Khartargaccha Ki Mahan Vibhuti Davnvir Seth Motishah

This document summarizes the life and charitable contributions of Seth Motishah, a prominent figure associated with the Khartargachha tradition of Jainism.

Key Highlights:

• Philanthropy: Seth Motishah dedicated his wealth, earned through his own efforts, to religious and charitable causes rather than personal enjoyment.
• Mumbai's Jain Heritage: He was instrumental in the construction and support of several important Jain temples and institutions in Mumbai, including:
  • Shri Chintamani Parshvanath and Godiji Parshvanath temples.
  • Shri Adinath temple and the associated Dadawadi in Bhaykhala, along with a significant land grant for the Jain community.
  • The Panjrapole (animal shelter) in Mumbai, where he was a primary inspiration, founder, and major donor.
• Shatrunjaya (Palitana) Contributions: His most significant contribution was to the Shatrunjaya hill in Palitana. He funded the construction of the "Motishah Seth's Track" (likely a pathway or structure) by filling a deep ravine, a project that cost him eighteen lakh and seven thousand rupees (eleven lakh for construction and seven lakh seven thousand for the consecration ceremony).
• Financial Scale of Donations: The text details specific, substantial donations made by Seth Motishah, totaling over twenty-eight lakh rupees. These include:
  • 50,000 rupees for the consecration of the Chintamani Parshvanath temple in Bhuleshwar.
  • 40,000 rupees for the consecration of the Shantinath Maharaj temple in Bhindo Bazaar.
  • His family spent two lakh rupees on the construction and consecration of the Shantinath Maharaj temple in Kot Bora Bazaar.
  • 50,000 rupees for the purchase and construction of the Dadawadi in Madras.
  • 6,000 rupees for the construction of a Dharamshala in Palitana.
  • Two lakh rupees for the land, construction, and consecration of the Dadawadi temple in Bhaykhala.
  • 50,000 rupees for the consecration of the Godiji temple in Mumbai.
  • 50,000 rupees for the consecration of the Adishwarji temple in Paydhuni.
  • One lakh rupees were waived for debtors unable to repay their loans as his end neared.
• Beyond Specifics: In addition to these major sums, he made countless smaller donations, with his name appearing in many "kanya pandi" (likely referring to community contributions for girls' marriages or religious ceremonies).
• Personal Life and Character:
  • He began his life in debt but achieved significant financial success.
  • His father passed away in 1855, after which his fortunes improved.
  • He had a simple lifestyle, wearing traditional attire like a Surti turban and a Kediye.
  • He treated his employees like family, supporting them generously and fostering their prosperity. Many of his employees became millionaires and even built temples themselves.
  • He maintained good relationships with Jain, Hindu, and Parsi merchants and families, who in turn supported his endeavors. A notable example is Sir Jamsetji funding one lakh rupees during Seth Motishah's son's pilgrimage (Sangh) to Palitana, highlighting mutual cooperation.
• Legacy: Seth Motishah is remembered as "Dayaveer" (hero of compassion) and "Danveer" (hero of charity). His enduring legacy is evident in the structures he built, which serve as living testaments to his generosity and dedication to the Jain faith and its principles of ahimsa (non-violence). His son, Khemchandbhai, is described as living like a king.
• Visuals: The document includes images of Jain temples and sites related to his activities, such as the Shri Bhanaji Bhandari-built Parshvanath Jinalaya in Kaparda Ji and the Dadawadi in Mehrauli. It also features ancient Jain manuscripts.

In essence, Seth Motishah was a visionary philanthropist who exemplified the Jain ideal of using wealth for the spiritual and material well-being of the community and its religious institutions. His life story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of dedicated effort and selfless giving.