तेरापंथ धर्मसंघ का 141वां मर्यादा महोत्सव संपन्न
Summary
The 141st Maryada Mahotsav of the Shwetambar Terapanth Mahasabha was held in Ladnun, Rajasthan, under the guidance of Acharya Shri Mahapragyaji. The main event took place on February 15, 2005, with the three-day festival beginning on Basant Panchami, February 13, 2005. The gathering included 104 sadhus, 358 sadhvis, two samans, 103 samanis, and thousands of lay followers from across the country. This annual festival has been celebrated continuously for 140 years. The first day focused on service centers for sadhus and sadhvis, with appointments made for their operation. Sadhvipramukha Kanakprabhaji emphasized the unique and devoted care provided to elderly, ill, and ailing members of the Sangh. Yuvacharya Mahashramanji described service as an unparalleled means of spiritual purification. Acharya Mahapragyaji installed the Maryada Patra, the foundational document of the Sangh, describing it as a protective umbrella ensuring assurance and tranquility. Several publications were released, including volumes of memoirs of Gurudev Tulsi, the fourth volume of "Terapanth ka Itihas," and a Jain Agam Vadyakosh. CDs of short films on Preksha Dhyan and Terapanth were also launched. The second day, February 14, 2005, marked the anniversary of Acharya Mahapragyaji's ascension to the leadership. The day began with expressions of reverence, followed by a formal ceremony where the fourfold Sangh offered felicitations. Acharyashri emphasized developing competence over ambition, noting that while every sadhu in the Terapanth Sangh is qualified to become an Acharya, none harbors the ambition. The main event on February 15 featured the recitation of the Maryada Patra by the white-clad congregation. Acharyashri described the festival as a grand celebration of discipline, stating that organization without
Conclusion
The 141st Marryada Mahotsav reaffirmed the Terapanth Dharm Sangh's foundational commitment to discipline, service, and collective unity. The event's outcomes underscore the enduring strength of the Marryada Patra as a guiding charter, ensuring organizational stability and spiritual continuity. Key implications include the reinforcement of selfless service (seva) as a core practice for spiritual purification and community cohesion, as highlighted by Acharya Mahapragya and other leaders. The celebration also facilitated the release of significant publications and research works, enriching Jain scholarship. By honoring tradition while adapting to contemporary needs, the Mahotsav demonstrated how structured discipline fosters resilience and growth. Ultimately, this gathering not only commemorated historical legacy but also energized the Sangh's future direction, emphasizing that adherence to ethical boundaries and collective responsibility remains vital for sustaining a vibrant, spiritually progressive community.