Smruti Shesha Dada

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Smruti Shesha Dada" by Sukhlal Sanghavi, focusing on the experiences and insights of the author regarding "Dada Saheb":

The article "Smruti Shesha Dada" by Sukhlal Sanghavi is a tribute to a respected figure, referred to as "Dada Saheb," whose life and work left a profound impact on the author and many others. Sanghavi aims to share his personal, yet widely applicable, observations of Dada Saheb.

Early Impressions and Gandhian Influence:

Sanghavi first heard of G.V. Mavalankar (likely the "Dada Saheb" being referred to) in 1921-22 during the Swaraj movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. Mavalankar was known as a young lawyer and a staunch follower of Gandhi. Sanghavi recalls initial confusion due to another Mavalankar who was a staunch traditionalist and opposed to Gandhi's movement. His first direct experience of hearing Mavalankar speak was during a student strike at Gujarat College, where Mavalankar addressed a large gathering in English with a melodious and fluent voice.

A Pivotal Life Principle on Institutional Finance:

A significant encounter occurred around 1945 in Mumbai, where Sanghavi, along with others, met with Dada Saheb to discuss the utilization of funds donated to Gujarat Vidya Sabha by Sheth Bholabhai Jesinghbhai Dalal. During this discussion, Dada Saheb articulated a crucial life principle: institutions should never solely rely on interest income. If necessary for the strength and development of the institution, one should not hesitate to spend the principal amount. Sanghavi fully agreed with this perspective, as he had experienced that to truly establish and develop work, relying only on interest from stagnant funds would hinder progress. He analogized this to believing a plantation is only successful when it bears fruit, whereas true success lies in the proper cultivation of the soil, fertilization, and initial preparations, which already contain the future yield. This shared perspective fostered a sense of mutual understanding.

Deepening Association and Leadership:

In June 1947, Sanghavi returned to Ahmedabad, leading to more frequent meetings with Dada Saheb. Dada Saheb was the President of Gujarat Vidya Sabha and also of the B.J. Vidyabhavan, which operated under its auspices. Sanghavi had the opportunity to interact with him regularly during meetings of the Vidya Sabha and the executive committee of B.J. Vidyabhavan. These meetings, often held at Dada Saheb's father's residence, provided a platform for genuine connection. Sanghavi found himself drawn to Dada Saheb's working methods, thought process, and his open, convivial communication style, making him attend meetings regardless of his own health.

Efficient and Collaborative Work Ethic:

Dada Saheb was known for his meticulous preparation, thoroughly understanding agenda items before meetings, allowing for efficient conclusion of discussions. He then had a knack for engaging attendees with further insights, making it difficult for them to leave. A consistent theme in his discussions was the importance of fostering complete trust and transparency among collaborators in any collective endeavor, mirroring Gandhi's approach.

Empowering Educators and Institutions:

Dada Saheb would humbly acknowledge the expertise of those working in specific academic fields, stating his own limitations in those areas. However, he emphasized his unwavering interest in education and his duty to provide maximum convenience and resources to those working in the educational sector. Sanghavi witnessed this principle in action throughout his interactions.

Broad-minded Generosity and Institutional Unity:

Dada Saheb's generosity was multifaceted, devoid of any narrow sectarian or factionalism often observed in prominent individuals. While he was primarily associated with Gujarat Vidya Sabha and its institutions, he consistently expressed a view of underlying unity among various educational organizations in Gujarat, such as Gujarat Vidyapith, Gujarat Vishvavidyalay, Vallabh Vidyanagar, Vadodara University, and Lokbharati Gram Vidyapith. He felt a personal stake in the well-being of institutions he was not directly involved with.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging and Visionary Leadership:

Dada Saheb made decisions with a consideration for how all staff, from peons to professors, could remain connected and dedicated to the institution. Despite his meticulousness in financial matters, he operated with a broad outlook. This approach fostered a strong sense of unity and goodwill among the teachers and faculty of B.J. Vidyabhavan and Brahmacharivadi, enabling them to work together harmoniously. Sanghavi observed that, similar to the trust people had in Gandhi, Dada Saheb held a special place in the hearts of his colleagues. When financial and other challenges made it difficult for the professors of B.J. Vidyabhavan to continue working together, Dada Saheb, with foresight, consented to and actively participated in the establishment of Ramanand College to ensure that valuable personnel would not disperse.

Valuing Merit and True Recognition:

Dada Saheb's appreciation for academic work, such as excellent editing, research, or translation, was distinctive. He believed in providing adequate rewards for excellent work, trusting that good work would find recognition and attract financial support.

Connection to Gandhian Ideals and Legacy:

Dada Saheb regularly visited the Harijan Ashram in Ahmedabad and, when his elderly mother was alive, would take her there for prayers. These visits, Sanghavi noted, provided comfort and evoked the living spirit of Gandhi.

Similar to Gandhi, who managed numerous tasks and a large number of workers, leading to the resolution of one task after another, Dada Saheb also exhibited this trait. He patiently and understandingly addressed various matters, including those related to the Gandhi Smarak, activities funded by the Kasturba Trust, city issues, and individuals seeking advice. Even when delivering an unfavorable decision, he would do so with a smile, sending people away with a positive impression. This accomplishment, Sanghavi concludes, was a direct reminder of Gandhi's own achievements.