Acharya Shri 108 Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj

Acharya Shri 108 Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj 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.

Born in the secular world on Oct 27, 1958 at Sadlaga, Belgaon, Karnataka. Their pre-monastic childhood name was 'Shri Shanti Nath Ji Jain'. They were born into a pious Digambara household to father Shri Mallappa Ashtge and mother Shrimati Shrimati Jain, whose deep spiritual values laid the foundation for their future renunciation. Prior to renunciation, they completed their education in High School.

Realizing the transient nature of worldly pursuits, they renounced worldly possessions to embrace the rigorous Digambara ascetic vows. On Oct 31, 1978 at Siddha Kshetra Naina Giri, they were initiated into the preliminary Kshullak/Ailak vows. Subsequently, on Mar 8, 1980 at Dronagiri, Uttarakhand, India, under the sacred auspices of Guru Acharya Shri 108 Vidya Sagar Ji Maharaj, they received the sublime Digambara Muni Diksha. In recognition of their profound scriptural knowledge, ascetic discipline, and sangha leadership, on Apr 16, 2024 at Kundulpur, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, 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 6 sacred rainy-season Chaturmas retreats across multiple Indian states spanning from 2015 to 2026. 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.

Currently, Pujya Samay Sagar is residing at Bhopal Madhya Pradesh India for spiritual discourse and vihar, where devotees gather for daily darshan, pure aahar-charya observances, and scriptural discourses.