Another Milestone for Azimganj boy

Darshan Kothari, an Azimganj boy living in Jaipur has several achievements in his carrier.Darshan is grandson of Late Shree Dhirendrapat Ji Kothari. He is well known name in IT field.  He is running his own IT Company named Vardhaman Infotech. 

Vardhaman Infotech has been placed among the first thousand IT companies worldwide.

 Elance, the biggest IT outsourcing portal has ranked Vardhaman Infotech 832 among 44600 companies registered in the portal. It is worth noted that Vardhaman Infotech had developed world’s first Kalq keyboard application for android smart phones that replaces old qwerty keyboard .Only few downloads are required in Google play store to reach 50000 mark for this application. Kalq keyboard app is available both in free and paid versions.

I came to know about two members from Late Sri Indrajeet Singh Baid family. They are placed in "Microsoft" (Seattle, USA),  the most prestigious IT company in the world. However, I do not know their names or other contact details. I will be greatly obliged if someone informs me about that.

Many of the Shaharwali people have/ had excellent career. However, we do not know all of them.  I would like to get information about those so that I can post them in this blog.  Pl inform me any achievement of any Shaharwali worldwide.  

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Navpad Mandal and Ashtapad Poojan at Neminath temple

Sri Vimal Singh Nowlakha has been sponsoring Navpad Mandal and Ashtapad Poojan at Neminath temple on October 18 and 19 respectively. Azimganj Sri Sangh used to organize Navpad Mandal Poojan on the last day of Navpad Oli at Sri Neminath Temple.

Sri Harakh Chand Roomal of Azimganj has innitiated Navpad Mandal Poojan at this temple many years ago. It has been continuing since then without break. The Sangh organizes this auspicious event on Sharad Poornima, last day of Navpad Oli every year with enthusiasm. It is worth noted that Sri Nowlakha, Grand son (Maternal) of Sri Roomal Ji is sponsoring the event on the auspices of Oli Parne of his wife.

There will be Ashtapad Poojan too on the next day, October 19. This Poojan will be organized after many years at Azimganj. There is great enthusiasm regarding both the Poojas.

People of Azimganj are enthusiastic about Navpad Oli and Mandal Poojan since time immemorial. They organize Mandal Poojan in the best way in India. It is great celebration.

I will be joining these events and perform both the Poojas. Suraj has arranged for every thing and I am grateful to him to provide me such opportunity.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Rai Kumar Singh Bachchhawat expired

Sri Rai Kumar Singh Bachchhawat (Bholu Babu) of Azimganj expired few days back in Kolkata. He was son of late Sri Bahadoor Singh Bachchhawat, President, Azimganj Sri Sangh. He was in old age and was suffering from illness for last few months. He was married to daughter of Sri Mukandi Lal Mookim of Kolkata and had no issue.

He was religious minded and a man of integrity and served Sri Neminath temple and the Shaharwali society with utmost sincerity through out his life.

We feel sorry for his untimely demise and pray to God for heavenly peace.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Famous Shaharwali People- Raja Bijay Sigh Dudhoria

  
Raja BIJOY SINGH Bahadur, Zamindar of Azimganj 1900/1933, born in November 1879, educated privately under the tuition of Babu Abinash Chandra Das, M.A., B.L.; having attained his majority on 22nd December 1900, he took charge of his estate; he was nominated as Commissioner for Azimganj Municipality in 1903 and re-elected in 1909; Vice-President of the All-India Jain Conference in December 1904; he was appointed Honorary Magistrate of the independent Lalbagh Bench in Murshidabad in January 1907; he was granted the title of Raja in June 1908 in recognition of his public services, liberality and high personal character; Member of the District Board, Murshidabad; Member of the executive committees of the Imperial League, the King Edward Memorial Fund and of the British-Indian Association of Calcutta where he was Vice-President in 1915; married in February 1894, the youngest daughter of Rai Dhanpat Singh Bahadur of Baluchar, and had issue, one daughter. He died 1933.

Kumari (name unknown), married Babu Srichand Nahata of Baluchar. 

Raja Chandra Singh Bahadur (qv)
Raja Padam Singh Bahadur (qv)

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Famous Shaharwali people and family: Shrimal family

Famous Shaharwali people and family:

Shrimal family is one of the most renowned family in Azimganj. They belonged to Tank clan (Gotra) but always known as Shrimal. The family built Sri Padmaprabhu temple near Fatak at Azimganj.

Sri Gambhir Singh Shrimal of the family built best looking house of Azimganj known as marble house. This residential house was entirely made of marble.  Sri Mansingh Shrimal of this family was known as great meditator. Jalim Singh Shrimal was renowned jute broker in Kolkata. Hari Singh Shrimal of this family was known as Jain scholar.

Neptune Shrimal is presently working as a professor in an American university. Though I know many of the family members, I do not have proper information about the family. I asked several for information but nothing received so far. I urge to provide the same so that I can include it in my coming book about Shaharwali.

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Murshidabad was merged in Pakistan in 1947

Murshidabad was merged in Pakistan in 1947!! As all of us know that undivided India was divided in to two parts India and Pakistan at the time of independence. Murshidabad had gone in the share of Pakistan at the time of independence. Maldah has also joined Murshidabad at that time.

Pakistani flag was hoisted on August 14, 1947 at Hazarduari Nawab palace, Murshidabad on the independence day of Pakistan. British rulers set India free on the next day August 15. . However, several influential Shaharwali people intervene into the matter and both Murshidabad and Maldah were bartered with Pabna district.

Murshidabad was returned to India on August 17, 1947. Since then both these districts are remained in India. Thanks to those influential Shaharwali people. I am remembering this incident on the day of Pakistan independence.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Shaharwali society in facebook

I have got few beautiful posts in facebook page of Azimganj-Jiaganj and posted these here with references. I hope people will enjoy.

MAZUM KA BARFI ---Narrated by Mr. Bimal Singhji Nowlakha 

MAZUM ka BARFI. Saharwali peapole, decades ago are well versant with it . Mazum ka Barfi made in MARBLE HOUSE ( the house of BHURU BABU) was famous for its excellent taste ,texture and a hilarious joyful mild nasha (intoxicant).Bhuru Babu used to make it at Holi season only. The process of making the Mazum ka Barfi is very gruesome laborious and need special care in processing. Many people till remember it.
Here are revelation of Devi Pandey (Bhuru Babu’s Cook ) about the process and ingredients for making it.
One need to pluck Bhang leafs from its plant in the just evening (Godhuli) of Maghi Purnima complete nakedly , then the leaves are carefully washed in water, to be dried in sunlight then the leaves were to be boiled in a copper pot. first boiled water to be drenched out and again the Bhang leaves were be puted in fresh cow milk and boiled for some time , drench out Bhang leaves the milk be putted on earthen pots for making Curd (Dhai) next step is to get butter from the curd and make Ghee.
The next process is to put Chana Dal in water for five hours , drench it out and make paste either in Silla or in crusher, the paste than be putted on Karhai (pot made from either Mixed Bell Metal or of Brass) the paste need to be fried in very low temperature mixing the ghee earlier received. When it become little brown MAWA (Khoya) need to be added and stair for some time to be properly cooked and sugar need to be added lastly. Bhuru Babu use to add Kesar (Saffron) cardamom crush and rose water. The hole processed lump need to putted on Thali (Plate) to make even and to cut into Barfi.

Dharmesh Boyed

I remember my Nanaji (Sri Bimal Singji Nowlakha) told that there was 2 Bajras, one belong to the Bari Kothi (House of Sri Noba kumar singh ji & Jay Kumar Singhji Dudhoria and the other belongs to Sri Nirmal Kumar singh ji Nowlakha and there was one Banwalia (smaller version of Bajra) belongs to Sri Kishore Singh ji Srimal well known as Bhuru Babu. Bajra is a kind of House Boat (smaller than the Kashmiri house boat and are mainly seen in the Ganges & Yamuna river one can view it at Banaras.)He told that it may possible to find photo of these with Sri Sidharth ji Dudhoria, Sudipji Dudhoria and from Sri Sashi Kantji Nowlakha,Padam Singhji Srimal. In the nineteen fifties Sri Rajendra Singh ji Singhee has brought one small speed house boat.He also remember that once a sea aero plane has landed in the ganga river and news was that Managing Director of Bird & Co has came in that plane to visit their Jute purchasing agency at Cossimbazar. At 1940 to 1955 Steamers used to play frequently in Ganges. The Zamindars used to erect Bamboo fencing all along the River bank from the Kathaltalla to the house of Khem chand ji Choraria at Fhatak at the time of Barsat(rainy season) It was a very charming & eye catching to view the Ajim ganj side of the river banks while coming from North Bor –Nagar side. He also told that in the Ninteen fourties FIRST Division Football Tournament were held at Victoria Ground belongs to Nowlakhas and the Shield Nown as Nowlakha Shield Many famous teams like Mohan Bagan East Bengal played there.ONE Sri Narendra singh ji Boyed (Tuklu Bhai) used to play as Goalkeeper in Mohanbagan.

I request all that if any photography is available, please bring into light.

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अजीमगंज में नवपद मंडल पूजन की परम्परा

अजीमगंज में नवपद मंडल पूजन की परम्परा 

अजीमगंज में श्री नवपद मंडल पूजन की बहुत पुरानी परम्परा रही है। वर्तमान में प्रति वर्ष आश्विन शुक्ल पूर्णिमा अर्थात नवपद ओली के अंतिम दिन यह पूजा श्री नेमिनाथ जी के बड़े मंदिर में पढ़ाई जाती है। नवपद अर्थात सिद्धचक्र। यह पूजा सिद्धचक्र महापूजन से मिलती जुलती है।  लेकिन उससे कुछ भिन्नता लिए हुए है. अजीमगंज में यह पूजा चैत्र मॉस में करवाने का रिवाज़ नहीं है परन्तु इस वर्ष परम पूज्या सुलोचना श्री जी महाराज की उपस्थिति के कारण नवपद मंडल पूजन चैत्र शुक्ल पूर्णिमा को भी करवाया गया था .

नवपद मंडल पूजन की परंपरा संभवतः बीकानेर से यहाँ आई। महा विद्वान यति ज्ञानसार जी द्वारा बीकानेर में नवपद मंडल का उल्लेख मिलता है एवं वे तत्कालीन श्री पूज्य श्री जिन सौभाग्य सूरी के आज्ञानुवर्ती थे.  श्री जिन सौभाग्य सूरी का मुर्शिदाबाद से घनिष्ठ सम्वन्ध रहा है।

मंडल जी की पूजा पहले श्री सम्भवनाथ स्वामी का मंदिर, अजीमगंज, में दुगड़ परिवार द्वारा करवाई जाती थी. श्री हरख चन्द जी रूमाल ने सर्व प्रथम यह पूजा श्री नेमिनाथ जी के मंदिर में प्रारंभ करवार्इ. तबसे यह पूजा यहीं पर होती आ रही है। अधिकांशतः मंडल जी की पूजा संघ द्वारा करवाई जाती है लेकिन कभी कभी यह पूजा व्यक्ति विशेष के द्वारा भी करवाने की परंपरा है। प्रायः कर के ओली जी पारने वाले लोग यह पूजा करवाते हैं .

मंडल जी की पूजा यहाँ बहुत ही धूम धाम व ठाट वाट से होती है जिसमे एक विशाल चोकी पर कपड़ा बिछा कर उसमे भिन्न भिन्न रंगों के चावल से मांडला किया जाता है।  फिर शुभ मुहूर्त में चांदी की बनी हुई चिट्ठी रख कर  अरिहंत आदि नवपद एवं देवी देवताओं का आह्वान किया जाता है। इसके साथ ही शुभ मुहूर्त में ज्वारारोपण आदि किया जाता है।  ये सभी काम पूजन के तीन चार दिन पहले कर लिया जाता है। पूजन के दिन सुबह से ही धूम मची रहती है। नवपद जी की ओली करनेवाले लोग पूजा के लिए तैयार हो जाते हैं। पुरे शहर के सभी क्षेत्रपालों को तेल सिन्दूर चढ़ाया जाता है। बलि बाकूल, भूमि शुद्धि, अंग शुद्धि, आत्मा रक्षा आदि के बाद मूल पूजन का विधान प्रारंभ होता है।

सबसे पहले सिद्धचक्र के ९ पदों में गोला चढ़ाया जाता है। सूखे नारियल के गोले के अन्दर घी, मिश्री, आदि भर कर उस पर नवपद के वर्णों के अनुसार रंग किया जाता है। श्वेत एवं पीले वर्ण के लिए चांदी एवं सोने का वर्क चढ़ाया जाता है जबकि लाल हरे एवं नीले में रंगों का प्रयोग होता है। इन सुसज्जित गोलों को चांदी के सिंहासन पर विराजमान कर उसमे वर्णानुसार रत्नों की पोटली रखी जाती है। फिर इन ९ गोलों को क्रम से मंत्रोच्चार एवं प्रदक्षीना पूर्वक मंडल पर चढ़ाया जाता है। शहरवाली समाज में नवपद मंडल पूजन विशेष कर गोला चढाने का बहुत अधिक महत्व रहा हुआ है।  गोला चढ़ने के बाद अन्य वलयों की पूजा प्रारंभ होती है। यह पूजा ५-६ घंटों के लम्बे समय में पूरी होती है। इस पूजन में बहुत बड़ी मात्र में मिष्टान्न एवं फल चढ़ाया जाता है।  ओली करने वाले पूजा सम्पूर्ण होने के बाद ही आयम्बिल करते हैं एवं आयम्बिल करने का समय साम तक ही मिल पाता है। इस दिन बहुत लोग ९ दाने का ही आयम्बिल करते हैं।

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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अजीमगंज की जैन पाठशाला

अजीमगंज की जैन पाठशाला का नाम पवन कुमारी ज्ञान मंदिर था। श्री परिचंद जी बोथरा परिवार ने अपनी माँ एवं प्रसन्न चंद जी बोथरा की धर्मं पत्नी के नाम से नाम से इस पाठशाला की स्थापना की गई थी।

इस पाठशाला में कक्षा शिशु से ५ वीं तक हिंदी, गणित एवं धर्म की पढाई होती थी। प्रख्यात विद्वान महोपाध्याय श्री हेमचंद जी यति के शिष्य करमचंद जी एवं प्रशिष्य श्री कीर्ति चंद जी इस जैन पाठशाला में धार्मिक अध्ययन करवाते थे. दोनों ही संस्कृत के अधिकृत विद्वान् थे एवं शुद्ध उच्चारण पर बड़ा जोर देते थे। मुख्य रूप से यहाँ सामायिक, चैत्यवंदन एवं बाद में प्रतिक्रमण सिखाया जाता था। विशिस्ट विद्यार्थियों को भक्तामर, कल्याण मंदिर आदि स्तोत्र भी सिखाया जाता था.

परीक्षा लेने के लिए शहरवाली समाज के ही धार्मिक विद्वानों को बुलाया जाता था। यति जी स्वयं परीक्षा नहीं लेते थे जिससे निष्पक्षता बनी रहे. प्रायः मेरे परिवार के लोग ही परीक्षक के रूप में उपस्थित रहते थे। स्वनाम धन्य विद्वान् श्री रणजीत सिंह जी दुधोडिया लम्बे समय तक इसकी व्यवस्था सँभालते रहे।

अजीमगंज में रहने वाले लगभग सभी लोग इस पाठशाला में पढ़ते थे परन्तु सत्तर के दशक से इसमें उपस्थिति बेहद कम होने लगी थी। धार्मिक शिक्षण के प्रति लोगों का रूझान कम होने लगा था एवं विद्यालयीन शिक्षा की ओर झुकाव बढ़ रहा था। उस समय नव स्थापित महावीर मंडल ने पाठशाला को पुनरुज्जीवित करने का सार्थक प्रयास किया एवं कुछ वर्षों के लिए छात्र संख्या भी बढ़ी थी। परन्तु यह प्रयास भी लम्बे समय तक पाठशाला को जीवित नहीं रख सका एवं अंततः यह बंद हो गया।

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Few important points for Shaharwali community book

There are few important points for Shaharwali community book, I want to put here. I am approaching to finish my writing and still need some important information. I am mentioning here those points and looking for input.

I heard that there were eight renowned politicians/ statesmen who represented in state or national assembly.  I have got five names so far e.g. Surpat Singh Dugar, Rajendra Singh Singhi, Rajpat Singh Dugar, Nabo Kumar Singh Dudhoria and  Bijay Singh Nahar. Pl info me if you know about any one else.

I read somewhere (Cannot remember where) that the river Bhagirathi was flowing like horse nail (Ashwakshurakriti) and the sand between two parts of river was called Baluchar. I urge you to confirm the same.

It is not clear to me whether Gaysabad and Dasturhat is the same place or different. I also want information about Shrimal family, their business, about Mansingh and Jalimsingh Shrimal. I need info about who established Padmaprabhu temple.

Was there any gems and Jewelery dealer in Shaharwali community in old time? Do any one know something about P C Nahata family who had their office in Paris, France?

Was their any relation with Asiatic society?

I heard about a person from Harakchand Golechha family who went to Mahavideha Kshetra with the help of Shashan Devi. He asked few questions to Seemandhar Swami and got answers. Can any one throw light on this matter?

Your answers will greatly help us in writing the book. We will be grateful to any information provider. I will gladly mention his or her name in this blog with the information. You can also help by supplying old images, news, documents and records etc.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Historical findings about Shaharwali society

Historical findings about Shaharwali society

We have found several historical evidences about Shaharwali community while researching for our new publication. Dr. Shiv Prasad, Jain historian has become instrumental in finding these information. 

1. Learned Jain yati Sri Gyansar (Khartar Gachh) wrote a travel description about Bengal in 19th century (1816 AD). There is a small description of Murshidabad along with the Jain society residing here.

2. We found some details about Navpad Mandal in Bikaner while studying biography of Yati Sri Gyansar by famous historian Sri Agarchand Nahata. We can assume that Navpad Mandal Poojan is brought to Azimganj from Bikaner. All of us know that Shaharwali community is closely connected with Sri Poojya of Bikaner for all religious issues.

3. We found a letter written by Sri Poojya Sri Saubhagya Suri in 1840s. He wrote the letter from Azimganj to Bikaner Bada Upashray. I have heard from the elders that Shaharwali community supported Sri Saubhagya Suri in a dispute with Mahendra Sagar Suri. Finally, with the support of Shaharwali Jain Sri Saubhagya Suri couldinherrit the seat of Sri Poojya at Bada Upasra, Bikaner. I also heard that close relationship with Sri Poojya was started from his time. A letter written from Azimganj, which we found recently is a clear evidence of Chaturmas of Sri Poojya Sri Saubhagya Suri at Azimganj.

4. Sri Agarchand Nahata had also written about a valuable gift of Jagat Seth to a Paychann Gachh yati of Bikaner. Gifted gemstone was so valuable that Maharaja of Bikaner wanted to have it forcefully. Intervene of Yati Gyansar restricted him to do so and the gift remained with the Yati.

5. We are now studying "History of Murshidabad", published in early 20th century. This book has descriptions about Nahar, Dudhoria and Jagat Seth families of Shaharwali community. Sri Prashant and Pradip Dudhoria of famous Rai Budh Singh Dudhoria family became instrumntal in getting this.

I urge everyone especially Shaharwalis to supply historic information to enrich the book. 

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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मुर्शिदाबाद में जैन साधू एवं यति गण

मुर्शिदाबाद में जैन समुदाय अत्यंत धार्मिक एवं समृद्ध था। अतः विभिन्न गच्छों के साधू, साध्वी एवं यति गण यहाँ पधारते रहते थे। कुछ यति तो यहाँ स्थाई रूप से भी रहते थे।

मुर्शिदाबाद आकर बस्नेवालों में  सेठ सर्व प्रथम थे। वे पायचन्न (पार्श्वचंद्र ) गच्छ के थे। उनके समय में पायचन्न गच्छ के साधुओं एवं  का आगमन मुर्शिदाबाद में होता रहता था। बाद में अधिकांशतः खरतर गच्छ एवं तपागच्छ के साधू सध्विओं एवं यतिओ का ही पदार्पण यहाँ होता रहा है. इनमे से कई बड़े विद्वान् भी थे एवं उनलोगों ने अनेक  रचनाएँ यहाँ पर रह कर की है.

तपागच्छ के महान आचार्य आत्माराम जी महाराज के प्रमुख शिष्य श्री कमल सूरी जी ने लगभग सौ वर्ष पूर्व अजीमगंज चातुर्मास किया था।  राय बुध सिंह दुधोडिया परिवार ने उस चातुर्मास का लाभ लिया था। इसी प्रकार खरतर गच्छ के गणाधीश श्री सुखसागर जी महाराज के शिष्य श्री हरीसागर जी महाराज को अजीमगंज श्री संघ ने आचार्य पद प्रदान कर उनका चातुर्मास यहीं करवाया था. उसके बाद लम्बे समय तक यहाँ कोई चातुर्मास नहीं हुआ। नब्बे के दसक में फिर से यह सिलसिला चालू हुआ एवं जियागंज के दुगड़ परिवार की बेटी साध्वी श्री चारुयशा श्री जी का चातुर्मास अजीमगंज में हुआ। उसके बाद साध्वी हेम प्रज्ञा श्री जी का अजीमगंज एवं उनकी छोटी गुरु बहनों का जियागंज एक साथ चातुर्मास हुआ। उसके बाद अजीमगंज के ही सपूत आचार्य श्री  पद्मसागर सूरी जी एवं साध्वी श्री शशिप्रभा श्री जी का चातुर्मास भी अजीमगंज में हुआ.

यद्यपि यहाँ साधू सध्विओं का चातुर्मास होता रहा है परन्तु शहरवाली समाज मुख्य रूप से यतिओ पर ही निर्भर रहा। बीकानेर के श्रीपूज्यजी की यहाँ बड़ी मान्यता थी। बीकानेर की बड़ी गद्दी से संपर्क जिन सौभाग्य सूरी के समय से ही प्रारंभ हो गया था। बाद में यह संपर्क इतना दृढ हो गया की बीकानेर की  में  के बाद श्रीपूज्यों का चातुर्मास अजीमगंज से ही प्रारंभ होता था।  यह व्यवस्था आज तक प्रचलित है। श्री जिन चारित्र सूरी, जिन विजयेन्द्र सूरी, एवं जिन चन्द्र सूरी के अनेक चातुर्मास यहाँ पर हुए।

 इसके अतिरिक्त बीकानेर गद्दी के एक आदेशी यति यहाँ पर हमेशा रहते थे एवं धार्मिक क्रियायों के साथ यहाँ की समाज व्यवस्था को सुचारू रूप से चलने में योगदान देते थे। अजीमगंज में श्री लक्ष्मीचंद जी यति एवं जियागंज में श्री प्यारेचंद जी यति को मैंने भी देखा है। बीकानेर के आदेशी यतियों के अलावा अन्य यति गण भी यहाँ रहते थे। संस्कृत भाषा के प्रकांड विद्वान् महा महोपाध्याय श्री हेमचंद जी एवं उनके शिष्य प्रशिष्य श्री करमचंद जी व किर्तिचंद जी अजीमगंज में आजीवन रहे. आपलोग विजय गच्छ के थे एवं कोटा गद्दी से संवंधित थे। इसके अतिरिक्त अजीमगंज में यति मोतीचंद जी एवं यति ज्ञानचंद जी भी स्थाई रूप से निवास करते थे।

श्रावकों में लोंका गच्छ के अनुयायियों की  संख्या अधिक होने पर भी कभी किसी लोंका गच्छ के यति यहाँ पधारे ऐसा सुनने में नहीं आया है.

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Statesmen, freedom fighters and politicians from Shaharwali community

There were several prominent Statesmen, freedom fighters and politicians from Shaharwali community. They served well the nation India and the state of Bengal in their individual capacities. I can name Sri Surpat Singh and Sri Bhupat Singh Dugar, two real brothers from Rai Bahadur Dhanpat Singh family, as members of Cnetral legislative Counsel in British India. Sri Navkumar Singh Dudhoria, grand son of Rai Budh Singh Bahadur also adorned the same post. Sri Rajpat Singh Dugar from Laxmipat Singh Dugar family was elected as member of Rajya Sabha (MP) in independent India. I heard that Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India had recommended him for the seat. Jawaharlal Nehru admired his contribution and told him the most active member in the parliament.  Sri Rajendra Singh Singhi was elected as member of West Bengal legislative assembly (MLA) from Kaliachowk, Maldah.  

Sri Bijay Singh Nahar was the most prominent among all Statesmen and politicians from Shaharwali community. He elected as MLA in West Bengal legislative assembly several times and adorned chairs as Deputy Chief minister of WB, Home and labor ministers. He was also elected as Member of Parliament (MP) in Loksabha elections 1977. He was also elected general secretary of Janata party in 1977 and Chairman of Bihar Religious Board.

I heard that total number of eight persons represented in government but I could name only six. Please inform me about the rest two.

Large numbers of prominent persons from Shaharwali community were awarded with government titles such as Jagat Seth, Raja and Rai Bahadur. 

Sri Narendra Pat Singh Kothari was elected as vice-chairman and Sri Chandrapat Singh Kothari as commissioner of Jiaganj-Azimganj municipality. 

Sri Jagat Singh Lodha was a great freedom fighter and his idol is established at Lodha Park, Jiaganj. Sri Gulab Chand Bothra was also a freedom fighter. Ganpat Singh Dugar led a "Vidroh" against British government in the middle of nineteenth century.

Mahatma Gandhi visited Azimganj on the invitation of Sri Nirmal Kumar Singh Nowlakha. Sri Nowlakha donated a sum of Rs. 10,000 at the time of felicitation in his rose garden. Ten thousand was huge amount at that time. I heard that Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose also visited Azimganj. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was a resident of Harawat estate, owned by Dugar family. Dugar family bore all expenses of his education. Similarly, they helped Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan in various ways.

 Rai Bahadur Dhanpat Singh Dugar was instrumental in establishing Bengal chamber of Commerce and adorned the chair as founder president. Rai Badridas Bahadur Mookim of Johari Sath had joined him as founder secretary. It was the first Chamber of Commerce established in India.

Jiganj and Azimganj came under Lalbagh municipality. Sri Nirmal Kumar Singh Nowlakha donated a piece of land behind the Azimganj city Railway station to establish a new separate municipality. He also established a hospital near municipality and a girl's primary school. Some other Statesmen also contributed to public utilities. Most of the educational institutes in Jiaganj and Azimganj has been established with their contributions. 

Raja Bijay Singh Bidyamandir, Singhi school, Sripat Singh Dugar college and Rani Dhanya Kumari college of commerce at Jiaganj are contributions of Raja Bijay Singh Dudhoria, Singhi family and Sri Sripat Singh Dugar of Shaharwali community respectively. Recently, Subodh Chand Bothra has contributed to a B. Ed college in Jiaganj. Singhi family also established a high school in Lalbagh. 

There are Rai Budh Singh Bahadur primary and high schools at Azimganj established by Dudhoria family. Keshar Kumari belonged to Singhi family who was married to a boy of Dudhoria family. There is a girl’s high school at Azimganj in her name. 

Large numbers of Jain temples, Dadabadi, Dharamshala, Upashray, hospitals and dispensaries, educational institutes and other places of public utilities spreading India wide tell the stories of generosity of Shaharwali community. Sri Dhannulal Nowlakha also built a Shiva temple at Baranagar near Azimganj which is famous as Panchamukhi temple. 

Murshidabad was chosen for Pakistan because of its dense Muslim population at the time of partition. several reputed persons of Shaharwali community requested Lord Mountbatten, the then Governor General of India to reverse the order and to keep the district in India. It is also heard that they gifted an expensive Basra pearl string to lady Mountbatten to please her. Order was reversed with in a day. The nation India is indebted to those Shaharwali people  for their contribution to keep Murshidabad district in India. 

This list cannot be completed without naming Justice R S Bachchhawat. Sri Randhir Singh Bachchhawat was selected as Hon'ble justice of the Supreme court, the apex court in India. 

I have tried to list as many as I could remember or got information of. Please inform me if anyone important left. I also urge to correct any wrong information. Your contribution only can enrich this blog.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Shaharwali boy updated KALQ Keyboard Android app in Google play

Shaharwali boy Darshan Kothari has updated KALQ Keyboard Android app in Google play. It is well known fact that he has launched world's first KALQ keyboard Android app and uploaded it in Google play store for free download. He launched the Android app on April 30. The latest updated version came on June 18, 2013.

Worldwide media reported this launch and several renowned websites including CNET have provided links to download the same. The app link has got 5 star user rating in CNET!  KALQ is a smarter keyboard to speed up typing in smart phones. Researches show that one can enhance his or her typing speed in this thumb based keyboard up to 85% than the older QWERTY key boards. Moreover, the app developed by Vardhaman Infotech led by Darshan Kothari has "Rupee" sign. Rupee sign is first time included in any keyboard in the world. Several other new features are also developed for better user experience.

Every technology requires updates. Continual development through researches is the key word in modern days' tech savvy environment. The new version of KALQ keyboard app is much more efficient than its older versions. It is compatible to more Android devices. Some errors in older versions are removed based on user complaints and few new features are added on the basis of user's reviews and suggestions.

Team of technical experts at Vardhaman Infotech, Jaipur, worked hard to bring the new version in the leadership of Darshan. They are still working on major development and we can expect even better versions. Those who have already downloaded the app can go to Google play store to update their Android application.

Apple does not allow an app developed by others. Hence, this app is not applicable in iPhones. Similarly it does not work in Blackberry. However, majority of smart phone users use Android phones and it is compatible to most of the Android mobile devices including tabs, fabs and smaller phones.

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Jain temple in Gaysabad- Dasturhat

There was a Shwetambar Jain temple in Gaysabad- Dasturhat in the last century. We have visited Gaysabad in 1977 and found a ruin. An old aged farmer informed us that that was a ruin of a Jain temple. I do not know what happened with that ruined temple.

I have found an old inscription that tells us about a temple in Dasturhat, 7 KM west from Azimganj. The inscription in an idol also informs that a member of Shaharwali community had performed Pratishtha of that idol. Gaysabad is on the opposite side of Dasturhat on the bank of river Bhagirathi.  It is possible that Gaysabad and Dasturhat are the same place and the inscription and the ruin are referring to the same Jain temple.

Sri Prakash Barnawat recently informed me that the Jain Tirthankar idols in Gaysabad were brought to Kiratbagh, Jiaganj by Maharaj Bahadur Singh Dugar. The idols are installed in Kiratbagh and these are there since that time.

It is possible that there was dense population of Shwetambar Jain (Shaharwali community) in Gaysabad and Dasturhat region in the last century. They may be shifted from there for some unknown reasons. At present there are no Jain population.

It is matters of investigation that whether the temple referred in Dasturhat and Gaysabad are the same? Whether there were a Jain population in these places? If yes, why Jain population were shifted from there? I am trying to answer these questions and urge people living at Azimganj and Jiaganj to physically verify the areas and try to find out the truth. I will be grateful to him or her who will inform me about this.

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Murshidabad Shaharwali Literature

Shaharwali society of Murshidabad is an educated society and huge literature are created by, for and about them. The oldest script I found is by a Jain saint who wrote a Gazhal about cities in Murshidabad. It is an 18th century literature. " Pratap Singh Raso" is another old scripture by a Jain monk depicting life of Sri Pratap Singh Dugar, a Shaharwali who organized a Paidal Sangh to Palitana befor two centuries.

Rai Bahadur Dhanpat Singh Dugar was pioneer in publishing Jain Agam. Singhi Granthmala (Publication series) by Dalchand Bahadur Singh Singhi is renowned for their literary value. Babu Puran Chand Nahar was well known historian who collected and published Jain inscriptions. Similarly Puran Chand Samsukha also wrote several books. Mr. Bothra wrote Stavan Chouveesi. "Glimpses of Bengal" published in 1905 refers to life story of several Shaharwali personalities including two from Nahar family.

Jain Sadhus and Yatis created several texts living in Azimganj, Jiaganj, Baluchar and Mahimapur of Murshidabad. Shaharwali society patronized these creations. Yati Ramriddhisar, author of several Jain and medical books was also born in Murshidabad. Renowned publishers Tata Sons published Mr. Pradip Kothari's book on philately. Shaharwali Cook Book" by Murshidabad Heritage Development Society is latest addition to publications.

I heard that Dr. Rajendra Prasad, first President of India has referred Dugar family of Azimganj at several places. However, I have not yet seen those. If any one has any reference please inform me.

I am in process of collecting these literature and/ or references to these. Renowned Jain historian Dr. Shiva Prasad, Jain Research and Study Center, Jaipur has been helping me in this context. I request everyone to provide me with documents and references to literature related to Shaharwali society and Murshidabad.

As all of you know that I am writing this blog about Shaharwali society of Murshidabad for last five years, I am now motivated to write a book containing religion, history, culture, social structure, language and literature etc of the Jain society of Murshidabad.  I would love to incorporate relevant information in this book . Names of the information providers will be mentioned at appropriate places.

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Sri Kishor Chand Kothari left for his heavenly abode

Alas! Sri Kishor Chand Kothari (72) left for his heavenly abode yesterday at Nal Dadabadi, Bikaner. He belonged to famous Panachand Nanakchand Kothari family of Azimganj. Sri Kishor Chand popularly known as Gopal ji was son of late Sri Padamchand and grandson of late Sri Tarachand Kothari.

He lived most of his life working at Alliance jute mill, Jagdal, near Kolkata. He was shifted to Jaipur few years back and started living his religious and spiritual life spending most of the time with Sripujyaji Sri Jin Chandra Suri at Nal Dadabadi, Bikaner. He used to practice Vipassana meditation.

He left his wife, two brothers Pradip and Sandip; a sister Shila Nahta; two sons Ujjwal and Nirmal and three daughters behind him.

His funeral was took place at Adarshnagar burning ghat in Jaipur today morning and Uthavna will be held at Dadabadi, Moti Doongri Road, Jaipur tomorrow 4.30 PM.

He was my cousin uncle and I pray for his peaceful birth and next life.

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Gemstone idols at Chintamani Parasnath temple in Azimganj

Crystal gemstone idol at Chintamani Parasnath Jain temple, Azimganj

 Gemstones idols at Chintamani Parasnath Jain temple, Azimganj

Harakchand Golechha family was a renowned Shaharwali family residing at Azimganj. They were very rich and religious. Golechha family built a complete Chouveesi made of gemstones. They established all these gemstone idols at their Ghar Dehrasar. This temple was famous as Chhote Shantinath ji. The main idol, Sri Shantinath swami, was made of jade, a rare gemstone. It had grapes color. There were another 24 idols made of various gemstones such as ruby, hessonite  rock crystal, iolite etc. There was a Gattaji (Navpad-Siddhachakra) made of precious gemstone emerald.

It is worth noted that this was the only Shwetambar Jain Chouvishee made of gemstones. There were few other gemstone Tirthankar idols in other places but no complete Chouvishee till recent past. There was a Chouvishee in Digambar Jain temple at Mudbidri.

Later on the whole temple of Chhote Shantinathji was shifted to Sri Chintamani Parasnath temple in Azimganj. All these idols were put in an almirah. Sri Chintamani Parasnath temple committee then shifted all these idols building a separate Gambhara (Sanctum).

Unfortunately, all these expensive gemstone idols were stolen in the mid-1990s. It was a very sad event. I met Mr. SB Chouhan, the then Home minister of India along with a delegation requesting him to put his effort in recovering stolen idols. The Hon'ble Home minister took the pain and wrote a letter to Mr. Jyoti Basu, the then Chief minister of West Bengal. Only a few of the idols were recovered after all efforts. The rest of these gemstone idols are not yet recovered.

Few of the remaining gemstone idols are placed in the original Gambhara whereas other statues are kept under lock and key at Chintamani Parasnath temple in Azimganj. I have photographs of both these places which are put here for your perusal.

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Video Jain Teerth Azimganj and Jiaganj

Writing book on Shaharwali society and culture

I am in process of writing a book about  Shaharwali society and culture that also include religious and historic descriptions. Few chapters of the book is already written. It is after five years of blogging about the society.

This book, I believe, will help spreading information about rich traditions of Shaharwali society of Azimganj and Jiaganj in Murshidabad. I have found several historical books that depicts rich traditions, culture and religiousness of Murshidabad Jain society.

Dr. Shivprasad, renowned Jain historian working in Jain research and study center at Jaipur is helping me in collecting historical references. I am thankful to him. Suraj Nowlakha has motivated me to write this book and he is also sponsoring the project. He wants to release the book on the occasion of Mandalji ki pooja at Azimganj.

I have already posted details of the project in this blog in Hindi language. Please view these posts and help me with information, data, references, evidences, images etc. Your cooperation will enrich the book and I will feel obliged. I have received some from Pradip Kothari, Patna and am thankful to him. Suraj also provided some information along with his father Vimal Bhaisab. Thanks to them.

मुर्शिदाबाद शहरवाली समाज की ऐतिहासिक सामग्री

शहरवाली समाज के सम्वन्ध में पुस्तक के प्रस्तावित अध्याय

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शहरवाली समाज के सम्वन्ध में पुस्तक के प्रस्तावित अध्याय

आप सभी जानते हैं की मुर्शिदाबाद के शहरवाली समाज के सम्वन्ध में मैं एक पुस्तक लिख रहा हूँ। इस समय मैं इस पुस्तक में लिखे जाने वाले विभिन्न अध्यायों के वारे में विचार कर रहा हूँ। यह किताब सभी के लिए उपयोगी हो सके इसलिए मैंने इसमें निम्नलिखित अध्यायों की परिकल्पना की है। इस कार्य में जैन शोध एवं अध्ययन संस्थान, जयपुर के डा शिवप्रसाद जी का मुझे पूरा सहयोग मिल रहा है.

१ बंगाल में जैन धर्म
२ मुर्शिदाबाद का ऐतिहासिक विवरण
३ शहरवाली समाज एवं संस्कृति
४ प्रसिद्द परिवार एवं व्यक्ति
५ रीति रिवाज़ एवं धार्मिक मान्यताएं
६ मंदिर, दादाबाड़ी एवं अन्य धार्मिक स्थल
७ स्कूल, कोलेज, अस्पताल एवं अन्य सार्वजनिक स्थल
८ शहरवाली समाज का वैभव
९ समग्र जैन समाज को शहरवाली समाज का योगदान
१० नवपद ओली एवं मंडलजी की पूजा
११ शहरवाली समाज का वर्त्तमान व भविष्य


पुस्तक तैयार होने तक इसमें अनेक परिवर्तन संभावित है।  आप के सुझाव इस लेखन को और भी अच्छा बना सकते है। आप सभी के सुझाव एवं सामग्री की मैं व्यग्रता से प्रतीक्षा कर रहा हूँ।

मुर्शिदाबाद शहरवाली समाज की ऐतिहासिक सामग्री

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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Marital relations of Panachand Nanakchand Kothari family

Pana Chand Nanak Chand Kothari family is one of the renowned families in Azimganj, Murshidabad. It was not very rich according to Shaharwali status. However, the family carried reputation because of their religious and social standings.

The widow of late Pana Chand Kothari came from Rini (Tara Nagar) along with his son Nanak Chand. He was only five at that time. Golechha family was the richest Shaharwali family at that time.  Nanak Chand Kothari was married to a girl born in Harakchand Golechha family. They built Chhote Shantinathji temple and installed complete Chouveesi made of gemstones. This was the only Chouveesi that was made of precious and semi-precious gemstones among entire Shwetambar sect. The Golechha family also took charge of Sammet Shikhar from Jagat Seth family.

Kamalapat Kothari, son of Nanak Chand was married to a girl from famous Dhanpat Singh Dugar family. He was married to his granddaughter. The renowned Dugar family was the most famous, rich and religious family of that time.

Chandra Pat Kothari, eldest son of Kamalapat Kothari was married to adopted daughter of Motichand Nakhat. Mr. Nakhat was a partner at famous gems and Jewelry group Labhchand Motichand. Nakhat family built a temple in Faizabad and a Dharamshala in Kolkata at Kalakar street. Vijaymati, youngest daughter of Kamalapat Kothari was married in Jagat Seth family (Seth Sobhag Chand) of Mahimapur.

Samarendrapat Kothari, eldest son of Chandra Pat Kothari was married to daughter of Mohanlal Mahamwal, famous jeweler in Kolkata and Dhirendrapat Kothari, youngest son was married to the daughter of Fateh Singh Mookim of renowned Rai Badridas Bahadur family who built world famous Parasnath temple and garden.

It is strange coincidence that at least one person from every generation has marital relation with a family who built a Jain temple and instrumental in saving or managing pilgrimage center Sammet Shikhar.

I, Jyoti Kothari am proud to belong to this family and I am also married to a family who built a temple in Ashta, MP. And all of you know that presently I am secretary Khartar Gachchh Sangh, Jaipur and getting an opportunity to manage eleven temples and five Dadabadis including Malpura.

Famous people from Murshidabad Shaharwali society

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(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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मुर्शिदाबाद शहरवाली समाज की ऐतिहासिक सामग्री

मुर्शिदाबाद का शहरवाली समाज एक प्रख्यात समाज है. इस समाज के सम्वन्ध में अनेक ऐतिहासिक विवरण उपलब्ध है. इस समय मैं इन सामग्रियों का संकलन कर रहा हु।

जैसा की आप सब को विदित है की विगत अनेक वर्षों से मैं इस ब्लॉग के माध्यम से शहरवाली समाज के विभिन्न पहलुओं जैसे समाज, संस्कृति, धर्म, कला, इतिहास, रीती रिवाज़ आदि पर लिखता आया हु। अब इन विषयों का संकलन कर उसे एक पुस्तक का रूप देने की इच्छा है. अजीमगंज के सूरज नोलखा ने इस पुस्तक को प्रकाशित करवाने की भावना व्यक्त की है.

श्री जैन श्वेताम्बर खरतर गच्छ संघ, जयपुर  द्वारा संचालित जैन शोध एवं अध्ययन संस्थान के जैन इतिहास विशेषज्ञ डा शिवप्रसाद इस कार्य में पूरी सहायता कर रहे है। डा शिवप्रसाद के प्रयासों से अनेक ऐतिहासिक दस्तावेज़ एवं पुस्तकें इस सम्वन्ध में संकलित हुई है. इस कार्य के लिए मैं उनका आभारी हूँ।

प्राप्त ऐतिहासिक सन्दर्भ ग्रन्थ: 

१. हिंदी विश्व कोष, संपादक नागेन्द्र नाथ वसु, कोलकाता
२. जगत सेठ, पारसनाथ सिंह, इलाहाबाद,
३. भारतीय इतिहास कोष, डा सच्चिदानंद भट्टाचार्य, लखनऊ
४. बंगाल में जैन धर्म, गणेश लालवानी, जयपुर
५. नगर वर्णनात्मक प्राचीन पद्य संग्रह, मुनि कान्तिसागर, सूरत
६.श्रमण भगवन महावीर,  मुनि कल्याण विजय गणी, जालोर
७. जैन तीर्थ सर्व संग्रह भाग २,  अम्बालाल पी शाह, अहमदाबाद
८. सार्ध शताव्दी स्मृति ग्रन्थ, भंवर लाल नाहटा, कोलकाता
९ जैन लेख संग्रह भाग १, पूरण चंद नाहर, कोल्कता

आप सभी से भी निवेदन है की शहरवाली समाज एवं संस्कृति के सम्वन्ध में जो भी ऐतिहासिक विवरण एवं दस्तावेज हों तो उसकी डिजिटल या फोटो कॉपी उपलब्ध करवाने की कृपा करें।

Thanks,
(Vardhaman Gems, Jaipur represents Centuries Old Tradition of Excellence in Gems and Jewelry)

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