As a Jain, I’ve been privileged to witness numerous individuals undertaking the sacred journey of Diksha, from children as young as nine to elders. Throughout this transformative process, they impart invaluable teachings, emphasizing that true fulfillment lies not in material wealth but in the pursuit of Moksha and the purification of one’s soul from past offences.
In a remarkable tale of family transformation, Dipesh Shah, a thriving diamond merchant from the vibrant city of Surat, Gujarat, has embarked on a profound journey of spiritual awakening alongside his devoted wife, Pika Shah. Inspired by the courageous decisions of their children, who embraced monkhood at tender young ages, the Shah family’s narrative is one of profound reflection and unwavering commitment to inner peace.
Dipesh, aged 51, and Pika Shah, aged 46, were inspired by the profound example set by their son. They have embarked on a journey of renunciation, bidding farewell to their opulent lifestyle and lucrative business ventures. With an annual turnover exceeding Rs. 15 crore, Dipesh Shah’s decision to close his flourishing diamond enterprise signifies a profound shift towards simplicity and devotion. As per the reports, they even donated Rs. 200 crores as a token of appreciation to the needy.
At the heart of this extraordinary saga lies the story of Bhagyaratna Vijayji, fondly known as Bhavya Shah, who, at the age of 12, chose to surrender worldly possessions in pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. His bold step was symbolized by a Ferrari ride during his diksha ceremony to showcase the elimination of wealth one by one from his life, which eventually paved the way for his parent’s soul-stirring decision.
Their daughter, Pararthrekha Shriji, had blazed a similar tail a decade prior, embracing monkhood and illuminating the path for her family’s spiritual evolution. Their elder son’s recent marriage served as a motivation for Dipesh and Pika’s decision, reviving their long-held aspiration to follow the path of simplicity.
The Shah’s decision articulates the timeless quest for ultimate peace and happiness. Witnessing the perennial joy radiated by monks, the Shah’s found solace in the pursuit of sacrifice and devotion, forsaking material wealth for the riches of spiritual enlightenment.
Their vigorous preparation, marked by miles traversed on foot alongside fellow monks without any basic amenities or vehicles. Dipesh’s father, Pravin, himself embarked on a transformative journey, forsaking a thriving business to seek proximity to Jain monks, laying the foundation for his family’s spiritual journey.
The impending diksha ceremony, which is conducted over by the admired Rashmiratna Suriji, symbolized the culmination of the Shah family’s spiritual quest. Their story resonates as a testament to courage, judgement, and the enduring pushing of inner peace amidst life’s mass complexities.
In a world often dazzled by materialism, the Shah family’s journey stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring countless souls to embark on their own quest for spiritual awakening and everlasting contentment.
