Mara Sansmarno Yane 50 Varshni Jain Shasanni Aachi Ruprekha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mara Sansmarno Yane 50 Varshni Jain Shasanni Aachi Ruprekha" by Mafatlal Jhaverchand Gandhi, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mara Sansmarno Yane 50 Varshni Jain Shasanni Aachi Ruprekha (My Recollections, or a Faint Outline of 50 Years of Jainism) Author: Late Pandit Mafatlal Jhaverchand Gandhi Publisher: Late Pandit Mafatlal Jhaverchand Gandhi Smaranidhi, Ahmedabad Year of Publication: 2001 AD (Vikram Samvat 2057)

Overall Purpose: This book is a collection of personal memoirs and a historical overview of the Jain community and its religious administration ("Shasan") over a period of approximately 50 years, as experienced and observed by the author, Pandit Mafatlal Jhaverchand Gandhi. The author was prompted to write these memoirs by a respected Muni Bhagwant (monk) named Shrichandravijayji, who believed Gandhi's personal accounts would serve as a valuable historical record for the Jain community.

Author's Background and Motivation:

• Personal Life: The author begins by describing a challenging childhood marked by early parental loss and subsequent difficult family circumstances. He recounts living a humble life with his father, experiencing financial hardship, and witnessing the self-reliance necessitated by his situation. He expresses gratitude for the good health and the respect he received from his community, attributing it to the blessings of God, Guru, and Dharma.
• Motivation for Writing: He was initially hesitant to write his memoirs, fearing self-praise and the potential to inadvertently offend others. However, strong encouragement from Muni Shrichandravijayji and another scholar, Pandit Abhay Sagari, persuaded him. He resolved to write honestly about his interactions with various Jain acharyas, munis, and influential laypersons, focusing on their contributions to the Shasan and hoping to foster appreciation for these individuals among readers.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Personal Journey and Early Life:

   • Born in a small village near Patan, the author experienced his mother's death at age ten, followed by the deaths of his maternal grandmother and aunt within months. He describes a life of hardship and dependency under his father's care.
   • Due to financial constraints, his father sent him to Surat for education, but he eventually settled in Patan under the guidance of Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh, where his life took a turn towards religious studies and association with religious figures.
   • He reflects on his life with satisfaction, noting good health, positive family relationships, financial stability (though not extraordinary wealth), and respect within his community.

2. Historical Overview of the Jain Shasan (approx. 50 years):

   • Shasan's Internal Conflicts: A significant portion of the memoirs reflects on the internal disputes, disagreements, rivalries, and legal battles within the Jain community during this period. The author expresses a lament that the community, beyond these conflicts, may not have achieved much else. He hopes future generations learn from these events and avoid repetition.
   • Key Figures and Institutions: The author details his encounters and observations of prominent Jain acharyas, munis, and influential lay leaders. He highlights their efforts in promoting Jainism, establishing educational institutions, and navigating community challenges.
   • Educational Initiatives: He describes his own educational journey, including his time at Ratnasagarji Boarding in Surat and his studies at the Vidya Bhavan in Patan. He praises the comprehensive and character-building approach of Vidya Bhavan, emphasizing its focus on all-round development of students, including vocational skills like tailoring.
   • Prominent Personalities: He discusses his interactions with influential figures such as Pandit Prabhudas Parekh, Pandit Virchandbhai Meghjibhai, various acharyas (like Vijay Nemisurishwarji, Sagaraji Maharaj, Neemisuriji Maharaj), and lay leaders like Sheth Kasturbhai Lalbhai, Jivabhai Sheth, and Chimanlal Kadiya.
   • The "Tithi" (Date) Controversy: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the protracted "Tithi" (the determination of auspicious dates for religious observances, particularly Paryushan) controversy. The author details the historical background, the differing opinions, the involvement of various acharyas and scholars, the attempts at resolution through committees and expert opinions (like Dr. P.L. Vaidya), and the eventual persistence of the divide within the community. He criticizes the excessive focus on this issue and its detrimental impact on the broader Jain mission.
   • Harijan Issue: He touches upon the controversy surrounding Harijan (Dalit) entry into Jain temples, noting the divided opinions within the community and the compromises made.
   • Muni Sammelan (Monk Conferences): The author describes his involvement in and observations of significant Muni Sammelans, particularly the one in Ahmedabad in 1990. He highlights the efforts of acharyas like Nemisuriji Maharaj and lay leaders like Kasturbhai Sheth in bringing about unity and resolving disputes, although acknowledging the challenges posed by differing viewpoints. He recounts the complexities of reaching consensus, especially concerning the Tithi issue and the role of various monastic groups.
   • Mandal Establishment and Social Reform: He recounts his role in establishing youth groups (like "Jati Hit Shila" in Mehsana) and his involvement in efforts to unite sub-sects within the community, such as the Dasha Shrimali Bavisini and Pantrisi panchs, and later the amalgamation of these panchs.
   • Professional Life: The author also briefly touches upon his professional pursuits, including his involvement in the printing press business ("Nayan Printing Press" and "M. Babubhai Printing Press"), and his work related to census data. He reflects on the financial challenges faced in these ventures.
   • Personal Life and Family: He mentions his marriage, the birth of his children, and the challenges faced due to his wife's health and his own eye ailments, which eventually led to partial blindness. He also notes the separate living arrangements of his sons and their respective families.

3. Significant Jain Figures: The book provides personal anecdotes and insights into the lives and contributions of several key Jain acharyas and lay leaders of his time, including:

   • Acharya Vijay Nemisurishwarji Maharaj: Described as a highly influential and respected figure, instrumental in various Shasan activities and known for his foresight and diplomacy.
   • Acharya Sagaraji Maharaj: Hailed as a great scholar and rescuer of ancient Jain scriptures (Agamas), highlighting his efforts in establishing Agama Mandirs and his dedication to scriptural preservation.
   • Acharya Nitishuriji Maharaj: Known for his broad-mindedness and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his significant contributions to temple renovation.
   • Pandit Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh: Appreciated as a pivotal mentor who instilled values and provided education that shaped the author's life.
   • Sheth Kasturbhai Lalbhai: A highly respected and influential industrialist and philanthropist, known for his unwavering commitment to the Jain community and his efforts in resolving disputes.
   • Sheth Bhagubhai Chuniial Sutariya: Portrayed as a deeply religious, principled, and influential figure in the Jain community, known for his meticulousness and unwavering commitment.
   • Sheth Chimanlal Keshavlal Kadiya: Recognized as a dedicated activist who fought against what he perceived as anti-religious government policies, even at personal risk.
   • Sheth Jivabhai Pratapshi: Described as a staunch devotee of Acharya Ramachandrasuri, although sometimes criticized for his strong adherence to certain traditions.

Structure and Style: The book is structured thematically, with chapters often focusing on specific individuals, events, or controversies within the Jain community. The author's writing style is personal and reflective, often interweaving his own experiences with historical accounts and observations of the broader Jain Shasan. He demonstrates a deep reverence for Jain traditions while also offering critical reflections on internal community dynamics.

Overall Contribution: Pandit Mafatlal Jhaverchand Gandhi's memoirs offer a rich and personal perspective on the evolution of Jainism in India over a significant period. The book provides valuable insights into the social, religious, and administrative aspects of the Jain community, the influential figures who shaped it, and the internal debates and controversies that marked its journey. It serves as both a personal testament and a historical document for Jain scholars and practitioners.