Sakalchandragani

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the figures of Anandghanji and Sakalchandragani:

The text excerpts discuss two prominent Jain ascetics, Anandghanji and Upadhyay Shri Sakalchandragani, highlighting their spiritual prowess, philosophical depth, and contributions to Jain tradition.

Anandghanji:

The text initially presents an anecdote illustrating Anandghanji's profound detachment from worldly matters. It describes how a queen, influenced by a "Vashikaran mantra" given to her by a certain "Giraji of Abu," began to behave in a way that aroused jealousy in other queens. When the king learned of this, he was enraged and confronted Anandghanji, accusing him and throwing a "madaliya" (a type of amulet or object). Anandghanji calmly asked the king to read what was written on it. The inscription revealed a profound truth: "What is it to Anandghan if king and queen unite? What is it to Anandghan if king and queen do not unite?" This verse demonstrated Anandghanji's complete indifference to worldly relationships and desires, leaving the king remorseful and prostrate at his feet.

The text further quotes from the "Shri Abhinandan Jinastavan," highlighting Anandghanji's teachings on the pursuit of spiritual vision (darshan). It emphasizes that those who incessantly seek spiritual vision are like those who, being thirsty for nectar, would never choose to drink poison. The verses suggest that life and death become meaningful only in the pursuit of this vision, which is rare but attainable through grace, and attributed to Anandghanji.

The text also references "Anandghan-Visi" stanzas, which reveal his deep philosophical understanding. Examples include verses urging devotion to Jinusar (Lord Mahavir or the Tirthankaras) without wavering, and warning against impurity of mind. Another quote emphasizes that while people engage in ritualistic religion, they often fail to grasp its true essence, but once one embraces the feet of Jinusar, they cease to accumulate karma. The text concludes this section by praising such detached and selfless Mahatmas whose words will continue to provide spiritual nourishment for ages.

Upadhyay Shri Sakalchandragani:

The text then shifts to Upadhyay Shri Sakalchandragani, comparing him favorably to the moon. Kavi Gandas Upadhyay is quoted as stating that while the moon is the son of Rishi Atri and resides in the sky, Sakalchandragani is the son of Seth Govind and resides in the Tapagachchha. The moon has sixteen kalas (phases), whereas Sakalchandragani possesses seventy-two kalas. The moon's kalas wax and wane, but Sakalchandragani's kalas grow daily, and he remains a "shasanprabhavak" (influencer of the Jain order). The moon moves in its celestial orbit, while Sakalchandragani moves everywhere, bestowing "nectar" (spiritual wisdom) upon all. He is honored with a hundred salutations.

Sakalchandragani is described as a disciple of Shri Vijaydansuri, a knowledgeable scholar of Jain Agamas, and an excellent poet. He was also known for his simplicity and generosity. It is mentioned that at his request, Dharmasagar was initiated into the order in Terwada in V.S. 1921.

A list of his numerous literary works is provided, including:

• Haribal Rajarshi Ras (V.S. 1942)
• Mrugavati Akhyan (V.S. 1943)
• Vasupujya Jinpunyaprakash
• Virvardhaman Jin-Gunveli-Surli (64 verses)
• Ganadharvaad Stavan
• Mahavir Stavan
• RishabhsamtaSaralta Stavan
• Deepavali-Vir Stavan
• Kumati Dosh Vignapti Simandhar Swami Stavan
• Pratishtha Kalpa
• Ekveesh Prakari Puja
• Sattar Bhed Puja
• Bar Bhavna Sajhay (along with 20 other Sajhay)
• Gautam Pruchha
• Devananda Sajhay
• Sadhukalp Lata
• Dhyan Deepika (204 verses)

He had many disciples, with Upadhyay Shantichandra and Upadhyay Surachandra being the most prominent. The text notes that this information is taken from "Jain Parampara Ne Itihas" Part 3.

Upadhyay Shri Kalyanavijayji Maharaj:

The text then briefly introduces Upadhyay Shri Kalyanavijayji Maharaj, a significant figure who influenced the Jain order. It recounts his lineage and how his ancestor, Thirpala, was granted the village of Lalpur by Sultan Mahmud Shah of Gujarat. Kalyanavijayji, son of Thirpala's grandson Harkhasha and Punji, was born in V.S. 1601. He was initiated by Shri Vijay Hirsuri at Mehsana in V.S. 1919, taking the name Kalyanavijay. After rigorous religious and scriptural studies, he became a great scholar. He was awarded the title of Upadhyay in Patan in V.S. 1924. He was praised for his excellent preaching skills and virtuous conduct, which left a strong impression on people. He is noted for having defeated Brahmin pandits in the assembly of Raja Vachhatrivadi in Rajpipla. He traveled extensively through Gujarat, Malwa, Mewad, Marwar, and other regions, visited numerous pilgrimage sites, and consecrated idols. The text mentions his presence in Viratnagar of Jaipur state during Akbar's time (though the sentence is cut off).

In essence, the provided text offers insights into the spiritual depth and intellectual contributions of Anandghanji and Upadhyay Sakalchandragani, showcasing their commitment to Jain principles and their impact on the spiritual landscape, while also briefly touching upon the influential Upadhyay Kalyanavijayji.