Acharya Chandana, an Indian Jain nun, died on April 22, 2026, at the age of 89.
Born Shakuntala on January 26, 1937, in Chaskaman, Maharashtra, she entered Jain monastic life at age 14 and was named sadhvi Chandana. Known to devotees as Tai Maharaj, she belonged to the Amarmuni Sampradaya and became the first Jain sadhvi to receive the title of Acharya and the Padma Shri.
She was also known for her social engagement and for promoting the idea of seva, or human service, within the Jain community. Chandana founded Veerayatan, a non-profit organization.
Acharya Chandana, 89, Indian Jain nun.