नया दायित्व : नया प्रस्थान

Summary

In November 2013, Acharya Tulsi, the head of the Terapanth religious order, transferred his position to his successor, Yuvacharya Mahapragya, while still alive. This unprecedented act surprised many, as tradition only involved appointing a successor, not installing them as Acharya during the incumbent's lifetime. Acharya Tulsi explained his reasoning, stating he had held authority for fifty-eight years, longer than any previous Acharya, and wished to practice a life free from administrative power. He was inspired by the earlier example of Acharya Jayacharya, who had similarly delegated authority. Tulsi expressed a desire to see his successor as Acharya, a sight no previous leader had witnessed. At eighty years old and in declining health, he sought rest and wanted to reduce his workload. He also aimed to demonstrate a disciple's humility towards their guru in an age of ingratitude, and to set an example of voluntarily relinquishing power and authority after a certain time. Tulsi envisioned creating a religion without sectarian labels, having already promoted anuvrat (non-sectarian moral vows) as a universal dharma. He believed a person free from power could speak without hesitation. He also saw this as a solution to the proliferation of Acharyas within Jain sects. Following the transfer, Acharya Tulsi announced he would focus on anuvrat, non-violence, peace, and his own spiritual practice. The Terapanth community requested he remain as Ganadhipati (head of the order) to provide guidance and protection. Observers noted that the ruler had become a guardian. Acharya Tulsi affirmed the transfer was genuine, not formal, and urged Mahapragya to accept full responsibility without hesitation. He expressed his wish to see Mahapragya become even more renowned than himself, while he would continue to offer advice and work for the order's development and the expansion of spirituality and non-violence.