Religion and spirituality have always exerted formative influences on the Indian society. Spiritual leaders have left deep imprints not just in religious matters, but also in areas of relevance to the common man in his day-to-day life, like economic development, education and health services. Anand Rishiji Maharaj (1900-1992) was one such soul, whose contributions in the social and educational spheres have been as prolific and significant as his spiritual guidance to his followers.

Named Nemichand by his parents, he was interested in bhajan, kirtan and religious discourses right from his formative years. He hailed from the Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. Nemichand lost his father at a very young age and that personal loss seemed to push him more towards spirituality, introspection and a pursuit of the deeper meaning of life. At a stage when other boys of his age were getting married and raising families, he resolved to pursue brahmacharya and concentrate on the life of the spirit. He received initiation from Ratan Rishiji Maharaj at the age of 13, thereby formally committing himself to a life of spiritual pursuits and service to humanity.

Anand Rishiji Maharaj mastered the Jain Scriptures as well as ancient philosophical texts of Sanskrit language. His teachings were rooted in love, non-voilence and tolerance. He was proficient in nine languages and wrote extensively in Marathi and Hindi. He emphasized that a soul filled with knowledge does not go astray and, therefore, it was important for all human beings to be spiritually aware.

Anand Rishiji Maharaj had founded numerous educational and religious institutions, among them the Shri Ratna Jain Pustakalaya, Shri Trilok Jain Vidyalaya and Shri Amol Sidhantshala, Pathardi, Ahmednagar, a Blood Bank at Poona Hospital and Anand Pratishthan, a humanitarian society at Pune. He also rejuvenated many ailing institutions and founded magazines. In all these activities, his objective was to bring solace to the common people who were suffering in their daily lives, by emancipating them through spiritual knowledge. He was bestowed with the title of 'Acharya' in 1965.

The Department of Posts is happy to issue a postage stamp in honour of Anand Rishiji Maharaj.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India