Shrimad Nyayavijayji Maharaje Aapel Bhashan

This document is a collection of speeches delivered at a commemorative event held on Friday, September 25, 1931, at the Kut-Town Hall in Mumbai. The occasion was the ninth anniversary of Jain Acharya Shrimad Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj. The event was presided over by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who was the President of the assembly. The speeches highlight the life and contributions of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj and touch upon broader themes related to Jainism, national progress, and social reform.

Here's a breakdown of the key speeches and themes:

1. Introduction and Context:

• The event took place on Bhadrava Sud 14, Friday, September 25, 1931, in Mumbai.
• The main speaker was Shrimad Nyayavijayji Maharaj, described as a "Nyayavisharad-Nyaytirth" (a scholar and authority in logic and jurisprudence).
• The presence of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as the president was seen as a significant honor, signifying a confluence of spiritual and political leadership.

2. Shrimad Nyayavijayji Maharaj's Speech:

• Admiration for Acharya Vijaydharmsuri: Nyayavijayji Maharaj begins by praising the esteemed reputation of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj, whose portrait was presented. He emphasizes the significance of having a prominent national leader like Sardar Patel preside over the anniversary, calling it a "gold and fragrance" metaphor for a noble soul being honored by an equally distinguished figure.
• The Early Life of Mulchand (later Vijaydharmsuri): The speech then delves into the early life of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri, who was born Mulchand in Mahuva, Bhavnagar, Kathiawar. He paints a picture of a restless youth, disinterested in studies, and engrossed in games and worldly pursuits.
• The Turning Point: At the age of ten, Mulchand was introduced to business. However, he fell into the trap of gambling and addiction. In a critical incident, he gambled away his father's ornaments. This led to a profound realization and upheaval in his life. He became aware of the world's impermanence and the futility of worldly existence, developing a strong sense of vairagya (detachment).
• Seeking Initiation: Mulchand then traveled to Bhavnagar and met Shrimad Vridhichandji Maharaj. He expressed his desire for diksha (renunciation and initiation into monastic life). Vridhichandji Maharaj, a great ascetic and scholar, was known for his adherence to scriptural injunctions, which emphasized rigorous testing and suitability before granting initiation, especially to minors.
• The Path to Renunciation: Vridhichandji Maharaj tested Mulchand, who passed all the examinations. He received diksha at the age of twelve, becoming Dharmavijay.
• Spiritual and Intellectual Growth: Dharmavijay was dedicated to his guru and pursued a life of pure conduct and knowledge. Through continuous progress, he rose to become Acharya Vijaydharmsuri.
• Acharya Vijaydharmsuri's Contributions: Nyayavijayji Maharaj then elaborates on the vast contributions of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri:
  • He was a true warrior who dispelled inaction.
  • He was a radiant embodiment of enthusiasm, determination, and patience.
  • His fame spread across Gujarat, Kathiawar, Marwar, Mewar, Malwa, South India, East India, and even reached Europe and America.
  • He tirelessly traveled to spread Jainism, reaching distant lands.
• The Essence of Jainism: The speaker then elaborates on the core tenets of Jainism:
  • It is a religion of vitaraga (those free from attachment and aversion), self-realization (atmā-dharma), and non-violence (ahimsa).
  • It is the divine command of the vitaraga gods.
  • Studying Jainism is learning to conquer desires and aversions.
  • A Jain's life is one of self-control, non-violence, truth, and righteousness.
  • Jains have noble thoughts, high conduct, and broad, liberal sentiments.
  • Jainism is accessible to all, regardless of caste or profession. Even a sweepers or cobbler can be a true Jain if they embody ahimsa, truth, self-control, renunciation, and service. Conversely, someone of high birth who lacks these virtues is considered low.
• Comparison to Mahatma Gandhi: Nyayavijayji Maharaj draws a parallel between Acharya Vijaydharmsuri and Mahatma Gandhi, referring to Gandhi as the "saint of Sabarmati" and a "half-naked fakir" who is captivating the entire nation with his words, strength of non-violence, and character. He notes that Gandhi is currently thousands of miles away, representing the poor, and that Europe and America are eager to see him.
• The Union of Spiritual and Political Leaders: He reiterates that the "Ganadhara" (leader of the community) of the great Jain Acharya is present as the chairman, signifying the noble union of spiritual and political leadership. He emphasizes that Sardar Patel's presence demonstrates his inherent Jain qualities of non-violence, service, and public welfare. He advises listeners to accept any constructive criticism from Patel with humility and not react with anger.
• Spreading Jainism Globally: The speech details Acharya Vijaydharmsuri's extensive efforts:
  • He converted scholars and pandits in Kashi and Bengal to Jainism.
  • He persuaded thousands in Bengal and other regions to give up meat-eating and violence.
  • He established Jain schools in strongholds of Hinduism like Kashi, promoting education and reviving Prakrit and Sanskrit studies.
  • He widely propagated Jain literature, attracting Western scholars and igniting their interest.
  • He established educational institutions like gurukuls, mandirs, balashrams, and libraries.
  • He advised rulers of Kathiawar states and received respect from administrators and Maharajas of Udaipur, Jodhpur, Indore, and Gwalior.
  • Maharaja of Darbhanga praised his scholarship, and the Maharaja of Banaras was his devoted follower. He was honored with the title "Shasnavisharad-Jainacharya" in Kashi.
  • He lectured effectively in various forums, including the All-Religions Convention in Calcutta and Allahabad, impressing scholars and dignitaries.
  • He ensured the removal of desecration at the Aau pilgrimage site through his intervention with the Agent to the Governor-General of Rajputana.
  • He was made an honorary member of the Asiatic Society of Bengal and Oriental Societies of Germany and Italy.
  • He organized a Jain literature conference in Jodhpur to highlight the importance of Jain literature globally.
  • He maintained correspondence with prominent scholars in England, France, Germany, Italy, and America, influencing about 150 Western scholars to engage in Jain literature research.
• Testimonials from Western Scholars: The speech includes powerful testimonials from Western scholars:
  • Dr. Sylvain Lévi (French Scholar): Met Acharya Maharaj while he was ill and was deeply impressed, stating, "I can tell you that he is one of the most impressive personalities I ever met with in the whole world."
  • Sir George Grierson (London): Though he never met him, he acknowledged, "...many people in this country will unite with me in deploring the loss of a ripe and learned scholar of world-wide reputation."
  • Prof. H. Jacobi (German Scholar): Praised the importance of Jain Sanskrit literature and expressed growing admiration for it. He asserted that Jainism is an original, distinct, and independent system crucial for understanding ancient Indian philosophical thought and religious life.
• Call to Action: The speech concludes with a call to internalize the lessons from the lives of great souls, emphasizing the importance of friendship, service, truth, self-control, and renunciation for self-development. It stresses the need for unity among the people, likening it to ants working together to overcome great obstacles. It urges the audience to embrace Swadeshi (self-reliance) and national pride.

3. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Speech:

• Humility and Duty: Sardar Patel begins by expressing his humility in accepting the presidential role, stating he is not truly qualified but cannot refuse a request from the community, likening it to a principle even monks cannot disregard.
• The Significance of the Occasion: He acknowledges that Saurashtra is the land of jewels and the birthplace of Vijaydharmsuri. He agrees that celebrating the anniversary and praising the virtues of great personalities is a duty.
• Beyond Mere Praising: Patel emphasizes that simply praising virtues is insufficient. He uses the analogy of money in a bank; the clerks only get paid for their work. Similarly, lectures and stories might entertain but don't necessarily lead to welfare unless one actively incorporates the teachings into their life.
• The Need for Self-Improvement: He urges the audience to adopt the principles of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri in their lives. Being a Jain is not just about outward symbols but about embodying the true spirit of Jainism. He calls for introspection and a commitment to self-purification.
• Jainism and Non-Violence: Patel addresses a misconception that the emphasis on non-violence in Jainism might lead to cowardice. He strongly refutes this by drawing a parallel with Mahatma Gandhi, whom he calls a "half-naked fakir" who shakes the world and has challenged a mighty empire with only self-power and the voice of truth. He asserts that non-violence is not for the weak but for the brave.
• Overcoming Internal Divisions: He expresses sadness and concern over the internal divisions and disputes within the Jain community. He urges them to unite, set aside petty conflicts, and become true soldiers for their community and nation. He warns against using force and emphasizes the need for love and compassion.
• Relevance of Jain Principles to Social Issues: Patel links the principles of Jainism to current social issues:
  • He criticizes the practice of spending vast sums on stray animals when many humans are starving. He questions if Jainism teaches protecting animals while neglecting human suffering.
  • He highlights the widespread poverty and starvation in villages and states that such a situation is partly the responsibility of the community itself.
  • He emphasizes the importance of the spinning wheel (Khadi) as a means to alleviate poverty and urges the wealthy Jain community to support this cause.
  • He specifically appeals to Jain women to wear Khadi and hand-spun cloth, drawing a parallel with Mahatma Gandhi's simple attire earning him respect, unlike those in formal Western dress.
• Call for National Progress: He concludes by urging the audience to move forward with courage, truth, and righteousness to make the country prosperous.

4. Shri Manilal Kothari's Speech:

• Admiration for Acharya Vijaydharmsuri: Kothari expresses his birth in the Jain community and his adherence to the principles of great Jains of the present era. He acknowledges the significant service rendered by Acharya Vijaydharmsuri to Jainism, its traditions, and its literature, as well as to India as a whole. He admits that the broad-mindedness of the Acharya is lacking in the current generation.
• Decline of the Jain Community: He laments the decline of the Jain community, noting a decrease in numbers and a loss of strength to protect ancient temples. He criticizes the current focus on business and mills, describing it as a "fevered trade."
• Call for Revival: Kothari urges the community to learn from Acharya Vijaydharmsuri's life and adopt his virtues. He calls for awakening and progress akin to other communities, warning that otherwise, the Jain community might cease to exist.
• Role of Monks and Acharyas: He appeals to the monks and acharyas to shift their focus from urban centers and small upashrayas (monastic residences) to national welfare. He suggests they should go to the villages and preach the dharma to the people who are receptive, just as Lord Mahavir embraced the uneducated and downtrodden.
• Financial Responsibility and National Service: He states that financial contributions alone, through entities like the Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi, are insufficient to protect the holy places. He calls for individual contributions to national service as atonement for past wrongs.
• Supporting Mahatma Gandhi and Khadi: He believes that the pursuit of Swaraj (self-rule) under Mahatma Gandhi also encompasses the welfare of the world. He urges monks and acharyas to recognize Gandhi's greatness and contribute their spiritual power and efforts to the cause of national welfare.
• Promoting Khadi: He concludes by urging everyone to buy Khadi to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti and to actively participate in the Khadi movement. The speech ends with the announcement of Khadi sales, where a significant amount of Khadi was sold, and the collection of donations for the cause.

Overall Themes:

• The Legacy of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj: The speeches collectively celebrate the life, teachings, and global impact of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj, highlighting his scholarly prowess, spiritual dedication, and his role in propagating Jainism.
• The Importance of Internalizing Teachings: A recurring theme is the need to move beyond mere recitation and into practical application of Jain principles in daily life.
• Unity and Social Responsibility: Both Nyayavijayji Maharaj and Sardar Patel emphasize the critical need for unity within the Jain community and a greater sense of social responsibility towards the less fortunate.
• Non-Violence as Strength: Sardar Patel strongly advocates for the understanding of non-violence as a powerful force for change, not a sign of weakness, drawing parallels with Mahatma Gandhi's movement.
• Nationalism and Self-Reliance: The speeches are imbued with a sense of national awakening, urging the community to contribute to the progress of India and embrace self-reliance through movements like Swadeshi and Khadi.
• The Confluence of Spiritual and Political Leadership: The event itself, with a Jain Acharya's anniversary being presided over by a prominent national leader like Sardar Patel, underscores the interconnectedness of spiritual and societal progress.