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In the past, Cambay (Khambhat) held great significance as a bustling port city with extensive trade connections both locally and internationally. During its prosperous era, it was home to around a hundred millionaires. The town boasted a devout population and was adorned with 85 temples and 45 upashrayas (monastic residences). Notably, the enlightened Hemchandracharya, who possessed all-encompassing knowledge, was initiated into monkhood in Cambay. It was here that he saved King Kumarpal's life by concealing him among stacks of books. The town also witnessed the composition of a volume on raas, a popular folk art form, by the poet Rishabhdas. Renowned philanthropists like Rajiya-Vajiya and Tejpal Sanghavi were among the esteemed businessmen from Cambay.
Guided by Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuriji, Shri Somsundarsuriji, and other acharyas, the town was a hub of religious and charitable activities. During this period, Acharya Dharmamurti resided in Cambay, and a wealthy Jain layman (Shravak) visited him daily to seek his blessings. Despite being a millionaire, the Shravak was humble and deeply devoted.
One day, the Shravak brought his eight-year-old granddaughter, Dharmalaxmi, to pay respects to the Acharya. Perceiving her as extraordinary, the Acharya predicted that she would become a beacon of Jainism and suggested she be initiated as a nun. While the grandfather initially doubted Dharmalaxmi's ability to withstand the rigors of nunhood at such a young age, the Acharya assured him that such exceptional souls emerge rarely and advised him to let her mature.
Convinced by the Acharya's wisdom, the Shravak entrusted Dharmalaxmi to him for spiritual pursuits. Beginning her austere life as a sadhvi (nun) at eight, Dharmalaxmi displayed a keen intellect and quickly mastered scriptures. At eleven, she became the pravartini (leader) of seven hundred sadhvis, eventually becoming the revered sadhvi mahattara. Devoted to learning and rigorous penance, she continued her journey. At the age of twenty-eight, Dharmalaxmi attained heavenly abode.
Dharmalaxmi's idol resides in the jinalaya in Matar, Gujarat. This unique statue commemorates a young sadhvi who achieved remarkable stature in Jainism.
Bhagwan Mahavir's words, "True devotion is very rare," aptly apply here. True devotion and unwavering faith pave the way for spiritual elevation, transcending age, gender, and caste. Sadhvi Dharmlaxmi embodied these qualities and stood as a pillar of religion and spirituality, a paragon of devotion. Her profound dedication secured her a significant place in the annals of Jain history.
