Bisvi Shatabdi Ki Jain Vibhutiya

The book "Bisvi Shatabdi ki Jain Vibhutiya" (Jain Luminaries of the Twentieth Century) authored by Mangilal Bhutodiya and published by Prakrit Bharati Academy, is a comprehensive biographical compilation celebrating the lives and contributions of 108 distinguished Jain individuals who passed away between 1900 and 2000.

The book is structured into three sections:

Section 1: Jain Acharyas/Mahatmas/Munis/Sadhvis This section features the lives of spiritual leaders and ascetics within the Jain tradition. It includes profiles of prominent figures such as Acharya Vijay Rajendra Suri, Acharya Vijayananda Suri, Shrimad Rajchandra, Acharya Buddhisagar Suri, Sant Ganesh Prasad Varni, Mahatma Bhagwan Deen, Aagmoddharak Acharya Ghasilal, and Pujya Kanji Swami, among others. The descriptions highlight their spiritual journeys, reformative contributions, and literary works. Notably, the inclusion of figures like Mahatma Bhagwan Deen and Acharya Rajneesh, despite not being strictly within traditional Jain monastic lineages, is noted for its courage and broad perspective.

Section 2: Jurists/Scientists/Scholars/Writers/Politicians/Artists/Administrators This extensive section covers individuals who excelled in various secular fields but were deeply connected to Jain principles or heritage. It includes biographies of notable figures like Shri Pooranchand Nahar (archaeologist and writer), Sir Sirimal Bafna (statesman), Justice Phoolchand Mogha (jurist), Shri Veerchand Raghavji Gandhi (who represented Jainism at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago), Barrister Champtray, Babu Takhtmal Jain (Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh), Dr. Mohan Singh Mehta (statesman and educator), Pt. Sukhlal Sanghvi (philosopher and scholar), Justice Randhirsingh Bachhawat, Shri Agarachand Nahata (historian and archivist), Dr. Vikram Sarabhai (scientist), Shri Bhawarilal Nahata (archivist), Shri Deviyal Samer (folklorist), Shri Yaspal Jain (writer), and Acharya Sushil Kumar (a global peace advocate who initiated the Anuvrat movement). Their contributions to law, science, education, politics, arts, and public administration are detailed.

Section 3: Industrialists/Merchants/Religious Influencers This section highlights individuals who made significant contributions through their business acumen and philanthropic endeavors. It features figures like Seth Premchand Raychand, Seth Khotesi Khimsi Dulla, Sir Wasanji Trikamji, Seth Hukumchand, Seth Ambalal Sarabhai, and Seth Shantilal Banmali Seth. Their entrepreneurial spirit, innovative business practices, and substantial philanthropic activities, particularly in establishing educational institutions, hospitals, and supporting religious activities, are emphasized.

The book is praised by various dignitaries and scholars for its meticulous research, scholarly approach, and the comprehensive manner in which it presents the lives of these influential Jain personalities. The author, Mangilal Bhutodiya, is recognized for his diligent work, deep understanding of Jain traditions, and clear, accessible writing style. The work is considered a valuable historical document and a source of inspiration for future generations, showcasing the multifaceted contributions of Jains to society across various domains in the 20th century. The book is a joint publication by Prakrit Bharati Academy and Priyadarshi Prakashan.