Chandrashekhar Vijayji

This Jain text provides a biography of Pujya Gyansagar Muni Shri Chandrashekharvijayji Maharaj.

The text highlights his birth in a prosperous family in Mumbai in 1990 (Vikram Samvat). His original home was Radhanpur, and his parents were Kantilal Pratapshi and Subhadra Devi, with his birth name being Indravadan. He was the nephew of Seth Shri Jivantal Pratapshi.

Despite a privileged upbringing, Indravadan renounced worldly comforts at the threshold of youth. This decision was influenced by his meeting with Acharya Shri Vijaypremsurishwarji Maharaj.

At the young age of 11-12, Indravadan expressed his desire for renunciation to his father, who initially refused due to attachment. After his father's passing, his uncle Jivabhai, a figure of authority, also presented a hurdle. Indravadan, unable to speak directly to his uncle about his aspirations, resorted to writing a daily 15-20 page letter to his uncle, expressing his inner feelings. Gradually, his uncle realized that Indravadan was not meant for worldly life.

His uncle eventually agreed to his renunciation on the condition that he pass his matriculation exams. Indravadan diligently fulfilled this and other conditions set by his uncle. His strong and determined desire for renunciation impressed everyone.

On Vaishakh Vad 6 in Samvat 2008, at the age of eighteen, Indravadan took initiation in Mumbai, being named Muni Shri Chandrashekharvijayji by Acharya Shri Vijaypremsurishwarji Maharaj.

The text emphasizes that within a few years of his initiation, Muni Shri Chandrashekharvijayji gained significant fame for his excellent practice of asceticism and continuous pursuit of knowledge. His intellect and wisdom are described as extraordinary. He is proficient in various fields including logic, grammar, poetry, and literature.

His reputation as an orator is unparalleled in the Jain community. His lectures are particularly captivating to the youth. His public discourses on the Ramayana and Mahabharata are said to have enthralled even non-Jains.

The text states that his words and writings possess immense power. He has consistently used his voice and pen to protect the culture of Aryavart and ensure the well-being of Jainism. This dedication has resulted in significant achievements such as:

• Nurturing young minds.
• Establishing organizations like Akhil Bharatiya Sanskriti Rakshakdal and Vardhaman Sanskritidham.
• Creating centers for spiritual upbringing like Tapovan Sanskardham.
• Protecting pilgrimage sites.
• Creating extensive literature.
• Uplifting fellow Jains.
• Promoting compassion for all living beings.

In conclusion, the text hails Pujya Shri Chandrashekharvijayji Maharaj as a brilliant gem in the current monastic community.