आचार्य पद का विसर्जन

Summary

The text describes the background and execution of Acharya Tulsi's voluntary relinquishment of the Acharya position within the Terapanth sect. It begins by detailing his strong will, self-discipline, and unwavering commitment to progress, as reflected in his diary. He felt confident in the future of the sect after appointing a Yuva Acharya (heir apparent). The decision to formally install his Yuva Acharya, Mahapragya, as Acharya was driven by several motivations: to create a new tradition, to demonstrate that a disciple could remain humble after attaining high office, to prove that one can work effectively without a formal title, and to set an example of voluntarily stepping down from power and authority after a certain age. He also wished to see his successor in the role, something no previous Acharya had done. The actual event occurred on February 18, 1994, during the Maryada Mahotsav in Sujangarh. Without prior notice, Acharya Tulsi called Mahapragya forward and declared him Acharya. Mahapragya, along with the assembled monks, nuns, and lay followers, insisted on bestowing upon Acharya Tulsi the title "Ganadhipati Pujya Gurudev," which he initially refused, stating that the name "Tulsi" was sufficient. He eventually accepted the collective sentiment. Following the event, Acharya Tulsi instructed the community to transfer their faith and devotion to the new Acharya. He stated that his own remaining responsibilities were to pursue spiritual practice and serve humanity. The text also includes a notice for the 99th annual general meeting of the Jain Shwetambar Terapanthi Mahasabha.