Veerayatan Has Become Synonymous with Acharyashriji
— Tapagacchadhipati Acharya Shri Jinchandra Suriji Maharaj
Just as Mount Girnar is known as the place where the 20th Tirthankara, Nemi Nath, attained liberation, just as Pavapuri is known as the place where Bhagwan Mahavir attained nirvana, and just as Rajgir—the land associated with the four auspicious events of Bhagwan Munisuvrat Swami and the site of the spiritual practices of many great sages and Tirthankaras—is a historic and sacred centre of the Jain tradition in Bihar, and thus holds a special significance.
There, the great saint known as Kaviji Maharaj of the Sthanakvasi tradition, a profound spiritual practitioner, independent thinker, and advocate of revolutionary ideas, lit a spiritual flame.
The great Sadhvi Acharya Chandanashriji kept that flame burning brightly. Through her wisdom, spiritual practice, austerities, and dedicated efforts, together with her loyal disciples and devotees, she carried that light in all directions.
She reflected: Why is there such darkness today on the sacred land illuminated by Bhagwan Mahavir? This darkness must be removed. With the blessings of her revered Guru, Upadhyaya Shri Amarmuniji Maharaj, she established Veerayatan.
Today, Veerayatan has virtually become synonymous with Acharya Chandanashriji. Through Veerayatan, a stream of humanity, education, and transformative thought has been set in motion. Acharya Chandanaji showed a new path and established a new ideal for society as a whole. She carried the banner of Jain Dharma across India and abroad.
The loss suffered by the Jain order through her departure is immeasurable. Wherever Veerayatan exists, may its work continue to grow. By the grace of Bhagwan Mahavir, her mission will continue uninterrupted.
Whether in Bihar, Kutch, Palitana, or anywhere in India and abroad, may all the work inspired by her vision continue to flourish. May all dedicated sadhvis continue to carry her thoughts forward and elevate them to ever greater heights. May all learned and capable sadhvis attain self-enlightenment while working tirelessly for the welfare of others.
With these sentiments, I offer my reverential salutations to the divine soul of Acharya Chandanaji.
Embodiment of Motherly Affection
— Khartargacchadhipati Acharya Jinmaniprabhasuri
The news of the passing of the revered Tai Maharaj filled my heart with sorrow. Her affectionate and caring face appears vividly before my eyes. I had known her for more than fifty years. I first met her at Veerayatan in Rajgir during the 2500th Nirvana Jubilee celebration at Pawapuri, in the presence of the revered Amarmuniji Maharaj. Her simplicity, humility, and nectar like words remain fresh in my memories even today.
The unique works of humanitarian service that she accomplished and the constructive, revolutionary efforts she undertook will be remembered by people with gratitude for generations to come. Her passing marks the end of an era. Throughout her life, she courageously spread the message of Bhagwan Mahavir and dedicated her entire life to service and devotion.
On the sacred land of Bihar, where Bhagwan Mahavir once walked, she ensured that the name of Bhagwan echoed once again. She made Bihar’s capital, Rajgir, her field of action and carried Bhagwan Mahavir’s teachings and the sacred name of Bhagwan Mahavir (‘Veer’) from home to home. Words fall short in appreciating her achievements and contributions.
In 1970, Shri Shanti Swaroopji Maharaj Said: “Chandanashriji is an Energetic Sadhvi”
— Dr. Vishalmuni Jainagar, Meerut
The passing of Acharyashri Chandanaji, a great soul devoted to service and spiritual practice and honoured with the national Padma Shri award, is an irreparable loss not only to the Veerayatan family but to the entire Jain community. The whole Jain society is deeply saddened by this tragic news.
Through her presence alone, hundreds of institutions and thousands of workers serving across India and abroad remained active and continuously progressing. They were devoted with their body, mind, and wealth. The shock felt in their hearts is indescribable. Acharyashri was like a mother and father to millions of helpless and poor people. Today, a feeling of helplessness and despair has spread among all those families. Our hearts are deeply moved even by imagining this situation.
Seeing her countless contributions in education, values, service, and social support over the years, the Government of India honoured Acharyashri with the nation’s prestigious award, Padma Shri. This recognition was a matter of pride and self-respect for the entire Jain community. The historic city of Meerut, a land associated with India’s freedom movement, played an important role in bringing Sadhvishri Chandanashriji to this level of national recognition
In 1970, during Chaturmas in Jain Nagar, Meerut, the highly influential disciple of the great ascetic Swami Nihalchandji Maharaj, Shri Khubchandji Maharaj, along with Shri Phoolchandji Maharaj and Shri Shanti Swaroopji Maharaj, were present there. Alongside them, Sadhvishri Sumati Kanwarji Maharaj and Prasammati Sadhvishri Chandanashriji also spent a remarkable Chaturmas in Meerut.
After the successful completion of that Chaturmas, they inspired her to come to Agra. They also indicated to Upadhyaya Shri Amarmuniji Maharaj, who was residing in Agra with the monastic order, that Sadhvishri Chandanashriji possessed immense energy, strength, and capability. After detailed discussions with Chandanashriji, the vision of Veerayatan emerged.
From Agra itself, Sadhvishri resolved to turn that vision into reality. After announcing Veerayatan in Agra, she went directly to Bihar and dedicated her entire life to giving shape to that mission. Today, through Veerayatan, extraordinary work in education, service, and spiritual practice is being carried out in Bihar, throughout India, and around the world.
In accordance with Acharyashriji’s vision, these centres continue to function. Such extraordinary dedication and hard work are rarely seen. We offer our heartfelt tribute to that great and virtuous soul.
Acharya Anandrishiji Maharaj Had Immense Affection for Tai Ma
— Message from Alokrishi, conveyed through the Agra Sangh of Pravartak Shri Kundanrishiji
The news of the passing of Sadhvishri Chandanashriji Maharaj, the architect of many constructive and tranformative works, brought deep sorrow. Her creative and pioneering work in the form of Veerayatan is truly remarkable. It reflects her dedicated efforts, the support of her sadhvis, and the blessings of Upadhyaya Shri Amarmuniji Maharaj.
Her countless contributions in service, values, and humanity have proved to be a blessing for society and mankind and can never be forgotten. She also rendered notable service through literature; works such as the Uttaradhyayan Sutra are fine examples of this contribution.
Acharya Bhagwant Pujya Shri Anandrishiji Maharaj initiated her into monkhood at Gulabbagh and guided her scriptural studies for many years. He had immense affection, goodwill, and compassion for her.
Although her physical body is no longer among us, her noble works will always keep her memory alive. We all offer our heartfelt appreciation for her achievements and pray that her soul attains eternal peace.
We extend our condolences to the disciples of Acharya Bhagwant, to the revered Guru and distinguished thinker Pujya Shri Adarshrishiji Maharaj, and to all the members of the Anandakul tradition.
Tribute by Acharya Sagar Chandra Suri
The news of the passing of the affectionate, influential, and highly discerning Sadhvishri Chandanashriji Maharaj has caused deep sorrow. Yet her life itself was a message of peace and happiness. Not only did she experience peace and joy herself, but she also enabled those around her to experience the same.
We offer our respects to her mortal form and our prayers to her immortal spirit that it may soon attain the supreme state. We salute her accomplishments and pray that all of you find the strength to carry forward the noble work she envisioned and established.
A Message Through Sadhvi Suyasha, from Sadhvi Suvratashriji, the Senior Disciple of Sadhvishri Mangalvatishriji
Padma Shri Acharya Chandanashriji was a radiant and distinguished sadhvi of Bhagwan Mahavir’s tradition. Wherever natural disasters occurred, she stood there as a messenger of humanity. Without discrimination, she shared in the suffering of all who were distressed. During earthquakes, she became a mother and father to children who had lost their parents.
Such a great Sadhvi can never truly leave this world. Her work and noble qualities will continue to guide the Sangh and society forever.
Tribute by Dilip Bhai, Shrimad Rajchandra Atmatattva Research Centre - Rajnagar Parli, Maharashtra
Endowed with spiritual impressions from previous births, Acharya Shri accepted initiation at the young age of just 14 and began her journey of spirituality. Through twelve years of silence and deep study of the scriptures, she succeeded in elevating her spiritual state. Her soul was always engaged in the welfare of others, and through service she worked tirelessly to spread Veerayatan as a unique path of compassion and public welfare throughout the world.
It is noteworthy that, at the invitation of the Executive Committee of the Kolkata Centre, Acharyashriji accepted their request and in 2018 visited the Veetaraag Vigyan Bhavan of the Kolkata Centre, where all devotees benefited from her darshan and discourses.
May her soul continue its onward spiritual journey.
Tribute by Sadhvi Jyotibai Mahasati, Sadhvi Sitabai Mahasati, Rajkot
The passing of revered Tai Maharaj, whose love, affection, and motherly care were as vast as an ocean, has left us deeply saddened. For ninety years, she provided invaluable service to the Sangh and society. She lovingly nurtured her disciples and showered them with affection, joy, and extraordinary wisdom. Her immense service can never be forgotten.
Our family shared a very close and affectionate relationship with the revered Hiralalji Maharaj Saheb, Navalbhai Maharaj Saheb, Jyotibai Mahasati, and the entire family of the tradition. Such was the depth of that bond that Kumari Kimpalben was welcomed into Tai Ma’s family as a Sadhvi Manasvi, and our friendship reached great heights. May that friendship continue successfully.
Dear Sadhvi Sisters, what can I write? You all understand very well and are wise and discerning. What has happened is extremely unexpected. Tai Ma was the heartbeat of your lives. We can never repay even a fraction of the debt we owe to Tai Ma.
Her streams of knowledge, education, and service are immortal. We pray for your good health and encourage you all to continue advancing her work.
Tribute by Pravartini Sadhvi Dr. Chandana
The Jain community has lost an embodiment of motherly affection. Acharya Chandanaji Maharaj, the pride of the Jain community and a recipient of the Padma Shri award, is no longer among us. Today, it is not merely the departure of a Sadhvi; it is the loss of a refuge for countless people whose lives she transformed.
The heartbeat of Veerayatan seems to have stopped today. Every particle of Veerayatan will continue to tell the story of her noble deeds. Every child in Bihar regarded her as a mother. She was Tai Ma to all of us.
She was the first Sadhvi of the Jain community to be honoured with the Padma Shri award and the first Sadhvi to be known as an Acharya. Today, on the occasion of her final farewell, I extend heartfelt condolences to her entire Sadhvi family.
Today, the protective shade above your heads has been lifted, but her blessings will remain. I pray to Bhagwan that this divine soul may attain the bliss of liberation.
Tribute by Dhiraj Muni
Tai Ma's well-known guiding mantra was: 'Where women are respected, culture, dignity, contentment, and noble virtues will flourish.' Likewise, she emphasised: 'Where there is a temple, there should also be a school and a hospital.'
The departure of such a learned and revered Pujya Chandanaji to the heavenly abode is an irreparable loss.
Heartfelt tributes.
Tribute by Dr. Karun Muni (‘Amar’ Disciple)
On behalf of Param Pujya Shri Pankaj Muni Ji Maharaj Sahib
Although we were not fortunate enough to have your direct darshan, we have been deeply familiar with your achievements, spiritual practice, and service activities.
Your profound reverence for Rashtra Sant, Uttar Bharatiya Pravartak, the immensely revered Gurudev Bhandari Shri Padmachand Ji Maharaj Sahib, and Vani-Bhushan, Sahitya Samrat, Pravartak Pravar Pujya Gurudev Shri Amar Muni Ji Maharaj Sahib, was always inspiring.
The unique contributions you made in the fields of education, healthcare, and character-building will always be remembered. Under your guidance, your vast family of disciples continues to carry forward this divine heritage of values and culture. This is a matter of great joy and satisfaction.
We offer our respects to your discipline, spiritual practice, and noble virtues.
The service rendered to revered Tai Maharaj Sahib by respected social leader Shri Abhay Ji Firodia and the entire Firodia family is truly exemplary and worthy of admiration. By fulfilling the role of an elder brother with such dedication, they have set a noble example. We sincerely congratulate them for their devoted service.
In particular, the dignified and well-organised final rites and memorial arrangements conducted by them at Abhay Prabhavana were highly commendable and inspirational. Through this sacred service, they have preserved the divine blessings of the revered Acharya for generations to come. We once again congratulate them from the heart for their devotion to the Guru and their spirit of service.
On behalf of Rashtrasant Shraman Sanghiya Up-Pravartak Param Pujya Shri Pankaj Muni Ji Maharaj Sahib and the entire Guru Padma-Amar disciple family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all of you.
We pray to the Lord that you may continue to engage in activities beneficial to society and help preserve the sacred name and legacy of the revered Acharya.
With these auspicious sentiments, we offer our respectful homage and heartfelt condolences once again.
Tribute by Sumitra Muni, Northern India Pravartak
Acharya Shri Chandana Ji Maharaj was a distinguished and great preacher of religion. Every moment of her life was dedicated to self-development and the welfare of society. She inspired thousands of devotees to walk the path of religion, love, and harmony.
When the revered Acharya Samrat Shri Anandrishiji Maharaj visited the Delhi Kolhapur Road Jain Sthanak in 1969, Chandana Ji Maharaj was also present there. She was widely discussed because of her knowledge and revolutionary ideas. Though I was very young at the time, she treated me with great respect. We had many conversations, and I experienced tremendous warmth from her.
Even today, her words echo in my ears:
“Young Maharaj! Do not only come and go - study, reflect, and understand. The right time will come.”
By the grace of my revered Guru, I tried to live according to that guidance. Her passing has caused an irreparable loss to the religious community.
Tribute by Sadhvi Madhusmita, Matrutirth Jain Sthanak, Nashik
I have been connected with her since 1962. Now it is difficult to accept that she has gone so far away. It leaves a deep wound in the heart.
She truly continued advancing on the path of “transformation” taught by Lord Mahavir, but this final transformation has been deeply painful for us. When I last met her, she kept saying:
“There is still so much work to do; many tasks remain unfinished.”
Then came the news of her passing at Abhay Prabhavana, and my heart stopped for a moment. She carried the message of Jain Dharma far and wide, often enduring great hardships. The Jain community can never forget her contributions.
Personally, I feel so deeply connected to her that it seems she has merged into my very heart.
Tai Ma, we may not have been able to become what you were, but we will never allow the torch of the Dharma that you carried to bend or fade. Your blessings will always remain upon us.
Condolence Message
On behalf of Acharya Pravar Shri Parshvachandra Ji Maharaj and Dr. Shri Padmachandra Ji Maharaj
Acharya Chandana Shri Ji performed outstanding work in the field of human service and established Veerayatan as a major institution. She was a disciple of Acharya Pravar Anandrishiji Maharaj and his disciple Sumati Kunwar Ji Maharaj of the Sthanakvasi tradition.
Under the guidance of Upadhyaya Amar Muni Ji Maharaj, she built Veerayatan into a large organisation. During the earthquake in Kutch, she established several centres for service, education, and healthcare. She also spread these activities internationally.
Her passing is an irreparable loss not only to the institutions she personally created but also to all organisations inspired by her work.
Conveyed by:
Dr. Shrutinidhi Ji, Director, S.S. Jain Samanis
Dr. Suyashnidhi Ji, Director, S.S. Jain Samanis
Tai Ma – A Multifaceted Personality
— Dr. Sadhvi Pratibhashri “Prachi”
From childhood, I heard from my parents about revered Maharaj Sahab Kunwar Ji, Tai Ma Acharya Chandanaji, and other Sadhvis. Through the Punjab Pravartini Pujya Kesar Kaushalya Yug Sadhvi Mandal, I became familiar with the revolutionary ideas and devotional hymns of Upadhyaya Kavi Amar Muni Ji Maharaj.
For the last two years, Tai Ma had been residing in Pune for health reasons, which gave me the opportunity to observe and understand her more closely. Her life was a confluence of many remarkable qualities. Her radiant smiling face, eloquent speech, tenderness of heart, simplicity of life, and her ability to harmonise revolution with simplicity all combined to create a truly multifaceted personality.
Tai Ma’s field of work began in Rajgir, the historic capital of Magadh, where Lord Mahavir spent fourteen monsoons. Amid struggles and storms, her mountain-like determination removed obstacles from the path and spread the fragrance of noble deeds.
At Lakhisarai (the birthplace of Lord Mahavir according to local tradition), Pawapuri (his nirvana land), Nalanda, and Rajgir, magnificent CBSE-affiliated schools under the Delhi Board have been established. Thousands of students are being guided away from crime and destructive influences and toward lives of vegetarianism, moral values, and responsible citizenship.
The grand memorial observances of Padma Shri Tai Ma Acharya Chandanaji were conducted with state honours at Vardhaman Pratishthan, Shivaji Nagar, Pune, and at Abhay Prabhavana. She was perhaps the first Sadhvi in the Jain saint tradition to be honoured with the dignity of the Acharya position and later decorated with the Padma Shri award.
Offering reverence to such a great Sadhvi fills one with a sense of spiritual pride.
Tai Ma uplifted women and created a new chapter in women’s history. Even history struggles to describe how divine and extraordinary a soul she was. With devotion and reverence, I offer my respectful homage.
Tribute from the Sisters of Brahmakumaris Ishwariya Vishwavidyalaya
— Brahmakumari Anupama, Brahmakumari Poonam, Brahmakumari Jyoti
Respected Acharya Chandana Ji had deep affection and love for the Brahmakumari sisters, and we sisters also held great respect and love for this departed soul. Our meetings and conversations over the years bound us together in a thread of divine affection.
We offer countless salutations and heartfelt tributes to the sacred memories of Acharya Chandana Ji. We pray that this great soul attains eternal peace in the lap of the Supreme Father.
In this hour of grief, we stand in solidarity with all devotees and members of the Veerayatan family.
On behalf of the sisters and family of Brahmakumaris Ishwariya Vishwavidyalaya, we offer our heartfelt homage to this great and divine soul.
Om Shanti.
Homage from Brahmrishi Om Sidheshwar
Namo Arihantanam
With a heart filled with unbearable sorrow, I bow to the great Acharya Mahasati, the revered Acharya whose soul was universal in spirit.
May this divine and noble soul attain the refuge of the Supreme. May auspiciousness prevail in all directions. May peace, peace, and peace prevail for all beings. May she attain liberation and perfect knowledge (Keval Jnana).
In my heart, the divine vision of the noble one who for the past twenty-five years was known as Acharya Chandana Shri Ji shall remain forever immortal.
This revered lady embodied motherhood for all living beings.
Repeated salutations, countless salutations, again and again I bow before her.
Namo Siddhanam
Tribute by Dr. Rashtrasant Acharya Sanjay Muni Ji Maharaj
Through Veerayatan, Kutch-Mandvi, and many other initiatives, the unparalleled dedication and motherly affection that you bestowed upon children, society, and the Jain community will forever be remembered with honour in the pages of history.
My connection with Veerayatan has always been deeply personal. The magnificent temple of Padmavati Devi there stands as a living testimony to your extraordinary efforts and unwavering faith.
I pray to the Supreme Lord that your sacred legacy may remain immortal. May the saints and spiritual leaders who continue your vast mission of service to humanity carry forward your blessings and auspicious principles. This is our heartfelt prayer.
Tribute by Shri Piyush Muni Maharaj
The life of Pujya Acharya Shri Chandana Ji Maharaj was a wonderful confluence of non-violence, compassion, and humanity. Her sweet speech, loving conduct, and affectionate personality touched the hearts of all who met her. She carried Lord Mahavir’s message to people everywhere and sowed the seeds of religion, compassion, and humanity in countless lives.
Her entire life was imbued with kindness, affection, and service toward all living beings. Even when her health was not good, she remained continuously active in the service of humanity and religion. Her simplicity, teachings, and spiritual radiance continue to inspire us today. Her life reflected both deep devotion to the Supreme Soul within and boundless compassion and love for all beings outside.
As we remember her virtues today, we pray that her ideals, compassion, and simplicity may become part of our own lives, and that we may continue progressing on the path of self-discipline and spiritual upliftment.
Tribute by Dr. Samani Pratibhapragya Ji
The personality of Pujya Acharyashri Chandanaji Maharaj was like a great radiance whose light spread continuously through values and service. Even after her departure, her spiritual practice, educational inspiration, work, and guiding light will continue to show direction to society.
She awakened within the Jain community a sense of respect for one another’s existence and strengthened the community worldwide through the power of service and harmony. She firmly believed that only non-violence can bring positive transformation.
Through her life and work, she brought honour to the entire Jain community. By attaining the position of Acharya and receiving the national honour of Padma Shri, she demonstrated that spiritual discipline, service, and compassion can provide new direction to both society and the nation.
The truest tribute we can offer today is to continue advancing the path of service, spiritual practice, and humanity that she showed us.