Pyara Khartar Chamak Gaya

The book "Pyara Khartar Chamak Gaya" (The Beloved Khartar Shone Bright) by Manoharshreeji, published by Jin Harisagarsuri Gyanbhandar, details the 1980 Padayatra Mahasangh (pilgrimage procession) from Badmer to Palitana. This massive undertaking was organized under the spiritual guidance of Param Pujya Gurudev, Prajnapurush Anuyogacharya Shri Kantisagarji Maharaj Saheb.

The Padayatra commenced from Badmer on January 31, 1980, and concluded in Palitana on March 23, 1980. The book is a poetic account of this significant event, with scholarly assistance from Arya Shri Vichakshanji's disciple, Arya Shri Akalshriji.

Key Highlights of the Padayatra:

• Initiation and Planning: The journey was inspired by a divine thought and a firm resolve to bring it to fruition. Shri Bhanwar Lalji Bohra was chosen to lead the expedition, demonstrating immense devotion and dedication to Gurudev's command.
• Grand Departure: The procession began from the Jain Nyati Nohara in Badmer on a propitious morning. A grand farewell ceremony was held outside the city, attended by over 30,000 people, including the District Collector of Badmer, Shri Fatehsinghji Charan, and Rajasthan Commissioner Shri Devendrarajji Mehta as the chief guest. The departure was marked by elephants, horses, camels, flags, drums, religious banners, and devotional music, making it an unprecedented event for the city.
• Significance of the Padayatra: The book emphasizes the profound importance of such pilgrimages, not only in religious life but also in social, physical, and spiritual well-being. It highlights that moments spent in the company of revered Gurudevs can redefine one's life path, leading to spiritual growth and liberation from worldly attachments.
• Spreading Jain Principles: The Padayatra served as a powerful medium for propagating Jain tenets. Daily discourses were held in villages and towns along the route, explaining Jain philosophy in simple language to both Jain and non-Jain audiences. The conduct and devotion of the participants deeply impressed onlookers, fostering respect for Jainism and its followers.
• Strategic Route: Guided by Gurudev Shri Kantisagarji's vision, the Padayatra traversed a route that included many lesser-known villages and towns, bringing the benefits of spiritual discourse and interaction to these communities. The unwavering devotion and hospitality of the villagers uplifted the spirits of the pilgrims.
• Journeys and Tirths: The procession passed through significant pilgrimage sites like Shankheshwar, Bhorol, and Sancheor, purifying the minds and shedding karmic burdens of the travelers.
• Palitana Arrival: The arrival in Palitana was marked by a melodious prelude of musical instruments. A grand procession, featuring decorative elephants, camels, horses, a brass band, and an elaborate palanquin carrying Gurudev Shri Kantisagarji Maharaj Saheb, along with a distinguished retinue of monks and disciples, made its way through the city. The procession was met with immense enthusiasm from the populace, with every house and vantage point occupied by onlookers. The local communities and various religious and social organizations warmly welcomed the pilgrims.
• Community Engagement: The book notes the remarkable unity and participation of 98 communities in Palitana, who honored the pilgrims. Notably, butchers voluntarily observed a holiday to join the procession.
• Inauguration and Events: The newly constructed Jin Harisagarsuri Gyanbhandar was inaugurated by Shri Kevalchandji Khatod. A grand "Phale Chunri" event, the most significant in 300 years, was held, with special thanks extended to Seth Shri Manilalji Doshi and Shri Milapchandji Golechha. An All India Khartargach Mahasangh meeting also took place, passing important resolutions.
• Malotsav and Conclusion: The second day featured a "Malotsav" (garlanding ceremony) and grand puja at the Dadashri Dada Shravak shrine. The book concludes by stating that this Padayatra was a historic and unforgettable event that will be etched in memory.

The book also includes a detailed biography of Gurudev Shri Kantisagarji Maharaj Saheb, highlighting his spiritual journey, dedication to Jainism, extensive travels, public discourses, and philanthropic activities. It further details the various programs and events that took place during the Padayatra, including religious discourses, observances of auspicious days, community gatherings, and felicitations.

In essence, "Pyara Khartar Chamak Gaya" is a tribute to a significant Jain pilgrimage, celebrating the spiritual leadership of Gurudev Shri Kantisagarji, the devotion of the participants, and the profound impact of the journey on spreading Jain teachings and fostering community spirit.