Words may be few, but their meanings and emotions are infinite — this is the rule of the universe.
Likewise, a visual might be small, but the joy and sentiments emerging from it are vast and unending.
That is the essence of Gagar Ma Sagar — an ocean in a droplet.
🧘♂️ Sthanakvasi and the Major Jain Sects
In Jainism, the main sects are Chaityavasi, Sthanakvasi, and Terapanthi. Some believe Chaityavasis existed first and Sthanakvasis came later, but this is a misconception. Just as Digambar and Shwetambar emerged together, so did Deravasi and Sthanakvasi — no sect emerged alone.
The Terapanthi sect itself acknowledges that it separated from the Sthanakvasi due to differing views. Their founding leaders were Shikharji Swami and Acharya Bhikshuji, along with thirteen monks who established their path with the slogan “Prabhu Yah Terapanth”.
Sthanakvasis have always believed in their ancient lineage. Whether they came before or after others is not the key point — Deravasi and Sthanakvasi arose simultaneously.
📖 A Glimpse From Lord Rishabhdev’s Time
When Lord Rishabhdev took initiation (diksha), many kings and princes followed him. After initiation, per the discipline of a Tirthankar, he observed silence (maun) until attaining omniscience (kevalgnan). This created confusion among the followers who expected guidance and responses.
Some followed the Lord’s silence. Others, unable to adapt, left, lived in forests, ate fruits, wore clothes offered by laypeople. After Lord Rishabhdev attained kevalgnan, some of these kings returned and were re-initiated, while others formed their own sects.
Thus, from the very beginning of Jainism, differences in understanding led to new sects. No sect arises in isolation — like bread and roti, both appeared as responses to the same basic human need, hunger, just in different regions.
🏛️ Ancient Roots of the Sthanakvasi Tradition
Some question the antiquity of Sthanakvasi and believe Lokashah was the first Guru. In truth, there were other Sthanakvasi Gurus before Lokashah, but they were few in number and not widely known.
After Lord Mahavira’s nirvana, planetary shifts like Bhasmarashi Grah negatively impacted Jainism, leading to internal divisions. For a long time, the Sthanakvasi tradition lacked reach. Then came Lokashah, who revived its prominence.
Later, during the time of Acharya Dharmadasji Swami, five great monks led the powerful revival of Sthanakvasi Jainism. As a result, the tradition found firm footing even in difficult times.
🌍 The Lineage and Spread of the Tradition
Among those five spiritual giants:
- Jivraji Swami and Harji Rishi were born in Marwar (Rajasthan)
- Dharmsinhji Swami, Lavaji Rishi, and Dharmadasji Swami were from Gujarat
From them emerged various sub-sects:
- Khambhat Sampraday – disciples of Lavaji Rishi
- Dariyapuri Sampraday – disciples of Dharmsinhji Swami
- The rest — whether from Kutch, Kathiawad, or Zalawad — trace back to Dharmadasji Swami
In Rajasthan, the Bavish Tola Sampraday also traces lineage to Dharmadasji Swami. Later, Bhikham Swami, along with thirteen monks, founded the Terapanthi sect in Vikram Samvat 1851.
🕰️ Evolution of Names and Regions
In 1836, an important turning point occurred. Until then, sects were named after great saints. After a historic Jain assembly in Gujarat, leaders began moving to various regions, and from then on, sects started being named after geographical areas:
- Gondal Sampraday
- Limbdi Sampraday
- Barwala-Batod Sampraday, etc.
This naming tradition continues in Gujarat, whereas in Marwar, sects are still referred to by the names of their Gurus.
🧘 What Does “Sthanakvasi” Really Mean?
Some believe that Sthanakvasi means one who worships in a sthanak (a simple hall), while Deravasi worship in temples. But this is a misinterpretation.
The term Sthanakvasi refers to those who perform twenty types of spiritual practices (20 Sthanaks) necessary to earn Tirthankar Nam Karma.
Hence, Sthanakvasi is not about place — it’s about practice.
📉 Present-Day Challenges
Today, the number of Sthanakvasi followers is declining. Many wrongly view the tradition as dry or lacking support. But while others place reliance on temples, Sthanakvasi Jainism centers around the soul itself — an ever-present anchor.
This should ideally make the path more attractive. But a lack of devotion and faith, especially among the elders, has weakened the link to Gurus and their teachings. As a result, the Sthanakvasi tradition faces setbacks.
In contrast, the Terapanthi sect, once consisting of only 20 monks, now has over 700 monks and nuns, thanks to their organized Ladlu University. Similar educational and spiritual programs are needed across all sects.
🛎️ A Call to Action
We must revive awareness and involvement. Elders should visit the Guru, seek knowledge, and inspire the younger generation to do the same.
The Bangalore Sangh, by organizing this spiritual series, has set an admirable example. I deeply thank those elders who attend with their families and urge others to do the same.
If even 15 minutes of daily learning can be achieved, it can rejuvenate the tradition.
✅ Conclusion
The Sthanakvasi Jain tradition is ancient, rooted in the teachings of the Tirthankars, and founded on the pursuit of self-realization through twenty spiritual practices. It does not rely on external symbols but centers around the soul as the supreme guide.
To preserve this sacred path, Gurudarshan and Guru’s teachings are vital. Without them, the roots of the Sthanakvasi tradition will weaken.
Let us renew our faith, reconnect with our Gurus, and ensure this noble tradition thrives for generations to come.