2014 - Acharya Tulsi Birth Centenary | Commemorative Coin

The first commemorative coin of 2014 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Acharya Tulsi. An unconventional ₹20 coin was issued, deviating from the usual ₹100 denomination.

Acharya Tulsi was a revered Jain spiritual leader, philosopher, and reformer whose life and teachings shaped the moral and spiritual landscape of modern India. Born in 1914 in Ladnun, Rajasthan, he entered monkhood at a young age and went on to become the ninth Acharya of the Terapanth Jain sect. His leadership, which spanned more than five decades, was marked by an unwavering commitment to nonviolence, ethical living, and the upliftment of humanity. He envisioned a society rooted in compassion and discipline, and he dedicated his life to guiding people toward a path of inner transformation.

One of Acharya Tulsi’s most influential contributions was the Anuvrat Movement, launched in 1949. At a time when India was rebuilding itself as a new nation, the movement sought to promote moral integrity, self-discipline, and universal values among people, irrespective of their religion or background. Through simple yet profound vows such as truthfulness, nonviolence, and social responsibility, the movement inspired millions to embrace a life of ethical conduct. Acharya Tulsi believed that societal change must begin with individual transformation, and the Anuvrat Movement reflected this belief by emphasizing character-building and personal accountability.

Acharya Tulsi was also a visionary in education and spirituality. He established institutions dedicated to research, learning, and meditation, laying the foundation for the Jain Vishva Bharati University in Ladnun. His teachings emphasized rational thinking, introspection, and the harmonious blending of tradition with modernity. Under his guidance, the practice of Preksha Meditation emerged as a structured method to attain mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. This practice has since gained widespread acceptance across the world for its holistic benefits.

A prolific writer and poet, Acharya Tulsi composed numerous works on philosophy, ethics, and spirituality. His writings continue to inspire scholars and spiritual seekers alike. He traveled extensively across India, spreading messages of peace, mutual understanding, and religious harmony. His dialogues with leaders, intellectuals, and global thinkers helped promote interfaith cooperation and fostered a spirit of unity among diverse communities.

Acharya Tulsi’s life was an embodiment of humility, discipline, and service. He passed away in 1997, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence countless lives through the Terapanth tradition, the Anuvrat Movement, and the institutions he established. His timeless teachings remain a guiding light for those seeking a meaningful life rooted in values, mindfulness, and universal goodwill.

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