Umeshmuni Acharya Parichay - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Umeshmuni Acharya Parichay," in English:

The book "Umeshmuni Acharya Parichay," authored by Prashast Runwal and Jinal Chhajed, is a devotional tribute and biographical account of Acharya Shri Umeshmuniji Maharaj Saheb "Anu." It highlights his life and spiritual journey, portraying him as a significant spiritual leader of the current era, a beacon of asceticism, and a confluence of knowledge and action.

Key Aspects of Acharya Shri Umeshmuniji's Life and Teachings:

A Universal Spiritual Figure: Acharya Shri Umeshmuniji is presented not just as a leader of a specific sect or community, but as a universally recognized spiritual personality whose very name inspires deep reverence and devotion. His life exemplifies a synthesis of self-discipline, spiritual pursuit, and dedication to Jainism.
Birth and Early Life: He was born on Monday, March 7, 1932 (Fagan Vadi 30, Samvat 1988) in Thandla, a prominent town in the Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Thandla is also significant as the birthplace of Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji Maharajsaheb and has a history of producing many souls who embarked on the path to liberation. His birth was preceded by a dream of a lion entering his mother's mouth, considered an auspicious sign. He was named Utsavlal, later colloquially shortened to Ochhab, and his name was changed to Umeshchandra upon entering the Dharmadas school at the age of seven.
Spiritual Inclination and Renunciation (Vairagya): Even in his childhood, Umeshchandra displayed a seriousness and intellectual curiosity beyond his years. He studied Sanskrit texts like Bal Raghuvansh at a young age and began composing poetry by the sixth grade. His exposure to religious literature and stories of saints and sadhwis instilled in him an understanding of the impermanence of the world. His first encounter with Kavi Varya Poojya Shri Suryamuniji Maharajsaheb in Thandla deeply impacted him, making him feel the presence of a world-saving spiritual guide. He swiftly memorized the Pratikraman Sutra and later recited it. His inclination towards spirituality became evident through his actions and expressions of detachment.
Obstacles and Determination: Despite his parents' desire for him to remain in worldly life, his spiritual calling was strong. At the age of thirteen, his engagement was arranged, but he renounced it by leaving home and contemplating a life beyond worldly entanglements. This determination, coupled with his parents' eventual understanding and support, led to his eventual renunciation. He was placed in Mumbai for some time to dissuade him, but he remained steadfast in his decision, even stating that he would not change his mind even if sent to the West.
Initiation and Asceticism: After years of dedicated spiritual practice and overcoming familial attachments, he received permission for initiation. On April 15, 1954 (Chaitra Sudi Terash, Mahavir Jayanti, Samvat 2011), he took his vows of asceticism. He was initiated by Malav Kesari Poojya Shri Saubhagyamalji Maharajsaheb and became the fifth disciple of Kavi Varya Poojya Shri Suryamuniji Maharajsaheb, receiving the title of Pancham Pad. This marked his transition from a human to a super-human being dedicated to spiritual liberation.
Qualities of an Ideal Disciple: His exemplary discipleship was rooted in his unwavering faith in the Jain scriptures (Jinavani), his complete surrender to his Guru's feet, and his joyful adherence to the teachings of the Jinas. These qualities, coupled with the support of his Guru, allowed him to ascend to spiritual heights.
Rigorous Spiritual Practices: Throughout his ascetic life, he meticulously followed numerous vows and disciplines. These included waking at 3:00-3:30 AM for meditation, studying scriptures equivalent to two thousand verses daily, undertaking penances like Pachola, fasting, limiting food and water intake, meditating in Padmasana for an hour daily, observing Ekantar (alternate day fasting), taking food once a day, and not consuming food in the first quarter of the night since his initiation. His own words, "Hasio Guru - aanaaye - jagaavei manebalam" (Happily following the Guru's command awakens inner strength), encapsulate his approach.
Literary Contributions: Acharya Shri Umeshmuniji was also a prolific writer and scholar. He began his religious writing in 1947, contributing to the Samyagdarshan magazine. During his asceticism, he studied Prakrit language and translated philosophical Agamas like Sutraltang. His literary output includes over 50 published books and many more unpublished works, spanning various genres such as lecture compilations, Anupreksha texts, biographies, philosophical essays, novels, and devotional hymns. His work "Moksha-Purusharth," consisting of 2517 Prakrit verses with commentary and translation, is considered an invaluable guide for spiritual seekers. His book "Shrimad Dharmadasji and His Malav Disciple Tradition" is also highly regarded. His literary contributions are seen as a lasting legacy that will continue to guide spiritual aspirants for generations.
Humility and Leadership: He adopted the pen name "Anu" (meaning atom) at the age of 17, inspired by Gandhi's autobiography, signifying his commitment to being as small as a dust particle in the search for truth. This humility was evident throughout his life. Following the passing of his two senior Gurus, he was entrusted with the leadership of the Sangha. Despite his reluctance, he accepted the responsibility. He humbly declined the offer of Acharyahip in 1987 and in 2003, even when senior saints declared him their Acharya, he offered wise counsel and maintained his composure amidst challenging circumstances. He never displayed pride in his knowledge, actions, or position, remaining in equanimity and focused on his spiritual goal. He treated everyone with compassion and advised others to praise the Tirthankar Bhagwan rather than him. He endured all hardships with equanimity and always followed the Jina's commands until his last breath.
Discipleship: He had a notable succession of disciples, all of whom are highly educated and dedicated to spiritual practice under his guidance. The book lists sixteen prominent disciples, each with their unique qualities, be it scholarship, oratory, writing, meditation, or austerity.
Final Moments and Mahaprayana: After completing his Chaturmas in Tal in 2011, he continued his spiritual journey, spreading the message of Dharma. Recognizing his end was near, he proceeded to Ujjain, an ancient religious city. On March 18, 2012 (Chaitra Mas Ki Gyaras), at 8:30 AM, he took Samayika and embraced the superior form of death, Padrapopagaman (Santhara), after seeking forgiveness from all beings. Thousands of devotees gathered to witness this profound event. In the evening at approximately 5:16 PM, this great Acharya attained his Mahaprayana. The book describes his passing as the setting of a luminous sun in the Jain world. His mortal remains were cremated on March 19th amidst the tears of millions of devotees.
Legacy: Acharya Shri Umeshmuniji is lauded as a protector of Shraman culture. The book emphasizes the rarity of finding such a highly disciplined yet simple monk in the current era. He never sought to make people his devotees but rather guided them to become true Jains, devoted to the divine. The book concludes with profound expressions of faith, devotion, and surrender to his holy feet.

The book is presented by Prashast Runwal and Jinal Chhajed.