Sadhvi Vishrut Vibha
Once, in Lucknow, several scholars and intellectuals visited Acharya Tulsi. During that stay, one of the communist leaders, Comrade Yashpal met with some of the Anuvrat workers.
Yashpalji said, "I have heard wonderful words about Acharya Shree who is here in Lucknow at present."
Workers -"Did you not meet him? If you feel comfortable, then you may come with us."
They briefed him on the positivity of Anuvrat along with its powerful benefits. Yashpal prepared himself to visit Acharya Tulsi.
Suddenly he said, "I think you are getting confused. I am not Yashpal Jain, follower of the Jain religion. I am Comrade Yashpal and I don't believe in any religion."
Workers-"Sir, we know very well, that you are Comrade Yashpal." They left to meet Acharya Shree at once.
When they arrived at the place, where Acharya Tulsi was residing,
Mr. Yashpal said, "Acharya ji! What can be the relation between the two of us? You are a religious man and I am quite the opposite!"
Acharya Tulsi responded, "Yashpal ji, when a scholar like you makes such statement, it brings confusion to many people. Would you elaborate upon your statement?
Yashpal ji, seeing his opportunity to speak candidly said "Violence and fraud are increasing in the name of all religions. The hermits are deceiving the public in the same way. Why is this happening?"
Acharya Tulsi then explained the true nature of religion and God. He explained the role of worshiping in religion and how devotion to a religion plays an important part in its value system. Acharya Tulsi also introduced the concept of Anuvrat to Mr. Yashpal.
Acharya Tulsi simply stated, "Don't you believe in honesty, love, truth and the like?"
Yashpal affirmed this belief.
Acharya Tulsi said "Well, these are the foundation of true religion."
Yashpal expressed an interest in studying the Jain religion.
Acharya Tulsi, however was apprehensive, "How can one who does not even accept the existence of religion be curious about religion?"
Yashpal noted that based upon his cursory knowledge of religion he found the Jain beliefs to be the most scientific religion that he had come across. I always wanted to study the Jain religion, until now I was unable to find a good teacher."
Acharya Shree Tulsi - "You did not find a teacher to teach you Jainism and we never found a curious student like you."
When Comrade Yashpal went to visit Acharya Tulsi, his beliefs and thoughts were initially quite different. However, after having dialogues with Acharya Tulsi, his perception had completely changed. He was greatly impressed by the Anuvrat movement.
