Bhanvarlal Nahta Abhinandan Granth

This document is the Bhanvarlal Nahta Abhinandan Granth, published in December 1986 by the Bhanvarlal Nahta Abhinandan Samaroh Samiti, Calcutta. Edited by Ganesh Lalwani, it is a felicitation volume honoring Shri Bhanvarlal Nahta on his 75th birthday.

The Granth (Book) is a collection of numerous testimonials, tributes, and scholarly articles from various esteemed individuals and organizations, predominantly from the Jain community, acknowledging and celebrating the multifaceted personality and significant contributions of Shri Bhanvarlal Nahta.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content:

I. Introduction and Tributes (Shubhashansa):

• Praise for Nahta-ji's Virtues: The initial pages feature numerous blessings and commendations from prominent Jain scholars, spiritual leaders (Suris, Upadhyayas, Munis), and community figures. These tributes consistently highlight:

  • Vast Knowledge: Nahta-ji's profound scholarship in Jain literature, history, archaeology, linguistics, and various languages (Sanskrit, Prakrit, Hindi, Rajasthani, Gujarati, Bengali, etc.) is widely recognized. He is described as a "moving encyclopedia," a "walking library," and a "child prodigy of Saraswati."
  • Research Acumen: His meticulous research skills, particularly in deciphering ancient scripts and correcting historical narratives, are lauded.
  • Literary and Creative Prowess: He is acknowledged as a prolific writer, editor, and a talented poet, known for his ability to compose poetry spontaneously (Ashukavi) in multiple languages, including Prakrit.
  • Dedication to Jain Literature: His tireless efforts in preserving, researching, editing, and translating Jain scriptures and historical texts are highly appreciated, especially in an era where interest in such knowledge is waning.
  • Unwavering Faith and Devotion: His deep devotion to Jainism, its principles, and his spiritual guides (Dev-Guru-Dharma) is consistently mentioned.
  • Societal Contributions: His service to the community through social and religious activities, his involvement in various Jain organizations, and his efforts in establishing Jain institutions are praised.
  • Personal Qualities: Nahta-ji is consistently described as humble, simple, disciplined, enthusiastic (even in old age), virtuous, principled, and possessing a pure heart. His ability to transcend sectarian differences and appreciate the good qualities of all is also highlighted.
  • Support for Knowledge Preservation: His significant role in the collection and preservation of ancient manuscripts, which formed the foundation of the Abhay Jain Granthalaya in Bikaner, is a recurring theme.

• Specific Contributions Mentioned:

  • His role in resolving the debate about Lord Mahavir's birthplace through historical research and conferences.
  • His expertise in ancient scripts like Brahmi and Kharosthi.
  • His translation work, including the "Jivdaya Prakaran" into Hindi verse and prose.
  • His editorial work on important Jain texts.
  • His role as the editor of the monthly magazine "Kushal Nirdesh."

• Endorsements from Dignitaries: The Granth includes congratulatory messages from prominent national figures, such as:

  • R. Venkataraman: Vice-President of India, felicitating him on his 75th birthday and wishing him good health and continued service.
  • Rajiv Gandhi: Prime Minister of India, sending good wishes to the organizing committee.
  • Sawai Bhawani Singh of Jaipur: Wishing him a long life of service.
  • Kalpana Dasgupta: Librarian, National Library, Calcutta, felicitating him as an eminent linguist.

II. Biographical Information and Life Journey:

• Early Life & Education: Born in Bikaner, Rajasthan, Nahta-ji received informal education up to the fifth standard but compensated with extensive self-study and immense intellectual curiosity.
• Family & Business: He hailed from a respected Oswal Nahata family, known for both their business acumen and their dedication to literature and art. Despite being a successful businessman, he dedicated a significant portion of his life to scholarly pursuits.
• Literary and Research Contributions: The Granth details his extensive written works, including research articles, books on Jain history, archaeology, linguistics, mythology, and biographies of prominent Jain figures. His contributions to the field of Jain literature are described as monumental and invaluable for future generations.
• Collection of Manuscripts: His personal efforts in collecting thousands of ancient Jain manuscripts, which formed the core of the Abhay Jain Granthalaya and the Shankar-dan Nahata Kala Bhavan in Bikaner, are particularly highlighted as a significant contribution to the preservation of Jain heritage.
• Personal Attributes: The testimonials consistently portray him as humble, accessible, dedicated, and possessing a sharp intellect despite his limited formal education. His deep respect for elders and teachers is also frequently mentioned. His efforts in promoting Jain culture and heritage were recognized not just within the Jain community but also by wider academic and cultural circles.

III. Specific Scholarly Works and Areas of Expertise:

• Linguistics and Paleography: His command over ancient Indian languages and scripts, including Brahmi and Kharosthi, is a major point of emphasis.
• Archaeology and History: His contributions to researching and documenting ancient Jain sites, temples, sculptures, and artifacts are extensively praised.
• Textual Criticism: Several pieces discuss his sharp analytical skills in deciphering and critically evaluating Jain texts, often correcting previous interpretations.
• Prakrit Language: His mastery and contributions to the study of Prakrit language and literature are specifically noted, including detailed analyses of 'Dholamaroo Ra Duha' and other Prakrit texts.
• Art and Iconography: His deep knowledge of Jain art, sculpture, and architecture is evident from the descriptions of his collected artifacts and his scholarly writings on them.
• Biographical Works: He is noted for his biographical research on prominent Jain figures.
• Journalism: His editorship of the "Kushal Nirdesh" magazine is highlighted as a significant contribution to Jain journalism.

IV. Lists of Works and Associations:

The Granth includes detailed lists of:

• Works: A comprehensive bibliography of his published books, translations, edited works, and numerous articles.
• Associations: A list of various Jain religious, social, and academic organizations where he held significant positions or was an active member.
• Associated Periodicals: A list of journals where his articles were published.
• Reference Books: A list of important books that referenced or were influenced by his work.
• Collaborators and Honorees: Mentions of individuals and institutions he worked with or who contributed to the Granth.

V. Visual Documentation:

The Granth includes several photographs showcasing Shri Bhanvarlal Nahta at various events, interacting with prominent personalities like Mother Teresa, receiving honors, and engaging in scholarly activities.

In essence, the "Bhanvarlal Nahta Abhinandan Granth" is a monumental tribute to a scholar-saint, a prolific researcher, and a dedicated servant of Jainism. It serves as a testament to Shri Bhanvarlal Nahta's extraordinary intellect, his enduring legacy in the field of Jain studies, and his profound impact on preserving and promoting Jain heritage.