Vatsalyadhara Prabhu Premi Gyanchandraji - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vatsalyadhara Prabhu Premi Gyanchandraji," authored by Dulerai Matliya and published by Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Ahmedabad. The summary is based on the provided page content, which details the life and spiritual journey of Swami Gyanchandraji, also known as Nanchandbhai.

Book Title: Vatsalyadhara Prabhu Premi Gyanchandraji (Flow of Affection, Lover of God, Gyanchandraji) Author: Dulerai Matliya Publisher: Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Ahmedabad Publication Date: First Edition, June 1982

Core Theme: The book chronicles the spiritual evolution of Nanchandbhai, who later became Swami Gyanchandraji, highlighting his deep devotion to God, his commitment to selfless service, and his significant contributions to social reform, particularly in the realm of cow protection (Gauraksha). It emphasizes the unfolding of divine love (Prabhuprem) in his life, inspired by his spiritual mentors and his own profound experiences.

Key Aspects of Swami Gyanchandraji's Life and Teachings:

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening (1939-1941):
- Born Nanchandbhai in 1906, he came from a pious family with a history of devotion to the Swaminarayan and Pushti traditions.
- His spiritual journey began at the age of 33 after hearing the Srimad Bhagavatam, which deeply stirred his heart towards divine love and yearning for God's presence.
- He renounced worldly pleasures, practiced austerities like fasting, solitary meditation, and chanting "Shri Krishna Sharanam Mama," and developed strong self-control.
- He found immense satisfaction in serving God through rituals, decorating idols, and attending temple services.
Service and Devotion (1941-1952):
- Nanchandbhai took up service at Vaishnav Havelis (temples) in Dholera and Dwarka, managing their affairs with honesty and integrity.
- He also dedicated himself to serving children in a hostel, acting as a mother figure and instilling moral values.
- A pivotal moment was witnessing a lame calf on the road, which awakened in him a deep sense of compassion and a resolve to dedicate his life to cow protection. This led to the establishment of a public cow shelter in Dholera.
- He participated in drought relief efforts under the guidance of Muni Santbalji, learning the principles of selfless service and social reformation.
Seeking a True Guru and Transformation:
- Driven by a desire for spiritual guidance, Nanchandbhai undertook a pilgrimage on foot in search of a Sadguru.
- He was deeply inspired by the devotion and principles of Muni Santbalji, whom he eventually recognized as his true Guru.
- His association with Santbalji solidified his commitment to selfless service and social reform.
Service Through Organizations and Social Reform:
- Nanchandbhai became instrumental in various societal reform movements, including drought relief, water management (Jalsahayak Samiti), and the establishment of health centers.
- He actively worked for the eradication of social evils like addiction, animal sacrifice, and superstitious practices, often through peaceful means like fasting and prayer (Shuddhiprayog).
- He championed the cause of women's dignity and rights, challenging societal norms and advocating for respect towards women.
- He emphasized the importance of moral education and ethical conduct, particularly among farmers and cowherds, promoting cooperative societies and righteous living.
The Cow Protection Movement (Gauraksha Yajna):
- His deep compassion for cows, ignited by a childhood experience, became a lifelong mission.
- He observed the plight of cows and the lack of protection they received, leading him to dedicate himself to the cause of cow protection.
- He recognized the cow as a symbol of dharma, non-violence, and the sustenance of agricultural life.
- His efforts involved public awareness campaigns, fasting, protests, and lobbying government officials for cow protection laws. He undertook significant actions like observing fasts and participating in demonstrations to advocate for a nationwide ban on cow slaughter.
- His deep commitment led him to observe several fasts, including an indefinite fast, in his pursuit of this goal.
Spiritual Practices and Inner Transformation:
- Swami Gyanchandraji cultivated deep inner spiritual practices, including vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession.
- He practiced detachment, austerity, and deep meditation, finding solace and strength in his constant remembrance of God.
- His life demonstrated a profound synthesis of knowledge, devotion, and action, embodying the ideals of selfless service and spiritual realization.
Samadhi and the Interconnectedness of All Beings:
- Through his spiritual practices, he attained a state of Samadhi (deep meditation/absorption) where he experienced the oneness of all existence, seeing God in every living being.
- This realization fueled his compassion and dedication to serving all creatures.
Renunciation and the Path of a Sannyasi:
- He embraced a life of renunciation, embodying the principles of detachment, simplicity, and service.
- His spiritual path was guided by inner conviction and the teachings of his Gurus, rather than rigid adherence to external rituals.
- He demonstrated a unique blend of Jain principles (like non-violence and austerity) and Vaishnavite devotion, creating a harmonious synthesis in his spiritual life.
The 'Shuddhiprayog' (Purification Process):
- The book extensively details his involvement in "Shuddhiprayog," a method of purification and social reform through non-violent means like prayer, fasting, peaceful protest, and moral persuasion.
- He used these methods to address various societal issues, including corruption, exploitation, and the violation of ethical norms.
Impact and Legacy:
- Swami Gyanchandraji's life is presented as an embodiment of divine love, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to dharma.
- His actions and sacrifices inspired many to join the movement for cow protection and broader social reform.
- The book highlights his profound spiritual insights, his compassionate nature, and his enduring influence on the Jain and wider spiritual community.
- His ultimate sacrifice through an indefinite fast for cow protection underscores his ultimate devotion and his belief in the power of sacrifice for a righteous cause.

Overall Message: "Vatsalyadhara Prabhu Premi Gyanchandraji" is a testament to a life lived in profound love for the divine and selfless service to humanity and all sentient beings. It illustrates how an individual's spiritual journey, marked by devotion, penance, and social action, can create a lasting positive impact on society and uphold the eternal values of dharma.