Shasan Prabhavaka Acharya Jina Anandsagarsuri

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri:

This document, titled "Shasan Prabhavaka Acharya Shri Jin Anand Sagarsuri," authored by Muni Mahodayasagarji and published as part of a memorial for the 800th anniversary of Manidhari Jinchandrasuri, details the life and significant contributions of Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri. It emphasizes his role as a protector and propagator of the Jain faith.

Early Life and Spiritual Inclination:

Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri was born in the year Vikram Samvat 1946 (1946 AD) in Sailana, Malwa province, India, into the esteemed Kothari family of Seth Tej Karanji. His birth name was Yadavsinghji. He was born into a respected family with connections to royalty, indicating a life of privilege and a nurturing environment. From a young age, he displayed a sharp intellect and a spiritual inclination. He was deeply influenced by Sadhviji Shri Gyaneshriji, whose Chaturmas (a four-month period of residence for monks and nuns) took place in Sailana. He actively participated in her discourses and engaged in discussions, seeking clarification on religious matters. This early exposure fostered a strong attraction towards a life of renunciation and service.

Acceptance of Monastic Vows:

In Vikram Samvat 1968 (1912 AD), at the young age of 22, he embraced asceticism under the guidance of the revered Gancharya Shrimad Trailokyasagarji Maharaj. This marked the beginning of his dedicated journey in the Jain spiritual path.

Qualities and Education:

Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri possessed exceptional qualities such as humility, devotion to his guru, and unwavering service. He had a remarkable memory, which enabled him to quickly master the profound teachings of Jain scriptures. He also excelled in English and Hindi, demonstrating his intellectual prowess.

Literary and Preaching Contributions:

He was a prolific writer and a gifted orator. He translated several Prakrit scriptures into Hindi and authored numerous original works in both prose and poetry. His lectures were characterized by deep scholarship and captivating delivery. A significant focus of his work was the training of female ascetics (sadhvi varg), imparting knowledge and refining their public speaking skills. He personally trained Sadhvi Shri Vallabhshriji, Sadhvi Shri Pramodshriji, Sadhvi Shri Vichakshanshriji, and others, leaving a lasting impact on their spiritual development and teaching abilities. He was a renowned commentator on the Dravyanuyoga (the doctrine of substances) and authored a book titled "Aagam Saar" (Essence of Agamas) for those seeking deeper spiritual knowledge. In total, he published approximately 46 books, contributing significantly to Jain literature and spreading the light of knowledge.

Preaching Journeys and Social Influence:

Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri traveled extensively across various regions of India, including Rajawadi, Torawati, Shekhawati, Godwad, Jhoramagra, Malwa, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Khandesh. Through his preaching and spiritual guidance, he propagated Jain Dharma and its principles among the populace.

Encounter with Mahatma Gandhi:

In Vikram Samvat 1986 (1930 AD), in Anjar, Kutch, he had a notable meeting with Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader of India's freedom struggle. They engaged in a significant discussion on the topic of "Khadi and Jain Sadhus." Mahatma Gandhi was impressed by Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri's reformist ideas and progressive outlook.

Establishment of Knowledge Centers:

He was instrumental in establishing numerous educational institutions, including Vidyashalas (schools), Pathshalas (religious schools), and libraries. He recognized the importance of education, especially for girls, in a time when female literacy was very limited. He played a pivotal role in establishing the "Gyanmandir" (Temple of Knowledge) in his hometown of Sailana, following the request of the local king, who was his childhood friend. The foundation stone of this Gyanmandir was laid by Seth Buddhi Singhji Bafna, and it was inaugurated by the King of Sailana, symbolizing his commitment to spreading knowledge.

Leadership and Ascension to Acharya Pad:

After the passing of his guru, Acharya Jin Harisagarsuri, in Vikram Samvat 1974 (1918 AD), Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri took over the leadership of the Anand Sagar community. He was known for his simple nature and virtuous character as the leader of the community. In Vikram Samvat 2006 (1950 AD), he was honored with the prestigious Acharya Pad (position of Acharya) by the entire Khartargachh Shri Sangh of India in a grand ceremony held in Falodi Parsvanath Tirth (Medtaraod). From this point onwards, he bore the full responsibility of guiding the entire community.

Historic Chaturmas in Kota:

In Vikram Samvat 2007 (1951 AD), he observed his Chaturmas in Kota. This Chaturmas was historic as it coincided with the presence of Digambar Acharya Poojya Shri Suryasagarji Maharaj and Sthanakvasi Acharya Shri Chauthmalji Maharaj. The three prominent spiritual leaders delivered discourses from the same platform, fostering a sense of unity and shared spiritual understanding among the diverse followers. This event served as a powerful inspiration for communal harmony.

Organizational Development and Expansion:

Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri played a crucial role in strengthening the Jain community by fostering robust organizations of monks, nuns, and lay followers. He actively promoted the cause of the Jain faith through planned propagation and development initiatives. In Vikram Samvat 2011 (1955 AD), he established the "Akhil Bharatiya Shri Jindattasuri Seva Sangh" in Ajmer, with the support of prominent lay members like Seth Pratapmalji Sethia. This organization was established to oversee and manage Jain heritage sites such as temples, Dadavadi shrines, knowledge centers, and inscriptions across India, ensuring their preservation and proper upkeep.

Activities and Accomplishments:

Throughout his tenure, he initiated various religious activities, including numerous initiations, consecrations, consecration ceremonies, Upadhans (a ritual of fasting and devotion), and organized processions. Notable among these were the journeys from Phalodi to Jaisalmer, Indore to Mandavgarh, Mandavi to Bhadreshwar Tirth, and Mandavi to Suthri Tirth.

Pilgrimage and Festivals:

He also oversaw significant events at the sacred pilgrimage site of Siddhachala Tirth. In Vikram Samvat 2026 (1970 AD), he presided over the consecration of ancient temples and the feet of revered Dadas (spiritual preceptors) like Dadasahib Jindattasuriji Maharaj and Jin Kushalmurisuriji Maharaj in the newly constructed pavilions. He also celebrated his Chaturmas at Siddhachala Tirth, where a large congregation of monks, nuns, and lay followers participated. During this period, he initiated intensive study programs and public speaking training for the monks and nuns. The Chaturmas was marked by immense spiritual fervor, including fasting rituals, impressive processions, Athisthana Mahotsav (a festival of eight days), Shanti Snatra (a ritual of purification), and Swami Vatsalya (community feasting).

Philanthropic Endeavors:

Recognizing the need for accommodation for pilgrims and followers visiting Paliatana, he, along with Poojya Upadhyayji Shri Kavindrasagarji Maharaj, planned and facilitated the construction of a dharamshala (pilgrim lodging) named "Shri Jinharivihar." This initiative aimed to address the accommodation crisis and provide a comfortable stay for visitors.

Passing and Legacy:

Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri passed away unexpectedly due to a heart attack in Vadodara, Gujarat. His sudden demise cast a pall of grief over the entire community. His final rites were performed by Seth Shantilal Hemraj Parakh of Vadodara, who ensured that his mortal remains were placed on a plot previously purchased for the establishment of a temple in the name of his predecessor.

The text concludes by highlighting Acharya Jin Anand Sagarsuri's enduring legacy as a virtuous spiritual leader and a protector of the Jain faith. His teachings, exemplary life, and immense contributions to the Jain community and its literature are remembered with deep reverence. His disciples continue to spread the principles of Jainism across various states of India, carrying forward his mission. The document ends with a tribute and salutation to his holy soul.