Acharya Shri Vidyasagarji Maharaj

Source-This post on Acharya Shri Vidyasagarji Maharaj is based on the article “PM Narendra Modi writes on Sant Shiromani Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj: Loss of a guiding light” published in “The Indian Express” on 21st February 2024.

Why in the News?

Recently, Acharya Shri Vidyasagarji Maharaj attained samadhi on February 18, 2024, at Chandragiri Teerth in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh.

Who was Acharya Shri Vidyasagarji Maharaj?

1. About:
a. He was an Indian Digambara Jain Acharya (Digambar Jain Monk).
b. He was also known as Sant Shiromani Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj.

2. Birth– He was born in Sadalga, Belgaum district of Karnataka on October 10, 1946. His childhood name was Vidhyadhar.

3. Initiation of monk life– Vidyasagarji became a Digambara monk in 1968 at the age of 22, guided by Acharya GyansagarJi Maharaj, who came from the lineage of Acharya ShantisagarJi Maharaj, in Ajmer.

4. Transition– Although he was born in Karnataka and embraced spiritual discipline in Rajasthan, he mainly resided in the Bundelkhand region.

5. Teachings and Works:
a. He was widely respected for his teachings on Jain philosophy, spirituality, and ethics.
b. He is credited with reviving educational and religious activities.
c. He wrote extensively in Sanskrit, Prakrit and Hindi.
d. He wrote haiku poems and the epic Hindi poem “Mukamati“.
e. He was also known as “Chote Baba” in Jain community.

6. Views:
a. He strongly believed that education is vital for a fair and enlightened society.
b. He advocated for knowledge as a tool to empower people, helping them live meaningful lives and make valuable contributions.
c. He stressed the significance of self-learning and self-awareness for genuine wisdom. He encourages his followers to pursue lifelong learning and spiritual development.
d. He strongly supported voting, viewing it as a way to participate in democracy.

UPSC Syllabus- Personalities in news