Panditvarya Shri Bechardas Doshi

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Panditvarya Shri Bechardas Doshi: A Visionary Scholar, Patriot, and Social Reformer

This biography details the life and immense contributions of Panditvarya Shri Bechardas Doshi, a highly learned, patriotic, and dedicated social worker within the Jain community. He is recognized as one of the most outstanding scholars of his era, whose life was marked by significant personal hardship, unwavering dedication to knowledge, and a commitment to awakening the Jain community from blind faith.

Early Life and Struggles: Born in Vallabhipur, Gujarat, in 1890, Bechardas Doshi experienced a deeply challenging childhood. Orphaned at the age of ten, his family faced severe economic difficulties. His mother worked as a servant to support the family, and young Bechardas did odd jobs to contribute, demonstrating early resilience and responsibility.

Pursuit of Knowledge and Scholarly Foundation: Despite these challenges, Bechardas harbored a strong desire for higher education. He began his studies in local schools but soon sought more rigorous religious and academic training. He joined a Pathshala (religious school) established by Acharya Shri Vijay Dharm Suriji Maharaj in Mandal. His intelligence impressed the Acharya, who recognized his potential.

Bechardas's educational journey was fraught with obstacles. He walked to Kashi, a renowned center of learning, with his mentor, but his mother's disapproval led him back to Gujarat. He pursued studies in Palitana, facing significant difficulties with lodging and boarding, often surviving on alms. His determination led him back to Kashi, where he studied extensively, including the challenging work Laghu Vritti. He later collaborated with Pandit Hargovinddas Trikamdas Sheth to edit and publish books for the Yasho Vijaya Jain Granthmala. His academic prowess was recognized when his published works on Jain Vyakaran (grammar) and Nyaya (logic) became textbooks at Calcutta Sanskrit College, where he subsequently passed examinations in these subjects. He also excelled in examinations on Religion held by the Mumbai Education Board, receiving prizes for his top performance.

Prakrit Language and Higher Scholarship: Recognizing the importance of ancient languages for understanding Jain scriptures, Bechardas Doshi developed a profound mastery of Prakrit, Ardh-Magadhi, and Pali languages. He stated that these languages came to him naturally. His pursuit of knowledge extended to Sri Lanka, where he traveled with Pandit Hargovinddas to study Pali under Dr. Satishchandra Vidyabhushan. Upon their return, they continued their work in publishing old Jain books.

Nationalism and Social Awakening: Bechardas Doshi was also a fervent nationalist. He was inspired by the Swadeshi movement and Mahatma Gandhi's call for Indian goods. His deep immersion in Jain scriptures, combined with his linguistic studies, broadened his perspective and led him to question blind faith within the Jain community. He began to critically examine scriptural statements, marking a period of intellectual rebellion and a quest for truth.

Translation and Publication of Scriptures: A Controversial Endeavor: A pivotal aspect of Bechardas Doshi's life was his advocacy for translating Jain scriptures into common languages to make them accessible to the general public. This was a controversial stance, facing strong opposition from religious figures and some intellectuals. Despite facing significant protests, even the threat of physical violence, Bechardas remained resolute in his mission. He participated in public debates, famously delivering a lecture on the "Loss caused by mutilation of Jain literature," which placed him at the forefront of public discourse. This led to his dismissal from the Jain Sangh in Ahmedabad and a declaration of boycott. However, he believed that the ability to speak truth depended on not being swayed by public opinion.

Association with Mahatma Gandhi: His commitment to truth and his intellectual courage brought him into contact with Mahatma Gandhi, who encouraged him to continue his work without fear of public opinion. Bechardas joined Mahatma Gandhi's Gujarat Purattva Mandir and, in collaboration with Pandit Sukhlalji Sanghvi, undertook the monumental task of editing Sanmati Tark. This work was highly acclaimed. His dedication to this project, which involved reading very small print, resulted in permanent weakness in his left eye. He also participated in Mahatma Gandhi's Dandi March and served as an editor for the handwritten 'Navjivan,' which led to his imprisonment for nine months.

Challenges and Stability: Following his release from prison, Bechardas Doshi faced further difficulties. He was denied entry into British-ruled territories, making it extremely challenging to support his family of seven. He taught Sthanakvasi Jain mendicants and students in Rajasthan and other regions, striving to expand Jain literature even in these trying times. His wife, Ajwaliben, and children provided unwavering support.

Academic Recognition and Legacy: His academic achievements eventually led to stability and recognition. In 1938, he was appointed Professor of Ardh-Magadhi at L.D. Arts College. In 1940, his lectures on the "Evolution of Gujarati Language" at Mumbai University cemented his fame for his profound linguistic knowledge. For over sixty years, he served Jain literature with immense devotion, publishing several important Jain works. He was recognized as an exceptional scholar of Old Gujarati, Prakrit, Ardh-Magadhi, and Sanskrit, holding a respected position among global scholars. He was particularly admired for his courage in revealing hidden truths within Jain scriptures, making him a revolutionary figure. In 1964, the President of India, Dr. Radhakrishnan, honored him for his deep learning and devotion. He received numerous awards, including seven gold medals, seven silver caskets, and approximately 15 certificates of honor.

Later Years and Final Contributions: Even after retiring from college, Bechardas Doshi continued his honorary services at the L.D. Prachya Vidya Mandir, guiding numerous doctoral students. He passed away at the age of 93 on October 11, 1982, leaving behind an immortal legacy in the field of Jain culture and literature. The text emphasizes the continued need for such dedicated individuals.

Selected Literary Works: The summary includes a list of his significant literary contributions, encompassing edited translations of classic Jain texts like Sanmati Tark, epics, and grammatical works in Sanskrit and Prakrit, as well as his independent works and translations.

In essence, Panditvarya Shri Bechardas Doshi was a multi-faceted personality who dedicated his life to intellectual pursuit, social reform, and the dissemination of Jain knowledge. His journey from hardship to scholarly acclaim, marked by his unwavering commitment to truth and his willingness to challenge established norms, makes him an inspiring figure in Jain history.