Dadashri Kalyansagarsuriji

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Dadashri Kalyansagarsuriji:

This text, part of the "Shri Arya Kalyan Gautam Smruti Granth," highlights the significant contributions of Yugpradhan Dadashri Kalyansagarsuriji to Jainism and Indian culture. The author, Bhurchand Jain, emphasizes that Jainism has played a special role in the ancient culture of India, with its followers actively participating in religious, cultural, economic, social, and political spheres for centuries. The rich literary, historical, archaeological, and architectural heritage of Jainism stands as a testament to its ancient glory.

The text specifically praises the saints and acharyas of the Anchal Gacch sect for their invaluable contributions to promoting the religion of truth and non-violence, alongside their work in history, archaeology, and art. In this context, Yugpradhan Dadashri Kalyansagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb is presented as a pivotal figure. His remarkable contributions include:

• Extensive promotion and expansion of Jainism.
• Artistic construction and renovation of architectural marvels (temples).
• Training and nurturing religious preachers.
• Establishment of knowledge repositories (Gyan Bhandars).
• Organizing pilgrimage journeys for the Chaturvidh Sangh (four-fold Jain community).
• Promoting Jain unity and the principles of Mahavratas (great vows) and Anuvratas (minor vows).

His legacy is preserved through his statues and foot imprints in numerous Jain temples across India and through his written works housed in various knowledge repositories, which showcase his profound wisdom.

Early Life and Initiation: The text details the birth of Dadashri Kalyansagarsuriji in the village of Lolada, Gujarat, into the Kothari lineage of the Shrimal caste. Born to Shri Nanig and Shrimati Namildevi in V.S. 1633 (Vikram Samvat), his birth was a joyous occasion, marked by pleasant natural phenomena and a sense of special bliss pervading the family and the village. His mother had a divine dream of the rising sun during her pregnancy, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness, injustice, and immorality.

Named Kodankumar, he was the second child, with an elder sister named Somade. Described as having a fair complexion, bright eyes, curly hair, and well-formed limbs, he was exceptionally attractive and his cheerful disposition brought joy to all who met him. Even as a child, he exhibited qualities of tolerance, sweetness, patience, and seriousness.

A significant event in his childhood occurred when, at the age of five, he visited a Jain Upashray with his mother and was deeply drawn to Acharya Dharmamurtisuriji. He spontaneously went to the Acharya, sat on his lap, and took the Acharya's sacred whisk (Muhapatti), bringing it to his mouth, which astonished the onlookers.

Ascension to Spiritual Leadership: Recognizing the boy's potential, Acharya Dharmamurtisuriji requested his mother to allow Kodankumar to serve the Sangh. Initially, his mother was hesitant due to him being their only son and his father's absence. However, four years later, when the Acharya revisited Lolada, the then nine-year-old Kodankumar expressed a strong desire for initiation. His parents, recognizing his true calling, gave their consent.

In V.S. 1642, Kodankumar received initiation in Dhavallakpur, with a grand ceremony organized by Manik Seth. At the tender age of nine, he became a Jain monk, named Shubhsagar. Two years later, in V.S. 1644, he received higher initiation at the holy site of Palitana, and his name was changed to Muni Kalyansagar. His benevolent nature, aimed at the welfare of all beings, led him to be widely known as Muni Kalyansagarji Maharaj Saheb.

In V.S. 1649, in Ahmedabad, Muni Kalyansagarji was bestowed with the title of Acharya in a grand ceremony, becoming Acharya Kalyansagar Surishwarji.

Contributions and Achievements: Acharya Kalyansagar Surishwarji was a scholar, a preacher, a renunciate, a tapasvin, and a miracle-worker. His exemplary character, dedication to the Sangh, and his unifying influence deeply impressed Acharya Dharmamurtisuriji, who granted him permission to travel independently and guide people towards the righteous path. Through his "nectar-like" words, wise counsel, and divine miracles, he enlightened those who had strayed and profoundly influenced the Chaturvidh Sangh. In V.S. 1672, he was honored with the title of Yugpradhan (leader of an era) in the historically and naturally beautiful city of Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Miracles and Social Reforms: Yugpradhan Acharya Shri Kalyansagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb attracted people through his miracles. In V.S. 1625, he played a crucial role in protecting a Jain temple in Agra from being destroyed by Kurpal Sonpal, a minister of Emperor Jahangir. In V.S. 1699, he saved the populace of Jalore from a widespread epidemic.

Beyond his miraculous feats, his life was dedicated to progress and development. He founded numerous educational institutions. In V.S. 1706, he established a knowledge repository in Surat, supporting scholars, archaeologists, and researchers. He was particularly keen on nurturing the many Jain monks and nuns initiated under his guidance into profound scholars. He oversaw the renovation and consecration of several Jain temples.

His advocacy extended to social reforms, where he successfully persuaded kings to abandon public executions. He is eternally remembered for his role in bringing numerous royal figures, wealthy merchants, and respected citizens into the fold of Jainism. He also initiated commendable efforts to organize foot-led pilgrimage expeditions (Sanghs) to renowned Jain pilgrimage sites across regions like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Sindh.

Literary and Spiritual Legacy: A Yugpurush of the 16th century, Dadashri Kalyansagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb composed the "Vardhaman Padmasinh Shreshth Charitra" in Sanskrit in V.S. 1691. He was blessed by Goddess Saraswati, and his numerous compositions remain invaluable treasures for the Jain community. Under his guidance, approximately 113 monks and 228 nuns were actively engaged in propagating Jainism.

In V.S. 1718, on the third day of the bright half of Vaishakh, in the early morning, this Yugpurush departed from this world, leaving behind his sacred memories. His contributions to literature, culture, and religion continue to hold a distinct place in Indian culture. His memory is indelibly etched in the hearts of people, and his foot imprints and statues are enshrined in many Jain temples and religious sites, serving as reminders of religious teachings, the path of truth, the desire for service, the essence of unity, and the spirit of renunciation.

The text concludes with a philosophical reflection on the soul: the soul is the creator and destroyer of its own happiness and sorrow. A soul following the righteous path is its own friend, while a soul straying from it is its own enemy. The soul should be disciplined through penance and self-control, as it is inherently indomitable. A disciplined soul finds happiness in this world and the hereafter.