2022 - Shrimad Vijay Vallabh Suri | Commemorative Coin

The 6th commemorative coin of 2022 was released to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary of Yugvir Jainacharya Shrimad Vijay Vallabh Suri.

Vijay Vallabhsuri, one of the most revered Jain Acharyas of the modern era, is remembered for his profound scholarship, spiritual leadership, and extraordinary contributions to the promotion of education, peace, and social upliftment. Born on 26 October 1870 in Vadodara, Gujarat, he was named Chhagan in his early years. Orphaned at a young age, he grew up amidst hardship but displayed remarkable spiritual inclination and discipline. His life took a transformative turn when he came into contact with Acharya Vijayanandsuri at the Janisheri Jain Upashray in Vadodara. Inspired by the ideals of Jainism, he embraced the monastic path at the age of seventeen and was initiated as Muni Vallabhvijay on 5 May 1887 at Radhanpur. His dedication and wisdom quickly earned him respect, and in Vikram Samvat 1981, he was elevated to the rank of Acharya, receiving the title of Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri, along with the recognition of Pattadhar from the Jain sangha.

Throughout his life, Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri championed the cause of education, considering it an essential tool for spiritual growth, social progress, and community empowerment. He devoted himself to establishing institutions that would provide quality education to students across regions. His visionary efforts led to the founding of Shree Parshwanath Jain Vidyalaya in 1927 in Varkana, Rajasthan, which became a cornerstone for educational advancement in the Godwad region. Over time, he went on to inspire and guide the establishment of numerous other institutions, including Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya in Mumbai, Vadodara, and Pune; Parshwanath Umed Mahavidyalaya in Falna; and several Atmanand Jain colleges and high schools across Ambala, Malerkotla, Ludhiana, and other cities. These institutions played an instrumental role in nurturing generations of students, fostering academic excellence, and strengthening cultural and ethical values.

Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri was equally committed to uniting the Jain community and enhancing the accessibility of Jain literature and teachings. He authored several works in Hindi, Gujarati, and Punjabi, helping to disseminate Jain philosophy to a wider audience. His leadership encouraged harmony within the community, and he established the Atmanand Jain Sabha to promote collective welfare and structured development. His influence extended beyond religious spheres, as he also supported Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent struggle for India’s independence, reflecting his deep belief in peace, ahimsa, and national service.

A defining moment in his life came during the tumultuous period of India’s Partition in 1947. While observing Chaturmas in Gujranwala, which became part of Pakistan, he witnessed widespread violence and instability. True to Jain monastic vows, he refused to travel by aeroplane despite government arrangements, choosing instead to walk to safety. Along with members of the local Jain community, he undertook a difficult journey on foot, eventually entering India through the Wagah border and reaching Amritsar in September 1947. This journey became a symbol of his steadfast adherence to principles and his unwavering courage during a time of crisis.

Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri attained nirvana on 22 September 1954 in Mumbai. His passing was mourned by an immense number of people, with over two lakh individuals participating in his funeral procession—a reflection of the deep reverence he commanded. In his memory, the Shri Atma Vallabh Jain Smarak in Delhi was established, serving as a tribute to his life and teachings. His legacy continues to be celebrated nationally, most notably with the installation of the 151-inch Statue of Peace at Jaitpura in Rajasthan, crafted from Ashtadhatu and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 16 November 2020, marking his 151st birth anniversary.

Today, Acharya Vijay Vallabhsuri is remembered not only as an accomplished spiritual leader but also as a visionary educator, reformer, and advocate of peace. His life remains an enduring source of inspiration, reminding generations of the transformative power of knowledge, compassion, and unwavering faith in the principles of truth and non-violence.

Release Function: