Pujya Muniraj Kirtichandraji Maharaj of Tithal Shantiniketan Passes Away: Jain Community Mourns

Sunset of a Spiritual Era: 82-Year-Old Saint Breathes His Last; Thousands Gather for Final Journey

The spiritual world, particularly the Jain community of South Gujarat, is shrouded in deep grief as the visionary soul of Tithal Shantiniketan, Pujya Muniraj Shri Kirtichandra Vijayji Maharaj Saheb, passed away peacefully (attained Kaladharma) in the early hours of Monday, January 12, 2026. At the age of 82, the revered monk, a prominent figure of the world-renowned “Jain Bandhu Triputi,” took his final breath, leaving behind a legacy of yoga, meditation, and profound spiritual wisdom.

As news of his demise spread, thousands of followers from across India and abroad were struck with shock. Shantiniketan Sadhana Kendra in Tithal, which served as the primary center for his spiritual activities, became a site of massive pilgrimage as devotees rushed to catch a final glimpse of the maharaj. His life was considered a living testament to the Jain principles of Tapasya (penance), Sanyam (restraint), and Ahimsa (non-violence).

A Pioneer of Yoga and Spirituality: Grief-Stricken Atmosphere at Shantiniketan

Pujya Kirtichandra Vijayji was not merely a traditional Jain monk; he was a master of Yoga-Sadhana and a profound scholar. Alongside his brothers in the “Bandhu Triputi” (the Triple Brotherhood), he transformed the Tithal coastline into a global hub for spiritual upliftment. Through the Shantiniketan and Shantidham centers, he guided thousands in the art of meditation and simplified complex Jain philosophies for the modern world.

His gentle nature and altruistic spirit earned him immense respect beyond the Jain community. He was instrumental in establishing meditation camps and educational programs that focused on mental peace and character building. His departure is being felt as an irreparable loss to the spiritual landscape of Gujarat.

Final Rites at Tithal Seashore: Massive Procession Marks the End of an Epoch

The final journey (Antim Yatra) of Pujya Maharaj Saheb took place on the afternoon of Monday, January 12, 2026. His mortal remains were placed in a beautifully decorated Viman (palanquin), and the procession moved amidst chants of “Maharaj Saheb Amar Raho” and Jain religious hymns.

• Attendance: High-profile dignitaries and Jain community leaders from Mumbai, Surat, Navsari, and Valsad joined the local crowd.
• The Route: The procession wound through the main roads of Tithal, allowing thousands to pay their respects.
• The Last Rites: In accordance with his wishes and Jain traditions, the final rites were performed at the Tithal sea coast, where he had spent decades in meditation.

Legacy of Compassion and Peace

As the flames rose at the seashore, an era of spiritual mentorship came to an end. Devotees recalled how he always emphasized Jiv-Daya (compassion for all living beings) and humanity above all. The Shantiniketan Sadhana Kendra has announced that a special Gunanuvad Sabha (memorial service) will be held in the coming days to honor his contributions to the Jain Shasan.

#Valsad #Tithal #Jainism #KirtichandrajiMaharaj #BandhuTriputi #Shantiniketan #SpiritualLeader #GujaratNews #JainSaint #Kaladharma #MeditationGuru

📌 Note:
This article is published on OurVapi.com The information presented is based on public sources, local inputs, field observations, and the author’s independent assessment. It is intended to be useful primarily for readers from Vapi, Valsad, Umbergaon, Sarigam, Bhilad, Silvassa, Daman, and nearby regions.

The core objective of OurVapi.com is to deliver accurate, useful, factual, and verified information with a strong focus on local news, public awareness, culture, lifestyle, and community-related topics.

If you found this article helpful, please share it and leave your thoughts in the comments section.
Stay connected with OurVapi.com for reliable local news, updates, and community-focused content.