Yugpravar Shree Vijayvallabhsuri Jivan Rekha Aur Ashtaprakari Puja

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Book Title: Yugpravar Shree Vijayvallabhsuri Jivan Rekha aur Ashtaprakari Puja Author: Rushabhchand Daga Publisher: Rushabhchand Daga Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/035306/1

This book is dedicated to the life and teachings of Yugpravar Acharya Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji Maharaj, a highly revered Jain Acharya. The book primarily consists of his biographical sketch ("Jivan Rekha") and an "Ashtaprakari Puja" (worship with eight types of offerings) composed in his honor.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Homage and Dedication:

   • The book is respectfully dedicated to Acharya Shree Vijay Samudrasurishwarji Maharaj, the spiritual successor of Acharya Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji Maharaj.
   • The author, Rushabhchand Daga, expresses profound gratitude and reverence for his spiritual guides.

2. The Vision of the Author (Rushabhchand Daga):

   • The author, a businessman and poet, emphasizes the power of poetry and devotional songs ("bhajans" or "bhajans") in influencing the masses and guiding them towards spirituality. He believes that well-composed and melodious devotional verses can deeply impact people, even those who might not typically read religious texts.
   • He notes the tradition of devotional literature in Jainism, mentioning its presence in Prakrit, Apabhramsha, and Sanskrit, and more recently in Gujarati.
   • He highlights the initiative of Acharyas like Shree Vijayanand Surishwarji (Atmaramji) and Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji in composing devotional literature, especially in Hindi, for the benefit of younger generations.
   • Daga himself has authored several "Ashtaprakari Pujas" to Gurus, which have gained popularity.
   • He states that this particular work, "Yugpravar Shree Vijayvallabh Suri Jivan Rekha aur Ashtaprakari Puja," aims to present a concise biography along with a devotional composition in Hindi, set to music.
   • He acknowledges the immense support and inspiration received from Acharya Shree Vijay Samudrasurishwarji Maharaj and thanks Munishri Vikas Vijayji for his encouragement. He also credits Shri Phoolchand Harichand Doshi for providing biographical material.
   • The author expresses gratitude to Pandit Prabhudatt Shastri for writing an introductory essay ("Ek Drishti").
   • Daga explains the low pricing of the book (31 paisa) to make it accessible for widespread use and its proceeds to be used for future publications.
   • He stresses the importance of focusing on the spiritual and constructive achievements of great souls rather than miraculous events, praising his own careful approach in this regard.

3. Introduction: "Ek Drishti" by Pandit Prabhudatt Shastri:

   • The introduction lauds Acharya Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji Maharaj as a luminary of the pure tradition, a proponent of knowledge and action.
   • He describes the Acharya as born in Gujarat, who became a Jain monk at a young age. Despite belonging to a specific sect ("Jain Shwetambar Tap Gachh"), he transcended sectarian boundaries due to his profound knowledge and character.
   • His teachings promoted equality, courage, self-reliance, and asceticism. He advocated for education for all, regardless of background, to foster character development and self-sufficiency.
   • The Acharya’s influence extended beyond the Jain community, attracting Hindus and Muslims alike, who supported his endeavors. He is described as a "king of hearts" and a successor in the lineage of Tirthankaras.
   • His life was marked by simplicity and the use of Khadi. He was a scholar of Sanskrit, Prakrit, and other subjects, including astrology, grammar, and literature. His sermons were captivating, delivered with sincerity and simplicity.
   • He was a great proponent of the Hindi language, encouraging its use in literature and discourse.
   • His policy was one of synthesis and tolerance towards other philosophies. He believed that true religion elevates the soul.
   • The reviewer praises Daga's ability to encapsulate the Acharya's life in a concise and appealing manner, especially the poetic "Ashtaprakari Puja."
   • He commends Daga's business acumen combined with his devotion to literature, noting the quality of his other works, the book's illustrations, and printing.
   • Shastri specifically commends Daga for focusing on the Acharya's renunciation, discipline, austerities, education, and constructive work, rather than sensationalizing miraculous events, which he views as a distortion of history and the Acharya's true greatness.

4. Biography of Acharya Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji Maharaj (Jivan Rekha):

   • Birth and Early Life: Born as Chhaganlal in a prosperous Shrimaal Shravak family in Vadodara (Gujarat) in VS 1627 (1570 AD). His mother, Ichhaba, had prophetic dreams indicating his spiritual destiny.
   • Renunciation (Diksha): Became a monk (Muni Shree Vallabh Vijay) at Radhanpur in VS 1644 (1587 AD) under Acharya Shree Vijayanand Surishwarji (Atmaramji). He was appointed as a disciple of Muni Shree Harsh Vijayji.
   • Intellectual Prowess: Possessed sharp intellect from a young age. He assisted Acharya Atmaramji in transcribing and preparing manuscripts for publication, gaining extensive knowledge of various systems and correspondence.
   • Major Diksha: Received his major initiation (Pachakhana) in VS 1646 (1589 AD) at Pali (Marwar).
   • Discipleship and Service: Served his guru, Muni Harsh Vijayji, diligently. After his guru's passing, he joined Acharya Atmaramji in Punjab.
   • Spiritual Influence: Traveled extensively, spreading Jain principles like Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism), and Aparigraha (non-possession) through debates and sermons. He gained experience in religious rituals like Anjanshalaka and Pratishtha Mahotsavs.
   • Literary Contributions: Wrote "Gapp-Deepika Sameer" to counter false accusations against religious traditions. Established "Shree Harsh Vijay Gyan Bhandar" in Ludhiana.
   • Succession and Prophecy: Acharya Atmaramji recognized his potential, entrusting him with his first disciple, Muni Shree Vivek Vijay. He was prophesied to protect Punjab and establish educational institutions. He passed away in Gujranwala, Punjab (now Pakistan) in VS 1653 (1596 AD).
   • Legacy and Work: Inspired by Acharya Atmaramji's message, he established numerous "Atmanand Jain Sabhas," schools, libraries, and gurukuls across India (Punjab, UP, Rajasthan, MP, Gujarat, Maharashtra, etc.).
   • Interfaith Harmony and Social Work: He influenced rulers and prominent figures from various communities, promoting peace and social welfare. He encouraged the adoption of Khadi, advocating for non-violence. He championed Hindi as the national language.
   • Discipline and Ethics: Opposed improper initiations and ensured formal permissions were obtained. He provided spiritual guidance and initiated many into monastic life with solemn ceremonies.
   • Philanthropy: Advocated for the proper use of funds and established vocational centers and scholarships to support the community.
   • Education for Women: Emphasized women's education and supported the establishment of girls' schools and institutions.
   • Promoting Unity: Facilitated unity within the monastic community and among lay followers. Organized conferences for monks, scholars, and various communities.
   • Social Reform: Worked to abolish practices like bride-selling and other social evils.
   • Acharya Title: Reluctantly accepted the title of Acharya in VS 1681 (1624 AD) in Lahore due to the persistent requests of senior monks and the public.
   • Impact: His teachings promoting peace, compassion, and equality resonated widely. He inspired the publication of Jain scriptures in various languages.
   • Final Years and Passing: Despite losing eyesight in old age, he continued his service and travels. He followed a rigorous daily routine of spiritual practices, lectures, and administrative work. He observed strict fasting and dietary rules. He also worked to help the needy and promote self-reliance. He encouraged the use of a unified Jain calendar.
   • Death: Passed away on the 11th day of Ashwin, VS 2011 (1954 AD) at 2:32 AM in Bombay, uttering "Arhant-Arhant." His passing was marked by widespread mourning and tributes.

5. The "Ashtaprakari Puja" (Worship with Eight Offerings):

   • The book contains devotional songs (in poetic form, set to specific melodies) for each of the eight ritualistic offerings:
     • Jal Puja (Water): Symbolizes purification and washing away impurities.
     • Chandan Puja (Sandalwood): Represents coolness, fragrance, and inner peace.
     • Pushp Puja (Flowers): Symbolizes beauty, purity, and offering pleasing qualities.
     • Dhup Puja (Incense): Represents the spread of good fragrance and the removal of negativity.
     • Deep Puja (Lamp): Symbolizes the illumination of knowledge and the dispelling of darkness.
     • Akshat Puja (Rice): Represents prosperity, unbrokenness, and auspiciousness.
     • Naivedya Puja (Food Offering): Symbolizes nourishment and the offering of what is consumed.
     • Phal Puja (Fruit): Represents the sweet fruits of spiritual practice and good deeds.
   • Each puja is preceded by couplets ("dohas") explaining the symbolism of the offering and its connection to the Acharya's virtues.
   • The songs themselves recount specific events from Acharya Vijayvallabh Surishwarji's life, his teachings, his travels, his interactions with disciples and followers, and his significant contributions to Jainism and society.
   • The language is devotional and aimed at evoking a feeling of reverence and connection to the Acharya.
   • The text includes detailed lists of disciples, institutions founded or supported, temples consecrated, and other significant activities undertaken during his lifetime, highlighting his immense impact.

Overall Significance:

The book serves as a devotional tribute and a biographical record of a highly influential Jain Acharya. It aims to educate readers about Acharya Shree Vijayvallabh Surishwarji's profound spiritual, social, and literary contributions. The Ashtaprakari Puja, in particular, provides a structured and poetic way for devotees to remember and honor his life and teachings. The author's emphasis on the accessibility and devotional power of the work makes it a valuable resource for the Jain community.