Jain Dharmbhushan Shri Shitalprasadji

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Jain Dharmbhushan Shri Shitalprasadji:

This text, "Jain Dharmbhushan Shri Shitalprasadji" by Atmanandji, details the life and extensive contributions of a prominent Jain saint, Shri Sheetalprasadji, who lived from 1879 to 1942. The narrative places his life within the context of India's struggle for independence and the social and spiritual backwardness prevalent at the time, marked by practices like child marriage, dowry, and illiteracy.

Early Life and Education: Born in Lucknow in 1879, Sheetalprasadji received a strong education, passing his matriculation with first grade at 18 and later qualifying as an accountant. Despite a promising start in government service, his innate inclination was towards spiritual and social betterment. Even in his youth, his writings in the "Hindi Jain Gazette" (1896) showed a deep commitment to preserving and expanding Jainism through virtuous living.

Personal Loss and Renunciation: His personal life was marked by tragedy. He married a virtuous woman who died young from plague in 1904. Within the same month, he lost his mother and younger brother. These profound losses deepened his detachment from worldly affairs. Despite significant proposals for a second marriage from wealthy families, the 25-year-old Sheetalprasadji, demonstrating remarkable courage and foresight, resigned from government service in 1905 to dedicate his life to societal service and spiritual pursuits.

Association with Saints and Asceticism: In 1905, he connected with the renowned philanthropist Shri Manikchandra in Mumbai. Under Manikchandra's patronage, he spent four years serving various institutions, imbibing virtues like religious study, abstaining from vices (smoking, drinking, gambling), vegetarianism, and disciplined living. These virtues were reportedly instilled by his grandfather, Lala Mangalsenji. In 1911, he took a vow of lifelong celibacy under the guidance of Elak Shri Pannalalji Maharaj. He adopted saffron-colored handwoven clothes, wore only a dhoti and shawl, and adopted a highly restrained lifestyle with fixed prayer timings, regular scripture study, and strict dietary rules, including abstaining from eating while traveling.

Service to Holy Places and Religious Propagation: Shri Sheetalprasadji traveled extensively throughout India to propagate Jainism. He also journeyed to Brahmdesh (Myanmar) and Sri Lanka to study Buddhism, demonstrating his liberal and tolerant nature and desire for universal well-being. His detailed travel notes have been published. He actively advised on the renovation of ancient Jain pilgrimage sites.

Literary Contributions: His literary work was significant and multifaceted:

• Editing Jain Periodicals: He served as the editor of "Jain Mitra" for 20 years (1909-1929) and also contributed to "Jain Gazette," "Veer," and "Sanatan Jain." He ensured uninterrupted publication even while traveling, encouraging young writers.
• Translation and Commentary: He translated and provided critical notes on numerous key Jain scriptures, including "Pravachansar," "Samaysar," "Niyamsar," "Parmatma Prakash," "Samadhi Shatak," and others. His translations aimed to simplify complex spiritual texts for common understanding.
• Independent Writing: He authored 77 books and edited many more, covering topics like spiritual Jainism, morality, history, biographies, and the literature of Taran Swamy. His book "Sahaj Sukh Sadhan," written in collaboration with a devotee of Shrimad Rajchandra, is considered highly beneficial for Jain devotees and has a Gujarati translation.

Despite facing criticism and ridicule from traditional scholars for his intense spiritual focus, Sheetalprasadji remained unwavering in his sincerity and service.

Societal Service and Recognition: From childhood, he was committed to societal service, tackling difficult tasks through personal effort and collaboration. He championed education, eradicated social evils, fostered unity, assisted the poor, and guided both younger and older generations. He was instrumental in establishing several key institutions:

• Syadvad Vidyalaya, Benaras (religious school)
• Shri Hrushabh Brahmcharyashram, Hastinapur (boarding house for mendicants)
• Jain Shravkika Shram, Bombay (boarding house for nuns)
• Jain Bala Ashram, Aara (boarding house for girls)
• Shri Jain Vyaparik Vidyalaya, Delhi (commercial school)

In recognition of his profound contributions, he was honored with the title "Jain Dharm Bhushan" on February 28, 1913, at a conference presided over by Dr. Harman Jakobi. He received further honor from Shri Gopaldasji Baraiya but displayed remarkable detachment by not publicizing these accolades.

Rivals and Last Days: Despite his exemplary work, Sheetalprasadji faced opposition from rivals displeased with his reformist agenda, though they later regretted their actions. In his later years, at age 62, he suffered from trembling, which progressed to paralysis, rendering him immobile. He passed away on February 16, 1942, at the age of 62, after a period of declining health.

Conclusion and Legacy: The text concludes by emphasizing Shri Sheetalprasadji's lifelong dedication to Jainism and society, particularly his efforts in developing women, children, and youth, and his contributions to Jain literature, art, and education. The author laments that his immense contributions were not fully recognized by his contemporaries, leading to missed opportunities for a stronger and more united Jain community. The text calls for renewed recognition of his services, particularly in light of his centenary celebrations.

In essence, the book portrays Shri Sheetalprasadji as a selfless, highly educated, and spiritually disciplined saint who dedicated his entire life to the betterment of the Jain community and the propagation of Jain principles through extensive literary and societal work.