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Kharatara Gaccha

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Kharatara Gaccha

Kharatara Gaccha is one of Shvetambara Murtipujaka Gacchas. It is also called Vidhisangha (the Assembly) as they follow sacred texts literally.

Contents

Origin

It was founded by Vardhamana Suri (till 1031). His teacher was a temple-dwelling monk. He rejected him because of not following texts. His pupil, Jineshvara, got honorary title 'Kharatara' (Sharp witted or Fierce) because he defeated Suracharya, leader of Chaityavasis in public debate in 1023 at Anahilvada Patan. So the Gaccha got his title. Another tradition regards Jinadatta Suri (1075-1154) as a founder of Gaccha.

Well known ascetics

  • Jinavallabha realised the difference between texts and words of teachers and put emphasis on sacred texts in Kharatara doctrine in the eleventh century. He wrote the Crown of Assembly.

    • The following four are known as Dada Guru in the sect and are venerated as spiritual guides.

  • Jinadatta Suri (1075-1154 CE), is the most famous ascetic of Gaccha who won converts in Sindh. After his death at Ajmer, a monument was erected there and the place is known as Dadabari.
  • Jinachandra Sūri Maṇidhārī (1140-1166 CE)
  • Jinakushal Suri (1279–1331) gained many converts in western India.
  • Jinachandra Suri II (1537–1612) visited Lahore in 1591, where he convinced Akbar to stop Muslim attack on Jain temples.

    • Doctrines

    Kharatara ascetics follow every word of the sacred texts. They follow basic Shvetambara canon and works of other Kharatara teachers.

    Adherents

    Ascetics: 193 nuns, 19 monks in 1986 or 50-75 monks and 300 nuns

    Main Centre

    Rajasthan and West Bengal.

    References

    Kharatara Gaccha Wikipedia
    (Text) CC BY-SA