Virchand R Gandhi - Book Summary

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This document, from the JAINA Education Committee, provides a biographical sketch of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (August 25, 1864 – August 7, 1901), highlighting his significant contributions to Jainism and Indian culture on a global stage.

Key aspects of his life and mission include:

Representation at the Parliament of World Religions (1893): Gandhi, at the young age of twenty-nine, was a prominent delegate at the inaugural Parliament of World Religions in Chicago, representing Jainism. Alongside Swami Vivekananda representing Hinduism, he captivated the audience with his eloquent speeches and profound scholarship. His impactful presentation led to requests for him to extend his stay in the USA and deliver lectures in various cities.
Education and Intellectual Prowess: Born in Mahuva, Gujarat, India, Gandhi was an exceptional scholar. He earned a B.A. with honors from the University of Bombay, likely being the first Jain graduate of his time. He possessed a deep understanding of various philosophies, including Buddhism, Vedanta, Yoga, Christianity, and Western thought. He was also proficient in fourteen languages, demonstrating a remarkable command of linguistic diversity.
Advocacy for Jainism and Social Reform:
- As the first honorary secretary of the Jain Association of India (at 21), he tirelessly worked to abolish the poll tax levied on pilgrims to the sacred Mount Shatrunjay. Through strategic negotiation and representation to government officials, he successfully had the tax replaced with a fixed annual payment for pilgrim safety.
- He also intervened to halt the slaughter of pigs at the holy Jain pilgrimage site of Sametshikhar. He stayed in Calcutta for six months, learned Bengali, built a legal case, and ultimately secured a verdict that established Sametshikhar as a Jain pilgrimage site, prohibiting external interference and leading to the closure of a pig slaughtering factory.
- Gandhi was a passionate social reformer, writing extensively against evil social customs and contributing to the eradication of some.
Global Outreach and Lectures: After the Parliament of World Religions, Gandhi stayed in the USA for approximately two years, delivering over 535 lectures on Jainism, Yoga, Indian philosophy, culture, occultism, and spiritualism across major cities like Chicago, Boston, New York, and Washington. He also traveled to Europe, visiting England, France, and Germany. During his foreign travels, he maintained his Indian identity through his distinctive attire. He qualified as a Barrister in London but chose not to practice for personal gain.
Eloquent Exposition of Jainism: Gandhi possessed a rare ability to articulate the complex doctrines of Jainism in a coherent, logical, and easily understandable manner. His presentations focused on the fundamental aspects of Jain philosophy, way of life, and conduct. Notably, his lectures were characterized by impartiality, avoiding criticism of other religions, which exemplified the Jain principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) and pluralism (Anekantavada). His discourses convinced Western intellectuals of Jainism's authentic and rational tradition, and his speeches were widely published in leading newspapers.
Ambassador of Indian Culture: Beyond Jainism, Gandhi served as a brilliant exponent of Indian culture. He worked to dispel misconceptions prevalent in America about India (stereotypes of tigers, serpents, magicians, and kings) and corrected distorted portrayals by Christian missionaries. He emphasized the resilience and enduring spirit of Indian culture and religion to global audiences.
Nationalistic Vision and Philanthropy: Gandhi harbored a deep concern for the welfare of his nation. He envisioned India's independence and advocated for peaceful international relations. While in the USA, he raised significant funds (approximately Rs. 40,000 or $10,000) and a shipload of grain for famine relief in India in 1896.
Founding of Societies: In America, he established influential organizations such as the Gandhi Philosophical Society, the School of Oriental Philosophy, and the Society for the Education of Women of India. In England, he founded the Jain Literature Society and actively taught Jainism, leading to conversions like Mr. Herbert Warren, who adopted Jainism and summarized Gandhi's lectures in a book.
Published Works: The document lists several publications either authored by Virchand Gandhi or compiled from his speeches, covering topics like Jaina Philosophy, Karma Philosophy, Yoga Philosophy, and Indian Philosophy.
Legacy: Despite his untimely death at the age of 37 in Bombay, Virchand R. Gandhi left an indelible mark on the world. His work in interpreting Indian culture and religion to the West was invaluable. He is remembered as a champion of Jainism, Indian culture, and a promising young man dedicated to the service of his religion and community.