Jain Sahitya Samaroha Guchha 2

This book, "Jain Sahitya Samaroh Guchha 2," published by Mahavir Jain Vidyalay in Mumbai in February 1987, is part of a series documenting Jain Sahitya Samaroh (Jain Literature Festivals). Edited by Ramanlal C. Shah, Kantilal D. Kora, Pannalal R. Shah, and Gulab Dedhiya, it contains reports, essays, and lectures presented at these festivals.

The book serves as a chronicle of the Jain Sahitya Samarohs organized by the Mahavir Jain Vidyalay, highlighting the institution's commitment to promoting Jain literature and scholarship.

Key Aspects:

• Purpose: The series aims to document and disseminate scholarly works and discussions presented at the Jain Sahitya Samarohs, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Jain literature, philosophy, history, art, architecture, and journalism.
• Content: This volume (Guchha 2) includes selected essays and lectures from the first five festivals, plus contributions from the sixth and seventh festivals held in'', ''and '' respectively. The selection prioritizes quality, diversity of topics, and attempts to accommodate as many articles as possible within printing constraints.
• Historical Context: The book provides insights into the lineage of Jain literature conferences, tracing their roots back to the conference organized by Acharya Vijaydharmasuri in Jodhpur in 1914. It highlights the ongoing efforts of Mahavir Jain Vidyalay to maintain the momentum of these literary gatherings since their revival in 1977.
• Editorial Vision: The editors express gratitude for the opportunity to compile this volume and acknowledge the contributions of the authors and the printing press. They hope the publication will be well-received and useful for scholars and enthusiasts alike.
• Specific Festivals Covered: The reports detail events held in Mumbai (1977), Mahuva (1979), Surat (1980), Songadh (Saurashtra, 1983), Mandvi (Kutch, 1984), Khambhat (1985), and Palanpur (1986). The current festival is being held in Sammet Shikhar (Bihar) in 1987.
• Key Themes Explored in Essays (as indicated by titles): The book features a range of topics related to Jainism, including:
  • Jain Philosophical Thought: Early concepts of philosophy.
  • Jain Art and Architecture: Temple architecture, Jain paintings.
  • Jain Literature: Works of prominent scholars like Yashovijayji Maharaj, analysis of specific texts like "Ratnakar Pachishi," "Puttariyam," and "Jayti Huano Stotra."
  • Jain Ethics and Philosophy: Concepts like "Ankantsystem," "Brahmacharya Sadhana," "Gandhi and the Social Aspect of Karma Philosophy," "Ahinsa (Non-violence) in Dimensions," "The Conception of Direction and Time in Jainism," "The Scientific Truth of Jainism's 'Light-Pillar'," and the significance of "Samayik" (meditation/equanimity).
  • Jain History and Pilgrimage Sites: The historical importance of Khambhat as a Jain pilgrimage site, and details of the seventh Jain Sahitya Samaroh in Palanpur.
  • Prominent Jain Figures: Essays on individuals like Veerchand Raghavji Gandhi, Pandit Sukhialji, and the legacy of Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwarji.
  • Prakrit Language and Literature: A study of an unpublished Prakrit Shatakatraya.

In essence, "Jain Sahitya Samaroh Guchha 2" is a valuable collection that preserves and promotes the rich intellectual and artistic heritage of Jainism, showcasing the diverse contributions of scholars and thinkers in these festivals.