Protecting trust of faithful

Ahmedabad: The authenticity of a timeless faith is being protected by a custodian with a nearly 300-year legacy: Sheth Anandji Kalyanji ni Pedhi, a trust representing Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Sangh, ensures that contemporary generations cherish their beliefs in undiluted glory.
For instance, the restoration of Ahmedabad’s 168-year-old Hutheesing Derasar is among the scores of projects involving the Anandji Kalyanji trust.The complex, built for Rs 8 lakh, has received over Rs 5 crore so far in two years. The project, also championed by the Hutheesing Kesrising Trust, is exemplary for its architectural fidelity. Natural materials such as urad daal, methi, and tamarind are being used for construction activities like plastering — exactly as it was done more than a century ago.
Anandji Kalyanji trust’s India-wide influence originated on the Shatrunjaya Hills, Palitana, one of the holiest Jain sites. Since the 10th century, various Gujarat-based Jain organizations administered the site. But an influential Ahmedabad businessman, Shantidas Zaveri, became the undisputed leader in the 17th century owing to his influence in the Mughal court and acceptance in his community.
Zaveri initially led the Shree Sangh and signed the first agreement with Palitana rulers, the Gohils, in 1651 to protect pilgrims. Zaveri was instrumental in Anandji Kalyanji trust’s creation. The oldest records of the trust date to Vikram Samvat 1777 (1721).
The trust today has nine trustees and 126 elected members from across India. As tribute to the Ahmedabad Jain merchants’ efforts, the entire trustee board has always consisted of Amdavadis. The trust’s national scope is seen in its push for the inclusion of Chandrapuri Tirth in Ganga development project.