________________
40. Navakara and Myself Sadhvi Shri Padmayashashriji
In Saurashtra, with Padaliptapur (Palitana) on one side and the magnanimous Girnar on the other, our Kathi village is Jetpur. In childhood, I went to the Jain Pathshala; my sister taught the Navakara to me. In the Jain Pathshala, there were small books of stories. From these read the story of Amarkumar. The manner in which the Navakara became rewarding to Amarkumar was a story that took firm roots in my mind. In due course, I completed the five Pratikramanas and memorized the Smaranas also!
Daily chanting of the Navakara continued. Then I took to Aradhana, Japa, Smarana etc.
Once there was an occasion of the Aradhana of non-stop chanting of the Navakara for 27 days. I was anxious to join in the Japa. On reaching there I learnt that for women Japa was arranged in a separate Upashraya.
Thus, in unbroken Mauna I took to the Sadhana along with the austerity of Ekasana for 27 days. Lectures and seminars were arranged on the Navakara Mantra under the august presence of Revered Pannyasa Shri Bhadramkaravijayji M. S., Revered Pannyasa Shri Abhayasagarji M. S., Revered Shri Jambuvijayji M. S. etc. There was a free discussion of the Navakara Mantra. The Sadhana was completed. I learnt so much more about the secrets of the Mahamantra, in the company and association of Acharya Bhagavantas and the Munis of status. I felt that I learnt in-depth study only now and my regard for the Navakara Mantra grew deeper day by day.
250
