Acharya Shri 108 Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj

Acharya Shri 108 Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj (Chani) is a revered ascetic belonging to the Digambara monastic tradition of Jainism. Fully embodying the 28 Mula Gunas (primary ascetic virtues), Mahavratas, and Bhagwan Mahavira's timeless doctrine of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Aparigraha (non-possession), they are venerated widely across the global Jain community.

Prior to renunciation, Acharya Shri 108 Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj (Chani) was born in the secular world on Jan 1, 1892 at Sikar district . Their pre-monastic childhood name was 'Gyansagar'. They were born into a pious Digambara household to father Shri Shri Shantilal Ji Jain and mother Shrimati Shrimati Ashrafi Devi Jain, whose deep spiritual values laid the foundation for their future renunciation.

Realizing the transient nature of worldly pursuits, they renounced worldly possessions to embrace the rigorous Digambara ascetic vows. Subsequently, on Mar 31, 1988 at Sonagiri Jain Hill Temples, Sewni, Madhya Pradesh, India, under the sacred auspices of Guru Acharya Shri 108 Sumati Sagar Ji Maharaj (Chani), they received the sublime Digambara Muni Diksha. In recognition of their profound scriptural knowledge, ascetic discipline, and sangha leadership, on May 2013 at Badagaon, Uttar Pradesh, India, they were conferred the supreme leadership title of 'Acharya'.

Adhering strictly to the Digambara monastic code of pedestrian travel (pad-vihar without shoes or motorized transport), Pujya Shri has successfully observed 11 sacred rainy-season Chaturmas retreats across multiple Indian states spanning from 1988 to 2017. Their untiring vihar on foot has inspired thousands of devotees to adopt non-violence, truth, and spiritual self-discipline.

Their discourses and daily guidance serve as a profound beacon of wisdom for seekers on the spiritual path.

Pujya Acharya Shri 108 Gyan Sagar Ji Maharaj (Chani) attained sacred Sallekhana / Samadhimaran on Nov 15, 2020 at Baran Khurd, Rajasthan, India in peaceful spiritual equanimity, shedding the mortal frame to progress towards liberation (Moksha). Their memory continues to illuminate the path for aspirants worldwide.