While Acharya Maharaj was at Sagar, the first study circle for exposition of the Shatkhandagam was organized with his blessings. It evoked a keen interest and was attended by almost all the veterans and discerning scholars of Jainism. The congregation had the opportunity of handling, reading and auditing the scriptures, which had until then been objects of veneration from a distance. It was the greatest achievement of their lives.
As the study circle drew to its close, the assembly of scholars encouraged a delegation of city notables to urge Acharya Maharaj on behalf of the congregation to accept the title of Charitra-chakravarti. The request was greeted with a joyous applause. Acharya Maharaj remained silent. There was no immediate reaction on his part.
In a short while, Acharya Maharaj commenced his discourse. At the end, he said, “At every step, one encounters a variety of titles, but they are all a source of sorrow. The only acquirement that matters is self-knowledge, which is the fount of all merits. Please allow me to advance on the path of liberation and spare me these titles. This is my only command, precept and message for you all".
There was a pin drop silence in the gathering. Acharya Maharaj's indifference to status and title moved the audience to tears of joy and wonderment.
Sagar (April, 1980)
Shatkhandaagam – A comprehensive collection of the percepts of Acharya Pushpadanta (66-106 A.D.) and Acharya Bhootabali (66-156 A.D.). It is in six parts.
Charitra-chakravarti – The Emperor of Impeccable Conduct. This title has so far been conferred only on Acharya Shantisagar.