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IN PHOTOS: Devotion flows as 'Varshitap' fast concludes on Akshaya Tritiya
Updated On: 21 April, 2026 08:28 PM IST | Tarun Verma
A deeply spiritual and grand celebration unfolded in Byculla, Mumbai, as devotees gathered for the book launch of Shanti Smaranam and the completion of 'Varshitap'. Pics/Special Arrangements

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Devotees perform abhishek with sugarcane juice (ikshu ras) and offer prayers before the idol of the first Tirthankar Rushabhdev, continuing an age-old tradition
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Gacchhadhipati Vijay Raj Shekhar Surishwarji addresses devotees before the book launch, who also observed the year long penance along with 94 other monks and many more city wide to pay their respects

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The book Shanti Smaranam, dedicated to Gurudev Shanti Surishwarji, was unveiled, marking the centenary of his renunciation in a spiritually charged atmosphere.
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Messages from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel feature in the book

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The author aka Gacchhadhipati launches the book in the memory of his 'dada guru's' centenary year
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A couple from the United States, participate in the rituals remotely and symbolically take the honour of Shreyansh Kumar by offering alms after bidding Rs 1.09 crore

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The ritual traces its origin to Lord Rishabhdev, who broke his long fast with sugarcane juice offered by Shreyansh Kumar on Akshaya Tritiya
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A sea of white-clad devotees fills the venue as over 200 monks, including 95 who completed the 14-month Varshitap penance break their fasts

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Large donations worth crores are announced as devotees express their devotion and commitment during the event which concludes with the ‘paarna’ ceremony, where devotees break their 14-month-long fast with sugarcane juice, creating a powerful visual of unity and devotion
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