Ek Abhivadan Occhav Ek Goshthi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ek Abhivadan Occhav Ek Goshthi" (An Auspicious Celebration, A Symposium):

Book Title: Ek Abhivadan Occhav Ek Goshthi (An Auspicious Celebration, A Symposium) Editor: Kantibhai B. Shah Publisher: Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya, Mumbai Year of Publication: October 1998 (First Edition)

Core Subject: This book is essentially a compilation of proceedings and related materials from a significant event organized by Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya, Mumbai. The central focus of the event was the release of volumes 8, 9, and 10 of the second, revised, and expanded edition of "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" (Jain Poets of Gujarat), which marked the culmination of the entire series. The book also includes detailed reports, reviews, essays presented at a symposium, and a valuable list of manuscript libraries.

The Event: The event was a grand celebration marking the completion of a monumental academic endeavor: the re-publication of the "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" series. This series, originally compiled by Mohanlal Dalichand Desai over 33 years (1926-1944), was a descriptive and extensive catalog of Jain poets and their works from the 13th to the 19th century in Gujarati literature. Due to its unavailability for many years, Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya undertook the ambitious project of creating a revised and augmented second edition. This massive undertaking, spanning 10 volumes, was spearheaded by Professor Jayant Kothari, who dedicated a decade (1986-1996) to this scholarly pursuit, even overcoming significant health challenges.

The event was held on January 19, 1997, under the auspices of revered Jain Acharyas: Acharya Vijaydevsurishwarji, Acharya Vijay Hemchandrasurishwarji, and Acharya Vijay Pradyumnasurishwarji. It was hosted with the support of the Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain Sangh in Ambawadi, Ahmedabad.

Key Contents of the Book:

1. Event Report (Page 20-32): A detailed account of the release ceremony and symposium. It covers:

   • The commencement of the event with prayers and a Saraswati Vandana.
   • The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by esteemed scholar Shri Keshavram K. Shastri.
   • Welcome speeches by the heads of the host institution and the organizing secretary, Professor Kantibhai B. Shah.
   • Professor Shah's explanation of the event as a "celebration of knowledge tapasya," highlighting the immense scholarly contributions of both Mohanlal Dalichand Desai and Jayant Kothari.
   • Messages of goodwill from various dignitaries.
   • An address by Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah, contextualizing the importance of the "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" series for medieval Gujarati literature studies.
   • The release of volumes 8-10 by Shri K. K. Shastri, followed by his insightful address reflecting on his long association with the Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya and his memories of Mohanlal Dalichand Desai.
   • Book reviews of "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" by Professor Kanubhai Jani and Dr. Raman Soni.
   • Introductions and speeches by special guests, poet Shri Suresh Dalal and Shri Jayasukhbhai M. Desai (son of Mohanlal Dalichand Desai). Suresh Dalal's speech was particularly noted for its poetic and evocative nature, celebrating the dedication of scholars.
   • Acknowledgement of the collaborative effort and the immense personal sacrifices made by Jayant Kothari and his family.
   • A concluding vote of thanks by Shri Prakashbhai P. Zaveri, honorary secretary of Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya.

2. Symposium (Goshthi) Report (Page 32-33, 52-71): The second part of the event was a symposium on the theme "Questions of Preservation and Publication of Medieval Gujarati Literary Heritage."

   • The symposium was held under the guidance of Acharya Vijay Pradyumnasurishwarji and chaired by Professor Jayant Kothari.
   • It featured presentations by scholars on critical aspects of medieval Gujarati literature:
     • Manuscript Libraries: Current Status and Future Work by Dr. Kanubhai Sheth (Page 34-43).
     • Review and Suggestions for Published Manuscript Catalogues by Professor Jayant Kothari (Page 44-51).
     • Medieval Gujarati Literature: Editorial Activities – Past and Future Program by Dr. Ratilal Borisaagar (Page 59-62).
     • Medieval Gujarati Literature: Publication Activities and Future Program by Dr. Shirish Panchal (Page 63-65).
   • A lively open discussion followed, involving numerous scholars who shared their views on the challenges and strategies for preserving and publishing this rich literary heritage.
   • Professor Jayant Kothari presented concluding remarks and offered concrete suggestions for future action.
   • The symposium concluded with a commitment to continue these discussions and efforts.

3. Reviews and Commendations of "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" (Page 15-32, 34-51): The book includes several reviews and appreciations of the "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" series, highlighting its monumental nature, scholarly rigor, and invaluable contribution to Gujarati literary history. The reviews praise:

   • The immense perseverance and dedication of both Mohanlal Dalichand Desai (the original compiler) and Jayant Kothari (the editor of the second edition).
   • The scholarly depth and meticulous approach to cataloging and presenting a vast amount of information on Jain poets and their works.
   • The significance of the series for understanding medieval Gujarati literature, culture, and language.
   • The revised edition's improvements, including expanded content, updated information, and better organization.

4. List of Manuscript Libraries/Knowledge Centers (Page 72-98): This is a highly valuable and extensive list, compiled by Kantibhai B. Shah, detailing numerous Jain manuscript collections and knowledge centers across Gujarat and some outside the state. It provides names of institutions, locations, and estimated manuscript counts, serving as a crucial resource for researchers.

5. Biographical Sketches: Brief profiles of key figures like Mohanlal Dalichand Desai and Professor Jayant Kothari are included, recognizing their significant contributions.

6. First and Second Edition Details: Information about the first edition (3 volumes) and the second edition (10 volumes) of "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o" is provided, outlining the content of each volume and its historical context.

7. Appreciations: The book also reprints several accolades and reviews from prominent scholars and publications regarding the original compilation of "Jain Gurjar Kavi'o," emphasizing its pioneering nature and lasting impact.

Overall Significance: "Ek Abhivadan Occhav Ek Goshthi" serves as a testament to the dedication and passion of scholars and institutions in preserving and promoting Jain literary heritage. It celebrates the successful completion of a massive scholarly project that has made invaluable contributions to Gujarati literature and history. The book not only documents the event but also provides crucial academic resources and insights into the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the field of medieval Gujarati literature research and publication.