Tejasvi Tarak Acharya Narendradevji

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Tejasvi Tarak Acharya Narendradevji," by Sukhlal Sanghavi:

This text is a tribute to Acharya Narendradevji, highlighting his significant contributions and profound impact on education, nationalism, and intellectual pursuits. The author, Sukhlal Sanghavi, expresses deep shock and grief at Acharya Narendradevji's passing, noting that the news resonated with a sadness comparable to the loss of a close family member. The widespread mourning by national leaders, intellectuals, and the general public underscores the immense respect and admiration he commanded.

The author recounts his personal encounters and observations of Acharya Narendradevji, painting a picture of a remarkable individual:

• From Law to National Service: Acharya Narendradevji, initially a lawyer, was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's call to action and renounced his private practice to dedicate himself to the nation and education.
• Pioneer of National Education: He became actively involved with Kashi Vidyapeeth, a significant institution born out of the national freedom struggle. He served as a professor, orator, and writer.
• Intellectual Prowess: Sanghavi first encountered Acharya Narendradevji's writings in the Hindi journal 'Swaya', where he discussed philosophical topics, particularly within the Buddhist tradition. He was also an adept economist, whose economic analyses deeply impressed Sanghavi.
• Encouragement of Scholarship: Acharya Narendradevji actively encouraged Rahul Sankrityayan in his scholarly travels and research.
• Deep Dive into Gujarat Vidyapeeth: Sanghavi recalls a meeting at Gujarat Vidyapeeth where Acharya Narendradevji's economic insights were praised. It was during this time that Sanghavi had his first direct interaction with Acharya Narendradevji. He was touched by Acharya Narendradevji's scholarly curiosity, even reading Sanghavi's articles in the Gujarati quarterly 'Puratatva'.
• Experience at Kashi Vidyapeeth: Sanghavi visited Kashi Vidyapeeth as a guest of Acharya Narendradevji. The experience of living there, amidst discussions on knowledge, learning, and the simplicity of life, reminded him of a sage's hermitage. Acharya Narendradevji even spoke of starting a journal similar to 'Puratatva'. The author notes how Professor Dharmank Kausambi was so impressed by Acharya Narendradevji's generosity and openness that he chose to stay at Kashi Vidyapeeth after leaving Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
• Intellectual Discourse and Social Issues: Sanghavi recounts another visit to Kashi Vidyapeeth in 1934, where he spent time with Acharya Narendradevji, engaging in deep intellectual discussions. During a function at Hindu University, Acharya Narendradevji, despite poor health, delivered a lecture in Hindi on socialism and communism, providing a historically insightful and clear analysis.
• Diligence in Imprisonment: When incarcerated during the freedom struggle, Acharya Narendradevji viewed it as an opportunity for intense study and writing. He shared his experience of learning French in jail and then translating Vasubandhu's "Abhidharma Kosha" from French to English and then to Hindi. The author was deeply moved by this dedication to scholarly pursuit even in adverse circumstances.
• Pragmatic Statesmanship: While deeply immersed in philosophical and academic pursuits, Acharya Narendradevji also engaged in practical politics, but with a notable detachment from political cunning.
• Chancellorship and Accessibility: While serving as Vice-Chancellor of Lucknow University, Acharya Narendradevji maintained an accessible demeanor, welcoming Sanghavi and facilitating introductions to other intellectuals, despite his own responsibilities and health concerns.
• Unwavering Support and Trust: Even when Sanghavi was in Kashi, Acharya Narendradevji made special efforts to meet him, demonstrating a rare humility and respect. He would visit Sanghavi multiple times, often accompanied by other scholars, engaging in discussions about scriptures and knowledge. Acharya Narendradevji recognized Sanghavi's expertise regarding Buddhist texts and placed immense trust in Pandit Dalshukh Malvania for the completion and correction of his Buddhist writings.
• Example of Renunciation: The author highlights Acharya Narendradevji's extraordinary example of renunciation, noting that he saved very little of his monthly salary for his family, as revealed by a close confidant.
• Legacy of a "Bright Star": The text concludes by emphasizing that the passing of such a magnanimous, knowledgeable, and selfless individual is a significant loss to the nation. Acharya Narendradevji was a "bright star" whose brilliance was ignited by Gandhi's spiritual radiance. Sanghavi asserts that the true remembrance of Acharya Narendradevji lies in emulating his virtues and his selfless endeavors.

In essence, the text portrays Acharya Narendradevji as a towering figure of intellect, integrity, and nationalistic fervor, whose life was dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the cause of India's freedom. His humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to scholarship, even in the face of adversity, left an indelible mark on those who knew him and on the nation as a whole.