Anuvrati Sangh

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Anuvrati Sangh," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Anuvrati Sangh Author: Satyadev Vidyalankar Publisher: Adarsh Sahitya Sangh

Overall Purpose: The book "Anuvrati Sangh" serves as a detailed report and exposition of the first annual convention of the Anuvrati Sangh, held in Delhi on April 30, 1950. It highlights the establishment and principles of the Anuvrati movement, which aims to uplift the moral standards of society through the adoption of voluntary vows (Anuvratas). The text emphasizes the need for ethical revival in post-independence India and presents the Anuvrati Sangh as a significant step towards creating a non-violent and morally upright society.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The First Annual Convention (Page 8 onwards):

   • The convention was a significant event, described as a "bloodless revolution" against immorality, corruption, and bribery.
   • It was held in Delhi's Town Hall, with an attendance of 7,000-8,000 people, reflecting broad public interest.
   • Acharya Shri Tulsi, the founder, presided over the event, emphasizing the seriousness and spiritual nature of the proceedings, which resembled a religious gathering despite being a public conference.
   • The ceremony involved the solemn adoption of vows by hundreds of Anuvratis, a moment described as deeply impactful.

2. Acharya Shri Tulsi's Vision and the Anuvrati Movement:

   • Clarification on the Sangh's Purpose (Page 7): Acharya Shri Tulsi clarifies that the Anuvrati Sangh is not solely for the wealthy Marwari community but for all humanity, regardless of caste, religion, country, or class, to elevate moral standards.
   • Challenging Social Evils: The movement directly opposes malpractices prevalent in society, including those within the business community, labor, government officials, and other sectors.
   • The Concept of Anuvratas: The text explains that Anuvratas are limited vows, designed to make spiritual adherence accessible to householders who may find complete renunciation difficult. It's about gradual progress and self-discipline.
   • Critique of Materialism: The book strongly criticizes the overemphasis on material progress and the decline of moral values in the modern era, especially after the World Wars and the advent of nuclear weapons. It argues that scientific advancement without ethical grounding leads to destruction.
   • Inner Transformation: The core idea is that true change comes from within, through self-discipline and introspection (Atmanushasan), rather than solely relying on external laws or societal pressures.
   • Universality of Principles: The vows are presented as universally applicable, transcending religious and sectarian boundaries, and are meant to be adopted by everyone for personal and societal betterment.
   • "Anu" (Atom) vs. "Anu" (Small/Subtle): The title "Anuvrati" is interpreted in two ways: relating to the atomic age and the concept of taking subtle, disciplined vows.

3. The Structure and Rules of the Anuvrati Sangh:

   • The 148 Vows (Later clarified): The text mentions 148 vows, but later clarifies that the 25,000 figure relates to those who accepted the 13-point program, not necessarily full Anuvratis. The actual number of Anuvratis at the convention was 621.
   • Specific Vows (Appendix 1, Page 78 onwards): The book details the specific vows under five categories:
     • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Avoiding harm to living beings, abstaining from violence, not participating in harmful trade (like silk, related to violence), not discriminating, avoiding large feasts, not lying, not killing, abstaining from meat, alcohol, intoxicants, gambling, etc.
     • Satya (Truth): Speaking truth in dealings, business, legal matters, and personal relationships. Avoiding false testimonies, fake documents, and misleading advertising.
     • Achaurya (Non-stealing): Not engaging in theft, not taking lost property, avoiding illegal trade, not adulterating goods, not cheating in measurements, not misrepresenting products.
     • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Avoiding promiscuity, unnatural sexual acts, and marrying below the legal age. Specific rules for men and women are mentioned.
     • Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-greed): Avoiding black marketing, bribery, ostentatious displays of wealth, excessive consumption, taking money for marriage arrangements, hoarding, and engaging in gambling or speculative practices.
   • Sadhanas (Practices): Regular self-reflection, fasting, meditation, and the practice of Ahimsa are encouraged.
   • Pardon and Penance: The system includes provisions for self-reflection on mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and performing penance (fasting, etc.) as instructed by the Acharya.

4. Reception and Impact:

   • Media Coverage: The movement received significant attention from national and international newspapers, including "The Hindustan Times," "The Free Press Journal," and "The Times" (New York). While some reports contained inaccuracies (like exaggerating numbers or focusing too much on the Marwari community), they generally reflected the positive reception of the Anuvrati movement.
   • Support from Leaders: The convention was supported by messages from prominent national figures like Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and others, indicating the movement's potential significance.
   • Public Response: The public response was largely positive, with many individuals inspired to take vows and adopt the Anuvrata principles. The emphasis on practical ethics resonated with people seeking moral guidance.
   • Challenges and Criticisms: The text acknowledges that the movement faced skepticism and criticism, particularly regarding the one-year duration of the initial vows and the perception of it being exclusive to the business class. Acharya Shri Tulsi addresses these points, explaining the strategic reasons for the temporary vows (to test the rules and allow for refinement) and reaffirming the inclusive nature of the Sangh.

5. The Spirit of the Movement:

   • Revolutionary but Peaceful: The Anuvrati movement is portrayed as a "bloodless revolution" aimed at transforming society from within through personal commitment and moral discipline.
   • Focus on Individual Transformation: The ultimate goal is the transformation of the individual, which, in turn, will lead to the transformation of society, nation, and the world.
   • Contrast with Western Philosophy: The book contrasts the Eastern emphasis on inner spiritual development with the Western focus on external material progress, arguing that the latter has led to conflict and destruction.
   • Personal Responsibility: The core message is that individuals must take personal responsibility for their actions and adhere to a higher moral code, emphasizing self-regulation over external control.
   • The Role of Women: The importance of women in upholding moral values and shaping family and societal character is highlighted.

Key Takeaway: "Anuvrati Sangh" documents a pivotal moment in the introduction of a reformist movement grounded in Jain principles but presented as a universal ethical framework for modern society. It showcases the aspirations of its founder, Acharya Shri Tulsi, to address the moral decay prevalent in India by encouraging individuals to take practical, self-imposed vows for personal and collective upliftment. The book captures the initial enthusiasm, the challenges faced, and the broad appeal of the Anuvrati movement as a path towards a more disciplined, truthful, and non-violent society.