Acharya Maharaj was camping in the main temple of Siwani. The venerable Pandit Sumerchandraji Divakar came for his darshan. There was an extended discussion on metaphysics. As Panditji took his leave, he remarked, "Maharaj, Acharya Shantisagarji Maharaj had once given me a rosary for reciting the mantras. I have it even now.” Panditji was aiming to get a keepsake from Acharya Maharaj as well, but he was quick to parry, “Panditji! In so far as I am concerned, my Acharya Maharaj has made me inordinately wealthy.” This was a play of words on mala (rosary) and malamal (inordinately rich). We all had a good laugh.
Underlying this healthy amusement, there was a rare blend of emotions; humble reverence for past Acharyas, pride in the spiritual learning received from them and genuine self-effacement. At the same time, there was an implicit exhortation to Panditji, and indeed to everyone, “You also have the choice of acceding to inestimable riches by taking the great vows. What is the point in telling the beads of your rosary all your life?"
Siwani (1991)