Vruddhichandraji Jivan Charitra - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vruddhichandraji Jivan Charitra" (The Life of Vruddhichandraji Maharaj) by Lalitvijay, published by Karpur Pustakalaya Samo, based on the provided pages.

The book is a biography of Muni Vruddhichandraji Maharaj, a prominent Jain monk. The summary is structured to cover the key aspects of his life and contributions as presented in the text:

1. Introduction and Early Life:

The book begins with an invocation to Shri Gautam Swami, a key disciple of Lord Mahavir, highlighting his virtues and blessings.
Vruddhichandraji Maharaj was born in Ramnagar, Punjab, on the 11th day of the bright fortnight of Paush, in Vikram Samvat 1890 (2463 Veer Samvat).
His father, Dharmajash, was a wealthy and influential leader of the Oswal community, and his mother, Krishnadevi, was equally fortunate.
He was the youngest of four sons (Lalchand, Musaddimal, Vachhirimal, Hemraj) and one daughter (Radhadevi). He was named Kruparam in his childhood.
Even at a young age, Kruparam displayed a spiritual inclination, making his life significant and prosperous, embodying the proverb "greatness resides in smallness."

2. The Societal and Religious Context:

The late 19th century in India was a period of renaissance. The Yati Samudaya (community of monks) was in decline, like a flickering lamp.
Punjab was dominated by the "Dhandhak Mat" sect, led by Amarsinh Rikh, who strongly opposed idol worship and interpreted scriptures based on their own limited understanding. They strictly prohibited the study of grammar, fearing it would lead individuals to the "true path."

3. Kruparam's Encounter with True Spirituality and Renunciation:

At this time, Shri Bhudheraji Maharaj, a truth-seeker from the Dhandhak sect, began studying their 32 sutras.
As he delved deeper, he found the interpretations of his sect to be fabricated. His faith in the Dhandhak sect eroded due to his further studies.
Despite the Dhandhak sect's significant influence, Bhudheraji Maharaj courageously emerged as a worshipper of truth. In Samvat 1903, he renounced the Dhandhak path and embraced the Tapagachha tradition, shedding his "muh-patti" (a cloth used by monks to cover their mouth). This was the culmination of years of inner turmoil.
The previous year, Bhudheraji Maharaj had spent his Chaturmas (four-month rainy season retreat) in Ramnagar, where Dharmajash's family, including Kruparam, came into contact with him.

4. Kruparam's Early Life and Spiritual Calling:

At the age of 14, Kruparam began his business career, as was necessary for a merchant.
His parents arranged his marriage to integrate him into domestic life. However, Kruparam's path was different. Despite having all the material comforts and favorable circumstances for a householder, he desired a life of renunciation to attain eternal happiness.
Fate intervened, and his marriage arrangement broke. Kruparam was destined to live as a celibate, highly renounced Mahatma.

5. Renunciation and the Path to Monkhood:

After a year in business, Kruparam's mind turned more towards detachment (vairagya). His desire to accept initiation (diksha) under a true guru intensified.
He sought permission from his parents, which was not immediately granted. He began living a renunciate life even while at home, observing vows and rules.
The following year, he convinced his parents and obtained permission for initiation.
After receiving the affectionate farewells of all, he came to Delhi to take initiation. In Samvat 1908, on the 13th of Ashad Shukla, he accepted initiation from Muni Shri Bhudheraji Maharaj.
He became known as Shri Vruddhichandraji and embraced the Panchamahavratas (five great vows), eradicating the emotions that cause attachment and aversion.
Due to his inherent interest in religious knowledge from childhood, he memorized the sutras for monastic conduct within his first Chaturmas.

6. Vihar (Travel) and Service to Jainism:

After accepting initiation, his spiritual journey (vihar) was continuous. He traveled with his guru for three years in Punjab and Rajputana, rendering invaluable service to the Jain faith and earning a reputation as a devoted disciple.
The event of Muni Shri Bhudheraji Maharaj renouncing his "muh-patti" was a significant and debated topic among the Dhandhak community in Punjab. It was seen as a threat to their authority.
Despite the criticism, Muni Shri Bhudheraji Maharaj and his disciples treated the challenges to their path with love and foresight. As a result, the entire Punjab gradually came to follow and recognize the path of renunciation (samvega marga).
He later came to Gujarat and, in Samvat 1912, accepted higher initiation (vadi diksha) from Nyayavisharad Shri Manjuvjiyaji Dada in Ahmedabad.

7. Conditions in Gujarat and Kathiawar and Vruddhichandraji's Impact:

Upon his arrival in Gujarat-Kathiawar in 1911, the situation was still backward. The Yati Samudaya had established a dominant position, with a prevalent belief that they were the "preservers of Jainism."
As they controlled the platforms for religious discourses, they made efforts to prevent the establishment of renunciate monks (samvegi sadhu samudaya). While their strength was waning due to their lack of strict conduct, they used practices like mantras, spells, and medicine to control the public.
Despite these adverse circumstances, Muni Shri Vruddhichandraji gradually gained a good reputation. Over time, faith and devotion towards renunciate monks (samvegi sadhu samudaya) in Gujarat-Kathiawar increased significantly.
Due to physical limitations, he could not engage in constant travel. However, he rendered great service to Gujarat-Kathiawar, with Bhavnagar being particularly dear to him.
He also diligently collected Jain literature for study. He contributed significantly to the revival of the Jain Bhandars (libraries) in Wadhwan.

8. Vruddhichandraji's Personal Qualities and Work Ethic:

He never missed an opportunity to utilize every moment of his life for self-benefit.
He constantly studied various scriptures. His demeanor was so peaceful and radiant that he could achieve what long sermons could not, simply through his presence.
His work style was highly commendable. He would thoroughly consider every step before taking it, rarely experiencing regret in his life.

9. Promoting Jain Education:

Muni Danvijayji once discussed with him the lack of academic pursuit among modern monks. Ancient scholars' texts on logic, grammar, etc., remained in their original state in the libraries.
He proposed the establishment of a pathshala (school) for monks at pilgrimage sites like Shri Siddhachala, where they could continue their studies without disruption, as their studies were often interrupted by travel and the cost of hiring pandits was high.
Shri Vruddhichandraji Maharaj approved of this idea. By chance, Khan Buddhisinhji visited Siddhachala. Muni Shri Vruddhichandraji inspired him to help establish the pathshala, which was subsequently opened.
He played a vital role in revitalizing the Jain Dharma Prasarak Sabha (Jain Religion Propagator Association) in Bhavnagar and made significant efforts to imprint Jain culture deeply on the local populace.
While he was born in Punjab, he lived for the welfare of Gujarat, Kathiawar, and primarily Bhavnagar.

10. Final Days and Legacy:

The inauguration of the Jain Pathshala in Bhavnagar was his last act. Shortly after, his illness worsened.
With exceptional equanimity, he faced his illness with self-awareness, chanting sacred words like "Arihant, Siddha." His soul was absorbed in complete meditation.
On the night of Vaishakh Shukla Saptami, in Samvat 1948 (Veer Samvat 2463), at 9 PM, he left his mortal body after 19 years and 5 months.
The "lamp of that place" in Bhavnagar was extinguished, but the "lamp of devotion" spread its light everywhere.
His disciples included Muni Kevalvijayji, Muni Gambhirvijayji, Muni Uttamvijayji, Muni Chaturvijayji, Muni Rajvijayji, Muni Hemvijayji, Muni Dharmvijayji, Muni Nemvijayji, Muni Premvijayji, and Muni Kapurvijayji.
Many other dikshas were performed through his efforts and guidance.
A genealogical chart of his disciples and their descendants is included for their information.

Structure of the Book:

The book is divided into chapters (Parichchhed). The provided text details the first three chapters, covering his birth, early life, initiation, travels, and significant contributions.
The chapters are further divided into "Dhal" (verses or stanzas sung in specific tunes), detailing various events and aspects of his life in a narrative style.

Key Themes and Values Highlighted:

Renunciation (Vairagya): Vruddhichandraji's detachment from worldly life and his pursuit of spiritual liberation.
Devotion to Guru (Gurubhakti): His deep respect and adherence to his guru's teachings and guidance.
Pursuit of Truth: His courage to question existing doctrines and embrace the true path.
Diligence and Perseverance: His consistent efforts in studying, traveling, and serving the Jain community.
Compassion and Benevolence: His efforts to help others and spread Jain principles.
Importance of Education: His recognition of the need for proper learning and the establishment of institutions to support it.
Equanimity and Self-Control: His ability to face adversities, including illness, with inner peace and awareness.
Impact on Society: His significant contributions to the spiritual and social upliftment of the Jain community, particularly in Punjab and Gujarat.

The text provides a rich biographical account, interweaving historical context with the spiritual journey and exemplary life of Muni Vruddhichandraji Maharaj.