Thursday, 21 July 2022

Memorial shrine Atmaramji of Gujranwala (2017)

Date of Visit, July 2, 2017


Acharya Vijayanand Suri, popularly known as Atmaramji of Gujranwala, holds a significant place in Jain history as the first Swetambar Murtipujaka Jain monk in modern times to be bestowed with the title of Acharya. Born and raised in Punjab, he initially embraced the Sthanakvasi sect before transitioning to the Murtipujaka tradition. Acharya Vijayanand Suri dedicated his life to extensive travels across Gujarat, Rajputana, and Punjab, where he played a pivotal role in organizing and reforming the Jain community, ascetic orders, and literature.

Born on April 6, 1837, CE (Chaitra Shukla 1, Vikram Samvat 1893) in Lehara, Punjab, to Ganeshchandra and Rupdevi, he belonged to a Brahmakshatriya Hindu family. His father, an army officer under Ranjit Singh, passed away during his early childhood, and he was raised by his mother. At the age of sixteen, he was sent to Sheth Jodhmal of Jira, Punjab, for education in Vikram Samvat 1903. There, he studied Hindi and arithmetic and came into contact with Sthanakvasi monks. In 1853 (VS 1910), two influential Sthanakvasi monks initiated him into the order, bestowing upon him the name Atmaram.

During his ascetic life, Atmaram embarked on the study of Jain scriptures alongside his fellow monks. Eventually, he was joined by a Yati from the Tapa Gaccha lineage. After years of diligent study, he became convinced that the Sthanakvasi belief opposing idol worship contradicted the scriptures. In 1876 (VS 1943), he underwent re-initiation as a Murtipujaka monk in Ahmedabad, receiving the name Anandvijay. The monk who initiated him, Muni Buddhivijay, also known as Buterayji of Tapa Gaccha, had previously been a Sthanakvasi monk himself.

In 1886, during his Chaturmas (a four-month stay during the rainy season) in Palitana, he was conferred with the title of Acharya by the congregation. This event held great significance, as for four centuries, no ascetic had received the title of Acharya. Acharya Vijayanand Suri became the first Acharya in contemporary Jain history, breaking the tradition where only Yatis were honored with this prestigious title. Through his reforms, the influence of Yatis declined, although they still exist in certain locations.

Acharya Vijayanand Suri undertook extensive travels throughout Gujarat and Punjab, advocating for the opening of Jain Bhandaras (libraries) that had remained closed to the public for years. He ensured that these precious Jain texts were copied and examined by scholars, bringing them into the light and fostering a sense of identity among Jains. In 1893, he received an invitation to participate in the first-ever World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago. Since Jain monks traditionally do not travel overseas, he sent Virchand Gandhi as his representative. Acharya Vijayanand Suri's contributions were recognized at the Parliament, and he was awarded a silver medal. His achievements were covered by various periodicals in the United States. Prior to the event, he authored a book titled "The Chicago-Prashnottar or Questions and Answers on Jainism for the Parliament of Religions Held at Chicago USA in 1893," based on the questions posed to him by the organizers. He played a crucial role in revitalizing the tradition of fully initiated monks (Samvegi sadhu) and successfully convinced numerous Sthanakvasis in Punjab to join the Murtipujaka tradition. Through his efforts, around 15,000 individuals converted to Jainism. He also encouraged the construction and restoration of Jain temples and provided assistance to orientalist Rudolf Hoernlé in his Jainism studies.

Acharya Vijayanand Suri passed away on May 20, 1896 (Jayeshtha Shukla 13, Vikram Samvat 1953) in Gujranwala, which is now a part of Pakistan. A memorial shrine dedicated to him was erected in Gujranwala, although it is currently utilized as a police station in the Sabzi Mandi area. His footprints, along with the chhatri (cenotaph) over them, were relocated to the Lahore Fort Museum.

The legacy of Acharya Vijayanand Suri, Atmaramji of Gujranwala, reverberates through Jain history. His contributions to Jainism, including his writings, reforms, and advocacy, have left an indelible mark on the community. His pursuit of knowledge, dedication to the Jain scriptures, and efforts to strengthen the Jain identity serve as an inspiration to present and future generations.









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