Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj fasts to death: know all about him

By Editorji News Desk
Published on | Feb 18, 2024

Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj dies

On Sunday morning, Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj died at Chandragiri Teerth in Chhattisgarh's Dongargarh. He was 78 years old.

PM Modi expressed condolences

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a post on X in which he expressed condolences on the demise of the prominent Jain seer.

Attained 'samadhi' through 'sallekhna'

Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj attained 'samadhi' through 'Sallekhna' at Chandragiri teerth at 2:35 am.

What is 'sallekhna'?

It is a Jain religious practice involving voluntary fasting unto death for spiritual purification. The seer had been fasting for 3 days.

Popular for scholarly pursuits

Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was popular for scholarly pursuits. At the age of 22, he initiated as a Digambara monk by Acharya Gyansagar Ji Maharaj.

Expert in Sanskrit, Prakrit & other languages

Renowned for his command over Sanskrit, Prakrit, and other languages. He authored several insightful commentaries, poems, and spiritual treatises.

Recognised work within the Jain community

Some of his recognised work within the Jain community includes Niranjana Shataka, Bhavana Shataka, and Suniti Shataka, among others.

Campaigns to promote Hindi

He also led several campaigns to promote Hindi and make the justice delivery system in any state in its official language.