Kailashsagarsuriji Jivan Yatra - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kailashsagarsuriji Jivan Yatra" by Mitranandsagar, based on the provided pages:

This book, published by Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra Koba, is a biographical introduction to the life journey of Acharya Shri Kailassagarsurishwarji Maharaj Saheb, the Gachhadhipati (leader of a monastic order). The second edition was released in July 1985.

Core Message and Philosophy:

The book highlights Acharya Kailassagarsuriji's profound detachment from worldly life and fear of death. His ultimate desire was to merge with Lord Simandhar Swami in the afterlife and to continuously chant "Soham - Soham" (I am That) in life. He also frequently echoed the words of his guru, Acharya Buddhisagar Surishwarji, stating, "Daasoham sarva sadhunam" (I am a servant to all ascetics), embodying humility and service.

Early Life and Education:

Birth: Born as Kashiram in 1913 in Jagrawan village, Ludhiana district, Punjab, to parents Shri Ramkrishnadasji and Ramrakhidevi, who were followers of the Sthanakvasi Jain tradition.
Prophecy: A learned astrologer predicted that Kashiram would become a "Samrat" (emperor), which the book interprets as him becoming a "Dharma Samrat" (emperor of religion).
Education: Kashiram was raised with strong Jain values and displayed an exceptional intellect from childhood. He excelled in his studies, graduating with honors in his B.A. from Sanatan Dharma College, Lahore University. He was offered a professorship but humbly declined.

Spiritual Awakening and Transformation:

Influence of Muni Shri Chotelalji: Kashiram came into contact with Muni Shri Chotelalji Maharaj and developed a strong desire for self-purification. This curiosity intensified his aspiration for spiritual initiation.
Marriage: To tie him to worldly life, his parents arranged his marriage to Shanta Devi. Although not initially inclined, Kashiram agreed to appease his parents.
The Life-Changing Book: Kashiram was a voracious reader and had a remarkable memory. He was a staunch opponent of idol worship, often debating against it. One day, he borrowed a book that, using scriptural references, convincingly argued that idol worship is indeed sanctioned by Jain scriptures. This revelation deeply shook Kashiram. He read the book seven times but struggled to accept its conclusions, as it contradicted his deeply held beliefs.
Confrontation with Muni Shri Chotelalji: When Kashiram questioned Muni Shri Chotelalji about the book's content and the apparent contradiction with the Sthanakvasi tradition, the Muni admitted that idol worship is scripturally valid. However, he explained that due to his old age and the desire to avoid conflict and maintain peace in his remaining years, he continued to adhere to the existing societal norms and did not actively oppose idol worship.
Commitment to Truth: This conversation led Kashiram to realize his own mistaken beliefs and the insult he had caused to Lord Jineshwar by calling idols "stones." He resolved to never again oppose idol worship and recognized that the pursuit of truth transcends sectarian limitations. He also confronted Muni Shri Chotelalji, urging him to at least stop opposing idol worship.

Journey to Gujarat and Further Guidance:

Meeting Acharya Buddhisagar Surishwarji: Kashiram's desire to meet the author of the life-changing book led him to Gujarat. Unfortunately, he learned that Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb had already passed away.
Meeting Acharya Keertisagar Surishwarji: Kashiram then met Acharya Shri Keertisagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, a disciple of Acharya Buddhisagar, who patiently addressed all his queries about idol worship.
Pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya: Inspired by Acharya Keertisagar, Kashiram undertook a pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya (Palitana), where he was deeply moved by the sight of Lord Adinath. He, who had previously criticized Shatrunjaya, found spiritual solace there.

Path to Renunciation:

Desire for Liberation: From his adolescence, Kashiram felt detached from worldly matters and had a strong desire for self-liberation.
Seeking Initiation: After returning from Shatrunjaya, Kashiram met Acharya Keertisagar again and expressed his desire for diksha (renunciation). His parents and family were initially resistant.
Urgency and Determination: Kashiram's strong renunciation led him to even threaten to don ascetic attire and sit at Acharya Keertisagar's feet if he wasn't granted initiation.
First Diksha: Witnessing Kashiram's intense detachment, Acharya Keertisagar suggested he seek initiation from his disciple, Muni raj Shri Jitendrasagarji Maharaj Saheb. Kashiram accepted and was initiated, renamed Munishri Anandasagarji.

Obstacle and Second Diksha:

Family Intervention: His family, upon learning of his initiation without their consent, came to Gujarat and forcibly took him home.
Continued Asceticism: Even at home, Munishri Anandasagarji lived like an ascetic, dedicating his time to prayer, study, and contemplation. His unwavering detachment and lifestyle eventually convinced his family to allow him to formally renounce the world.
Second and Final Diksha: In 1994 (Vikram Samvat), on the auspicious day of Posh Vad 10, Kashiram once again took formal diksha from Acharya Shri Keertisagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb in Ahmedabad, becoming Munishri Kailassagarji Maharaj Saheb.

Ascension Through the Ranks:

Intellectual Prowess: Munishri Kailassagarji's sharp intellect and dedication allowed him to deeply study Jain scriptures, philosophy, and literature. He quickly gained recognition as a learned ascetic, traveling vast distances to acquire knowledge.
Devotion to Guru: His unwavering devotion and service to his guru earned him immense blessings. He always prioritized his guru's commands in his actions.
Gaining Titles: Recognizing his merit, he was conferred with various titles:
- Ganipada (senior monastic title) in 1948 (V.S. 2004) in Pune.
- Nyasipada in 1949 (V.S. 2005) in Mumbai.
- Upadhyaypada in 1955 (V.S. 2011) in Sanand.
- Acharyapada in 1966 (V.S. 2022) in Sanand, after which he became widely known as Acharya Shri Kailassagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb.
Gachhadhipati: In 1970 (V.S. 2026), he assumed the overall leadership of the community, becoming the Gachhadhipati on Jeth Sud 11, 2039 (1979 AD) at Mahudi Tirth.

Spiritual Practices and Virtues:

Meditative Nature: Acharya Kailassagarsuriji found immense joy in meditation, often practicing it in secluded places like caves, riverbanks, or temples for extended periods.
Austerities (Tapas): For the first four decades of his monastic life, he observed the rigorous Ekasan (eating only once a day from a single bowl). Later, due to physical limitations and the earnest requests of his fellow ascetics, he had to give it up with great sadness. He consistently consumed only two types of food items and abstained from four types of forbidden items (vigai). He also renounced sweets immediately after his diksha and never tasted them again. Even after stopping Ekasan, he would observe abhigrah (vows) for many hours daily, abstaining from all four types of food. He never tasted tea, stating he didn't know its flavor.
Expert in Shilpashastra: He was a profound scholar of Shilpashastra (the science of architecture and iconography), guiding numerous people on the construction and consecration of temples and idols. Even renowned Acharyas sought his counsel on these matters. He was always dedicated to all aspects of Jainism.
Humility and Popularity: Despite his scholarship and high position, he exuded immense humility, making him exceptionally popular. His simple and natural demeanor attracted people of all ages, from children to the elderly, who found inspiration and guidance from him.
Preacher of Great Tirths: He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the magnificent Jain temple and idol of Lord Simandhar Swami in Mahesana, which stands as the tallest idol of Lord Simandhar Swami in India. His teachings about this grand temple will ensure his legacy.
Detached and Vigilant Ascetic: Acharya Kailassagarsuriji never used his immense popularity or high status for personal gain. He lived a life of extreme simplicity, free from desires, expectations, or complaints. Despite his busy schedule of travels and community activities, he always allocated sufficient time for introspection, study, and meditation. He lived by the mantra: "Always be awake for self-welfare."
Impact on the Faith (Shasan Prabhavana): He was a monumental influencer of Jainism, leaving an indelible mark for centuries. His significant contributions included:
- Consecrating approximately 63 consecrations (anjanashalaka).
- Establishing 80 Jain temples.
- Renovating numerous temples.
- Observing over 30 Upadhan Taps.
- Consecrating over 9,000 idols.
Ocean of Compassion: His true identity wasn't just in his works but in his profound personality. Like the ocean, his depth revealed true beauty. His inner self was as pure and compassionate as his outward demeanor, being consistent in his interactions with everyone.
Vihar and Chaturmas: Over his 47 years of monastic life, he traveled extensively across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, and Maharashtra, enlightening countless lives. He successfully guided thousands to become free from addictions and live peaceful lives. He spent his Chaturmas in major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, and Pali, as well as in smaller villages like Sadri, Rani, Lodra, and Adodara.
Disciples and Successors: His teachings and virtuous life inspired many to embrace monasticism. He had eight direct disciples, including prominent figures like Acharya Shri Bhadrabahusagar Surishwarji and Acharya Shri Kalyansagar Surishwarji. He also had a large lineage of grand-disciples and followers.

Conquering Death:

Peaceful Demise: On the morning of Jeth Sud 2, 2041 (1984 AD), after completing his morning prayers, Acharya Kailassagarsuriji entered Kayotsarg (a meditative posture). Before he could complete it, his life journey concluded. He passed away peacefully amidst his disciples.
Samadhimay Death: His death was a "samadhimay" (peaceful and conscious) one, attained during the Kayotsarg of the Chaturvimsati Stava, a prayer for a blissful end. It was as if death itself bowed before him.
Final Words: The night before his passing, he sought forgiveness (Mithyami Dukkadam) from his disciples and stated his desire to go to Lord Simandhar Swami, expressing no attachment to life and no fear of death.
Legacy: His life and character served as an eternal inspiration and a guiding light for all. His bright spiritual journey remains an indelible memory, and he is remembered as an embodiment of peace and happiness. His profound faith in the divine, unwavering adherence to Jainism, and immense compassion for all beings were evident in his every action. He spent his time wisely, devoted to remembrance and contemplation of the divine. His life was a testament to conscious living and a living example of purity and virtue.

The book concludes by emphasizing that the pursuit of life, soul, and the divine is a personal journey of self-discovery. Moksha is described as the fully developed state of life that ends the cycle of birth and death. The book also lists other publications by the Kendra and provides contact information for feedback.