Bansidhar Pandita Abhinandan Granth

This document is the "Bansidhar Pandita Abhinandan Granth," a felicitation volume authored by Pannalal Jain and published by the Bansidhar Pandit Abhinandan Granth Prakashan Samiti. It is dedicated to Pandit Bansidhar Vyakarancharya, a distinguished scholar of Jainism, grammarian, litterateur, social worker, and freedom fighter, on the occasion of his 85th birthday. The book was published in 1989 to honor his profound contributions to Jain literature, philosophy, and social service.

The Granth is a comprehensive compilation, divided into six volumes, celebrating Pandit Bansidhar's multifaceted life and extensive work. The summary of its key aspects based on the provided text is as follows:

1. Purpose and Dedication: The primary purpose of the "Bansidhar Pandita Abhinandan Granth" is to honor and felicitate Pandit Bansidhar Vyakarancharya, a venerated scholar of the Jain community. It aims to acknowledge his lifetime of service to Jainism, literature, society, and the nation.

2. Pandit Bansidhar Vyakarancharya: Pandit Bansidhar Vyakarancharya is portrayed as a highly respected and multifaceted personality. Key aspects of his life highlighted in the text include: * Scholarship: He is lauded as a profound scholar of Jain philosophy, grammar (Vyakarancharya), and literature (Sahityacharya). He also holds titles like Siddhantacharya and Nyaytirtha. * Freedom Fighter: He was actively involved in India's independence movement, participating in the Quit India Movement of 1942 and spending 9-10 months in jail. He is recognized as a freedom fighter by the Indian government and was honored with a copper plate. * Social Service: Panditji has been a dedicated social worker, actively participating in movements like "Dassā-Pūjādhikār." He has served in ministerial and presidential roles in various organizations, setting a high standard for social service. * Literary Contributions: His most significant contribution is his literary work, where he has defended and clarified the principles of Jain Agamas against misinterpretations. He has authored several books on Jain philosophy, including "Jain Shasan mein Nischay aur Vyavahar," "Jain Darshan mein Karyakaranbhav aur Karak Vyavastha," and "Jaipur Khaniya Tattva Charcha aur Uska Sameeksha." * Personal Qualities: He is described as a selfless scholar who never sought fame or recognition. He has a simple lifestyle, high ideals, and a humble nature, always dedicating his work to the service of Jain scriptures. Despite facing financial hardships and personal loss in his early life, he achieved high levels of scholarship. * Age and Continued Dedication: At 85 years old (and 84 mentioned in some contexts), he remains actively engaged in literary pursuits, serving Jainism and society.

3. The Abhinandan Granth (Felicitation Volume): The Granth itself is a testament to the high regard in which Pandit Bansidhar is held. * Editorial Board: It features a distinguished editorial board comprising prominent Jain scholars and personalities, including Dr. Darbarilal Kothia (Chief Editor), Pt. Pannalal Jain (Sahityacharya), Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal, Pt. Balbhadra Jain (Nyaytirtha), Dr. Rajaram Jain, Dr. Bhagchandra Bhagendu, Dr. Shitalchandra Jain, and others. * Content: The Granth is divided into six sections: * Volume 1: Blessings, Reminiscences, and Good Wishes: This volume contains messages, blessings, and tributes from prominent Jain Acharyas, Munis, scholars, public figures (including former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Home Minister Buta Singh), and respected members of the community, reflecting the widespread appreciation for Panditji. * Volume 2: Biography, Interviews, Personality, and Works: This section delves into Panditji's life, featuring biographical details, interviews, analyses of his personality, and reviews of his literary achievements. It includes historical documents like the inscription from the ancient Jain temple in Sorai, his birthplace. * Volumes 3-6: Selected Essays: The majority of the Granth comprises selected essays written by Pandit Bansidhar himself. These are categorized under various themes: * Volume 3: Religion and Principles: Sixteen essays covering Jain Dharma, its principles, and philosophical concepts like soul, Nischaya and Vyavahara Naya, the concept of Bhavyavya, Karma theory, etc. * Volume 4: Philosophy and Logic: Eleven essays on Jain philosophy and logic, including discussions on Indian philosophies, proof (Pramana) and assertion (Naya), Anekanatvada and Syadvada, the nature of reality, the seven Tattvas and six Dravyastikas. * Volume 5: Literature and History: Nine essays on Jain literature and history, including a significant discourse on the term "Sanjad" in the Shatkhandagama, which was a subject of much debate in the past. * Volume 6: Culture and Society: Six essays on culture and society, addressing topics like the significance of nude asceticism in Jainism, the social philosophy of Lord Mahavir, and the issue of Harijans in Jain temples. * Compilation and Publication: The Granth is largely a compilation of Panditji's previously published articles and essays, meticulously edited and presented. The publication was a significant undertaking, completed in a remarkably short period (one month, as noted by the publication committee).

4. Key Themes and Contributions: The Granth highlights Pandit Bansidhar's crucial role in: * Upholding Agamic Tradition: His writings critically examine and clarify Jain Agamas, defending them against sectarian interpretations and distortions. * Resolving Philosophical Debates: He played a pivotal role in intellectual discourse, particularly in addressing controversial topics like Nischaya and Vyavahara Naya, and the concept of fate versus free will (Bhagya aur Purusharth). * Promoting Jainism: His work aimed to elucidate the core principles of Jainism to the general public and scholars alike, ensuring their preservation for future generations. * Freedom Struggle and Social Reform: His active participation in the independence movement and social reform initiatives underscore his commitment to the welfare of both the nation and the community.

5. Significance: The "Bansidhar Pandita Abhinandan Granth" is not merely a felicitation volume but a valuable repository of Jain knowledge and a tribute to a remarkable individual whose life embodies the ideals of scholarship, service, and dedication. The Granth ensures that his extensive literary output and profound insights are preserved and made accessible to future generations.

The catalog link provided (https://jainqq.org/explore/012047/) allows access to the digital version of this important work.