Pandit Sukhlalji Parichay Tatha Anjali

This document is a tribute to the renowned Jain scholar, Pandit Sukhlalji. It includes a biographical sketch, tributes from various scholars and disciples, and a list of his literary contributions.

Biographical Sketch:

• Early Life: Pandit Sukhlalji was born on December 8, 1880, in Limli village, Saurashtra. He lost his mother at the age of four and was raised by a loving stepmother. He was an adventurous and courageous child, excelling in academics and also enjoying sports.
• Blindness and Intellectual Awakening: At the age of sixteen, he was struck by a severe bout of smallpox, which rendered him blind. This tragic event, however, marked the beginning of his true intellectual journey. Losing his external vision, he turned inward, cultivating a profound inner sight. He embraced the path of knowledge with renewed vigor, seeking out the company of saints and scholars.
• Pursuit of Knowledge: He mastered various Jain scriptures and Gujarati and Sanskrit texts. Recognizing the importance of Sanskrit for a deeper understanding of Jain philosophy, he traveled to Kashi (Varanasi) to study at the Shri Yashovijay Jain Sanskrit Pathshala. Despite financial hardships and the challenges of blindness, his insatiable thirst for knowledge drove him to study intensely, even independently on the banks of the Ganges. He also pursued advanced studies in Mithila, a renowned center for learning.
• Scholarly Contributions: Panditji became a distinguished scholar of Jain philosophy, Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Pali. He held teaching positions at Gujarat Vidyapeeth and Banaras Hindu University. His scholarly work is characterized by its rigor, historical perspective, comparative analysis, and commitment to truth ("Naimūlam likhyate kimcit"). He authored and edited numerous influential works, including commentaries on key Jain texts like the Sanmatitarka, Tattvarthasutra, and others. His scholarship was recognized through various honors and awards.
• Life Philosophy and Character: Panditji was a proponent of self-reliance, simplicity, and intellectual integrity. He valued truth above all else and was known for his unwavering commitment to his principles, even when it meant challenging conventional views. He fostered a spirit of open-mindedness and respect for all philosophical traditions. His personal life was marked by humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to spiritual and intellectual pursuits. He was a role model for his disciples and a beacon of wisdom.

Tributes from Scholars and Disciples:

The document includes glowing tributes from various prominent figures, including:

• Vinoba Bhave: Praised Panditji's impartiality and deep scholarship, emphasizing his contributions to Indian philosophy.
• Kakasaheb Kalelkar: Highlighted Panditji's intellectual prowess, magnanimous spirit, and ability to overcome his blindness, urging him to write his autobiography and a comprehensive philosophy of Indian thought.
• Pt. Rahul Sankrityayan: Described Panditji as a symbol of ancient scholars, admired his boundless curiosity, and noted his complete lack of sectarianism.
• Shri Ravishankar Maharaj: Recounted an anecdote illustrating Panditji's remarkable memory and praised him as a visionary and a treasure of Gujarat and India.
• Shri Nanabhai Bhatt: Emphasized Panditji's ability to harmonize his profound scholarship with his life, his continuous pursuit of knowledge, and his opposition to all forms of dogma.
• Dr. Vasudevasharan Agrawal: Referred to Panditji as "Mahapragya" (Greatly Wise) and a living institution, praising his open mind, consistent adherence to clear thoughts and actions, and his profound understanding of various philosophical systems.
• Pt. Ramkuver Malviya: Offered a poetic tribute, highlighting Panditji's birth, education, scholarship, and virtuous character.
• Shri Gurdial Malik: Described Panditji as a monument of quiet, consolidated work and a pure-hearted servant of the Goddess of Light.
• Dr. T. R. V. Murti: Praised Panditji as an original thinker, a dynamic scholar, and a true representative of Indian seers, whose views were independent and fearless.
• Prof. Dr. A. N. Upadhye: Acknowledged Panditji's contributions to contemporary learning, his progressive and cosmopolitan outlook, and his simple yet profound literary style.
• Mahāmahopādhyāya Vidhushekhara Śāstri: Hailed Panditji as one of India's greatest Sanskrit scholars, highlighting his resilience, dedication, and meticulous editing work despite his blindness.
• Dr. Satkari Mookerjee: Characterized Panditji as an outstanding representative of India's intellectual tradition, commending his scholarship, historical insight, and unique ability to understand the interconnections of different cultural and philosophical developments.
• Shri Bhanwarmal Singhvi: Described Panditji as a "visionary seer" despite his blindness, emphasizing his ability to understand and address contemporary issues with a forward-looking perspective.
• Shri Angarchand Nahata: Shared his personal journey of appreciating Panditji's scholarship, starting from his early encounters with Panditji's works and later experiencing his intellectual depth firsthand.
• Pt. Mahendrakumarji Nyayacharya: Referred to Panditji as an "Unfettered Leader" who broke free from traditional confines to seek truth and inspire others.
• Muni Punyavijayji: Expressed deep reverence for Panditji as his spiritual and intellectual guru, acknowledging his profound influence on his own spiritual and academic growth.

Conclusion:

The document collectively portrays Pandit Sukhlalji as a towering intellectual figure, a beacon of spiritual wisdom, and an inspiration to many. His life story is a testament to the power of knowledge, perseverance, and the human spirit to overcome adversity. The book serves as a comprehensive tribute to his extraordinary life and invaluable contributions to Indian philosophy, literature, and culture.