Jinakrupachandrasuriji Aur Unka Sadhu Samudaya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jinakrupachandrasuriji aur Unka Sadhu Samudaya" by Bhanvarlal Nahta:

The book, authored by Bhanvarlal Nahta, focuses on Acharya Shri Jinakrupachandrasuriji and his monastic community, highlighting Jinakrupachandrasuriji as a highly influential and virtuous personality of the 20th century who significantly contributed to the Jain faith, particularly within the Khartargachch tradition.

Shri Jinakrupachandrasuriji's Life and Service:

• Early Life and Renunciation: Born in 1913 in the Jodhpur state, Jinakrupachandrasuriji received education in grammar, logic, and lexicography under the guidance of his guru, Shri Yukti Amritmuni. Possessing great austerity and detachment, he was initiated as a monk (yati) in 1936.
• Commitment to Austerity and Renunciation of Possessions: A defining characteristic of his life was the renunciation of worldly possessions. He actively worked to revive religious practices and demonstrated detachment by giving up all his wealth to the community and establishing trusts.
• Extensive Travel and Religious Propagation: He undertook extensive travels across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Kutch, and Madhya Pradesh, propagating Jainism and strengthening the Khartargachch. He conducted numerous Chaturmasas (monsoon retreats) in various cities and towns.
• Initiations and Religious Activities: Jinakrupachandrasuriji initiated many monks and nuns throughout his life. He also performed consecrations of temples and conducted religious ceremonies like Upadhana Tapa. He was instrumental in reviving and conducting these practices, which were central to the monastic life.
• Scholarship and Literary Contributions: He was a learned scholar who had studied various subjects, including astronomy in his youth. He lectured extensively on Jain scriptures, demonstrating a deep understanding of complex texts like the Bhagavati Sutra. He was also a prolific writer, composing stotras, bhajans, and pujas, many of which were published in "Krupavinod." He contributed significantly to Hindi literature through his translations and commentaries.
• Establishment of Institutions: He inspired the establishment of Jain learning centers, schools, and dharamshalas (guest houses) in various locations, promoting education and social welfare.
• Acceptance of Acharya Pad: Despite his desire for personal austerity, he accepted the prestigious position of Acharya (spiritual leader) due to the community's insistence. This event was marked by significant religious ceremonies and the presence of other prominent monks.
• Death: He passed away in 2024 (Vaisakha Sudee 6) in the shade of Girnar, indicating his continued commitment to spiritual practice even in old age.

His Monastic Community (Sadhu Samudaya):

• Vast and Learned Disciples: Jinakrupachandrasuriji had a large and intellectually gifted community of disciples, including renowned scholars like Anandmuni, Upadhyay Jayasagarji, and Rajsagariji.
• Prominent Disciples:
  • Anandmuni: A learned disciple who passed away before Jinakrupachandrasuriji.
  • Upadhyay Jayasagarji: A highly learned disciple who was later appointed as Acharya Shri Jayasagar Suriji. He was known for his eloquent lectures and scholarly works. His brother, Rajsagariji, also received initiation from Jinakrupachandrasuriji and served him diligently.
  • Munishri Kanti Sagarji: Celebrated for his scholarship in archaeology and art, Kanti Sagarji was a disciple of Jinakrupachandrasuriji. His contribution to the revival and publication of ancient Jain texts is highlighted. He is described as a gifted scholar whose untimely demise was a loss to the community.
  • Munishri Mangalsagarji: Initiated by Jinakrupachandrasuriji in Surat, Mangalsagarji became a learned scholar and an accomplished orator.
• Succession and Present Situation: At the time of Jinakrupachandrasuriji's passing, his monastic community consisted of approximately 70 monks and nuns. However, due to a lack of new initiations, the number has significantly decreased to an elderly monk and 20-22 nuns.

Key Characteristics and Legacy:

• Discipline and Punctuality: Jinakrupachandrasuriji was known for his strict adherence to schedule and punctuality in all his religious activities.
• Profound Knowledge and Memory: He possessed an exceptional memory and a deep understanding of Jain scriptures, capable of delivering lengthy explanations without referring to texts.
• Devotion and Austerity: He practiced extreme austerity, often fasting and observing Ekasana (eating once a day), and was dedicated to the strict observance of vows.
• Upholder of Tradition: He had a deep respect for the traditional practices and lineage of the Khartargachch.
• Influence on the Community: His teachings and example greatly influenced his followers, leading to the establishment of religious and educational institutions and the propagation of Jain principles.
• Enduring Impact: His contributions to the Jain faith, through his spiritual leadership, scholarship, and the establishment of various institutions, are considered immeasurable. His statues are found in prominent Jain temples, signifying his lasting legacy.

In essence, the book portrays Shri Jinakrupachandrasuriji as a paramount spiritual leader and scholar of the 20th century who left an indelible mark on the Jain tradition through his exemplary life of austerity, dedication to religious practices, and his extensive community of learned disciples.