Acharya Sushil Kumar, Jain Ascetic

Acharya Sushil Kumar, affectionately known as Guruji, dedicated over 50 years of his life to advocating non-violence, peace, and self-awareness. Born on June 15, 1926, in Sikhopur, Haryana, India, he later became a revered spiritual leader with a profound impact on the world.

At the age of seven, Acharya Sushil Kumar left home to live with Shri Chotelalji Maharaj, his religious guru, and later, Shri Roop Chandji Maharaj became his spiritual mentor. At 15, he became a Jain monk in the Swetamber Sthanakwasi sect, embarking on a journey of spiritual enlightenment while mastering the philosophies of Indian religions and yoga.

Throughout his life, Acharya Sushil Kumar traveled barefoot across India, representing the Sthānakwasi Jain tradition and contributing to the compilation of Jain principles in the Saman Suttam. His profound understanding of the Namokar Mantra led to the writing of “Song of the Soul,” elucidating its significance.

In a departure from centuries-old traditions, Acharya Sushil Kumar chose to travel by aircraft outside India in 1975 to spread the message of Ahimsa and Anekantavada, founding numerous spiritual organizations like the World Fellowship of Religions and the International Mahavir Mission. He established ashrams in India and abroad, including Siddhachalam in New Jersey, USA, the first pilgrimage site outside India.

Guruji’s teachings, encompassing meditation and the mastery of the inner self through Arhum Yoga, attracted followers worldwide. He convened the World Religions Conference in 1957, advocating religious harmony and environmental protection. Notably, he initiated India’s cow protection movement in 1966 and addressed global forums on peace and animal rights.

Affiliated with the United Nations, Acharya Sushil Kumar’s International Mahavira Jain Mission promoted the principle of Ahimsa as a means of safeguarding all life forms. His profound wisdom, simplicity, and teachings of love and brotherhood resonated with millions worldwide.

Acharya Sushil Kumar’s journey transcended earthly realms as he attained Samadhi on April 22, 1994, in New Delhi. The Department of Posts commemorates his spiritual legacy and contributions to humanity by issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp, honoring his lifelong pursuit of peace, self-realization, and universal brotherhood.