V R Gandhi In America

This document is a collection of newspaper clippings and testimonials from 1893-1894 highlighting the impactful visit of Virchand R. Gandhi, a prominent Jain lawyer and scholar from India, to America.

Here's a comprehensive summary:

Virchand R. Gandhi's Mission and Persona:

• Representative of Jainism: Gandhi was the elected delegate of the 5 million Jains in India to the Parliament of Religions held in Chicago in September 1893. His primary mission was to represent Jainism and correct misconceptions about India.
• Brilliant Scholar and Orator: Described as a brilliant lawyer with unusual attainments, fluent in fourteen languages including English, and a master of Oriental philosophy and religion. He was renowned for his eloquence, earnestness, moral courage, and ability to engage audiences.
• Cultural Ambassador: Beyond his specific religious representation, Gandhi acted as a cultural ambassador, sharing insights into Indian customs, politics, education, and industrial institutions. He aimed to foster understanding and bridge cultural divides.
• Challenging Misconceptions: He actively refuted sensationalized and inaccurate stories about India, particularly those perpetuated by missionaries, such as the myth of "Juggernaut" where devotees immolate themselves. He attributed such tales to "falsifications."
• Advocate for Universal Brotherhood: Gandhi consistently emphasized the principle of universal brotherhood and love, advocating for a recognition of shared humanity and spiritual connection.

His Activities and Reception in America:

• Parliament of Religions (Chicago, 1893): Gandhi was a prominent and highly regarded participant in this significant event. His representation of Jainism was met with great interest.
• Lecturing Tour: Following the Parliament, Gandhi embarked on an extensive lecture tour across America, speaking in various venues including clubs, lyceums, literary and church societies, theosophical branches, and spiritual associations.
• Topics of Lectures: His lectures covered a wide range of subjects:
  • Geographical and historical review of India.
  • Digest of Indian religions, philosophies, theosophies, and literatures of the Aryan races.
  • Social customs of the Hindus.
  • The ethical side of Yoga philosophy.
  • Jainism, in particular, drew enthusiastic audiences.
  • His impressions of America, its institutions, and its progress.
  • "The Message of India to the People of America."
  • "Some Mistakes Corrected" (likely referring to misconceptions about India).
  • Occult sciences and philosophies of India, often illustrated with stereopticon views.
• Positive Reception: Testimonials from various newspapers and individuals consistently praise Gandhi's intellect, eloquence, sincerity, and the profound impact of his lectures. He was often described as an "eloquent native from India," a "grand and noble man," and the "Lion of the season."
• Educational Impact: He was credited with correcting "prevalent and erroneous impressions concerning India and its people" and was seen as a source of great knowledge and truth.
• Focus on Education in America: Gandhi was particularly impressed by the American public school system, noting that it provided educational facilities to the poorest child equal to the richest, a stark contrast to India where high fees limited access for the poor.
• Work on "The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ": Gandhi also published a "correct translation" of this work, adding scholarly introductions and illustrations, which was well-received.
• Tolereance and Religious Freedom: A significant excerpt from his lecture highlights his emphasis on religious tolerance, stating that Jainism has no equivalent for the word "persecution" in its language, emphasizing justice, purity, goodness, and love over malice or tyranny. He expressed openness to a Christ of education and universal love, but rejected a "creedal Christ" or a Christ associated with oppression.

In essence, Virchand R. Gandhi's presence in America during this period was a significant cultural and intellectual exchange. He was a highly respected figure who effectively represented Jainism and India, advocating for mutual understanding, spiritual enlightenment, and universal brotherhood, while also offering insightful critiques and observations on both Eastern and Western societies.