The Tribune
Sriganganagar/Abohar, May 16
Acharya Mahashraman will formally take over as 11th chief of the Terapanth, a religious sect under Swetambar Jain, on May 23, Muni Sumermal Sudershan said during a congregation in Sardarshehar, known as capital of the sect and located on Hanumangarh-Churu road. Notably, Acharya Mahashraman was born at Sardarshehar.
The Padabhirohan Samaroh (Patotsav) will be held on May 23 at the sprawling ground of Gandhi Vidya Mandir, Sardarshehar in the morning. Notably, Acharya Mahapragya, who passed away on May 9 at Sardarshehar, had designated Mahashraman as his successor in 1997.
The Terapanthi sub-sect is derived from the Sthanakvasi;section. It was founded by Swami Bhikanaji Maharaj who was formerly a Sthanakvasi saint and had initiation from his Guru, by name Acharya Raghunatha.
Meanwhile the Rashtriya Nirman Sanskar Nirman camp which was scheduled from May 21-30 at Sardarshehar stands cancelled. Acharya Mahashraman has asked the followers not to celebrate his 49th birthday that falls on May 22 as per Samvat calendar.
He would spend the day at Samadhi of the Acharya Mahapragya and later take rest at the Malu Farms. The Chaturmaas and Vidya Mandir managing committees too kick started preparations for the May 23 event hoping participation of more than 50,000 followers across the country and abroad.