Shatavadhani Ratnachandraji Maharaja - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Shatavadhani Ratnachandraji Maharaja," in English:

This text is a biographical account of Shatavadhani Panditratna Shri Ratnachandraji Maharaj, a prominent Jain Muni.

Early Life and Education: Ratnachandraji Maharaj was born as Rayshibhai in the village of Bhorara in Kutch, Gujarat, to Virpal Sheth and Lakshmibai. Kutch was known for the adventurous and brave nature of its people, though their environment was harsh. Rayshibhai, the younger son, was born on Vaishakh Sud 10 in VS 1936 (1879 AD). Due to limited educational opportunities in his region, he received his early education in a village school and showed exceptional intelligence and memory.

Entry into Business: At the age of ten, after passing the seventh standard, Rayshibhai, along with his elder brother Nathubhai, was sent to Mumbai to learn the trade. They entered the grain business. Rayshibhai, with his serious demeanor, became stable in business instead of indulging in sports. He also acquired knowledge of English to understand telegrams. He gained a year of experience in Mumbai and then partnered with a Kutch merchant, Keshavji Devji. By the age of thirteen, he had achieved considerable success in earning wealth.

Spiritual Inclination and Renunciation: During his youth, while engaged in business, Rayshibhai was married to Hansabai at the age of thirteen. He would often travel for business to places like Sanavad near Indore and Belapur. During the monsoon, when they returned to their village, they had opportunities to interact with Jain monks, like Shri Gulabchandji Maharaj of the Limbdi sect, which fostered religious sentiments and detachment.

A pivotal event occurred in VS 1951 (1894 AD) when Rayshibhai received news from home that his wife had given birth to a daughter and had passed away during childbirth. This, coupled with his existing spiritual inclinations, solidified his resolve for renunciation. After some time in Mumbai, he returned to his village, where his decision to not remarry was supported by his elder brother. Despite his mother's emotional pleas, Rayshibhai, at the age of seventeen, took initiation (diksha) on Jeth Sud 3, Thursday, in VS 1953 (1896 AD), with Shri Gulabchandji Maharaj as his guru, thus becoming Shri Ratnachandraji Maharaj.

Intense Pursuit of Knowledge: After his initiation, Shri Ratnachandraji Maharaj dedicated himself to the rigorous study of Jain scriptures and various other subjects. He studied Sanskrit grammar, Siddhanta Deepika, Raghuvansha, and other literary works. His exceptional memory and sharp intellect enabled him to quickly master complex texts like Siddhanta Kaumudi, Shishupal Vadha, and various works on Nyaya Shastra (logic and philosophy). He also studied English, mathematics, and astrology. His thirst for knowledge was so intense that during his studies, he suffered from several ailments, including eye infections, fevers, and skin conditions, but he continued his studies with perseverance and equanimity, demonstrating detachment from his body.

Development of Avadhana Skills and Literary Contributions: From VS 1963 (1906 AD), he began developing his "Avadhana" (memory and concentration) skills, achieving the ability to perform eight, then seventeen, and eventually fifty Avadhanas within the first year. His deep scriptural study and contemplation, inspired by earlier Avadhana practitioners like Pandit Shri Gatulalji and Shrimad Rajchandraji, led him to master one hundred and one Avadhanas. He became widely known as Bharat Bhushan and Shatavadhani (one who can perform 100 Avadhanas) after demonstrating his unique abilities at the Gurukul Panchakula. He was also proficient in "padapurti" (filling in missing verses) in Gujarati and Sanskrit, showcasing his mastery of language and poetry. His interactions with prominent literary figures like Mahakavi Shri Nanalaal further highlighted his intellectual prowess.

Role in Social Reform and Assemblies: Shri Ratnachandraji Maharaj was deeply concerned about the laxity, discord, envy, and arguments prevalent in the then-Jain society. To address these issues, he participated in significant events like the Ajmer Sadhu Sammelan in VS 1989 (1932 AD). This large gathering of monks and laypeople aimed to establish a code of conduct for the Jain community, promote unity, and counter laxity. He was honored with the auspicious task of reciting the invocation (manglacharan) and served as a peacekeeper.

Extensive Travels and Preaching: Following the Ajmer Sammelan, he embarked on extensive travels throughout North India, including Jaipur, Alwar, Delhi, and Punjab. During his travels, he encountered various challenges and hardships, such as inadequate lodging, harsh weather conditions, and occasional disrespect from people when seeking alms. However, he faced these with courage and equanimity, inspiring his disciples. In Delhi, he was honored with the title "Bharatratna." He actively worked to spread Jain knowledge and promote harmony, even initiating efforts to establish the Shri Parshvanath Vidyadham. He also influenced people to give up meat and alcohol through his public discourses.

Later Life and Passing: His desire to study in Kashi-Banaras was hindered by illness. He suffered from ailments like prostate gland issues, which necessitated surgery in Mumbai. Although the surgery was successful, he faced prolonged weakness and complications. Despite his declining health, he remained dedicated to his mission of social reform and the propagation of Dharma, engaging in discussions with prominent community leaders.

Shatavadhani Panditratna Shri Ratnachandraji Maharaj passed away on Thursday, May 15, 1941 (VS 1997, Vaishakh Vad 4), at the age of 61, due to complications from high blood pressure and a stroke. His passing was mourned by thousands who came to pay their last respects.

Living Memorials: His legacy lives on through various institutions established in his name, including:

Pandit Shri Ratnachandraji Jain Kanyashala - Ghatkopar
Shatavadhani Ratnachandraji Library (affiliated with Shri Parshvanath Vidyashram, Banaras)
Shri Ratnachandraji Sthanakvasi Jain Library - Kathor
Shatavadhani Pandit Ratnachandraji Jain Gyan Mandir - Surendranagar
Shri Jain Sahitya Pracharak Samiti - Ballabhgarh

The text also includes anecdotes illustrating his fearlessness, steadfastness, and adherence to Dharma during his arduous travels and encounters with difficult situations, highlighting his exemplary life as a Jain monk.