Birth Centenary of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj | Rs. 100 UNC Coin | 3-Fold Pack

Acharya Vidyanand Ji, originally named Surendra Upadhyae, was born on 22nd April 1925 into a learned Jain family. His father, Shri Kalappa Upadhyae, was a respected scholar within the Jain community. He received his early education in Marathi and Kannada at Danwad and Shedbal. Later, he entered the Acharya Shantisagar Ashram, where his personality began to take shape under spiritual discipline.

From a young age, he was drawn towards selfless service, compassion, and renunciation. His inclination towards a spiritual life grew stronger over time. In 1942, he actively participated in the Quit India Movement, which further deepened his sense of patriotism and commitment to social service.

In 1946, upon coming into contact with Acharya Mahavir Kirti Ji, he resolved to dedicate his life to the spiritual path. Under his guidance, he received Kshullak Diksha on 15th April 1946 in Tamadaddi, Karnataka. Later, under Acharyaratna Shri Deshbhushan Ji, he received Muni Diksha on 25th July 1963 in Delhi. Progressing steadily on the spiritual path, he was bestowed the title of Upadhyae on 17th November 1974, Elacharya on 17th November 1978, and finally ascended to the revered position of Acharya on 28th June 1987. He was thereafter honored as a Rashtrasant and Siddhantachakravarti — a spiritual luminary and authority on Jain philosophy.

Throughout his life, Acharya Vidyanand Ji authored numerous significant texts on Jain philosophy. He played a pivotal role in conceptualizing the Jain Flag and the Jain Symbol, thus guiding the community on the path of Dharma. He lived a life of simplicity and spiritual integrity.

He attained Samadhi on 22nd September 2020 in Delhi. His spiritual lineage is being carried forward today by Acharya Shri Pragy Sagar Ji Muniraj.