Vijay Kamalsuri

This text, "Vijay Kamalsuri," from the "Shramana Bhagwanto" series, details the lives and contributions of two prominent Jain Acharyas: Acharya Vijaydan Surishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Vijaykamal Surishwarji Maharaj.

Acharya Vijaydan Surishwarji Maharaj:

• Reputation: He was highly esteemed as a brilliant scholar, a strict follower of Jain conduct (chaitra), and a possessor of immense virtues. He earned the title "Saklagam Rahasya Veda" (Knower of the secrets of all scriptures) due to his profound understanding of the Jain Agamas.
• Impact: During a period when the monastic order was facing decline, he revitalized it by initiating and guiding 60-70 disciples, demonstrating that dedicated practitioners attract a large following.
• Leadership: He was known for his ability to address mistakes with both sternness and compassion. He sowed the seeds of knowledge and conduct that blossomed into the illustrious careers of his two principal disciples: Acharya Vijaypremsurishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Vijayramchandra Surishwarji Maharaj. His word was considered authoritative on any debated issue, a testament to his profound knowledge and unwavering commitment to his vows.
• Legacy: He is credited with making the small village of Padadi historically significant as the place of his father's passing.
• Key Dates:
  • Birth: Samvat 1924 in Jhinjuwada
  • Initiation: Samvat 1946 in Ghegha
  • Acharya-ship: Samvat 1981 in Chhani
  • Ascension (Heavenly Abode): Samvat 1992 in Padadi

Acharya Vijaykamal Surishwarji Maharaj:

• Significance: He is widely recognized in the Jain community for his scriptural studies, his unparalleled influence over monks, and his service to the Jain faith, which remains memorable to this day.
• Background: Originally from Radhanpur, he settled in Palitana. He was born in Samvat 1913 (Chaitra Sud 3, Monday) as the fourth son to Devchand Nemchand and Meghbai, a respected and affluent family. His lay name was Kalyanchand.
• Education and Early Life: He pursued his education in Bhavnagar and was a very bright student. His father passed away when he was young (Samvat 1927, Jeth Vad 5). Subsequently, inspired by his brother, he developed a deep inclination towards spirituality.
• Vairagya (Renunciation): The death of his brother and sister-in-law deeply affected him, leading to a complete turn towards detachment and renunciation. This spiritual inclination was further nurtured by his association with Shri Vriddhichandji Maharaj.
• Initiation and Monastic Life: He took initiation in Samvat 1936 (Vaishakh Vad 8) near Ahmedabad and became known as Muni Kamlavijayji, a disciple of Acharya Moolchandji Maharaj of the Tapagachha. He received higher initiation in Samvat 1937 (Kartik Vad 12) in Ahmedabad.
• Scholarly Pursuits: Under the guidance of his esteemed gurus, Muni Kamlavijayji diligently studied scriptures, mastering subjects like Nyaya (logic), Grammar, Kosha (lexicon), and Kavya (poetry). He acquired knowledge of the Agamas from Shri Jhaverasagarji Maharaj, who was an expert in the Sutra Siddhanta.
• Rise to Prominence: After the passing of Acharya Moolchandji Maharaj in Samvat 1946, he took responsibility for the community's welfare and was honored with the Panyas (a high monastic title) in Samvat 1947 (Jeth Sud 13). His dynamism and erudition impressed the entire Jain society.
• Acharya-ship: He was elevated to the position of Acharya in Samvat 1973 (Maha Sud 6, Sunday) in Ahmedabad, amidst a gathering of 10-12 thousand people.
• Contributions and Activities:
  • He advocated that the religion of Ahimsa (non-violence) was the most suitable for alleviating human suffering.
  • He successfully resolved numerous conflicts.
  • He played a key role in organizing the Shvetambar Shraman Sangh in Vadodara.
  • Despite being a profound scholar, he actively worked for peace in society. His presence brought tranquility wherever he went, and he tirelessly pursued this goal.
  • His life exemplified the motto: "Get up, wake up, and do not stop until the destination is reached."
  • He performed Chaturmas (a four-month monastic retreat) in various cities, including Ahmedabad (5 times), Palitana (6 times), Surat (5 times), Vadodara (3 times), and many others across Gujarat and beyond.
  • He presided over the Muni Sammelan (Monks' Conference) in Vadodara and enacted significant resolutions for the purification of the monastic community.
  • He is regarded as a visionary leader.
  • In Samvat 1978 (Vaishakh Sud 10), he personally conferred the Acharya-ship on Pt. Anandasagarji in Surat.
• Ascension: After visiting Bardoli, his health deteriorated due to influenza on that day (Sud 8). He attained his heavenly abode on Aso Sud 10 while performing his Pratikraman (a ritual of confession and atonement).

In essence, the text celebrates the spiritual prowess, scholarly achievements, and impactful leadership of these two revered Jain Acharyas, highlighting their significant contributions to the faith and society.