Sajjanshreeji Maharaj Abhinandan Granth

Based on the provided pages from the "Sajjanshreeji Maharaj Abhinandan Granth," here is a comprehensive summary in English:

Book Title: Sajjanshreeji Maharaj Abhinandan Granth Author: Shashiprabhashreeji Publisher: Jain Shwetambar Khartar Gacch Sangh Jaipur Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/012028/1

This "Abhinandan Granth" is a commemorative volume dedicated to Pujya Pravartini Sajjanshreeji Maharaj on the occasion of her Golden Jubilee (Swarna Jayanti) of her initiation into monastic life. The work is a tribute from the Jain Shwetambar Khartar Gacch Sangh, Jaipur.

Key Themes and Content:

• Tribute to Pravartini Sajjanshreeji Maharaj: The primary purpose of the book is to honor and celebrate the life and spiritual journey of Pravartini Sajjanshreeji Maharaj. It highlights her dedication to spiritual practice, her multifaceted personality, and her significant contributions to Jainism.
• Jain Tradition and Women's Role: The publisher's note emphasizes the equal importance, rights, and dignity of women in Jain religious traditions, drawing parallels with prominent female figures in Jain history like Marudeva, Brahmisundari, Malli, Sita, Anjana, and Chandanbala, who have contributed to the purity of the faith and culture.
• Sajjanshreeji Maharaj's Life and Achievements: The book details her exemplary life, which is described as a pure flame of spiritual practice, illuminating the past, present, and future. Her spiritual journey is presented as a source of inspiration, highlighting her dedication to knowledge, self-control, virtue, service, self-study, simplicity, devotion, humility, and gentleness.
• Compilation of Tributes and Blessings: The granth is a collection of blessings, good wishes, and heartfelt tributes from various esteemed Jain acharyas, munis, scholars, and prominent figures from different Jain sects (Śvetāmbara, Sthānakavāsī, Terāpanthī). This highlights the widespread respect and admiration for Sajjanshreeji Maharaj across the Jain community.
• Structure of the Granth: The book is divided into five sections:
  1. Jivan Jyoti (Life's Light): This section likely contains a biographical account of Sajjanshreeji Maharaj, detailing her life story, her journey to monasticism, and significant events.
  2. Aashirvachan: Shubhakamnayein, Abhinandan (Blessings: Good Wishes, Felicitations): This section compiles messages and greetings from various respected individuals and organizations.
  3. Itihas ke Ujjwal Prishth (Bright Pages of History): This part likely delves into the history of the Khartar Gacch tradition, its origins, prominent acharyas, and significant historical events, placing Sajjanshreeji Maharaj's life within this historical context.
  4. Dharma, Darshan evam Adhyatm Chintan (Religion, Philosophy, and Spiritual Contemplation): This section would feature articles and reflections on various aspects of Jain philosophy, spiritual practices, and ethical teachings.
  5. Nari: Tyag, Tapasya evam Seva ki Sursari (Woman: The Divine River of Sacrifice, Austerity, and Service): This section focuses on the role and contributions of women in spiritual life, highlighting themes of sacrifice, austerity, and service, with Sajjanshreeji Maharaj as a prime example.
• Family Background and Support: The book acknowledges the significant role of Sajjanshreeji Maharaj's worldly family, particularly the Lunia family of Jaipur, in the publication of this felicitation volume. Their financial and emotional support is gratefully mentioned. Specific individuals like Shri Pukhraj Chand Lunia and Shri Manak Chand Lunia are highlighted for their contributions and their dedication to propagating Jain ideals.
• Editorial and Publishing Details: The editorial board included prominent figures like Shri Chand Surana "Saras," Surendra Bothra, Madanlal Sharma, and several Sadhvis and respected laymen. The printing was done under the direction of Shri Chand Surana by Kamdhenu Printers & Publishers in Agra. The publication date is V.S. 2046 Vaishakh Purnima, corresponding to May 20, 1986.
• Content Highlights: The pages showcase a wide range of content, including:
  • Dedication: A beautiful dedication to Sajjanshreeji Maharaj by Sadhvi Shashi Prabhashri and Sadhvi Priyadarshanashri. Rano List of Committee Members: Detailed lists of members from the organizing and welcoming committees.
  • Ashirvachan: Blessings from the Governor of Rajasthan, Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, and other dignitaries, underscoring the societal recognition of Sajjanshreeji Maharaj's spiritual leadership.
  • Biographical Details: Extensive details about Sajjanshreeji Maharaj's early life, her family background (Lunia family), her spiritual inclinations from childhood, her marriage, her eventual initiation (Diksha), her spiritual guidance from her gurus (e.g., Gyanashreeji Maharaj, Upayogashreeji Maharaj), her extensive travels, her participation in various religious events, her literary contributions (translations, poems), her role in the Khartar Gacch tradition, and her eventual recognition as a "Pravartini."
  • Sajjanshreeji's Virtues: Emphasis is placed on her simplicity, humility, unwavering dedication to Jain principles, profound knowledge of scriptures, eloquent preaching, compassionate nature, and exemplary service to her gurus and the community.
  • Family Support: The crucial role of her family, especially the Lunia family, is acknowledged, highlighting their deep devotion and support for her spiritual path and the publication of this honorific book.
  • Literary Works: The book mentions her talents in poetry, translation, and scriptural commentary, noting specific works like "Puṇya Jīvan Jyoti," "Śramaṇa Sarvasva," and translations of classical Jain texts.
  • Khartar Gacch History: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the history of the Khartar Gacch, tracing its lineage from its origins, key acharyas like Vardhamanasuri, Jineshwar Suri, Jinavallabha Suri, Jinadatta Suri, Mani-dhari Jinachandra Suri, Jinakushal Suri, and Jinachandra Suri, highlighting their contributions to combating laxity and upholding Jain tenets. The text also details the community's efforts in preserving Jain heritage, establishing temples, and promoting spiritual activities.
  • Personal Testimonials: The book includes reminiscences and testimonials from her disciples (like Sadhvi Shashiprabhāshri, Sadhvi Priyadarshnashri, Sadhvi Hempraghashri, Sadhvi Manjulaji, Sadhvi Su Yashashriji, Sadhvi Sumyagdarshnashri, etc.), family members, and respected members of the Jain community, offering insights into her character, virtues, and impact.

In essence, the "Sajjanshreeji Maharaj Abhinandan Granth" is a comprehensive and reverential compilation celebrating the life and spiritual achievements of a highly respected Jain spiritual leader, highlighting her profound knowledge, unwavering dedication, and her significant role in preserving and propagating Jainism. It also serves as a historical document for the Khartar Gacch tradition and the broader Jain community.