Adarsha Jivan Vijay Vallabhsuriji

This is a summary of the Jain text "Adarsha Jivan | Shri Vijayvallabh Suri Charitra" by Krushnalal Varma, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Adarsha Jivan | Shri Vijayvallabh Suri Charitra (Ideal Life | Biography of Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shrimad Vijayvallabh Suri)

Author: Krushnalal Varma

Publisher: Granthbhandar, Mumbai

Overall Theme: The book is a biography of Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shrimad Vijayvallabh Suri, detailing his life and teachings, aiming to inspire readers towards an ideal life through his example.

Key Sections and Content:

• Title Pages (Pages 2-3): These pages establish the book's identity, including its title, author, publisher, publication year (Veer Samvat 2452, Atma Samvat 30), price, and printing details. It highlights that the book is part of the Atmavallabh-Granth-Series.

• Author's Works (Page 4): This page lists other books written by Krushnalal Varma, categorized into "Self-written" and "Translated" works. This gives context to the author's prolific nature and his focus on religious and social themes.

• Dedication (Page 5): The book is dedicated to the late Yugapradhan, Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shrimad Vijayanand Suriji. The author expresses deep gratitude and devotion, highlighting how Vijayanand Suriji elevated him, appointed him as a caretaker of his "garden," instilled love, gifted eloquence, and armed him with knowledge. The author aims to fulfill his Guru's wish of creating a "temple of Saraswati" (likely referring to spreading knowledge and literature) in his honor.

• Introduction/Preface (Prashthavan) (Pages 8-11):

  • The preface emphasizes that the path of saints is sacred and their conduct is the guiding light for the world.
  • It praises those who understand the needs of their time, engage in philanthropic activities, dedicate their lives to the welfare of others, and live a truthful life with sensory control.
  • The power of an ideal life and the teachings derived from it are emphasized as more impactful than numerous sermons. The text quotes a verse about the transformative power of the company of saints, extending this to their life stories if direct company isn't possible.
  • The author expresses joy in presenting the life story of such an ideal soul.
  • The preface reveals the genesis of the book: a request from the editor of 'Oswal' newspaper, originating from Jodhpur, to write a biography of Acharya Shri Vijayvallabh Suriji. The author initially agreed to write a short biography after being inspired by a narrative from Panasji Maharaj Shri Lalitvijayji Gani.
  • Hearing about Acharya Shri's remarkable actions – renouncing clothing made from animal fat, advocating against silk production due to the harm to insects, spreading education and collecting funds for it in challenging regions, resolving disputes, and establishing institutions to keep youth connected to religion amidst Western influence – the author's admiration turned into devotion. This led him to decide to write a comprehensive biography instead of a short one.
  • Acknowledgments: The author expresses deep gratitude to Panasji Maharaj Shri Lalitvijayji for providing materials, Upadhyayji Maharaj Shri Sohanvijayji for contributing independently, Panasji Maharaj Shri Umangvijayji Gani, Munishri Prabhvijayji Maharaj, Muni Shri Charanvijayji Maharaj, and Lala Nanakchandji of Hoshiarpur for their valuable information. He also thanks the editors of 'Atmanand Jain Patrika' (Lahore) and 'Shri Atmanand Prakash' (Bhavnagar) for their archival help.
  • Editorial Considerations: The author mentions omitting certain incidents that, while glorifying the Acharya, might have caused pain to others. He states a firm intention to avoid causing offense, offering "Michchhami Dukdam" for any unintentional hurt due to human limitations. The use of "Aap" (you/sir) is reserved solely for the Acharya to avoid ambiguity and disrespect.
  • Publication Independence: The author clarifies that the biography is independently written and published without seeking financial aid in the name of religion or Guru-devotion, though subscription efforts were made.
  • Khed (Regret): The author expresses regret for not being able to present the biography in the exact form he envisioned due to various circumstances, but believes the current version is excellent and complete for devotees.
  • Content Scope: The biography covers events up to the "Chau-masa" (monsoon retreat) in Lahore, with future parts promised for later.

• Chapter 1: First Volume (Section: San 1927 to San 1944) (Pages 16-114): This section details the early life and spiritual journey of Acharya Vijayvallabh Suri, whose childhood name was Chhaganlal.

  • Early Spiritual Inclination: A vivid account describes a 15-year-old Chhaganlal engrossed in a spiritual discourse by a Mahatma (later identified as Jagatpujya Shri Shri 1008 Shrimad Vijayanand Suriji). The boy's deep concentration and tears upon being addressed reveal his spiritual thirst. When asked what he desires, he rejects material wealth, seeking the "wealth that grants infinite happiness."
  • Parentage and Early Life: Chhaganlal was born in Vadodara in 1927 (Veer Samvat). His father, Shri Deepchandbhai, passed away when he was young. His mother, Shrimati Ichhabai, was deeply devoted and passed on her spiritual sentiments to him.
  • Mother's Demise: The poignant scene of his mother's passing is described, where she imparts her last blessings to Chhaganlal, urging him to dedicate his life to acquiring eternal happiness and the welfare of the world.
  • Early Determination for Renunciation: From that moment, Chhaganlal remained serious and devoid of typical childhood playfulness, contemplating his mother's words.
  • First Encounter with Spiritual Guidance: In 1940, he regularly visited Muni Shri Chandravijayji Maharaj during his 'Chau-masa' in Vadodara. This association, coupled with past merits and his mother's teachings, fostered a sense of detachment and a desire for renunciation.
  • Initial Attempt at Renunciation: He planned to renounce along with four friends: Harlal, Sankalchand Khambhati, Vadilal Gandhvi, and Maganlal Mastar. Harlal alerted their guardians, thwarting the plan. After Muni Shri Chandravijayji's passing, their resolve weakened, and they returned to their studies.
  • Reawakening of Vairagya: In 1942, the arrival of Acharya Shri Vijayanand Suriji in Vadodara rekindled Chhaganlal's spiritual aspirations. A specific incident, described at the beginning of the book, further solidified his resolve.
  • Journey with the Guru and Brother's Interference: He followed Acharya Shri to Chhani, despite his brother Khimmachandji's objections. He continued to attend lectures by Muni Shri Harshvijayji Maharaj (a disciple of Acharya Shri). He expressed his desire for initiation to Muni Shri Harshvijayji, who assured him of help at the appropriate time.
  • Escapades and Surveillance: His brother's strong opposition and attempts to prevent his spiritual path are described. Chhaganlal’s attempts to join Muni Shri Harshvijayji were thwarted, and he was brought back home under strict supervision.
  • Underground Departure and Renunciation Efforts: He made further attempts to escape, facing hardship and heat, driven by his strong desire for renunciation. He reached Ahmedabad and met Acharya Shri.
  • Brother's Intervention and Promise: Khimmachandji found him and appealed to Acharya Shri, asking for his son's upbringing to be recognized and for him to be allowed to study before renunciation. Acharya Shri agreed, emphasizing the need for his brother's permission for initiation.
  • Continuing Spiritual Discipline: Chhaganlal, now confident about his path, continued his studies and spiritual practices under the guidance of the monks.
  • The Pali-ta-na Incident: The narrative then shifts to the year 1942, focusing on the decision of Acharya Shri Vijayanand Suriji to observe the 'Chau-masa' in Palitana. The request from the Palitana community, the challenges of sustenance there, and the eventual decision of Acharya Shri to undertake the 'Chau-masa' despite difficulties are detailed. This highlights the Acharya's commitment to serving pilgrimage sites and paving the way for future monks.

Overall Impression:

The initial pages of "Adarsha Jivan" focus on setting the stage for the biography of Acharya Vijayvallabh Suri. They emphasize the profound spiritual inclination of the Acharya from a young age, the influence of his mother and Gurudev, his early struggles against societal and familial opposition to his spiritual path, and the significant events that shaped his journey. The author's detailed acknowledgments and commitment to presenting an accurate and impactful narrative are evident. The detailed account of his early life and the foundational events highlight the resilience and unwavering determination of Acharya Shri towards an ideal spiritual life.