The story of the Nirnaya Sagar Press is not just a tale of a printing enterprise but a saga of perseverance, skill, and entrepreneurial spirit. Let's delve deeper into its history.
Jawaji Dadaji Chaudhari, an orphaned boy from Umarkhadi,
Bombay, found his way into the world of printing through sheer determination
and hard work. Born around 1839, Jawaji's early life was marked by struggles to
support his family after the death of his father, Dadaji Chaudhari. Despite
limited literacy, Jawaji's innate curiosity and drive led him to seek
opportunities wherever they arose.
His journey into the printing industry began when he secured
a job at Thomas Graham's American Mission Press in Bhindi Bazaar, initially
tasked with menial chores for a meager salary. However, Jawaji's potential soon
caught Graham's attention, and he was given the opportunity to learn the
intricate craft of type-cutting and casting. Over the course of ten years,
Jawaji honed his skills under Graham's tutelage, mastering the art of
type-making.
With the sale of the Mission Press to the Times of India in
1857, Jawaji transitioned to his new employer, where he continued to refine his
expertise for the next five years. Subsequent moves to the Induprakash Press
and then to the Oriental Press further expanded his knowledge and reputation in
the industry. By 1864, Jawaji had become a skilled and sought-after
type-caster, earning both a handsome salary and a reputation for excellence in
his craft.
However, Jawaji's ambitions went beyond being an employee;
he aspired to become an entrepreneur in his own right. Despite initial
setbacks, including a broken promise of financial assistance from his uncle,
Jawaji's determination remained unshaken. His fortunes changed when Khuma
Sheth, a friend of his uncle, recognized his potential and provided him with a
loan of ₹700, enabling him to pursue his dream of establishing his own foundry.
Armed with his expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and the
support of Khuma Sheth, Jawaji Dadaji Chaudhari embarked on a new chapter of
his life. Little did he know that his decision would lay the foundation for the
renowned Nirnaya Sagar Press, which would go on to achieve global acclaim for
its dedication to the printing and publication of Sanskrit literature.
The Nirnaya Sagar Press's legacy is not only one of printing
excellence but also a testament to the transformative power of determination,
skill, and opportunity. Through Jawaji's journey, we witness the triumph of the
human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who dare to pursue their dreams
against all odds.