Darbarilal Kothiya Abhinandan Granth

The book "Darbarilal Kothiya Abhinandan Granth" is a felicitation volume compiled and published in honor of Acharya Darbarilal Kothia, a prominent Jain scholar. The work was compiled by a committee of esteemed Jain scholars, including Jyoti Prasad Jain, Pannalal Jain, Kasturchand Kasliwal, Balbhadra Jain, Bhagchand Bhagendu, and Shitalchandra Jain. Published by the Darbarilal Kothiya Abhinandan Granth Prakashan Samiti in Varanasi, it represents a significant compilation of academic and devotional contributions celebrating Kothia's extensive work and contributions to Jain philosophy, literature, and society.

The felicitation volume is structured into five sections:

• Volume 1: Blessings, Wishes, and Recollections This section contains blessings, good wishes, and personal recollections from various Jain ascetics, scholars, dignitaries, and friends, highlighting Dr. Kothia's significant impact and respected persona within the Jain community and beyond. Many of these contributions praise his erudition, dedication to Jain literature, and his role as a guiding figure.

• Volume 2: Personality and Works This section delves into Dr. Kothia's life, personality, and his significant literary and academic contributions. It includes critical reviews of his major works by various scholars, examining their philosophical depth, research quality, and place within Jain philosophical discourse. His role in editing crucial Jain texts and his contributions to Jain logic and epistemology are particularly emphasized. The section also touches upon his personal qualities like simplicity, humility, and generosity, highlighting his deep commitment to students, guests, and scholars.

• Volume 3: Religion, Philosophy, and Logic This substantial portion of the book comprises numerous essays and research papers covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, religion, and logic. The topics range from the scientific understanding of merit (punya) and demerit (paap), the importance of self-control (sanyam) and character (charitra), the concept of compassion (karuna) in Jainism, the significance of initiation (diksha) and the teachings of Lord Mahavir, to detailed discussions on core Jain philosophical concepts like Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness) and Syadvada (the doctrine of conditioned predication). It also includes analyses of various religious rituals, festivals, and philosophical inquiries into topics like Sallekhana (ritualistic fasting before death), omniscience (sarvajnyata), and the nature of reality.

• Volume 4: History and Literature This section focuses on the historical and literary aspects related to Jainism and its prominent figures. It includes discussions on:

  • Syadvada Siddhi and Vadi Bhsimha: An analysis of Vadi Bhsimha's philosophical work "Syadvada Siddhi," exploring its significance in Jain logic and the historical context of its author.
  • Dravya Sangraha and Nemichandra Siddhantadeva: An examination of the foundational text "Dravya Sangraha" and its author, Nemichandra Siddhantadeva, highlighting their contributions to Jain metaphysics.
  • Shasan-Chatustrishika and Madankyrti: A study of Madankyrti's work "Shasan-Chatustrishika," focusing on its historical and literary value in understanding the Jain tradition.
  • Akalankadeva's Views on 'Sanjad': A detailed discussion on the interpretation of the term 'sanjad' in Akalankadeva's commentary, shedding light on his scholarly rigor and linguistic analysis.
  • Rule 93 of Shatkhandagama: An exploration of the significance of Rule 93 in the Shatkhandagama and its interpretation regarding the concept of 'sanjad'.
  • Niyamsara's Verse 53: An analysis of Verse 53 of Niyamsara, its commentary, and its meaning.
  • Research Methodology: A discussion on the importance of freedom from bias in research.
  • Guna Chandra Muni: An inquiry into the identity and contributions of Guna Chandra Muni.
  • Kundalgiri and Gajpanth: Exploration of the historical and religious significance of the pilgrimage sites Kundalgiri and Gajpanth.
  • Research-related Q&A: Insights into common queries and discussions within Jain research.
  • Biographies of Acharyas: Detailed biographical sketches of prominent Jain Acharyas like Kundakunda, Gridhrapichchha (Vakragriva), and Samantabhadra, highlighting their philosophical and literary contributions.

• Volume 5: Miscellaneous This final section encompasses a variety of topics, including philosophical discussions on various subjects, historical accounts of prominent Jain figures like Acharya Shantisagar, Acharya Nami Sagar, Pujya Varni, and Pandit Todarmal. It also includes discussions on important Jain festivals like Dashalakshan, Kshama-parva, Vir-Nirvana-parva (Diwali), and Mahavir-Jayanti, exploring their historical and social significance. Additionally, it features Dr. Kothia's travelogues and experiences from Rajgir, Kashmir, and Mumbai, offering a personal glimpse into his life and interactions.

The "Darbarilal Kothiya Abhinandan Granth" is a monumental work that not only celebrates the life and achievements of Acharya Dr. Darbarilal Kothia but also serves as a valuable repository of knowledge on Jain philosophy, history, literature, and practices. It reflects the deep respect and admiration the Jain community holds for its scholars and spiritual leaders, fostering the preservation and dissemination of Jain heritage.