Suri Shatabdinu Sambharnu

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Surisatabdi nu Sambharanu" (A Remembrance of the Centennial of the Suri), edited by Padmashri Dr. Kumarpal Desai and published by Shri Mahudi (Madhupuri) Jain Swetambar Murtipujak Trust & Sangh. The book is a collection of essays and reflections on the life and works of Yoganishtha Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj.

Central Theme:

The book serves as a tribute and remembrance of Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj on the occasion of the centennial of his Acharyapada (ascension to the position of Acharya). It aims to highlight his multifaceted contributions to Jainism, literature, yoga, and society, emphasizing his deep spiritual insights and prolific literary output.

Key Aspects and Contributions of Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj as Presented in the Book:

• Prolific Author and Literary Legacy: Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji was an exceptionally prolific writer, producing over 140 books in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Gujarati, and Hindi during his 24 years as a monk. His literary output spanned diverse genres, including philosophy, yoga, devotional poetry, historical accounts, social commentary, and biographies. The book refers to his written works as "immortal literary disciples" (amar granthshishyo).
• Spiritual and Yogic Prowess: He was a master of yoga and meditation, deeply committed to self-realization and spiritual exploration. His daily diary, "Atmachaitanyani Yatra" (A Journey of Self-Consciousness), offers a glimpse into his inner spiritual journey, his contemplation, and his experiences. He is described as a "Gyanayogi, Karmayogi, and Dhyanayogi."
• Social Reform and Visionary Thinking: The book highlights his commitment to social upliftment and reform. He addressed social issues like child marriage and advocated for women's education, even inspiring state-level reforms. He possessed a visionary outlook, as evidenced by his poem predicting technological advancements and global communication (like mobile phones).
• Interfaith Harmony and Inclusivity: His writings and approach demonstrated an inclusive spirit, drawing from various Indian philosophical traditions and respecting other faiths. He sought to find common ground and universal truths that resonated across different religious and philosophical schools.
• Historical Research and Preservation: Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji was also dedicated to historical research, particularly concerning Jainism in Gujarat. His works like "Gujaratno Arvachin Itihas" (Modern History of Gujarat), "Gachchhamatprabandh" (History of Jain Sects), and "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekhsangrah" (Collection of Jain Metal Icon Inscriptions) are considered valuable contributions to understanding Jain history and heritage.
• The Mahudi Incident and Ghantakarna Mahavir Dev: A significant aspect discussed is his role in establishing the worship of Ghantakarna Mahavir Dev at Mahudi. This was aimed at redirecting people away from superstition and non-vegetarian offerings at other shrines towards a pure Jain devotional practice, establishing Mahudi as a significant pilgrimage site.
• The "Atmachaitanyani Yatra" Diary: The book features the release of his diary, "Atmachaitanyani Yatra," which provides profound insights into his internal spiritual life, his reading, contemplation, and self-reflection.
• Academic and Scholarly Recognition: The book features essays by prominent scholars and thinkers like Dr. Kumarpal Desai, Dr. Dhanvant T. Shah, Dolat Bhatt, Malati Shah, Dr. Kanti Shah, Nalini Desai, Dr. Rashmi Bheda, Dr. Rekha Vora, Kanubhai L. Shah, and Dr. R.T. Savaliya, each delving into different aspects of the Acharya's life and contributions.
• The Centennial Seminar: The book is a compilation of the proceedings and papers presented at the seminar held in Palanpur on June 15, 2014, commemorating the Acharya's centennial.

Structure of the Book:

The book is structured to cover various dimensions of Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji's legacy:

• Introductory Blessings and Greetings: From Acharya Manohar Kirtisagar Surishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Udaykirtisagar Surishwarji Maharaj.
• Essays by Scholars:
  • "Smarn" (Remembrance) by Acharya Manohar Kirtisagar Surishwarji Maharaj.
  • "Janusagar na Amrut Bindu Pamie!" (Let Us Receive the Nectar Drops from the Ocean of Knowledge!) by Acharya Udaykirtisagar Surishwarji Maharaj.
  • "A Look into the Inner Life: The Diary" by Dr. Kumarpal Desai.
  • "The Fountain of Literary Creation Consciousness" by Dhanvant T. Shah.
  • "Vandaniya Sadhuta" (Worthy Asceticism) by Dolat Bhatt.
  • "The Sky of Spirituality" by Malati Shah.
  • "Shri Anandghan Pad Sangrah: Bhavarth" (Commentary on Shri Anandghan's Collection of Verses) by Dr. Kanti B. Shah.
  • "Unique Poetic Genius" by Nalini Desai.
  • "Incomparable Contribution to Jain Yoga" by Dr. Rashmi Bheda.
  • "On the Text 'Shri Ghantakarna Mahavirdev'" by Dr. Rekha Vora.
  • "About the Books 'Atmadarshan' and 'Atmatattvadarshan'" by Kanubhai L. Shah.
  • "A Review of Historical Texts" by Prof. R.T. Savaliya.
  • "The Message of Duty: Karmayog" by Chhayaben Shah.
  • "The Century of the Great Yogi" by Parajit Patel.
  • "The Acharya's Message for the Era" by Dr. Renuka Porwal.
  • "Report of the Seminar" by Malati Shah.
• Appendices: Providing chronological details of his birth, initiation, Acharya installation, passing, travels, Chaturmas periods, lineage (Pattavali), and a bibliography of his works.

Overall Significance:

"Surisatabdi nu Sambharanu" is a valuable resource for understanding the profound impact of Acharya Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj. It celebrates his intellectual, spiritual, and social contributions, presenting him as a guiding light for humanity and a significant figure in Jain tradition and Gujarati literature. The book aims to inspire readers by showcasing a life dedicated to knowledge, service, and spiritual pursuit, leaving behind a rich legacy for generations to come.