Sri Sahajanandaghanaji Maharaj

Summary

The January 1971 issue of Jain Journal opens with a tribute to the late Jaina yogi Sri Sahajanandaghanaji Maharaj, who passed away in November 1970. The article recounts his early life in a devout Jain family and his entry into monkhood at a young age. A scholar of the scriptures and an accomplished yogi, Sahajanandaghanaji devoted his life to meditation, teaching and social welfare. He undertook rigorous ascetic practices, lived a frugal life and travelled widely to preach the Jain path of non‑violence and self‑discipline. As head of his monastic order he encouraged study of Jain scriptures and supported educational projects, hospitals and libraries. The article describes how during caturmāsa – the four‑month monsoon retreat when monks stay in one place – he would give discourses on ethics, karma and the need for compassion. His followers admired his serenity and humility and remembered his willingness to guide laypeople as well as monks. In his later years he continued to write commentaries on Jain scriptures and to correspond with scholars. The article emphasises that on the morning of 2 November 1970, after completing his daily meditation, he peacefully passed away surrounded by disciples. Messages of condolence poured in from all over India. The tribute highlights his role in strengthening the Jain community and promoting unity among its various sects. It concludes that his life epitomised the Jain ideals of ahiṃsā and aparigraha (non‑possession) and that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Jains and scholars.