Udarcheta Muni Shri Nyayavijayji

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Udarcheta Muni Shri Nyayavijayji: A Life Dedicated to Jainism, Literature, and Social Reform

This text details the life and legacy of Udarcheta Muni Shri Nyayavijayji, born Narsinh in 1896 in the pilgrimage and trading village of Mandal in Gujarat, India. He was the son of Chhagalal Vakhatchand and Diwalibai. After completing his early education locally, his path diverged from conventional life due to the influence of Jain mendicant Shri Dharm Vijayaji.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening:

Narsinh was a bright and cooperative child. His education was limited by the lack of English facilities in Mandal. However, a turning point came in 1902 when Shri Dharm Vijayaji visited Mandal. Inspired by his preachings and the establishment of a religious school (Pathshala), Narsinh became one of the first students. Under Shri Dharm Vijayaji's guidance, the Pathshala was relocated to Banaras for advanced studies, a challenging journey undertaken with determination. Despite initial difficulties with Brahmin teachers, the students, including Narsinh, thrived in their studies of Jainism, languages, grammar, and logic (Nyaya).

Diksa and Scholarly Pursuits:

Narsinh's parents passed away before his marriage could be arranged, freeing him from familial obligations. After a brief return to his hometown and contemplation of his future, he returned to Banaras. The Pathshala faced financial difficulties, which the students bravely addressed by sacrificing their ornaments. This led to a successful fundraising tour to Calcutta, which secured the Pathshala's future. In 1907, Narsinh, along with four other students, took Diksa (renunciation) and were renamed Nyaya Vijayaji, Mrugendra Vijayaji, Mahendra Vijayaji, Sinh Vijayaji, and Vidya Vijayaji. They continued their studies, and Shri Nyaya Vijayaji particularly excelled in Sanskrit and Nyaya, earning distinction from Calcutta University.

Literary Master and Social Reformer:

Shri Nyaya Vijayaji became a prolific writer and scholar. He possessed an extraordinary command of Sanskrit, composing poetry and delivering lengthy lectures effortlessly. His works like "Adhyatma Tattvalok" and "Nyaya Kusumanjali," written at a young age, demonstrated his profound philosophical depth, earning him accolades from prominent literary figures. He authored a monumental 500-page Gujarati book on Jain Darshan, which became a bestseller with multiple editions in Gujarati, Hindi, and English, solidifying his legacy.

Beyond his scholarly achievements, Shri Nyaya Vijayaji was a progressive thinker with a nationalist and reformist approach. He was deeply concerned with social conditions and national issues. He advocated for simplicity, the wearing of hand-woven cotton clothes (Khadi), and the upliftment of lower and middle classes. His association with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel during a celebration honoring his guru, Acharya Vijaya Dharm Suriji, highlighted his influence.

Impact and Recognition:

His progressive ideas, including child-renunciation, hand-woven cloth, and the eradication of untouchability, impressed Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwar of Vadodara. He played a crucial role in advocating for and passing legislation to prohibit child-diksa in Vadodara State and promoted the use of Khadi. Notably, he organized inter-caste dinners, including Harijans and untouchables, fulfilling Lord Mahavir's vision of equality.

Later Life and Legacy:

In his final years, Shri Nyaya Vijayaji lived a more secluded life, dedicating himself to scripture study and contemplation. He maintained a secular outlook, treating all religions with equal respect, which attracted non-Jains and Vaishnavas. He was a respected figure among intellectuals and saints, a testament to his profound wisdom and spiritual stature. Even prominent saints like Shri Punya Vijayaji Maharaj and Shri Jambu Vijayaji Maharaj sought his company for spiritual discussions.

Shri Nyaya Vijayaji passed away in 1959 at the age of 69. His funeral was attended by thousands of devotees, with shops and markets closed in his honor. He is remembered by the people of Mandal for his immortal contributions to Jain literature, religious scholarship, and social reform. His extensive literature, comprising 58 books in various languages, continues to inspire and educate, offering profound insights into Jain principles and Indian culture with an unbiased perspective. His preachings emphasized collective regeneration, celibacy, courage, the importance of educating women, and a thoughtful approach to spiritual practices and renunciation.