Maharav Bharmalji Pratibodhaka Kalayansagarsuri
Added to library: September 2, 2025

Summary
Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text in English:
The text, "Maharav Bharmalji – Pratibodhaka Shri KalyanSagar Suri" by Motilal Kshamanand, published as part of the Z_Arya_Kalyan_Gautam_Smruti_Granth_012034.pdf, highlights the significant role of Shri KalyanSagar Suri in the Jain faith, particularly his influence on Maharav Bharmalji of Kutch.
Shri KalyanSagar Suri, also known by various other names like Kshemsagar, Shivodhadhisuri, Shivasindhuraj, and Kalyanddhi, was renowned as a "Jangam Tirth" (moving pilgrimage), "Yugpradhan" (leader of an era), and "Jagadguru" (world teacher). His most notable achievement discussed in this excerpt is his role as the "Pratibodhaka" (enlightener or preacher) of Maharav Bharmalji of Kutch. This patronage significantly strengthened the Anchalgachha (a sect within Jainism) in Kutch and led to its flourishing growth.
Born in 1556 AD (Vikram Samvat 1633) in the village of Lelda, in the Vadiyar region, his birth name was Deviputra. This name was given by his mother, Namildevi, after she dreamt of seeing the rising sun, indicating the birth of a divine child.
At the age of 10, in 1565 AD (Vikram Samvat 1642), Shri Dharmabhuti Suri, the then head of the Anchalgachha, recognized the boy's potential and took him under his tutelage. He was initiated as a Jain monk named Kalyansagar Muni on Saturday, March 28, 1567 AD (Vikram Samvat 1644, Fagan Sudhi 4). He received his full initiation (Vadi Diksha) in 1567 AD (Vikram Samvat 1644, Maha Sudhi 5). In 1572 AD (Vikram Samvat 1649), he was honored with the title of Acharya in Ahmedabad. Upon the demise of his guru, Shri Dharmamurti Suri, in 1694 AD (Vikram Samvat 1671), Shri KalyanSagar Suri ascended to the leadership of the Anchalgachha, becoming its Gachhnayak (leader).
Despite the presence of other distinguished scholars like Mahamahopadhyaya Ratnasagarji, the selection of Shri KalyanSagar Suri as the successor was considered unique. In 1595 AD (Vikram Samvat 1572), the Shri Sangh of Udaipur bestowed upon him the title of Yugpradhan, signifying his exceptional stature and influence.
The text further elaborates on the impact of Shri KalyanSagar Suri's preachings:
- Promoting Pilgrimages and Religious Activities: His teachings inspired the ministers of Jamnagar and their brothers to undertake significant pilgrimages and religious processions. His influence also led to the upliftment of the Jain community and the growth of various fields of religious endeavor wherever these processions passed.
- Extensive Religious Contributions: Under his guidance, numerous significant religious activities took place across India. These included the construction and renovation of temples, consecrations, protection of pilgrimage sites, support for fellow Jains, and promotion of trade and business. Notable patrons like Kurpal-Sonpal of Agra and Vardhman Shah, Padamshi Shah, Rajsingh Shah, Nenshi Shah, Sama Shah, and others from Jamnagar, engaged in many meritorious deeds. The text specifically mentions a grand event in Jamnagar where over ten thousand Brahmins and the entire city were blessed with donations and meals, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact of the Jain faith.
- Literary and Architectural Contributions: The text mentions that under his influence, Dharshibhai Vora built an Upashray (monastic dwelling) of the Anchalgachha in Bhuj. It also details the construction of the Chintamani Parshwanath Jinalaya in Bhuj in 1586 AD (Vikram Samvat 1663) by the Shri Sangh. Furthermore, the Choukhmukhji Jinalaya on Shatrunjay hill was built in 1598 AD (Vikram Samvat 1675) by the sons of Shri Shrimali Rajdeo of Ahmedabad. The renovation of the Chandprabh Swami Jinalaya on Girnar hill, including the construction of a kund (water tank), was carried out by Hirabai, a Jain laywoman from Ahmedabad, in 1606 AD (Vikram Samvat 1683). In Khambhat, in the same year, Seth Padamsinh installed five crystal idols of Parshvanath and others and donated five copies of the Kalpasutra written in gold ink, adorned with pearl bindings. The renovation of the Adaiji temple on Shatrunjay was completed in 1609 AD (Vikram Samvat 1586) on Chaitra Sudhi Purnima. The consecration at the port of Diu was performed by Minister Kamalshee on Friday, December 2, 1725 AD (Vikram Samvat 1702, Magsar Sudhi 6). A consecration also took place in Burhanpur in 1590 AD (Vikram Samvat 1667).
- Defense of Faith: The text recounts a critical incident in Agra where Jain idols faced a threat. Shri KalyanSagar Suri, with the grace of the divine mother and his teacher, intervened miraculously. He challenged the royal decree and ultimately converted the emperor into a protector of the faith, thereby averting the danger to Jainism and the community.
- Moral and Political Influence: His exemplary character and farsightedness enabled him to inspire even kings like Maharav Bharmalji to embrace Dharma and overcome their serious addictions. He was a catalyst for fostering friendly relations and was considered a jewel among Acharyas.
- Scholarly Legacy: He had a vast following of monks and nuns and was a leading figure in literary pursuits. Many of his works remain unpublished. Following his era, the number of monks and nuns affiliated with the "Sagar" lineage, a title that became established after him, continued to grow.
Shri KalyanSagar Suri passed away in 1701 AD (Vikram Samvat 1718) after a brief illness at the age of 85. His final resting place is immortalized as a stupa.
The text concludes with quotes from Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Chakravarti Rajagopalachari emphasizing the universal message of Lord Mahavir's teachings, particularly ahimsa (non-violence), and the importance of following his path for achieving peace and happiness in the world. Lord Mahavir's life exemplified compassion and deep contemplation for the welfare of all beings.