Dr Kamtaprasad Jain

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Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain: A Life Dedicated to Jainism and Social Service

This document highlights the life and contributions of Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain, a prominent figure in the Jain community known for his extensive literary work, dedication to the principles of Jainism, and significant social service.

Early Life and Education: Born on May 3, 1901, in Camp Belapur (present-day Pakistan), Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain was instilled with religious fervor from a young age by his parents, Lala Pragdas and Bhagwatidevi. Despite only completing up to the ninth standard in school and not matriculating, he acquired a vast knowledge of Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, and Sindhi through private tutelage. This linguistic foundation, combined with his hard work, strong impressions, and studious nature, enabled him to become a prolific writer and scholar. He began writing articles at the age of eighteen.

Family and Career: Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain married twice. After the passing of his first wife, he married again at the age of 23, fathering a son, Virendra, and two daughters, Sarojini and Suman. His father was involved in banking and contracting for the army. Dr. Jain joined the family business in 1920 but transitioned to being a land broker after Indian bankers were removed from defense forces in 1930.

In 1931, he established himself in Aliganj, Uttar Pradesh, India, and dedicated himself to social service. He served as an honorary magistrate from 1931 to 1949 and as an Assistant Collector from 1943 to 1948. Even in these high positions, he remained committed to his social work.

National and International Recognition: Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain received numerous accolades for his scholarship and contributions. These include:

• A gold medal for his essay on Lord Mahavir from Yashovijayaji Jain Granthmala.
• A silver medal for his essay on Hindi Literature from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
• An LL.D. degree from the Jain Academy in Karachi (1942).
• A Ph.D. degree for his comparative study of religions from the Christian International Penmenical Church of Canada.
• A degree of Sahitya Manishi from the Sanskrit Parishad of Benaras.
• A degree of Siddhnatacharya during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Jain Siddhanta Bhavan, Aara.
• Membership in prestigious organizations like the Royal Asiatic Society, London, and the Kisarling Society of Germany.
• The highest honor from the International Religions Union of Central America.
• Serving as Welcome-secretary at the Fifteenth World Vegetarian Conference in Delhi.
• Presidency of the Jain Religion and Nature Department at the Oriental Conference in Ahmedabad.

Contributions to Jainism and Literature: Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain was a fervent advocate for the Jain religion and its principle of non-violence. He actively promoted Jainism and its teachings in India and abroad through his literary work and the World Jain Mission. He is credited with:

• Extensive Writing: Authoring nearly 100 books in Hindi and English on subjects including History, Religion, Scriptures, and Literature.
• Key Literary Works: His notable works include "History of Jain Community," "Consolidated Jain History" (in four parts), "Collection of ancient Jain articles," "History of Jain Warriors," "Maharani Chelana," "Satya Marg (The path of Truth)," "Jain Viranganao (Brave Jain women)," and "Ahinsa-Right Solution of World Problems." His book "The Religion of Tirthankars," published in 1964, was his final and most exhaustive work.
• Editorship: Serving as the first editor of the "Veer" periodical for 30 years and also contributing to "Voice of Non-violence" and "Ahinsa Vani."
• Promoting Jain History: He had a deep interest and knowledge of Jain history, contributing significantly to this field for the Jain community.
• Mentorship: He inspired and encouraged new talent in literature.

Philanthropy and Donations: Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain generously donated thousands of rupees to support various activities, including the All World Jain Mission. He also provided financial assistance to orphans and underprivileged students and contributed to the publication and distribution of books.

Final Years and Legacy: Suffering from a prolonged illness for the last 30 years of his life, Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain passed away on May 17, 1964, during a journey to a better treatment facility. He remained steadfast in his preference for Ayurvedic and Homeopathic medicine. His son and daughters were with him during his final moments, reciting spiritual verses. His peaceful passing, with a smile on his face, is remembered as he breathed his last with the words "Namo Arh..."

Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain is remembered as a dedicated servant of the country and the world, a highly learned scholar, and an outstanding literary figure. His legacy lives on through the World Jain Mission he helped establish and the profound literary contributions that continue to propagate Jainism and the principle of non-violence. The text urges readers to uphold his ideals of service and non-violence to honor his memory.