Through the unparalleled service of Vyakhyan-Vachaspati Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurshwarji Maharaj, Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtiyashsurishwarji Maharaj has inherited, in full measure, the legacy of spiritual administration, devotion, propagation, and protection of the Jain order. This becomes evident at every step of his life.
Under Acharyashri Vijay Kirtiyashasurishwarji's auspices, more than 112 shikhar-bandhi temples and over 250 home-temples have been consecrated. Under his guidance, 22 sanghs (comprising over 11,000 devotees), 17 updhaans (with more than 4,000 malas and 11,000+ practitioners), five Giriraj Navanu yatras (with 2,500+ devotees), one Shikharji Satyavishi yatra
(with 300+ devotees), and 68 vachana series (with 40,000+ listeners) have been organized. In his presence, 94 Anjanshalaka-Pratishtha Mahotsavs have been conducted, in which over 1,000 sacred idols have been consecrated. He commands a vast spiritual lineage—more than 100 disciples, sub-disciples, and protégés. He has personally given over >350 Rajoharan(Oghas).
Acharyashri has deeply studied more than 500 texts on sculpture and architecture, and by integrating these principles, he has contributed to the creation of numerous temples and Jina idols. Under his direction, remarkable temples such as Smrutimandir, Sammed Shikhar Taleti Tirth, Vasantkunj, Kalyan Mandir Surat, Hastigiri 72 Jinalaya Cave Temple, Ashtapad Jinalaya, 108 Parshvanath Jain Tirth (Pune) and many others have been newly constructed. In addition, major tirths such as Jagvallabh Ahmedabad, Bhorol, Lalbaug Mumbai, Gandhar, Padra, Dehvan, Idar, Halvad, etc., have been rejuvenated under his guidance.
The 27-day Mahamahotsav (Grand Festival) in the year 2002 (Vikram Samvat 2058) for the Anjan-Pratishtha of the Sabarmati Smrutimandir was celebrated under the guidance of Acharya Shri Kirtiyashsuriji Maharaja, in the presence of the entire community, and under the Nishra of the late Gacchadhipati Acharya Shri Vijay Mahodayasuriji Maharaj. 2 million people gathered for this festival. 1 million people were seated and served meals. 1,500 Sadhu-Sadhviji Bhagvants (male and female ascetics) attended under a single canopy. 27 Dikshas (initiations) took place. Over 50 books were published. Even today, the very memory of the 27+9 days of celebration evokes a thrill.
Under his guidance, Aagam Granthas (Jain canonical texts) were inscribed onto palm-leaf manuscripts and preserved securely. He has composed more than 22 Prabhu-Pujas. The relocation (utthapan) of the sacred idol of Jiravala Parshvanath Bhagwan became possible through his planning. He has shaped the lives of over 350 Mumukshus (seekers of liberation). He has edited more than 275 books of the discourses of Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj. Additionally, he has rendered a great service to the Sangh by conducting research, editing, and writing 95 books in Gujarati, 40 in Hindi, 10 in English, and 45 in Prakrit-Sanskrit.
Even his critics concede without dispute that Acharyashri Vijay Kirtiyashasuriji Maharaj's mastery of the Jain Agamas and his precision in scriptural interpretation are unparalleled, rare and unmatched.
Aacharyashri is a personality of extraordinary versatility. On one hand, he has achieved formidable scholarship; on the other, he is renowned for his care and compassion toward elderly, ill, and ascetic monks.
His discourses are powerful and transformative, while his scriptural research and editing work set new benchmarks. He applies his deep knowledge of Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and modern medicine to care for countless monks and nuns. His mastery of shilpa-shastra (temple architecture) guides the construction and restoration of temples and tirths. His study of law equips him to defend the Jain order and its principles, while his understanding of astrology enables him to advise aspirants and resolve their dilemmas within the boundaries of monastic life.
Despite a commanding and forceful presence in matters of protecting the Shashan, his heart softens instantly when speaking of Paramatma(Gods) or his revered Gurubhagavants; tears glisten in the corner of his eyes.
In matters of doctrine and discipline, he is harder than diamond; yet in nurturing aspirants with the bliss of Jain dharma, he is softer than a flower.
Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtiyashasuriji Maharaj accepted diksha at the tender age of fourteen in Vikram Samvat 2023 1966 AD. From that moment onward, he received the rare privilege of serving and staying in close proximity to his grand-guru, Vyakhyan Vachaspati Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishvarji Maharaj. At the same time, in matters of discipline and ascetic practice, he was continually guided by his father by worldly relation—who was also his Guru in the ascetic path—Vardhamantaponidhi Acharyabhagvant Shri Vijay Gunyashasuriji Maharaj.
From the very beginning, Muni Kirtiyashvijayji was present by the side of Gacchadhipati Shri Vijay Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj through every illness, small or severe, serving him with complete devotion. Living so closely with this Yugpurush naturally instilled in him an unwavering commitment to scriptural purity and a deep understanding of how to uphold and strengthen the Jain order.
The seva and the profound spiritual care that Muni Kirtiyashvijayji offered during the revered Gacchadhipati's final illness became an unforgettable chapter—one of the most moving examples of devotion in the history of the Guru-disciple tradition.
Early Life
Acharya Kirtiyashasurishwarji's worldly name was Kanti and was born in Bhorol(Gujarat). His father, Gaggalbhai (later Acharya Vijay Gunyashasuriji) and his mother Jivi Ben, raised him with extraordinary moral care. His father, Gaggalbhai (later Acharya Vijay Gunyashasuriji Maharaj), hailed from Bhorol but lived in Ahmedabad for business. Kanti was raised with utmost moral discipline—his father shielded him from negative influences. During their early days when he was selling clothes on the move, he would seat Kanti between piles of cloth. He would safely hang a pot of boiled water beneath the cart. After dealing with customers, Gaggalbhai would talk to his four-year-old son about renunciation (Tyag) and detachment (Vairagya), which shaped Kanti's tender and compassionate heart.
His compassion was extraordinary—even as a child. He once gave all the money in his pocket to a poor boy and girl singing for alms. Kanti felt satisfied that he could give something to this poor brother and sister, but he was immensely grieved as to why these people were so poor. As Kanti walked a little further, the boy came up behind him and asked, "Baba Bhai! You gave me money, but where should I keep it? Can you give me your wallet as well?" Kanti gave him that too.
On another occasion, he gave his entire meal to a beggar and cried out of empathy. , Kanti told his mother, "Mother! I cried seeing his condition. What poverty he has! We are all the same people, so why is it that we have to give and he has to take?"
When a pigeon was injured by a ceiling fan, he nursed it lovingly for two days until it passed away; the shock moved him deeply, and he asked his father to install a protective grill around the fan so that no bird would ever get harmed again.
Kanti once went to Rampura for his cousin Jayantibhai's wedding. There, Kesho Barot and Ganesh Barot wanted to hunt pigeons with a gun. Kanti couldn't bear to watch. He stepped in front of them and placed his hand on the muzzle of the gun, saying, "I will not let you hunt." They said, "If you stand in the sun for an hour, we won't." Kanti, not trusting them, said, "Give me the gun, and I will stand in the sun." To save the birds, Kanti took the gun in his hand and stood in the scorching summer heat. After 15-20 minutes, both Barots lifted Kanti up and vowed never to do such a thing again
His father, Gaggalbhai, introduced and guided him to the great Guru, Jain Acharya Shrimad Vijay Siddhisurishvarji (Bapji) Maharaj. Until he was eight years old, 'Bapji' Maharaj was everything to Kanti. Little Kanti was never allowed to go on the path of sin, such as eating forbidden foods. He was given much affection and taught that 'asceticism (Charitra) is the only thing worth accepting'. Upon Bapji Maharaj's demise, Kanti felt helpless but his mind found solace and dedication at the feet of Vyakhyan Vachaspati Pujya Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishvarji Maharaj. Both father and son now considered him their all.
In V.S. 2019, at Shripalnagar, Usmanpura, Kanti, at just eleven years old, performed the Updhantap (a special vow). Whether this is considered the auspicious fruit of the Updhantap or the pure influence of the holy guidance of Param Pujya Acharyashri Vijay Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj, one day, at an auspicious moment, the wish of the eleven-year-old boy slipped out in words: "I want to take Diksha."
Path to Diksha and Opposition
Shri Gaggalbhai's desire for Diksha was unshakeable. He started the preparations for his initiation. His biggest responsibility was to arrange for his wife's livelihood. Gagalbhai withdrew from his business partnership; the capital he received was placed in his wife's name at a good interest rate. He also built a new house from the foundation next to his elder brother's house, in addition to their existing house in Bhorol Tirth. Thus, arrangements were made for Jiviben's accommodation and maintenance expenses.
Gagalbhai had long received his family's permission for Diksha, but there was an obstacle for Kanti. Due to this, Gagalbhai remained in the worldly life. Finally, seeing Kanti's detachment (Vairagya) and aptitude, he decided to run away and take Diksha. Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj decided to hold the Diksha in Murbad as he felt it was risky to take Diksha in Mumbai, as the news would certainly spread and relatives from Ahmedabad would immediately arrive and not allow the Diksha to happen.
On the predetermined day of Posh Sud-14, at the fixed auspicious time, the father and son took Diksha with great enthusiasm. The newly initiated Munishris (monks) were given new names. Shri Gagalbhai was declared a
disciple of Acharyashri Vijay Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj and named Munishri Gunyashvijayji Maharaj. His son, Kantilal, was declared his disciple, and his name was announced as Munishri Kirtiyashvijayji Maharaj.
Before the Diksha ceremony was peacefully and safely completed, the young Kanti, who was about to be initiated, had written a letter to his mother, Jiviben. The essence of the letter was as follows:
"Before this letter reaches your hands, my venerable father and I would have renounced the world. We are both going to accept Diksha in Murbad. I apologize for not informing you of this event beforehand. I know you will be greatly pained by this news, but I urge you to remain equanimous (Samata). The fact that my father and I are renouncing the material pleasures of the world to become Jain monks should be a cause for joy and pride for you, not sorrow. May the Parmatma bless you with welfare as well as us!" The letter was written to reach her precisely on the day of the Diksha.
As the news spread, the extended family, shocked and furious, arrived to oppose the diksha. Threats were hurled in the air: "How can this happen? We will not accept this Diksha at all. We should not tolerate this Diksha being performed without our knowledge. Let's go and demand an answer from Acharya Ramchandrasuri Maharaj." The family members had fully prepared to abduct Munishri Kirtiyashvijayji.
In a moment, Jiviben showed the world what a spiritual mother (Dharma Mother) who has understood the Jinshasan is like. With pride on her face and firmness in her eyes, she declared: "Vinod, your assumption is half right and half wrong. As long as my Kanti had not taken Diksha, I was against it. But now that he has taken Diksha, I do not even need to think about opposing it. If any of you have come here to abduct him, I am not with you."
Munishri Kirtiyashvijayji Maharaj, though young in age, was mature in his understanding of Dharma. He found an infallible remedy to keep emotions at bay during this agitation. For the entire time his worldly mother, Jiviben, was present in the Upashray, Muniraj immersed himself in the gentle recitation of 'Kim Karpuramayam'. He remained cautious so that not a drop of emotion could touch him.
Early Years After Diksha
From the beginning, he embraced rigorous austerities. Inspired by his father’s example, he undertook continuous 507 Ayambil tapas, using only two items, Year-long fasts (Varshitap), Two cycles of Navpad (9×9) austerities, 38 Vardhaman tap olis, continuous 200 Ayambils. . Furthermore, by performing the Ekasan (eating only once a day) penance for years, he has also devotedly followed the Lord's command, 'Egbhattam Cha Bhojanam' (Food should be taken only once in a day).
When Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishvarji Maharaj was about 78 years old, due to cataracts caused by age, he could not easily read small letters. His vision was blurred. Since the cataract was not yet mature, doctors advised against surgery. Acharya Shri Kirtiyashsuriji Maharaj, who was then in his Muni (monastic) state, perceived his Gurudev's difficulty. Gurudev believed in enduring and never complained, yet Munishri found a precise solution.
He started writing the pages of the Grantha (scripture) Acharyashri was to read in his discourse, using thick, black ink in a large, bold font (about 80 to 90 points) with a tajiya baru (a type of pen). In a few days, he mastered this handwriting, making it look like a printed page. This brought great relief to the Acharya bhagvant in his reading.
Munishri then developed the habit of writing in a style that imitated the curves of the script being read. In this way, he gained proficiency in that as well within a few days. Gurudev Acharyashriji also started reading the scriptures written in this script and using them in his discourses. This made his day-long Swadhyay (study) effortless. Munishri was observing Varshitap at that time. Even on the day of fasting, from the moment the first ray of sun appeared until the last light after sunset, he achieved the feat of continuously writing scriptures (Shrutlekhan) while sitting in one posture. The religious scriptures he wrote are still preserved today.
While his Guru, 'Shri Ramchandrasuriji Maharaj,' was still alive, and by his command, he first wrote the detailed explanation (Vistararth) of the 350 Gathas (verses) of the Philosophical Stavan by Mahopadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj. These books were published as 'Sanmarg Darshan Part 1 and 2'.
Literary Contributions
The discourses of Vyakhyan Vachaspati Acharyadev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishvarji Maharaj are like Upanishads that deliver the essence of the Jain Agamas in simple language! Even his Guru, Acharya Shri Premsurishvarji Maharaj, used to say that not a single statement in his discourses was against the scriptures. These discourses should be rendered in Sanskrit so that they can serve as a scriptural text for future generations.
Acharya Shri Kirtiyashsuriji Maharaj became a dedicated student of this discourse literature from his youth. Gurudev also entrusted him with the editing of several books. He edited 'Samyagdarshan,' 'Sangh Swaroop Darshan' Parts 1 to 3, 'Aacharaang na Vyakhyano' Parts 1 to 14, and 'Patan ane Punarutthan', both during his Gurudev's lifetime and after his heavenly departure.
He envisioned that each topic addressed by his Guru should become a concise booklet, accessible to modern readers which would serve as an authentic reference text for gaining true knowledge of the Jain Dharma. In this era, people are largely brief-lovers (Sankshēpa Ruchi). Due to time constrains, someone traveling by local train from Virar-Borivali to South Mumbai can read a book of just 30 to 60 pages every day and gain the true knowledge. These booklets became so popular that five thousand copies had to be reprinted in the very first year. Sanmarg Prakashan-Ahmedabad published the entire series.
Based on the letters he wrote to his worldly mother, Jiviben, to attain supreme spiritual peace (Param Samadhi) during her incurable battle with cancer, he prepared a book titled 'Mrutyuni Mangal Pale - Samadhini Sadhana' (The Auspicious Moment of Death - The Practice of Solace). This book, which provides inner strength for spiritual practice to the four-fold Jain community (Chaturvidha Shri Sangh), is extremely useful not only for those on a sickbed or deathbed but also for daily life.
The Journey of an Influential Speaker (Pravachan Prabhavak)
Acharyashri’s discourses began only due to Guru’s insistence. Initially reluctant—fearing that traveling for discourses would distance him from Guru-seva—he complied out of obedience. He felt that if he gave discourses, Gurudevshri would send him to different villages and cities for Chaturmas (four-month rainy retreat).
Once, during the Paryushan Mahaparva (main Jain festival), Acharya Gurudev commanded him to give a discourse. At that time, everyone advised him to simply read the Gujarati translation. "Don't bother with reading and commenting on the Sanskrit," they said. But Gurudev clearly instructed, "Kirtiyash! You have to read the Sanskrit commentary only." The practice caused him to sweat, but it paid off. The discourse happened, and the Acharyashri, presiding as a senior, praised him, saying, "You see, Kirtiyashvijayji! As I said, reading the Gujarati translation worked wonders!" Munishri humbly showed the scripture and said, "Sir! Look, I only brought the pages of the Sanskrit commentary. There isn't a single page of Gujarati in this."
Acharya Shri Kirtiyashsuriji Maharaj subsequently gave daily discourses. Soon, his discourses became powerful forces of scriptural clarity. At a major sammelan, amidst b opposition, he prevailed through profound scriptural reasoning—winning the battle for doctrinal protection. After that, his art of discourse flowed like the Ganges and inspired many ordinary people to become like the Parmatma.
A distinctive feature of Acharyashri is his Question-and-Answer discourses (Prashnottari-Pravachans). His Q&A discourses, delivered during Chaturmas or special events, are legendary. Questions from the audience—spoken or written—are answered with lightning precision and depth.
His discourses contain scriptural knowledge, scriptural adherence, and scripturally sound logic. Hence, they are liberating (Tarak), not destructive (Marak). There are plenty of examples (Drashtanto) in the discourses, but all are those described in ancient Jain Agam Shastras. He generally does not use modern examples. When asked the reason for this, he said, "What is lacking in the Aagam of my Parmatma that I should have to go elsewhere for an example?" Although the examples are old and well-known, their presentation carries such a golden and pleasant touch that the listener is mesmerized. Despite giving so many discourses over the years, there is no compromise with the scriptural principles. The most distinctive identity of Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtyashasurishvarji Maharaj is the epithet, 'Pravachan Prabhavak' (Influential Speaker).
Wherever Acharyashri goes, waves of Jin-bhakti, Guru-bhakti, Shastra-bhakti, and Sadhu-bhakti spontaneously arise. Despite this, how does this person, who fulfills his duty by granting his patronage to so many festivals, find the time for his self-practice, spiritual devotion, protection of the Shasan, study-teaching, discourses, granting of Vachana (scriptural readings), Sanmarg Parivarik (family-oriented religious) activities, and the compilation-editing-publication of hundreds of scriptures-books. This remains a puzzle.His secret? He wastes not a single moment. He sleeps 5–6 hours, rests only half an hour during the day, and dedicates every remaining moment to spiritual work. When asked how he stays so energetic, he replied: “The Aagamas nourish the nerves of knowledge. The joy they give removes all fatigue. Our Acharyas have left us an ocean of wisdom—why seek anything outside?”
Formation of Mumukshus
Without any persuasion or publicity, many spiritual aspirants (mumukshus) are naturally drawn every year to Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtiyashsurishwarji Maharaj, attracted by his magnetic presence and inner purity. After their proper spiritual refinement, those who wish to take Diksha are initiated.
Acharya Shri does not merely initiate disciples; he nurtures them in such a way that their feelings of renunciation remain alive, their enthusiasm for spiritual liberation deepens, and they themselves become joyful beings capable of spreading joy to everyone they meet. All the training is rooted in the Jain scriptures and their eternal wisdom.
In giving affection, Acharya Shri is like a mother; in enforcing discipline, he is like a father. With his long-standing scriptural insight and vast experience, he becomes a firm support and ultimate guide for every disciple.
Practice of Mantra-Japa and Meditation
Even now, he wakes up early every morning and sits in the Padmasana (lotus pose). After performing Japa (mantra chanting) for about two hours, he carries out his daily routine, and in the evening, after darkness sets in, he performs Japa for another one to one-and-a-half hours. During this time, he regularly chants the Vardhaman Vidya and the Surimantra bestowed by his Guru.
Apart from a specific period of accident, his Japa Sadhana has never been interrupted, even during severe illness. This Japa Yoga Sadhna plays a lion's share in his ability to lead the sangh, protect the path, and carry out the vast responsibilities of administration, devotion, and spiritual upliftment.
Presence in Major Festivals and Ceremonies
The confluence of influential grand festivals continues under his patronage. The chain of Diksha, Anjanshalaka-Pratishtha, Updhan, Chha Ri Palit Sangha (pilgrimage for special vows), and Vachana Shreni continues. In every festival under his patronage, there is no activity against the command of the Lord (Bhagwan ni Agya).
His firm principle is that nothing in a festival should occur against the command of the scriptures. He often says: “Dharma is not something to be advertised, it is something to be expressed through spiritual influence. Tools can create publicity, but not inner impact. True impact comes only through sadhana, devotion, and obedience to the divine command.”
In the Updhan Mala events under his patronage, even at this advanced age, he sits cross-legged for nearly seven hours, placing each sacred mala on every devotee—from the first participant to the very last—with the same serenity and satisfaction. Because of this there is now a competition for the honor of the last mala as well.
Terrible Accident
After gaining immense respect as a powerful ascetic and strict protector of the Jain order, Acharyashri suffered a major accident in VS 2063 (2007) while traveling from Ahmedabad to Mumbai. Near Manor, a truck struck his Doli with such force that he was thrown fifteen feet into the air.
Acharya Shri was critically injured—unconscious, bleeding heavily. Upon regaining consciousness briefly, the first name he remembered was Lord Parshvanath, and immediately after, he inquired about the condition of the dolī-bearer, insisting that proper treatment be given to them.
Acharya Shri was admitted to the hospital. He had lost significant blood; one arm was broken and dangling; three ribs and three vertebrae were fractured; both legs had temporarily stopped functioning. After examining the scans, the devoted physician Dr. Shekharbhai cried, fearing that even if Acharya Shri survived, he would have to live a completely dependent life.
But Acharyashri was like a phoenix, rising from devastation.
He underwent surgery and stayed in the hospital for around ten days, strictly observing the limitations of monastic life even there. Even while suffering, he repeatedly asked, “Did the dolī-bearer receive proper treatment?” With a heavy heart he said, “All of you will surely care for me—but who will look after them?”
His father-Guru also traveled and reached the hospital. Seeing his condition, after necessary inquiries, taking care of his health, knowing the doctors' opinions, and what medicines were being administered, he finally said, “A huge responsibility rests on your shoulders. You must recover quickly and carry forward the work of the Jain order.”
Even today, metal rods remain in Acharya Shri’s arm On the fifteenth day, Acharyashri delivered a discourse while seated on a chair, his arm still in a cast. Gradually the duration increased, until within about two weeks he was again speaking for one-and-a-half to two hours with clarity and strength.
In this very situation, he gave the discourses on the 'Uchit Acharan Shreni' (Series on Proper Conduct) in a b voice that could be clearly heard by 2,500 to 3,000 listeners at the Upashray of Walkeshwar-Chandanbala. At the time, no one knew that Acharyashri's discourse books, 'Uchit Acharan' Series Parts 1 to 8, would be reprinted repeatedly. It took him six months to recover completely.
Service as a Physician to the Shraman Sangh
After diksha, without ever attending medical school, without formal science education (not even SSC), without English training or apprenticeship under a doctor, Acharya Shri mastered principles of Ayurveda, homeopathy, and other healing systems simply through his self-driven, intense study of medical texts in Gujarati, Hindi, and Sanskrit.
Doctors and vaidyas who interacted with him were always amazed at his understanding.
His only purpose behind this study was to serve his Gurudev, Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji, and the entire Shraman-Shramani Sangh. He has restored physical and mental health to countless monks and nuns and saved many lives. In critical moments, his knowledge was invaluable for preserving the dignity and discipline of monastic life.
Due to the proficient study of medical science and psychology by Pujya Munishri Kirtiyashvijayji, he received the special benefit of performing the final spiritual guidance (Antim Niryamana) for his Gurudev. Staying with renowned physicians, he made every effort to keep Acharyaryadevshri's body comfortable and healthy. Yet, when he realized that his life could no longer be extended by physical treatment, he made his mind hard as a diamond, maintained his patience, and guided his ultimate benefactor, Acharyashriji, to Niryamana. Holding his venerable Gurudev's hand, he constantly kept the sound of 'Arihant' echoing near his ear. He performed the Niryamana in such a unique way that the four-fold community (Chaturvidh Shrisangh) who witnessed it can never forget it.
The Jirawala Tirth Episode
For years, the trustees of the sacred Jirawala Parshvanath Tirth tried to raise the ancient murti (Utthapan) but were unsuccessful, and due to this the renovation and restoration of the tirth was stalled. Due to an emergency request made by a unanimous resolution of all the trustees, they invited Acharya Shri Kirtiyashsuriji for offering his guidance.
Acharya Shri set the auspicious days of Vaishakh Sud 6–7 after receiving divine indication (sanket) for raising the sacred murti. He warned all the trustees clearly:
“If this muhurat is taken, the entire renovation will unfold through divine force with minimal hardship. If you change it, obstacles will multiply.”
When a trustee insisted on changing the muhurat, Acharya Shri replied firmly:
“If you choose another muhurat, the responsibility will be entirely yours. Many difficulties will arise.”
This proved true—numerous obstacles followed when the designated muhurat was missed.
To receive divine guidance, an Attham Tap was organized with over 800 participants. The third day of the Attham fast began. That morning was designated for the reception of the Sanket. Only a limited number of people were allowed into the Derasar and the door was closed: the Attham Tapsvi (ascetic) Gurudev Acharya Shri Vijay Gunyashasuriji, the Sanket-giving Acharyashri, all the present trustees, one ritual facilitator (Vidhikarak), one priest, some mahatmas, and two young children (7/8 years old).
Both Acharyashri sat in the Rangamandap (hall) in front of the idol. A mandalu (drawing for ritual) was set up opposite them. Some worship rituals were performed by the facilitator and the children. Then everyone sat down. Acharyashri started counting the Navkarvali (rosary). After counting about five Navkarvalis, the signal/command (Sanket-Adesh) began to be received. The divine voice (Divya-Vani) continued to flow from Acharyashri's mouth. He spoke non-stop for ten to fifteen minutes. Everyone wrote down as much as they could. Then, the trustees began asking various questions. Divine answers (Divya Samadhan) were also given by Acharyashri.
The substance of this Sanket was as follows: The entire current Jinalaya of Shri Jiravala Parshwanath is to be dismantled, and the ancient, influential idol of Shri Jiravala Parshwanath Prabhu is to be installed as the Mulnayak (main deity). In the new Jinalaya, the seat of the Mulnayak should be moved a certain number of feet east and south of the current Mulnayak's location, and the idol should be established so that its Yoga-naal (central energy line) is in the correct position. Precise guidance was also given on which Prabhuji (idol) should be relocated in which order. It was also stated that there is no need for a basement (Bhoyaru) in the new Jinalaya and no need to make it a two-story building; it should be a 52-Jinalaya Prasad (temple complex) with a single story.
Before granting his patronage for the ground-breaking (Bhumikhanan) and foundation-stone laying (Shilasthapan) ceremonies,, Acharya Shri ensured that trustees vowed to uphold every scriptural rule for monks. When he sensed they were becoming lax and would no longer uphold the necessary discipline, he told them clearly:
“Until now, I have fulfilled all responsibilities. But if Jain scriptural conduct cannot be maintained here, please do not associate my name with future decisions.”
A unique feature of Acharyashri’s nature is that he takes on responsibilities easily—and leaves them just as easily when principles are compromised. Once he lets go of something, he never looks back.
Accuracy of His Jyotish and Muhurat Guidance
For the consecration of a temple in Jagana, a family had obtained the Muhūrt of Maha Sud-5 in V.S. 2069 from a famous astrologer (Joshi) for Pratishtha Cermony. They came to Acharyashriji with this date. He examined the Muhūrt and said, "The Muhūrt for Pancham (the 5th day) is acceptable, but if you ask me, the day of Maha Sud-3 would be better." The family deliberated for a minute and said, "Your command is paramount to us, give us Maha Sud-3." The day was given. This conversation took place in the month of Shravan in V.S. 2068, meaning the event was still six months away.
Acharyashri performed an intense journey (Ugra Vihar) from Gandhar to Palanpur-Jagana to be on time. The eight-day Anjan-Pratishtha Mahotsav was celebrated with great pomp. The consecration was completed on Maha Sud-3. In the evening, Acharyashri began his journey toward Deesa. On the next morning, the Dwārodghātan (temple door opening ceremony) took place under the patronage of Acharyashri's disciples. They also began their journey at eleven o'clock.
In the evening, after the Chovihar (fasting from sunset to sunrise) was completed, and everyone had left the canopy, a massive whirlwind struck the Palanpur region, demolishing tall gateways and decorative structures. By divine grace, no one was hurt. The family trembled remembering—
“What if we had insisted the consecration on Maha Sud 5?”
Acharya Kirtiyashsurishwarji Intense Travel (Vihar)
During his Guru’s Diksha Shatabdi celebrations in Gandhar, Acharyashri also had to honor a prior commitment to perform a Pratishtha in Jagana. Gandhar was 350 km away, and there were only twelve days between both events. Still, he honored both—first completing celebrations at Gandhar, then covering 350 km in twelve days to reach Jagana on time. He could have asked the family to find another muhurat—but he never breaks his word. Once he gives a promise, he fulfills it with unwavering integrity.
Once, Acharyashri traveled 185 km from Bhorol Tirth in just five days to reach Jiravala. Not only that, but after ensuring the event there was obstacle-free, he walked 100 km in just two and a half days to reach Bhiladiya ji and granted his patronage to an Updhan. On a journey toward Surat, he walked approximately 50 km in a single day to provide solace to a Sadhviji (nun).
Even today, no matter how long the distance, he never uses a wheelchair.
Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtiyashsurishwarji Maharaj upholds the highest standards of Jain thought and conduct with unwavering dedication. Through immense effort, discipline, and devotion, he brings the teachings of the Jineshwar Bhagwan to the world with clarity, strength, and spiritual depth.
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