The first matriculate and enthusiast in revolutionary literature 
Sri Danabhai Arjan Jadwani, the fighter of Sanatan

Many years ago, when our community was trapped in the Pirana sect and under the tyrannical rule of Syeds and uncles, a young man named Danabhai from the Jadwani family of Kutch Ravapar achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first person to pass the matriculate examination in Karachi. This achievement sparked a revolution in the field of education. At the same time, we should also acknowledge the courageous contribution of young Dana Arjan, who gained fame in the field of literature by writing poems that called for rebellion against religious and social evils.

Danabhai was born on April 23, 1909 in Karachi on Vaishakh Sud III Akshay Tritiya (Akhatrij) of Samvat 1965. He possessed qualities of calmness, gentleness, truth, modesty and benevolence from his childhood. Danabhai was a bright student and had earned the love of his teachers during his studies. Once, he politely told the principal of his missionary school that they were being taught about Christianity, which was of no use to them. Instead, he and five to six of his friends left the school boldly as the principal was firm on his rules. This incident shows Danabhai’s love for Hinduism. 

In addition to English, he also studied Sanskrit at the mission school. His friends formed the “Gujarat Kumar Sangh” to instill high thoughts of national interest in students. As a member of the Jain Mitra Mandal library, he had the opportunity to meet great scholars and was mentored by renowned poets like Karsandas Manek. Danabhai, the society’s first matriculate, began writing poetry at the young age of 17. His published and unpublished poems accurately depict the feeling of slavery and religious degradation experienced by our community at that time. The collection of their poems and life stories, titled “Yuvakna Udgar and Bhatrabhava,” has been published by Mr. Poonja Khetsi.

Danabhai had a deep affection for Sanatan Dharma since his school days. One of our community brothers once told his cousin Dana in Ravapar that he did not properly follow Piranapanth despite studying it. Dana calmly explained that he believed in the principles of truth and could not accept the heresies in his life. He refused to compromise his beliefs despite the brother’s inquiry and responded with bravery and patience. In the end, he gave a simple answer that showed his unwavering commitment to his beliefs.

Danabhai’s child was married to Gomtiben from the Bhavani family in Khirsara. Sadly, during the same period, their little eight-month-old daughter passed away prematurely. Additionally, Danabhai’s brother also died at a young age of only 20, following a brief illness. He was highly respected, and notable individuals like Mahakavi Shri Karasandas Manek used to personally inquire about his health. Since Danabhai had no other brothers, his wife chose not to remarry and instead devoted herself to serving her parents. When Danabhai eventually passed away at the age of 79, he had saved a total of Rs. 33,333. His daughter used this money to establish a girls’ hostel and dedicated her house to the Lakshminarayan Samaj.

The untimely death of a talented and bright community member left a void that remains unfilled to this day. Poet Danabhai’s name, like that of the renowned poet Kalapi, has become immortalized in society. The Khamirwanta family has served as an inspiration to us all by dedicating themselves to Sanatan Dharma and ultimately becoming donors.