissemination (Jnanoddhar): He was a profound scholar and actively promoted the study and dissemination of Jain scriptures. He oversaw the copying and preservation of ancient manuscripts and the publication of numerous important Jain texts, including those of Hemchandracharya, Haribhadrasuri, and Upadhyaya Yashovijayji. He also established Jain schools and libraries.
• Character and Influence: The book highlights his exceptional character, unwavering Brahmacharya (celibacy), immense spiritual power, and his ability to influence people from all walks of life, including kings, merchants, and common folk. His interventions were often described as miraculous, demonstrating divine intervention through his spiritual prowess.
• Interactions with Contemporaries: The book also touches upon his relationships and interactions with other prominent Jain scholars and figures of his time, like Acharya Anandasagarsuri, emphasizing mutual respect and collaboration despite occasional differences in opinion.

In essence, "Adarsh Gaccha Adarsh Gaccha Nayak" serves as a comprehensive biographical account of Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji (Shasan Samrat), portraying him as a pivotal figure in the 20th-century Jain tradition. It showcases his multifaceted contributions to the revival and sustenance of Jainism, highlighting his spiritual strength, scholarly acumen, and leadership qualities that left an indelible mark on the faith. The book aims to inspire readers by presenting him as an ideal leader and a paragon of Jain values.