Chitramay Guru Jivan Darshan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chitramay Guru Jivan Darshan" by Shilchandrasuri, based on the provided pages:

This book, "Chitramay Guru Jivan Darshan" (Pictorial Vision of the Guru's Life), chronicles the life and teachings of a revered Jain spiritual leader, likely Acharya Shri Vijay Nemisuriji, as suggested by his prominent mention. The text details his journey from birth to his ultimate liberation, highlighting his significant contributions to Jainism.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening:

The book begins by describing Mahuva, the birthplace of the Guru, as a beautiful coastal town in Saurashtra, known for its natural beauty and rich history, having been the birthplace of many great souls.
The Guru, originally named Nemchand, was born in Mahuva on the auspicious dawn of the Gujarati New Year (V.S. 1929).
His early education started at a traditional "dhuli shala" (dust school) and continued through various schools, including English education, until the age of fourteen.
Despite being trained in his father's business, Nemchand felt a strong spiritual inclination and a desire for religious and Sanskrit studies.

The Path to Renunciation:

His father, recognizing his son's aspiration, sent him to Bhavnagar to study under Guru Shri Vriddhichandraji Maharaj.
Living in the company of the monks, Nemchand's detachment from worldly life grew stronger. He reflected on the ephemeral nature of the world and the purity of the monastic life.
A pivotal moment occurred when he learned of his grandmother's passing. He wrote a letter home reflecting on the impermanence of life, which alerted his father to his spiritual leanings.
His parents were unwilling to let him renounce the world, even trying to deter him by fabricating illness. Nemchand's resolve only deepened. He even confided his desire for initiation to friends at a wedding, which was overheard and reported to his father, leading to increased surveillance.

Initiation and Spiritual Discipline:

Driven by his spiritual calling, Nemchand, with the help of a friend, Durlabhji Bakhai, made a daring escape from home at night. They took ₹14 for expenses and sought refuge in a graveyard before continuing their journey to Bhavnagar.
Upon reaching Bhavnagar, they presented themselves to Guru Shri Vriddhichandraji Maharaj. While the Guru was pleased, he insisted on parental consent for initiation. The two young men were then entrusted to the care of a devout layman, Shri Jasrajbhai Vora.
Seizing an opportunity, Nemchand, with the guidance of Shri Ratnavijayji Maharaj, obtained monastic attire and, in the privacy of a cellar at Jasrajbhai's house, formally took his vows. He was named Nemvijayji Maharaj. This significant event took place on Jeth Sud 7, V.S. 1945.

Early Monastic Life and Learning:

News of his initiation caused distress to his family, who confronted the Guru and attempted to dissuade Nemvijayji. The matter even went to a judge, but Nemvijayji's unwavering resolve and clear answers impressed the judge, and all attempts to deter him failed.
After his family finally relented, Nemvijayji Maharaj explained his decision with love and provided them with spiritual guidance before they departed.
In his first year as a monk, he immersed himself in study and meditation. His natural eloquence was recognized by his Guru when he heard Nemvijayji delivering a discourse to a layman named Pragjibhai Darbar.
During the Paryushan festival, his Guru instructed him to participate in a discourse alongside Shri Charitravijayji Maharaj, even lending him his own robes. Nemvijayji, following his elder Guru-brother's direction, recited the Shrikalpasutra in Sanskrit for the first time, demonstrating his deep commitment to his Guru's commands.

Pursuit of Knowledge and Scholastic Achievements:

To fulfill his Guru's wish that his disciples study "Siddhant Koumudi," Nemvijayji Maharaj dedicated himself to learning this complex grammatical text under the tutelage of the state scholar, Pandit Bhanushankarji. His diligence impressed the Pandit.
He also engaged in scholarly debates with other learned individuals, notably Nathabhai, a student from Kashi, whom he decisively defeated with his sharp intellect.
He further assisted his senior Guru-brother, Shri Dharmavijayji Maharaj, in teaching texts like "Raghuvansh."

Further Ordination and Service:

In V.S. 1947, Nemvijayji Maharaj received Vadi Diksha (a higher form of ordination) from Pujya Pashchat Shri Pratapvijayji Maharaj in Ahmedabad.
He then spent two monsoons in his Guru's presence. When Shri Danvijayji Maharaj established a Sanskrit pathshala in Palitana, he requested Nemvijayji to teach there, a request that the Guru granted.

Guru's Demise and Continued Service:

While in Palitana, Nemvijayji Maharaj was deeply concerned about his Guru's health. He was profoundly saddened to receive the news of his Guru's passing, feeling as if struck by lightning. He regretted not being present at his Guru's final moments.
He found solace in remembering his Guru's words and resolved to repay his spiritual debt by serving the Jain faith.

Independent Leadership and Contributions:

After his Guru's passing, he received permission from Shri Danvijayji Maharaj to travel and stayed in Junagadh and other places.
His profound scholarship attracted the Sangh of Jamnagar, where he spent his first independent Chaturmas (a period of four months of retreat). His teachings inspired Dahyabhai Navlakha, a prominent businessman, to renounce worldly life and take initiation, becoming his first disciple.
Under his guidance, the first major pilgrimage procession (Chhari Palito Sangh) was organized from Jamnagar to Girnar and Shatrunjay.

Service in His Birthplace and Mentorship:

In V.S. 1951, at the persistent request of the Sangh and his parents, he conducted his Chaturmas in his birthplace, Mahuva. His scholarly discourses were greatly appreciated.
He established the Shri Vriddhichandraji Sanskrit Pathshala in Mahuva, thus immortalizing his Guru's name.
He also served as a mentor to Munishri Anandasagarji Maharaj (Sagaji Maharaj), guiding him in grammar and other scriptures. They jointly delivered discourses and collaborated on scholarly works. He also contributed to the refutation of the claim of meat-eating in Jain scriptures.

Temple Renovation and Consecration:

He played a significant role in the renovation and re-consecration of various Jain temples, including the Shri Stambhanparshwanath idol, which had been stolen and recovered.
He was instrumental in the renovation of approximately 19 dilapidated Jain temples in Khambhat, leading to the construction of a grand temple in Jiravala Pada.
He oversaw the consecration ceremonies for numerous idols and temples, showcasing his deep spiritual authority.

Elevation to Higher Positions:

In V.S. 1959, during his Chaturmas in Bhavnagar, he entered the study of the Bhagavati Sutra under Pujya Pandit Shri Gambhirvijay Maharaj.
In V.S. 1960, he was bestowed with the titles of Gani (scholar) and Pachas (preacher) at Valbhipur.
He further bestowed these titles upon his disciples, including Munishri Anandasagarji Maharaj and Shri Sumativijayji Maharaj, in Ahmedabad.

Protection of Sacred Sites:

He skillfully resolved a significant issue at Palitana, where a local ruler was disrespecting the sanctity of the temple. Through a strategic campaign of non-cooperation and diplomatic intervention, he prevented desecration and ensured the protection of the holy site.

Acharyahood and Leadership:

In V.S. 1964, he was honored with the supreme position of Acharya (Pontiff) of the Jin Shasan, becoming the first Acharya in the Tapagachchha tradition to receive this title through a prescribed ritual. He became the leader of the entire Tapagachchha, the "Shasan Samrat" (Emperor of the Faith).
A letter from his deceased father expressed immense satisfaction with his spiritual journey.

Champion of Ahimsa (Non-violence):

He was an unparalleled champion of Jivdaya (compassion for all living beings). He actively worked to dissuomade fishermen from their livelihood, leading to hundreds of fishermen renouncing their nets and embracing a life of non-violence.

Revival of Ancient Traditions:

He revived several ancient and nearly forgotten Jain traditions and practices, including Anjalshala Vidhan, Shri Siddhachakra Mahapujan, Shri Arihant Mahapujan, and the ritual of Yogodvahan (a formal bestowing of knowledge and authority upon monks).

Restoration of Kadambgiri:

A monumental undertaking of his life was the restoration of Shri Kadambgiri. He first convinced local chieftains to abandon hunting and harmful practices. He then facilitated the acquisition of land for the construction of temples and, through a miraculous event, the establishment of the Mahavir Swami Jinalaya. He also oversaw the consecration of various idols and temples on the hill.
He also successfully navigated challenges during the consecration festival, including a severe storm, due to his spiritual prowess and the dedication of his disciples.

Confronting Heresy and Promoting Righteousness:

In Mewar, he confronted a situation where a monk from the Terapanth sect influenced followers to disrespect idols. He took legal action, successfully banning Terapanth adherents from temples and then personally traveled through the region, re-establishing the practice of idol worship and bringing many back to the mainstream Jain path.

Reconstruction of Kaparda Ji and Other Temples:

He initiated the renovation of Kaparda Ji, a temple that had been subjected to unholy rituals. Despite challenges and opposition from local groups, he ensured the temple's restoration and the consecration of the primary deity.
He was involved in the restoration and reconstruction of numerous other important Jain pilgrimage sites, including Vamaj, Mahuva, Shrimatar Tirtha, Rohishala, Sherisana, and Talaja.

Non-Cooperation Movement:

He led a significant non-cooperation movement in Palitana against the imposition of a "mundakavaro" (a tax for tonsuring). This movement lasted for two years, leading to the abolition of the tax and a peaceful resolution.

Historic Monk Assembly:

He played a pivotal role in organizing a historic assembly of monks in Ahmedabad in V.S. 1990. This grand event brought together thousands of monks and lay followers to resolve various issues plaguing the Jain community.

Grand Pilgrimage:

He led a magnificent pilgrimage procession from Bhavnagar to Girnar and Palitana, involving a vast number of monks, nuns, pilgrims, and vehicles, symbolizing the grandeur and devotion within the Jain faith.

Ideal Administrator and Teacher:

He was known for his impeccable discipline and his nurturing approach to his disciples. He ensured their all-round welfare and provided rigorous training in knowledge and conduct. His disciples included eight prominent Acharyas.

"Yugapradhan" (Leading Personality of the Era):

The book provides anecdotes highlighting his spiritual power and influence, demonstrating why he was considered a "Yugapradhan." This included a demonstration of his levitation abilities to a magician, leaving him astonished.

Legacy:

The book, through its detailed account and pictorial representations, aims to present a comprehensive vision of the Guru's life, showcasing his dedication to spiritual practice, his scholarly achievements, his unwavering commitment to Jain principles, and his profound impact on the community. It serves as an inspiring testament to his life and legacy.