Acharya Tulsi
Great is he who turns the materialistic current of the age in the direction of spirituality, who enters a new age with a new vision and establishes his cultural values in public life, who brings about a revaluation in the field of religion and sows among the people the seeds of equality and devotion to work. In that sense, Terapanth is a great religious organisation. It is great, indeed, and l has, therefore, never made an effort to define its limits.
Acharya Bhikshu was the first preceptor of Terapanth Dharam Sangh. lt was not his objective to become a preceptor. He was a great seeker of truth. In his search for truth, he relinquished his home and family and adopted the path of spiritual meditation. Because of his intense longing to attain the truth, he studied the scriptures. Eventually, he found the truth and followed it. The path before him was deserted and terrifying. But he was oblivious to any fear or obstruction. He kept going till he reached a destination. This destination was recognized by the public as ‘Terapanth’. He accepted this recognition but described it in his own way. He said, “O Lord, This is ‘TeraPanth' (‘ThyPath’)." From that day, Terapanth became a Symbol of Lord Mahavir's way.
I was invited to a function at the Constitution Club in Delhi. There was present Shri Satkari Mukherji, Head of the Sanskrit Department of Calcutta University Shri Anatshyanam Ayengarwas also there. He was acquainted with the activities of Terapanth. Commenting on the word, ‘Terapanth’, he said, “it is not thy path alone, but my path, too. This Terapanth is my 'Panth'."
This commentary of Shri Ayangar seemed t° me to be Very apt. In this context I consider myself very fortunate in that I have also found my ‘panth'. Lord Mahavir’s path is the path of all those who have faith in Jainism, in non-violence and in Anekant. Swetambar, Digambar, Idol-Worshipers, Non—IdoIaters, Sthanakavasi, Terapanthi—aII these are mere sects; their religion is one and the same. If, rising above sectarianism, we follow the path of Lord Mahavir, ‘Thy Panth’ becomes ‘My Panth’ for everybody.
Terapanth has given us the magical formula of renunciation of pride and egoism. It has taught us how to coordinate religion with science; has given us an opportunity to establish deep contact with one and all. Through this great boon from Terapanth, we wish to serve not this little religious organisation alone, but all humanity. Our faith and dedication, though concentred, need not be limited. Let us embrace the limitless and work in fields unlimited.
