ऐसे मिला मुझे अहिंसा का प्रशिक्षण

Summary

The author describes receiving his first lesson in nonviolence at age eleven when he became a Jain monk under Pujya Kalugani. The first vow of initiation was nonviolence, and the fifth was non-possessiveness. Kalugani instructed him to perform every action with awareness—walking carefully to avoid harming small creatures, speaking mindfully to avoid hurting others, eating with consideration so as not to take another’s share, and avoiding attachment to objects or hostility toward any living being. This teaching strengthened his faith in nonviolence, which never wavered. A week after initiation, he began studying the Dashvaikalik Sutra, learning to conduct every life activity with restraint. He was taught not to interfere with or waste natural resources without purpose. A third lesson emphasized that every being has an independent existence, giving no one the right to torment, injure, dominate, or enslave another. Such actions are unauthorized and incompatible with nonviolence. Beyond theory, Kalugani provided active training through his conduct. He never criticized other sects, a tradition inherited from Mahavira’s time. Acharya Bhikshu also avoided personal attacks, focusing only on unworthy ideas. Kalugani advised avoiding agitation during debates, stating that even heated religious discussion is a form of violence. His peace and gentleness deeply influenced the author, demonstrating harmony between words and deeds. The author learned that nonviolence and truth are inseparable. He received training in fearlessness, being told not to fear old age, disease, sorrow, or death, as fear itself is violence. Non-possessiveness is essential for fearlessness, since attachment to objects or the body breeds fear and leads to violence. Kalugani’s life exemplified tolerance as the protective armor of nonviolence. During a procession in Bikaner, the author faced a potential clash with another sect’s procession. Despite pressure from followers not to yield, he turned aside, averting violence. The Maharaja praised his action for preserving peace. The author credits Kalug