Dharmdiwakar Chothmalji Maharaj

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This text, "Dharmdiwakar Shri Chothmalji Maharaj," is a biography of a prominent Jain spiritual leader, Maharaj Shri Chothmalji, penned by Atmanandji. It highlights his birth, early life, spiritual journey, societal contributions, and literary achievements.

Birth and Early Life: Shri Chothmalji was born in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, in Vikram Samvat 1934 (1877 CE) on a Sunday. His father, Gangaramji, was a devout and principled householder. The auspiciousness of his birth was recognized by learned Brahmins and astrologers who named him Chothmal. The name "Chothmal" is explained by the significance of the number four in Jainism, relating to the fourth element of the path to liberation (tapas), the fourth vow (Brahmacharya), the fourth aspect of Dharma (bhava), and the fourth stage of spiritual development (samyaktva). Chothmalji had two brothers and two sisters.

Education and Early Influences: At the age of seven, Chothmalji began his formal education, demonstrating exceptional intelligence and quickly mastering Hindi, Urdu, English, and mathematics. He had a keen interest in reading books and a passion for music. The religious atmosphere at home fostered qualities of seriousness and humility in him from childhood.

Renunciation and Mother's Influence: A pivotal moment in his life occurred when he was thirteen. His elder brother, Kaluram, was murdered due to his addiction to gambling. This tragic event deeply impacted young Chothmalji, reinforcing his understanding of the dire consequences of addiction. Following this, his father passed away in Vikram Samvat 1951 (1894 CE), leaving Chothmalji and his mother, Kesarbai, to navigate immense grief. His mother, while also deeply saddened, resolved to ensure Chothmalji's well-being and societal integration before she would pursue her own spiritual aspirations.

Marriage and Growing Renunciation: At sixteen, Chothmalji was married to Manakunvar, the daughter of Punamchandji of Pratapgarh. Despite his marriage, his inclination towards spiritual pursuits and earning merit rather than material wealth remained strong. He spent considerable time with visiting Jain monks and sadhvis, absorbing their teachings. When his mother expressed her desire to renounce the world, Chothmalji, already harboring similar inclinations, wholeheartedly supported her and sought her permission to follow suit.

Overcoming Obstacles to Renunciation: His mother, recognizing his deep renunciation, advised him to fulfill his household duties first, but Chothmalji's resolve was unyielding. He declared that the human body was meant for austerity and self-control, not indulgence. His mother finally granted him permission, but also instructed him to seek his wife's consent. Manakunvar initially resisted, unwilling to give up her husband or her own spiritual path. His father-in-law and other respected individuals also tried to dissuade him. However, Chothmalji remained steadfast, explaining that the opportunities for spiritual practice were far greater in the monastic life than in worldly existence. He endured various hardships and challenges posed by worldly individuals but did not waver, as his renunciation was rooted in knowledge.

Initiation: Following the Jain tradition of requiring family consent for initiation, there was a delay. However, his mother suggested a simpler initiation to expedite the process. This proposal was accepted by his Guru, and in Vikram Samvat 1952 (1895 CE), on a Sunday, Shri Chothmalji was initiated as a monk by Acharya Hiralaalji Maharaj. Two months later, his mother, Kesarbai, also took initiation from Mahasati Shrimati Phadiji.

Spiritual Journey and Mother's Passing: His first Chaturmas (a four-month monastic retreat) was in Chavani in Vikram Samvat 1953 (1896 CE) under the guidance of Acharya Hiralaalji Maharaj, where he studied Dasavaikalika and Oppapatika Sutras. He continued his studies and spiritual practices through his travels. His mother, Kesarbai, passed away in Ratlam in Vikram Samvat 1962 (1905 CE) after taking Samtharo (a vow of voluntary fasting unto death).

Wife's Renunciation and Passing: Later, his Guru instructed him to visit Pratapgarh to impart spiritual guidance to his wife, Manakunvar. While he had no worldly attachments, he was concerned about his in-laws influencing her to return to a householder's life. He went to Pratapgarh, and Manakunvar attended his discourse. She expressed her desolation and asked about her future. Maharajshri explained their past and present connections, emphasizing that true solace lay in Dharma. He advised her to become a Sadhvi, which would be most beneficial for her. Moved by his words, Manakunvar's renunciation was awakened, and she requested initiation. On Vijayadashami in Vikram Samvat 1967 (1910 CE), she became Sadhvi Manakunvar. After six years of dedicated spiritual practice and austerity, she also took Samtharo and passed away in Shravan Sud 10, Vikram Samvat 1973 (1916 CE).

Inter-Sectarian Influence and Societal Impact: Shri Chothmalji Maharaj was a respected figure who, despite belonging to a particular sect, showed great respect for other Jain sects. He aimed to foster unity and goodwill through love and empathy. He was willing to endure hardship to bring joy to others, possessing a remarkable ability to understand the essence of Dharma and life. Rising above caste, sectarianism, and regionalism, he inspired people to become greater human beings. He was characterized by courage, contemplation, natural affection, and an unwavering resolve, like Mount Meru. His practical wisdom won over everyone, and his ascetic practices refined his inner self. Those who met him were invariably impressed by his pure heart and simple demeanor.

Advocacy for Non-Violence and Moral Upliftment: His discourses attracted people from all communities, including Hindus and Muslims, who renounced vices and led virtuous lives. His contribution to elevating the moral standards of Indian society and propagating non-violence was immense. He influenced rulers, officials, scholars, and businessmen through his personality and powerful oratory, promoting animal welfare and non-violence. He exemplified the pure form of Ahimsa (non-violence) in Jainism, advocating for compassion with a depth that was remarkable. He encouraged those in power to support the propagation of compassion and righteousness, traveling across various states to spread the message of non-violence.

Master Orator: Shri Chothmalji Maharaj was a "magician of speech," whose words had a profound impact on listeners, inspiring them to reform their lives. Many individuals repented their sins and transformed their lives through his sermons. He converted women of ill repute into virtuous ladies, persuaded hunters to abandon their weapons, helped addicts quit their habits, and guided the irreligious towards the path of Dharma.

True Saint and Eloquent Speaker: His discourses were delivered in simple language, focusing on relatable topics. He presented complex philosophical ideas in a way that was easily understandable. His lectures were not mere displays of rhetoric but blueprints for building a life. They artfully blended the mysteries of Jain Agamas, Vedic texts, proverbs, verses, songs, Urdu poetry, and music, keeping audiences captivated for hours. His sermons sometimes included Jain folk tales, Buddhist stories, witty critiques of social customs, inspirational tales of valor, humor, and serenity. People from all walks of life – Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Christians, and others – would gather, forgetting their differences, to benefit from his teachings, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a Samvatsaran (a divine assembly). His words flowed like an inexhaustible stream of nectar.

Social Reformer: Chothmalji Maharaj's social reform efforts were unparalleled. He eradicated traditional evils and superstitions, abolished child marriage and child widow remarriage, and put an end to dowry practices and post-death feasts. He stopped the barbaric practice of animal sacrifice to deities, challenged untouchability, made prisoners pledge to abstain from crime, and reformed the hearts of criminals and those in disreputable professions. He worked to eliminate prostitution, recognizing it as a stain on society. His teachings possessed a great power for social transformation.

Architect of Organizations: He keenly understood the importance of organization and spearheaded social reform and welfare initiatives. He established "Mahavir Jain Mahamandal" and "Jain Mandals" in numerous places. He founded the "Jainoday Prakashan Samiti" in Ratlam, which published spiritual literature. He also established "Jain Pathshalas" for religious education in several locations and inspired the creation of various social organizations, including a women's shelter, a relief fund, a welfare society for the community, and an old age home.

Literary Prowess: Besides being a creator of an ideal human life, Shri Chothmalji Maharaj was also an accomplished author. His literary talent was multifaceted, encompassing both prose and poetry. He wrote devotional songs, poems, and Ghazals, along with inspirational and religious literature. His 30 poetic works included 19 biographies and 11 collections of bhajans, which deeply moved readers. He also wrote biographies of Lord Mahavir, Jambukumar, and Parshvanath in prose. His most significant literary contribution was the compilation of Lord Mahavir's teachings from the entire Jain Agama literature into a work titled "Nirgrantha Pravachan," which is considered an immortal work destined to inspire society for ages. His lectures were also compiled and published in 20 volumes as "Divakar Divya Jyoti."

Champion of Unity: Even after his initiation, Maharaj Chothmalji made significant efforts to foster unity among different Jain sects. In Vikram Samvat 2007 (1950 CE), during his Chaturmas in Kota, he organized a joint discourse with Digambar Acharya Suryasagarji Maharaj and Shvetambar Murtipujak Acharya Anand Sagarji Maharaj, a remarkable event that promoted the spirit of oneness. He had previously expressed his ideas on unity to the editor of "Jainprakash," advocating for the unification of sadhus and sadhvis, standardization of monastic practices and codes of conduct, publication of authentic literature by Sthanakvasi sects, mutual respect without criticism, and agreement on festival dates. He also inspired the collective celebration of Mahavir Jayanti to foster cultural unity within the Jain community, which led to joint celebrations in several cities.

Demise: After his Chaturmas in Kota in Vikram Samvat 2007 (1950 CE), which was exceptional in fostering emotional unity within the Jain community, he began experiencing severe abdominal pain. This pain persisted for 14 days, and on Sunday, Margashirsha Sud 9, Vikram Samvat 2007 (1950 CE), his soul departed his body, achieving immortality.

Legacy: Dharmdiwakar Chothmalji Maharaj was a versatile genius – a renowned orator, poet, profound thinker, beloved leader, visionary, and epoch-making saint. His brilliance continues to shine, and his inspiration guides the Jain community to this day and will continue to do so in the future.