The Achalgach (also known as Anchal Gach or Vidhipaksh) is one of the four main surviving monastic orders (Gacchas) of the Shwetambar Murtipujaka sect of Jainism. While it is a global community, it has a very deep and historical connection with the Cutchi Jain community, particularly among the Oswal families of Kutch, Gujarat.
Origin
Established In
1113 CE (Vikram Samvat 1169)
by Acharya Aryarakshitsuri
The Reform
At the time, Acharya Aryarakshitsuri felt that some laxity had entered Jain monastic life. He established the Vidhimarg - a path focused on a strict and pure adherence to the original Jain scriptures (Agams).
The Name "Vidhipaksh"
Because of this focus on "Vidhi" (proper scriptural procedure), the group was originally called Vidhipaksh Gaccha.
"Strict adherence to Agams"
Why is it called "Achal" or "Anchal"?
There are two popular historical legends that explain the shift from Vidhipaksh to the current names:
The "Achal" Legend
It is said that King Siddharaj Jaysingh of Gujarat once sought the help of Acharya Aryarakshitsuri during a religious ritual where a cow had died. Using his spiritual powers, the Acharya revived the cow. Impressed by his steadfastness and the power of his words, the King called him Achal (meaning "firm" or "immovable").
The "Anchal" Legend
Another story involves King Kumarpal. A lay follower greeted the Acharya by placing the end of his shoulder-cloth (Anchal) on the ground as a mark of respect. When the King questioned this, the Great Scholar Acharya Hemchandrasuri confirmed it was a valid scriptural practice. Thus, the sect became known as Anchal Gach.
Connection to the Kutchi Community
The Achalgach tradition is relatively small compared to the Tapa Gaccha, but it is extremely influential within the Kutchi Visa Oswal and Dasa Oswal communities.
Migration
When Kutchis migrated from Gujarat to Mumbai and other parts of India, they brought their specific Achalgach traditions with them.
Preservation
Today, you will find "Achalgach Jain Sanghs" in many Mumbai suburbs, which serve as the primary social and religious hubs for this specific community.
Key Traditions and Differences
While the core Jain philosophy (Ahinsa, Anekantavada, Karma) is the same as other Shwetambar Jains, Achalgach has unique rituals
Protective Deities
The community particularly reveres Goddess Mahakali (as the Adhishthayika or protecting deity) and Chakeshwari Devi.
Monastic Discipline
They follow a specific lineage of Acharyas (Pattavali) and have slight variations in the Tithi (calendar) and certain ritual procedures compared to other Gacchas.