Padmasagarsuriji Ek Parichay - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Padmasagarsuriji Ek Parichay" by Vimalsagar, published by Ashtmangal Foundation, based on the provided pages:

This book is a biographical introduction to Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj, detailing his life, spiritual journey, and significant contributions to the Jain faith. The publication is dedicated to commemorating his 38th year of ascetic life.

Key aspects of Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj's life and legacy highlighted in the text:

The Role of a Jain Acharya: The book begins by defining the unique and profound significance of a Jain Acharya. It emphasizes that a Jain Acharya is not merely an intellectual or a scholar but someone whose life is deeply rooted in achara (conduct and practice). They are expected to embody knowledge, perception, conduct, austerity, and vigor (gyanacharan, darshanacharan, charitranacharan, tapacharan, viryacharan), purifying themselves and others, and safeguarding the Jain community. Jain Acharyas are considered equivalent to Tirthankaras in their absence.
Historical Context: The text draws parallels with renowned Jain Acharyas of the past, such as Bhadrabahu Swami, Siddhasen Diwakar Suri, Bappabhatt Suri, Hemachandra Suri, and Hiravijaya Suri, highlighting their influence on rulers and their role in spreading Jainism across vast distances through arduous pilgrimages. It also mentions historical instances of Acharyas taking a stand against injustice, such as Acharya Kalaksuri.
Early Life and Upbringing: Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj was born Premchand (also known as Labhichand) on September 10, 1935, in Ajimganj, Bengal, a historically significant city for Jains. Sadly, his father, Shri Ramswaroopsinghji, passed away before his birth. His upbringing was lovingly handled by his mother, Bhavani Devi, who instilled in him values of resilience and facing life's challenges with equanimity. His early life was influenced by the high traditions of the aristocratic family where his parents worked, shaping his personality with grace and good conduct.
Education and Spiritual Inclination: Premchand received his early education in Ajimganj and later pursued religious and Sanskrit studies at the Jain Sanskrit Vidyalaya in Shivpuri, under the guidance of Muni Shri Vidyavijayji Maharaj. During this period, his intellectual prowess and affinity for spirituality flourished. He was deeply impressed by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda, which further inspired his spiritual path.
The Search for a Life-Shaper: After extensive travel across India, Premchand experienced a profound encounter with Acharya Dev Shrimat Kailassagar Surishwarji Maharaj in Sanand. This meeting was a turning point in his life, providing him with clarity, solutions to his spiritual queries, and a deep sense of vairagya (detachment). The spiritual guidance and affectionate presence of Acharya Kailassagar Surishwarji Maharaj marked a significant bend in his life's journey, leading him to aspire for the path of renunciation.
Renunciation and Ascetic Life: Inspired by Acharya Kailassagar Surishwarji Maharaj, Premchand left his home without informing his family and arrived in Ahmedabad. He expressed his desire for renunciation to Acharya Kailassagar Surishwarji Maharaj, who allowed him to stay and observe monastic life. On November 13, 1954, Premchand was initiated into monastic life and became Muni Padmasagarji Maharaj. He then became a disciple of Acharya Shri Kalyansagar Surishwarji Maharaj.
Dedicated Study and Austerity: After his initiation, Muni Padmasagarji devoted himself to the inner and outer refinement of his monastic life. He excelled in his studies and diligently followed the rules and principles of monastic conduct under the guidance of his gurus. He demonstrated remarkable intellect, memory, and a profound dedication to his spiritual masters. His journey was not without hardships, including facing difficult circumstances, illnesses, and the complexities of managing his disciples. However, he remained steadfast, drawing strength from his faith and the support of devotees.
Rise to Prominence and Acharya-hood: His perseverance, intellectual brilliance, and devotion led to his recognition within the Jain community. He was honored with the position of Gani on January 28, 1974, and Panyas on March 8, 1976. Ultimately, on December 9, 1976, he was bestowed with the esteemed title of Acharya in a grand ceremony in Mahesana. This elevation significantly increased his fame and influence.
An Eloquent Orator: Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj is described as an "ojasvi pravakta" (eloquent and powerful speaker). His discourses are characterized by simplicity of language, clarity of message, depth of meaning, breadth of thought, and originality in presentation. His words resonate deeply with the audience, earning him immense popularity and making him a source of pride for the Jain community.
Significant Achievements and Contributions:
- Child Initiation: He successfully advocated for and performed child initiations in Bhavnagar, reversing a local resolution against it.
- Upadhan Tap: He organized the historical Upadhan Tap in Bhavnagar, reviving a tradition that had been dormant for seven decades.
- Preventing Violence: He played a crucial role in preventing animal violence at the Junay Mahatir dam by appealing to the then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Babubhai Jashbhai Patel.
- Advocacy for Vegetarianism: He successfully lobbied the then Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Shankarrao Chavan, to reject a proposal to provide eggs as a "food tonic" to school children in Mumbai.
- Southern India Tour: His extensive tour of South India earned him the title of "Rashtrasant" (National Ascetic), where he contributed significantly to public welfare, religious awakening, and the spiritual development of the local populace. His presence brought discipline, resolved disputes, and revitalized the Jain sanghs in the region.
- Sammeta Shikhar Dispute Resolution: Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj played a pivotal role in resolving the long-standing dispute concerning the sacred pilgrimage site of Sammeta Shikhar. His diligent efforts and a two-year period of intense work led to a historic and permanent solution, earning him the title of "Sammeta Shikhar Tirthoddharak" (Rescuer of Sammeta Shikhar).
Enduring Legacy: His creation of the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra near Ahmedabad is considered his enduring contribution to Jainism. This center houses invaluable ancient materials, including manuscripts, gold-inscribed texts, precious paintings, idols, and palm-leaf manuscripts, which are a treasure trove for Jain tradition.
Concluding Wish: The book concludes with a heartfelt wish for Acharya Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj's continued good health and long life, so that his efforts in public welfare and the propagation of Jainism can continue for a long time to come.

In essence, "Padmasagarsuriji Ek Parichay" is a tribute to a spiritual leader who embodied the ideals of a Jain Acharya, dedicating his life to the pursuit of knowledge, spiritual practice, and the welfare of humanity, leaving an indelible mark on the Jain faith.