Acharya Shantisagar Muni Maharaj
A commemorative postage stamp on Acharya Shantisagar, a Digambara Jain Monk :
Issued by India
Issued on Nov 13, 2024
Issued for : In acknowledgment of Acharya Shantisagar’s profound contributions to India’s spiritual tapestry Department of Posts is proud to release a commemorative postage stamp on Acharya Shantisagar Muni Maharaj, honoring him as a guiding light in the realm of Indian spirituality.
Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Neetu Arora
Type : Stamp, Mint Condition
Colour : Multi Colour
Denomination : 500 Paise
Stamps Printed : 303450
Printing Process : Wet Offset
Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad
Name : Satgauda
Born on 23 Jul, 1872 at Yelgula, Bombay Presidency, British India [now in Belgaum district, Karnataka, India]
Died on 8 Sep, 1955 at Kunthalgiri, Bombay State, India [now in Maharashtra]
About :
- Jainism, one of the world’s oldest religions, promotes the principles of non-violence, purity, and peace. The life of a Jain monk exemplifies simplicity and devotion, and in this context, we honor Acharya Shantisagar Muni Maharaj—a true beacon of spirituality and selflessness.
- In July 1872, amidst spiritual darkness, Satagouda (later known as Acharya Shantisagar) was born in Yelgula Village, Belgaum district. His father, Shri Bhim Gouda Patil, was a wealthy and devout landlord, while his mother, Satyavati, was known for her charity and saintly nature. This nurturing environment profoundly influenced Satagouda’s early life.
- From a young age, Satagouda displayed a remarkable detachment from worldly pleasures. A natural saint, thinker, and philosopher, he embodied virtues essential for a righteous life. His commitment to truth, compassion, and austerity set him on the path to sainthood. Seeking deeper spiritual guidance, he approached Devendra Kirtiji Maharaj (Devappa Swami), a revered Jain saint known for his extraordinary spiritual achievements. Eager to embrace renunciation, Satagouda requested initiation into monkhood. Devappa Swami prepared him for the challenges of a life dedicated to spiritual asceticism, ultimately initiating him as “Kshullaka” and bestowing upon him the name “Shantisagar,” which means “ocean of peace.”
- During the Pancha Kalyanaka Mahotsav, Shantisagar sought “Muni Diksha,” fully committing himself to monastic life. A remarkable incident during this period demonstrated his spiritual prowess: a venomous cobra coiled around him in a cave, yet he remained completely unscathed, showcasing his profound mastery over fear and attachment. Over his lifetime, Shantisagar traversed more than 35,000 miles, embodying the essence of Jain teachings. In 1924, he undertook an extraordinary fast lasting over three years to protect Jain culture and values, earning the title “Charitra Chakravarthi” in 1937.
- In 1955, Shantisagar began preparing for his ultimate journey, seeking solitude at Kunthalgiri Hill, a site of deep spiritual significance. He chose to enter ‘Ingini’ Samadhi-Maran, a supreme form of death in which he sought no external assistance. On the 26th day of his fast, he delivered a profound message about the soul’s liberation from material attachments and the necessity of self-control, emphasizing the importance of transcending the cycle of birth and death.
- Acharya Shantisagar Maharaj left his earthly form on September 18, 1955, in Kunthalgiri, calmly uttering “Om Asi Aausa” and “Om Siddhaya Namah.” His passing resonated across the nation, prompting heartfelt tributes, including one from Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, who recognized him as a prince among ascetics and a monumental loss to humanity.
- Acharya Shantisagar’s life continues to inspire self-realization and spiritual awakening. His unwavering commitment to peace, non-violence, and the pursuit of truth serves as a guiding light for all. May his memory endure, inspiring future generations toward spiritual growth and harmony.
- Text : Referenced from content provided by Proponent.
