Raichandbhai

Summary

This biographical essay chronicles the life and teachings of Raichandra (Raichandbhai) Ravjibhai Mehta, a Jain mystic and poet. Born in 1867 at Vavania in a merchant family, he displayed extraordinary spiritual insight from childhood—memorising the 108 names of the Tirthankaras at seven and composing an essay on death at eight. Though he received little formal schooling, he pursued self‑study while working in the family jewellery business. Raichandbhai wrote several Gujarati works, including “Bhāvānā Bodh,” “Sadbhāvānā Mañjarī,” “Śuddha Upayoga Bhāvānā,” the celebrated “Mokṣamālā” and “Ātma‑siddhi.” These texts emphasise that the soul is inherently pure consciousness distinct from the body; ignorance and attachment cause bondage, and liberation is achieved through right perception, knowledge and conduct. He rejected the notion of a creator God, viewing liberated souls as exemplars rather than saviours, and urged followers to cultivate self‑discipline, compassion and non‑violence. Using simple vernacular poetry, he made profound ideas accessible to laypeople and stressed introspection over ritual. The essay also highlights Raichandbhai’s influence on Mahatma Gandhi, who regarded him as a spiritual mentor and drew on his letters to develop the principles of ahimsa and satyagraha. Raichandbhai practised intense meditation and periods of silence, balanced worldly duties with ascetic disciplines and remained engaged with social issues. He passed away in 1901 at thirty‑three, leaving a legacy of devotional literature and ethical guidance that continues to inspire seekers.