Biswi Sadi Ki Ek Jainetar Jain Vibhuti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Biswi Sadi ki Ek Jainetar jain Vibhuti" by K L Jain, focusing on the life and contributions of Kunwar Digvijay Singh:

This article, "A Non-Jain Jain Luminary of the 20th Century: Kunwar Digvijay Singh," by Dr. K.L. Jain, highlights the significant contributions of individuals from other religious backgrounds to the propagation and study of Jainism. It begins by acknowledging that from the time of Lord Mahavir, non-Jains have played a crucial role in spreading Jain culture. Lord Mahavir's chief disciples, like Indrabhuti Gautam, were initially Vedic scholars, and their teachings formed the basis of Jain scriptures. Throughout history, numerous scholars and saints from various traditions have been influenced by Jain principles, some embracing Jainism and others contributing to its study and dissemination while remaining in their own faiths.

The article then focuses on Kunwar Digvijay Singh as a prominent figure of the 20th century who was profoundly influenced by Jainism and ultimately converted. Born on August 5, 1885, in Veedhupur, Etawah district, Uttar Pradesh, he came from a wealthy and respected Kshatriya family. His early education was conventional, but he also studied Sanskrit and developed a deep interest in religion, country, and morality. He had a good understanding of Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Vedanta due to his family's traditional beliefs.

Initially, Kunwar Digvijay Singh was drawn to the Arya Samaj and even delivered speeches in their support, sometimes criticizing Jain principles. However, a pivotal moment occurred in 1909 when he met Pandit Puttu Lal Ji in Etawah. This encounter sparked his curiosity about Jainism. During the Daslakshan festival in Etawah, after listening to discourses on the ten virtues and the Tattvarthasutra, his interest intensified.

A significant turning point was an event in October 1910, where he posed several questions to prominent Arya Samaj scholars. When they failed to provide satisfactory answers, his belief in Jainism deepened. He witnessed a debate between Pandit Gopal Das Baraiya and an Arya Samaj scholar, which further impressed him with the logical arguments of Jainism. This led him to publicly declare his intention to leave the Arya Samaj and embrace Jainism.

On March 14, 1910, at a Jain conference in Etawah, Kunwar Digvijay Singh delivered his first impactful speech on Jainism, earning praise and respect from prominent Jain scholars. Subsequently, he took vows of Brahmacharya (celibacy) and dedicated his life to the propagation of Jainism. He served at the Rishabh Digambar Jain Brahmacharya Ashram (Gurukul) in Mathura and later joined the Bharatvarshiya Digambar Jain Shastrarth Sangh (Jain Debate Association).

The Shastrarth Sangh played a vital role in promoting Jainism through debates. After Swami Karmanand of the Arya Samaj converted to Jainism, the focus shifted from debates to broader propagation. The Sangh established a preacher department and a training school, with Kunwar Digvijay Singh being a leading figure. He participated in numerous debates with Arya Samaj scholars across North India, earning the title "Digvijay" (conqueror) through his victories. His debates with Pandit Banshidhar Ji Shastri in 1927 are specifically mentioned.

The article emphasizes that Kunwar Digvijay Singh was not born a Jain but became one through reasoned conviction. This led him to be an advocate for reform within the Jain community. He played a significant role in the establishment of the Bhartiya Digambar Jain Parishad in Delhi in 1927, a reformist organization formed due to the rigidity of some members of the Digambar Jain Mahasabha. His involvement highlighted his progressive and socially conscious nature.

As a preacher, Kunwar Digvijay Singh traveled extensively throughout Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, significantly enhancing the prestige of Jainism. He was described as a courageous and charismatic speaker with a striking personality, wearing white attire and a white-framed spectacle, and sporting a beard. His eloquent speeches captivated both Jain and non-Jain audiences, inspiring them to embrace Jain teachings. His influence was even greater than that of Swami Karmanand. Unlike Swami Karmanand, who later left Jainism for the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Kunwar Digvijay Singh remained a devoted follower until his death.

He also visited the Vindhya region, including places like Satna, Shahdol, and Chhatarpur, where his impactful speeches and simple lifestyle are still remembered. During his stay in Satna, he conducted classes on religious education. His influence inspired individuals like Shri Mulchand Badkur from Bada Shahgarh, who accompanied him for a year and was motivated to raise his sons in a similar spiritual and service-oriented manner.

Kunwar Digvijay Singh's ability to connect with a diverse audience and his deep understanding of Jain philosophy, including anekantavada (non-absolutism) and the Jain concept of non-creation by God, made his advocacy particularly effective. His perspective, unhindered by birth-based affiliations, allowed for a more objective analysis, making him an inspirational figure. The current editor of 'Anekanth,' Pandit Padmachandra Shastri, credits Kunwar Digvijay Singh's inspiration for his own personality and boldness in expressing views.

The article draws a parallel between those who inherit wealth and those who earn it, suggesting that individuals who adopt a religion through conscious choice, like Kunwar Digvijay Singh, value it more deeply and strive to uphold its principles. The text encourages born Jains to actively study and embrace the teachings of their faith, becoming "Karmaṇa" (by action) Jains, not just "Janmana" (by birth) Jains.

Kunwar Digvijay Singh's wife, though remaining a Hindu, supported his conversion and activities without objection, fostering an environment of liberalism within the family. While his sons did not follow in his exact footsteps, his dedication and service to Jainism were immense, and the Jain community owes him a great debt of gratitude. He also authored several literary works, estimated to be around twenty-two small books, though these are not readily available.

Tragically, Kunwar Digvijay Singh passed away prematurely on April 7, 1935, while engaged in religious propagation at the Ambala Cantt center of the Shastrarth Sangh. The article concludes by paying tribute to his life and work, acknowledging the contributions of various individuals and publications in compiling this information.