Acharya Shiromani 108 Vidyasagar ji Maharaj
The academic community reverently commemorates the transcendence of Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Muniraj, a beacon of spiritual enlightenment whose legacy resonates profoundly within the Jain community. On February 18th, 2024, within the sacred precincts of Chandragiri Tirth, Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh, this venerable soul embraced samadhi, leaving an indelible void.
Born as Vidyadhar Ashtage in 1946 in Sadlaga, Belgaum, Karnataka, Acharya Vidyasagar embarked on his monastic odyssey within the Digambar Jain tradition at the early age of 22, under the guidance of Acharya Gyansagar Ji in Ajmer, Rajasthan. By the age of 26, he ascended to the revered position of Acharya, a testament to his erudition, unwavering conduct, and spiritual leadership.
Acharya Vidyasagar's influence extended far beyond the cloisters. His sagely wisdom guided and nurtured hundreds of monks and religious disciples. His barefoot sojourns across the Indian subcontinent, initiating over 500 male and female devotees into the monastic fold. His tireless efforts catalyzed a renaissance in educational and religious pursuits, particularly in the Bundelkhand region, Madhya Pradesh and Chhatisgarh. he built his sangh of over 200 sadhus and sahvis who were highly educated with professional degrees before entering the congregation.
Acharya Vidyasagar adhered rigorously to ascetic practices. His dietary regimen eschewed salt, sugar, fruits, green vegetables, milk, yogurt, and oil. Proficient in languages such as Sanskrit, Kannada, Prakrit, Marathi, Hindi, and English, Acharya Vidyasagar enriched Jain literature with insightful commentaries, poetry, and spiritual writings. His legacy endures—a beacon of wisdom and compassion that continues to illuminate hearts and minds. He died peacefully immersed in his soul observing salelkhana.
Furthermore, Acharya VidyasagarJi penned the epic poem ‘Mook Mati,’ which has been integrated into the Hindi MA curricula at various educational institutions. His tireless efforts were devoted to promoting Jain philosophy, advocating for social equality, and emphasizing the inherent harmony between humanity and nature. His influence is palpable through several impactful initiatives, including the Dayodya Mahasangh—a network of over 100 cowsheds—and Hathkargha, which supports the handloom cottage industry and Pratibhasthali, a girls' boarding school.
Upon hearing the news of Acharya Vidyasagar ji's passing, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and numerous government officials paid their respects and observed moments of silence.
With heartfelt sorrow and deep reverence, the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) bids farewell to this remarkable personality, wishing for his swift attainment of nirvana.
Born as Vidyadhar Ashtage in 1946 in Sadlaga, Belgaum, Karnataka, Acharya Vidyasagar embarked on his monastic odyssey within the Digambar Jain tradition at the early age of 22, under the guidance of Acharya Gyansagar Ji in Ajmer, Rajasthan. By the age of 26, he ascended to the revered position of Acharya, a testament to his erudition, unwavering conduct, and spiritual leadership.
Acharya Vidyasagar's influence extended far beyond the cloisters. His sagely wisdom guided and nurtured hundreds of monks and religious disciples. His barefoot sojourns across the Indian subcontinent, initiating over 500 male and female devotees into the monastic fold. His tireless efforts catalyzed a renaissance in educational and religious pursuits, particularly in the Bundelkhand region, Madhya Pradesh and Chhatisgarh. he built his sangh of over 200 sadhus and sahvis who were highly educated with professional degrees before entering the congregation.
Acharya Vidyasagar adhered rigorously to ascetic practices. His dietary regimen eschewed salt, sugar, fruits, green vegetables, milk, yogurt, and oil. Proficient in languages such as Sanskrit, Kannada, Prakrit, Marathi, Hindi, and English, Acharya Vidyasagar enriched Jain literature with insightful commentaries, poetry, and spiritual writings. His legacy endures—a beacon of wisdom and compassion that continues to illuminate hearts and minds. He died peacefully immersed in his soul observing salelkhana.
Furthermore, Acharya VidyasagarJi penned the epic poem ‘Mook Mati,’ which has been integrated into the Hindi MA curricula at various educational institutions. His tireless efforts were devoted to promoting Jain philosophy, advocating for social equality, and emphasizing the inherent harmony between humanity and nature. His influence is palpable through several impactful initiatives, including the Dayodya Mahasangh—a network of over 100 cowsheds—and Hathkargha, which supports the handloom cottage industry and Pratibhasthali, a girls' boarding school.
Upon hearing the news of Acharya Vidyasagar ji's passing, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and numerous government officials paid their respects and observed moments of silence.
With heartfelt sorrow and deep reverence, the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS) bids farewell to this remarkable personality, wishing for his swift attainment of nirvana.
