In the days and weeks that followed Acharya Shri Chandanaji - fondly known to all as Pujya Tai Ma - leaving her mortal body on 22 April 2026, tributes have flowed from every corner of India and across the world from those whose lives she touched.
Some lives are lived quietly.
Some lives create ripples.
And then there are lives lived with such authenticity
that they redefine what it means to truly live.
This life has never stopped asking one simple question:
‘What can I do to help?’
This special memorial edition brings together those voices of gratitude, remembrance, and love which provide, through the life Pujya Tai Ma lived, the answer to that question. Through these tributes emerges the portrait of a saint, visionary, reformer, and compassionate mother whose influence transcended borders, traditions, and generations. The next edition of this newsletter will explore Tai Ma’s life, work, teachings, beliefs and revolutionary thinking.
Pujya Tai Ma, we will miss you dearly - your guidance, your smile, your boundless love, and your divine presence. We pray for the strength and wisdom to carry forward the vision and work you so compassionately nurtured. This will be our humble way of expressing gratitude for the blessing of having you as our Guru.
A Nation Pays Tribute
In recognition of an extraordinary lifetime dedicated to compassion, spiritual and humanitarian service, and the provision of education and healthcare to the underprivileged, Pujya Tai Ma – the first Jain Sadhvi to receive the Padma Shri award - was accorded the highest honour of a State Funeral with a 21-gun salute. It was a moment of profound sadness, but also one of gratitude for a life that transformed countless others.
Reflections from the Sadhvi Sangh
No one witnessed Tai Ma's journey more closely than the Sadhvi Sangh who lived, travelled, served, and learned alongside her. Their reflections offer a deeply personal glimpse into the saint, teacher, guide, and mother they knew and loved.
The first tributes come from the Sadhvijis entrusted with leading Veerayatan's principal centres, who worked hand in hand with Tai Ma for many years and played a pivotal role in bringing her vision to fruition. Through their devotion, leadership, and tireless service, they helped nurture and expand the work that Tai Ma lovingly planted.
Tai Ma: The Fountainhead of All Creations
– by Upadhyay Shri Yashaji
In this heartfelt tribute, Upadhyay Shri Yashaji reflects on the many dimensions of Pujya Tai Ma’s extraordinary life. She portrays Tai Ma as the embodiment of boundless compassion, a mother to the suffering, and a visionary creator whose imagination transformed ideas into living realities. Recalling the institutions, artistic achievements, and countless lives shaped by her guidance, Upadhyay Shri Yashaji expresses deep gratitude for Tai Ma's enduring influence and affirms her faith that the work, love and values she nurtured will continue to flourish for generations to come.
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A Reverential Tribute
– by Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji
In this moving tribute, Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji remembers Pujya Tai Ma as a spiritual guide whose presence continues to inspire even beyond her physical departure. She reflects on Tai Ma's courage and transformative vision, which challenged the stagnation resulting from rigid traditions in the ascetic communities and redefined religion as an expression of love, friendship, and service to humanity. With profound reverence, she honours Tai Ma's lifelong mission of uniting people through universal friendship and conveys the collective gratitude and resolve of the Sadhvi Sangh to carry forward the path of selfless service she illuminated.
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As Mahavir Sent Gautam Swami Away
– by Dr. Sadhvi Shri Sampragyaji
In this deeply personal tribute, Sadhvi Shri Sampragyaji reflects on her forty-five years under the loving guidance of Pujya Tai Ma and recalls the poignant events surrounding Tai Ma's final day. She portrays Tai Ma as a benevolent Guru who embodied the qualities of Bhagwan Rishabhdev and Bhagwan Mahavir, transforming religion into a living expression of love, service, and courage.
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Pujya Tai Ma: From Inner Spiritual Practice to Global Consciousness
– by Sadhvi Shri Sanghamitraji
In this inspiring tribute, Sadhvi Shri Sanghamitraji remembers Pujya Tai Ma as a transformative spiritual leader who carried the message of Bhagwan Mahavir beyond the walls of temples and into the service of humanity. She reflects on Tai Ma's extraordinary friendship with all, her courage to challenge convention, and her vision of religion as love, service, and universal interconnectedness.
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More Reflections from the Sadhvi Sangh
Here are moving tributes of other Sadhvis from across Veerayatan, who share personal memories, cherished moments, and the profound influence Tai Ma had on their spiritual journeys and lives of service.
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Voices of Gratitude
Many individuals walked alongside Pujya Tai Ma over decades, witnessing first-hand her courage, vision, and tireless commitment to serving others. The reflections that follow come from Veerayatan leaders who worked closely with Tai Ma in nurturing and expanding Veerayatan's mission in India and across the world, providing her with support, guidance and their wisdom.
Among them is Shri Abhay Firodia, whose family shared a particularly deep bond with Tai Ma. His father, Shri Navalmal Firodia, was one of Tai Ma’s earliest and most steadfast supporters, standing beside her as Veerayatan took root and flourished. Together with other dedicated devotees and well-wishers, these individuals helped transform Tai Ma's vision of Seva (service to humanity), Shiksha (education for all), and Sadhana (self-development) into a living reality.
Their tributes reflect not only profound respect and affection for Tai Ma, but also a unique perspective on the extraordinary determination and spiritual conviction that guided her life's work.
The Dignity of Veerayatan Is No Less Than That of Any Large Institution
– by Dr. Abhay Firodia
Dr. Abhay Firodia paid tribute to Pujya Tai Ma as a visionary leader whose energy, wisdom, and deep understanding of Jain philosophy enabled her to bring about a remarkable transformation in the Jain tradition. He described Veerayatan as one of her greatest achievements - an institution built through her dedication, vision, and hard work, whose stature rivals that of much larger organisations. He emphasised that her enduring dream was for Veerayatan to remain a strong and independent institution, continuing to spread the values of service, education, spirituality, and compassion to future generations. He concluded that the greatest tribute to Tai Ma would be to carry forward her vision with unity, dedication, flexibility, and a shared commitment to the ideals she championed.
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JAINA: A Partnership Built on Shared Values
For many decades, JAINA has stood beside Veerayatan, helping to transform Pujya Tai Ma's vision into meaningful action through its steadfast support of education, healthcare, humanitarian service, and numerous other initiatives. Following her mahāprayāṇ, JAINA's historic Shraddhanjali Sabha united past and present leaders in a collective commitment to continue her mission. Veerayatan gratefully acknowledges JAINA's enduring partnership and invaluable contribution to preserving and advancing Tai Ma's legacy.
To watch the JAINA USA Remembrance Service: https://www.youtube.com/live/ZLveUs3mgxc
Tribute by Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO)
- by Bhaven Kamdar, Vice-President
Through close partnership, JITO and Veerayatan have advanced numerous initiatives in service and social awareness, reflecting their shared commitment to uplifting society. Pujya Tai Ma's vision united people, institutions, and communities beyond all distinctions, while her love, compassion, and blessings inspired countless lives. Her Padma Shri in 2022 was a moment of pride for the entire Jain community and was marked by a historic State Honour felicitation organised by JITO Kolkata.
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Tribute from Veerayatan USA
– by Mukeshbhai Turakhia, President
Tai Ma meant more to me than words can convey, and I consider it a true blessing to have spent time in her presence.
What made Tai Ma so extraordinary was her accessibility. She was always present - genuinely listening, deeply understanding, and gently guiding. Despite any discomfort or pain she herself may have carried, Tai Ma never allowed it to burden others. Instead, she created a space where anyone, regardless of who they were, felt seen, heard, and valued equally.
A large tribute gathering was organised in Houston, USA, under the leadership of Shri Jayeshbhai Mehta. Hundreds of devotees and representatives from numerous communities participated in this moving occasion to collectively honour Acharya Shri’s life of service and compassion.
To watch the Houston USA Veerayatan Remembrance Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_jKPHa_MQE
Tribute from Veerayatan UK
– by Nileshbhai Kothari
This tribute reflects on the profound impact Pujya Tai Ma has had on the UK community. Her vision led to the establishment of Shri Chandana Vidyapeeth (SCVP) Jain School in the UK over three decades ago, ensuring that future generations would be inspired by and live according to the values of Bhagwan Mahavir. With the continued spiritual guidance of Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji, thousands of children and adults have gone through the school and have become ambassadors of Bhagwan Mahavir's timeless virtues.
To watch the Veerayatan UK Remembrance Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=N_FsJHDt_Z4&ra=m
Pujya Tai Ma: A Legacy of Love, Service and Inspiration in Kenya
– by Bharatbhai Doshi, President, Veerayatan Kenya
This tribute reflects on the profound impact Tai Ma had on the Jain community and wider society in Kenya. Inspired by her vision of Seva, Shiksha, and Sadhana, countless educational and humanitarian initiatives flourished in Kenya, touching thousands of lives through Jain education, healthcare, food programmes, water projects, and scholarships. Remembering her simplicity, and unwavering love, the community pledges to honour her legacy by carrying forward the values and mission she so selflessly lived.
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Bhav Vandna
– by Yogeshbhai Doshi, President, Veerayatan Dubai
Yogeshbhai Doshi paid tribute to Pujya Tai Ma for her blessings and guidance that enabled the Dubai Jain community to flourish through spiritual, educational, and cultural activities. He particularly highlighted the establishment of the Jain Gyanshala in 2003, which has nurtured generations of children with Jain values. He affirmed that Tai Ma’s ideals of Seva, Shiksha, and Sadhana, and her global humanitarian work, will continue to inspire the Jain community in Dubai for years to come.
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Tribute from Shri Muscat Jain Samaj
– by Dilip Bhai Mehta, Vice President
The passing of Padma Shri Acharya Chandanaji, the founder and guiding force of the Veerayatan family, has caused profound sorrow. Yet her contributions were not limited to the Jain community alone; she rendered unparalleled service to all humanity.
By establishing institutions such as Veerayatan in Bihar, she provided thousands of children with education, values, and culture. In the truest sense, she became a giver of vision and hope to millions of people.
She created a vast and highly educated disciple family and lovingly guided all her disciples towards their spiritual goals. Many learned Sadhvis of the Sthanakvasi Jain community benefited from her guidance over the years. May her soul attain supreme peace.
A Heartfelt Tribute from the Singapore Jain Religious Society
The Singapore Jain Religious Society remembers Pujya Tai Ma with deep gratitude as a compassionate motherly presence whose message of “Muskan se Moksh” taught that a simple smile, born from inner peace and compassion, is itself a step towards moksha. Her legacy continues to guide the Singapore Sangh through the values of Maitri (friendship), Karuna (compassion), and selfless service.
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Gujarati Association of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Malaysia
– by Bhashkar Chitalia, President
Heartfelt condolences were offered by the Malaysian community on the passing of Pujya Tai Ma, whose life was devoted to compassion, service, and the upliftment of humanity. The Association expressed deep gratitude for her affection and support, and fondly recalled the visits of Sadhvis, which strengthened the spiritual bond with Veerayatan. Members also cherished their recent pilgrimage to Shikharji and stay at Veerayatan Rajgir, where they witnessed its remarkable humanitarian work.
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The Spiritual World Pays Tribute
Pujya Tai Ma's life and work touched hearts far beyond the Veerayatan family. Spiritual leaders from diverse traditions recognised in her a rare union of wisdom, compassion, humility, and selfless service - a life in which spirituality was not merely taught, but lived.
The following tributes reflect the profound respect Pujya Tai Ma had across the spiritual world. Though their paths and traditions may differ, a common theme runs through their reflections: admiration for a saint who transformed compassion into action, touched countless lives, and embodied the living message of Bhagwan Mahavir.
Their words remind us that Tai Ma's legacy extends far beyond the institutions she created. It lives on in the values she exemplified, the lives she transformed, and the inspiration she offered to people of all faiths and backgrounds.
A Heartfelt Homage
– by Pujya Shri Morari Bapu
Pujya Shri Morari Bapu paid heartfelt tribute to Pujya Tai Ma, remembering her lifelong dedication to the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir through benevolence, service, and humanitarian work. He recalled her motherly warmth and expressed that, although she is no longer physically present, her values and spiritual legacy will continue to inspire countless lives.
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The Welfare Oriented Contributions of Pujya Tai Ma Are Truly Commendable
– by Pujya Acharya Shri Shivmuniji, Head of the Shraman Sangh
Pujya Tai Ma dedicated her life to prayer, austerity, self-discipline, service, and spiritual practice, becoming an inspiring example of humility, devotion, and compassion. Her message that “service itself is spiritual practice” shaped her remarkable contributions, including her pioneering work in eye-care services and social upliftment. Her passing marks the loss of a great ascetic and spiritual leader, but her values, vision, and unfinished mission will continue to inspire future generations.
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Tribute
– by Pujya Bhaishree, Shri Raj Saubhag Ashram, Sayla
The one who was an unparalleled example of service, spiritual practice, and self-discipline, the living embodiment of love and compassion, whom we lovingly addressed as “Tai Ma,” is no longer physically among us. The very thought deeply shakes the heart.
The name Padma Shri Acharya Chandanaji - a renowned philosopher, scholar and visionary - fills the heart with positive energy, pure love, and extraordinary strength of resolve. It is as though all these noble qualities naturally awaken within one's own soul.
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Tribute
– by Pujya Shri Rakeshbhai Jhaveri, Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur
Revered Tai Ma - whose boundless compassion embraced all beings and whose life was dedicated to the welfare of humanity - adorned the world with the treasures of virtue, wisdom, and sacred purity. The living embodiment of these noble qualities, she appeared to transcend the confines of the earthly realm and merge into the sublime radiance of vītarāgatā. Having serenely relinquished her mortal form, she has embarked upon her soul's most exalted journey - toward the eternal bliss, freedom, and peace that she had so selflessly taught and exemplified throughout her life. Her physical presence may have withdrawn from our sight, but her love, vision, and spiritual legacy continue to illumine the hearts of all who were touched by her.
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Tributes from the ascetic community across India
Here are moving tributes of Sadhus and Sadhvis from all across India, who share personal memories, and the influence Tai Ma had on their own spiritual journeys.
Read the tributes:
A Poetic Tribute
Sharing an Ice-cream
Some reflections cannot be captured through speeches or prose alone. This poem was written by Jina Sheth, aged 15, a student of Shri Chandana Vidyapeeth in London, in loving remembrance of her time with Pujya Tai Ma.
In one of the verses, she writes:
We journeyed all the way to India, just to be near her,To read further.....
to spend those precious moments with Pujya Tai Ma in Pune.
Not knowing then how deeply they would stay,
or how much those memories would mean today.
Those days now feel like a quiet blessing in time,
a gift I will carry for all of my life.
A Mother to Generations - Young Lives Pujya Tai Ma Touched
The measure of a life is often found in the lives it transforms. For many young people, Tai Ma was not simply a spiritual guide but a source of confidence, encouragement, direction, and unconditional love. She instilled in all a fearless belief that no challenge is beyond courage and determination. She inspired everyone to rise above self-doubts, trust their abilities, and approach life with conviction and resilience.
Perhaps the deepest legacy of Pujya Tai Ma lives quietly within people - in the courage she awakened, the love she gave, and the feeling she left behind. Across generations and across the world, countless lives were transformed simply through being in her presence. The following reflections offer a glimpse into that enduring impact on young lives.
A Life She Gave Meaning To - Forever Grateful
– by Jay, Priyanka and Kabir Jain
“She made each person feel seen and loved,
and in her presence, all distinctions simply dissolved.”
“In many ways she gave meaning to my life, my existence,
and my very presence.”
“She did not walk ahead to be seen…
she walked ahead so others could find their way.”
Reflections
– by Kunal Shah, Kolkata
“She was not someone you could describe.
She was someone you had to experience.
And having experienced her, you were permanently changed.”
“When youngsters ask - What is religion, What is love, What is Jainism - I no longer search for words. I simply say: The answer is the life of Tai Ma.”
Inspired by a Life of Love and Service
– by Yash Shah
On our first trip to Veerayatan India in 2011, as children we felt completely at home. There was no sense of distance or boundary. I even remember sitting and eating “keri no ras” (mango juice) with Tai Ma and the Sadhvis, completely unaware of any protocol… and yet, nothing was ever said - only love was given. That was Tai Ma. She made everyone feel like they belonged. And I truly believe that is what has kept so many of us, especially as youth, so deeply connected.
Read the Full Tribute:
Touched by Her Love, Guided by Her Example
– by Diya Kothari
In this heartfelt tribute, Diya reflects on how childhood memories of watching Never Before, volunteering in Kutch, and receiving Tai Ma’s personal affection left a lasting impact and helped shape a lifelong commitment to service. Tai Ma’s guidance during difficult times, including the pandemic and medical studies, provided strength and hope. Grateful for having experienced her divinity firsthand, Diya shares how Tai Ma’s values ultimately inspired a career in medicine and a dedication to carrying forward her legacy of seva.
Read the Full Tribute:Shraddanjalis: Remembering a Life of Service
Gatherings in Gratitude at Veerayatan Centres
Across Veerayatan centres, devotees, staff, students, patients, volunteers, and well-wishers gathered to honour Tai Ma's life and teachings. These heartfelt Shraddanjali gatherings became moments of reverence, unity, quiet remembrance, gratitude, and collective resolve to continue her work.
Shraddhanjali Sabha at Veerayatan Rajgir
A heartfelt Shraddhanjali Sabha took place at Veerayatan Rajgir, the birthplace of Veerayatan, in the presence of Sadhvis, government officials, devotees and well-wishers, the representatives of the Bihar communities and Veerayatan staff.
Shraddhanjali Sabha at Veerayatan, Kutch
A deeply moving and soulful Shraddhanjali Sabha was organised in the serene presence of the Sadhvijis of Veerayatan Kutch, in loving memory of revered Pujya Tai Ma.
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Shraddhanjali Sabha at Palitana
– In Loving Memory of Padma Shri Param Pujya Tai Ma
Palitana witnessed a truly unprecedented and deeply moving Shraddhanjali Sabha at the Veerayatan campus. Many shared how deeply Tai Ma had become a part of their daily lives.
Some lovingly expressed:
‘In our homes, our children remember Tai Ma multiple times a day’
‘Tai Ma would not do this’
‘Tai Ma would prefer it this way.’
Such reflections showed how Pujya Tai Ma continues to live on through her values cherished across generations…
Global Voices – Shraddhanjalis Worldwide
The love that devotees felt for Pujya Tai Ma knew no boundaries of geography, culture, or generation. Across India and around the world, remembrance services have brought together thousands whose lives were touched by her wisdom, compassion and blessings.
Each gathering became more than a tribute. It became a sharing of memories, gratitude, and personal stories - revealing the unique bond that so many felt with Tai Ma. Again and again, one sentiment emerged: while her physical presence may no longer be with us, the love, guidance, and inspiration she bestowed continues to live on in countless hearts.
View Global Shraddhanjalis:
Pune Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoKolkata Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoMumbai Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoDelhi Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoJAINA USA Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoHouston USA Veerayatan Remembrance Service:
Watch VideoVeerayatan UK Remembrance Service:
Watch Video
Voices of Love and Gratitude
The warmth, esteem, and regard in which Pujya Tai Ma was held by devotees and communities across the world also shine through in the hundreds of heartfelt tributes received.
We are deeply grateful for the love, support and friendship many shared with Pujya Tai Ma over the last five decades. We acknowledge with gratitude the enduring support and collaboration from so many individuals and institutions in the many humanitarian and educational initiatives inspired by Tai Ma’s vision.
Read the Tribute Collection.
Tai Ma! By What Path Shall We Find You?
We search for Tai Ma in memories, photographs, speeches, and stories. Yet perhaps the deeper question is: Where shall we find her now? Here are Sadhvi Shri Sadhanaji’s sentiments…
Where have those sacred feet gone, which turned the earth into a place of pilgrimage?
Where have those divine eyes gone, which dispelled deep darkness?
Where have those sweet words gone, which removed every doubt?
Where has that gentle smile gone, whose sight brought joy to everyone?
Today, she is no longer physically present among us, yet she remains everlasting - in our hearts and in our lives. In every particle of the earth, in every person, in every moment and in every breath, she endures - a pillar of light that will continue to guide us forever.
Such a noble and extraordinary personality, whose very existence was a blessing for the entire world, has now merged into the Infinite. With her departure, it feels as though life itself has come to a standstill. Even our own existence seems to have lost its foundation.
With every glance and every breath, these eyes and this heart searches for her. Will someone tell us by what path we may find her again?”
In every act of kindness and compassion,
there remains the living presence of Tai Ma.
Pujya Tai Ma’s Blessings continue…
Listen to Pujya Tai Ma reciting the Manglik, for the welfare of all living beings: