तेरापंथ शासन का कार्यकारी हस्ताक्षर महासभा - महासभा का इतिहास
By मुनि सुमेरमल (मंत्रीमुनि), मुनि उदितकुमार
Summary
The document details the early history of the Terapanthi Sabha in Calcutta. On October 28, 1913, the Sabha was established. The first executive committee was elected, with Kaluramji Dhadhewa as president, Keshari Chandji Kothari as secretary, and Shrichand Ganeshdas Gadhaiya as treasurer. The first executive meeting was held on November 2, 1913, at 15 Pancha Gali (now Noormall Lohia Lane) due to logistical issues. The first office was established on August 23, 1914, by renting part of a building at 71 Clive Street. A Trust Board of seven members was formed on August 16, 1914, to manage funds transparently. A library was started on October 4, 1914, and the Terapanthi Vidyalaya (school) was formally established on May 14, 1916. The first annual session was held on May 24, 1914, with Riddhikaranji Surana as president and an executive committee of 77 members representing 30 different regions. On January 30, 1947, during the 34th annual session, the Sabha was renamed the Jain Shwetambar Terapanthi Mahasabha, following a suggestion by Nandlalji Chunnilalji Navalakha. The document notes the historical coincidence of the Sabha's founding with the birth of Acharya Tulsi, whose leadership is credited with the expansion and elevated status of the Terapanth order.
Conclusion
The document details the foundational establishment and institutional growth of the Terapanthi Sabha in Calcutta, culminating in its evolution into the Akhil Bharatiya Terapanthi Mahasabha. Key outcomes include the creation of a structured administrative framework with elected officers, a trust board for financial transparency, and the establishment of a library and school by 1916. The Sabha’s expansion is evident in its broad representation from over thirty regions, reflecting a deliberate effort to build a wide community base. The renaming to Mahasabha in 1947 marked its transition from a local body to a national organization, aligning with the concurrent leadership of Acharya Tulsi. This period saw the consolidation of Terapanth’s identity, moving beyond petty criticisms toward a unified, disciplined community. The combined efforts of the Acharya, his disciples, and the lay followers fostered a new environment, elevating Terapanth’s stature within Jain society through purposeful collaboration and visionary planning.