Jain Granth Prashasti Sangraha 01

This document is the first volume of the "Jain Granth Prashasti Sangraha" (Collection of Jain Manuscript Eulogies), compiled and edited by Jugal Kishore Mukhtar 'Yugveer' and published by Veer Seva Mandir Trust, Delhi, in Kartik, Veer Samvat 2480 (1954 AD).

The book is a compilation of "Prashastis" (eulogistic inscriptions or concluding verses) from 171 Jain texts written in Sanskrit and Prakrit languages. These Prashastis are of great historical significance, providing valuable information about the authors, their lineage, gurus, patrons, the time and place of composition, contemporary rulers, ministers, scholars, and even the societal context.

Key aspects highlighted in the text:

• Purpose of Prashastis: The introduction emphasizes that Prashastis are as crucial for understanding Jain literature and history as are inscriptions and coins for Indian archaeology. They are vital for solving complex historical problems and present a living history of past generations.
• Content of Prashastis: These inscriptions typically contain details about the Sangha, Gana, Gachha (Jain sects and sub-sects), lineage, guru traditions, locations, dates (Samvat), names of kings, ministers, scholars, merchants, and previous authors and their works.
• Volume 1 Focus: This first volume primarily contains Prashastis from Sanskrit and Prakrit works. A separate collection of Prashastis from Apabhramsa works is planned for a future volume.
• Accuracy and Modifications: The compiler notes that the Prashastis have been meticulously compiled from unpublished manuscripts, carefully checked, and revised. However, minor errors due to oversight or printing issues are possible. Some Prashastis that were previously published in incomplete or inaccurate forms have been corrected here with specific improvements. Prashastis from works that were unpublished at the time of collection but later published are also included for their historical value.
• Appendices: The book includes appendices with alphabetical lists of geographical names, Sanghas, Gachhas, places, kings, ministers, scholars, Acharyas, Bhattarakas, and lay followers (Shravakas and Shravikas) mentioned in the Prashastis, to aid researchers.
• Authors and their Works: The document provides brief biographical introductions to the authors of the collected Prashastis, detailing their gurus, lineage, time periods, and the specific works from which the Prashastis are drawn. The preface lists 104 such scholars.
• Foreword by A.N. Upadhye: The English foreword by Dr. A.N. Upadhye highlights the importance of systematically documenting literature and acknowledges the valuable contribution of Jain scholars in preserving historical details within their works, often in the form of "Prashastis." He praises Jugal Kishore Mukhtar's dedicated efforts in unearthing this crucial information, particularly from manuscripts, which sheds light on both general Indian and specific Jain literature. He notes that the collected Prashastis from 171 works cover diverse subjects like logic, religion, narrative, didactic and hymnal poetry, ritual, metaphysics, grammar, etc., and are indispensable for students of Indian literature.
• Causes of Delay in Publication: The publishers' note explains the significant delay in the publication of this volume. It mentions that printing had begun at Rama Printing Press, Delhi, and 162 pages were printed. However, circumstances led to the halting of the work. Later, when attempts were made to resume, the types were worn out, and the press was unwilling to use new types. Pandit Parmanand Jain Shastri was granted permission to write an introductory preface, which took longer than anticipated due to the extensive research required to verify ancient texts, establish the timelines of authors, and consult other publications. Financial difficulties also caused further delays, with the completion finally made possible by a generous donation of one thousand rupees from Babu Chhote Lalji of Calcutta.
• Significance of the Work: The publication is deemed essential for understanding Jain literature and history, filling a critical need in the field. The second volume, focusing on Apabhramsa works with significant historical material, is nearing completion.

In essence, "Jain Granth Prashasti Sangraha 01" is a scholarly compilation that serves as a vital resource for researchers and scholars interested in the historical and biographical aspects of Jain literature, offering a detailed glimpse into the lives and times of ancient Jain authors and their intellectual contributions.