Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was a highly respected figure in the Jain community. He was a scholar, a teacher, and a spiritual leader who dedicated his life to promoting non-violence, compassion, and self-realization. Born in Karnataka, he embraced monastic life at a young age and rose to the prestigious title of Acharya, signifying his deep knowledge and spiritual stature. Sallekhana, also known as Santhara, is a religious practice within Jainism where an individual voluntarily undergoes a gradual fast, eventually leading to death. This practice is not considered suicide but rather a spiritual act of self-purification and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. It’s important to note that Sallekhana is not encouraged or condoned by all Jains, and there are strict guidelines and ethical considerations involved.
