Jain Shwetambar Conferenceno Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shri Jain Shwetambar Conference-no Itihas" by Nagkumar Makatai, covering the key aspects presented in the provided pages:

Book Title: Shri Jain Shwetambar Conference-no Itihas (History of the Shri Jain Shwetambar Conference) Author: Nagkumar Makatai, B.A., LL.B. Publisher: Sohanlal Madansinh Kothari Period Covered: Vikram Samvat 1958 to Vikram Samvat 2015 (approximately 1902 to 1958 CE) - 57 years of the Conference's history.

Overview:

This book chronicles the establishment, growth, and activities of the Shri Jain Shwetambar Conference, a significant organization dedicated to the progress and welfare of the Jain community. It details the motivations behind its founding, the key milestones in its development, its various programs and achievements, and the influential figures who shaped its journey.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Origin and Motivation:

   • The book begins by contextualizing the late 19th century as a period of national awakening in India, with movements for religious reform, social reform, education, and social service.
   • Inspired by this general awakening, a desire for the upliftment of the Jain community arose among its intellectual and socially conscious members.
   • The core motivations for forming the Conference included:
     • Promoting higher education among Jains.
     • Protecting Jain pilgrimage sites (Tirtha Raksha).
     • Reviving and preserving ancient Jain literature (Pustakoddhar).
     • Eradicating social malpractices.
     • Giving a strong voice to the Jain community.
     • Maintaining the glorious heritage of Jainism.
   • Key Initiator: Shri Gulabchandji Dhaddha (M.A.) from Rajasthan is recognized as the "father of the Conference" for his pioneering vision and tireless efforts.

2. Early Efforts and First Conference (Phalodi):

   • The idea of a "Jain Congress" gained momentum through publications like "Shri Jain Dharmaprakash" by Seth Kunwarji Anandji.
   • Initial meetings were held, leading to a significant gathering in Ahmedabad in Samvat 1950 (1893 CE) where key resolutions were passed.
   • Despite initial enthusiasm, plans for a second conference in Mumbai faced setbacks due to internal community disagreements.
   • Undeterred, Shri Dhaddhaji traveled extensively to garner support.
   • The first conference was held in Phalodi (Marwar) in Vikram Samvat 1958 (September 1902). This event marked the formal birth of the "Jain Conference."
   • The Phalodi conference established the name "Jain Conference," decided to hold annual sessions, and emphasized the need for education, religious instruction, support for the needy, and the restoration of ancient temples and literature.

3. Subsequent Conferences and Growing Momentum:

   • The book systematically details the location, year, and key figures (presidents, welcome committee heads) of each subsequent conference up to the 20th in Mumbai (1957).
   • Early Conferences: Mumbai (1903), Vadodara (1904), Patan (1905), Ahmedabad (1907), Bhavnagar (1908), and Poona (1909) were crucial in laying the foundation and defining the Conference's scope.
   • The conferences addressed a wide range of issues, demonstrating the Conference's broad vision and commitment to community upliftment.

4. Key Areas of Work and Achievements:

   • Education: This was a primary focus. Resolutions emphasized practical, religious, and physical education, the establishment of schools, hostels, scholarships, and the inclusion of Jain literature in university curricula. The establishment of the Jain Education Board (in Poona, 1909) was a significant step.
   • Revival and Preservation of Literature (Pustakoddhar/Granthoddhar): Efforts were made to collect, document, and publish ancient Jain manuscripts from various libraries. This led to publications like "Jain Granthavali" (catalogue of Jain texts), "Jain Directory," and "Jain Shwetambar Mandiravali."
   • Temple Restoration (Jirnoddhar): Recognizing the importance of preserving ancient Jain temples, the Conference allocated funds and encouraged efforts for their restoration.
   • Animal Welfare (Jivdaya) and Panjrapols: Promoting compassion for living beings and supporting animal shelters (Panjrapols) was a consistent theme. Efforts were made to prevent animal sacrifice during festivals and to inspect and improve Panjrapol conditions.
   • Support for the Needy and Unemployment (Nirashrit Sahay and Bekari Nivaran): The Conference focused on helping the poor, orphans, widows, and the unemployed by providing financial aid, vocational training, and encouraging self-employment. The establishment of various funds and industrial homes were part of this effort.
   • Pilgrimage Site Protection (Tirtha Raksha): The Conference actively addressed issues related to the protection and proper management of Jain pilgrimage sites, often facing challenges from local authorities or community disputes. The struggle for Shatrunjay (Palitana) is a notable example.
   • Social Reforms: Resolutions aimed to eradicate harmful social practices like child marriage, dowry, extravagance at funerals, and promote beneficial customs.
   • Unity and Cooperation: The Conference consistently advocated for unity and cooperation among different Jain sects and factions.
   • Publications and Communication: The establishment of "Jain Conference Herald" (later "Jain Yug" and "Conference Patrika") served as the official mouthpiece for disseminating information, promoting resolutions, and fostering public engagement.
   • National Outlook: The Conference consistently adopted a national perspective, aligning with India's broader freedom movement and advocating for Swadeshi, Khadi, and non-violence.

5. Organizational Structure and Development:

   • The Conference evolved from having only General Secretaries to a more structured body with provincial secretaries, joint secretaries, advisory boards, and eventually a standing committee and a more defined constitution.
   • The process of holding conferences, collecting funds, and implementing resolutions faced challenges, including financial constraints, logistical difficulties, and occasional internal disagreements.
   • The book highlights the evolution of the Conference's constitution to adapt to changing times and the growing needs of the community.

6. Key Figures and Leadership:

   • The book dedicates significant attention to the individuals who played pivotal roles in the Conference's history, starting with the founder, Shri Gulabchandji Dhaddha.
   • It mentions numerous prominent Jains from various regions who served as presidents, secretaries, and committee members, contributing their time, intellect, and financial resources.
   • The influence of prominent Jains like Seth Lalbhai Dalpatbhai, Seth Kasturbhai Lalbhai, Acharya Vijayvallabhsuri, Seth Mohanlal D. Desai, and many others is highlighted.

7. Challenges and Resilience:

   • The Conference's journey was not without challenges. The book touches upon periods of flagging enthusiasm, financial difficulties, internal disputes, and the need for constant effort to maintain momentum.
   • However, the resilience and dedication of its core members and leaders helped the organization overcome these obstacles and continue its mission.

8. Vision and Future Aspirations:

   • The concluding chapters emphasize the Conference's enduring vision for the Jain community's comprehensive development – encompassing spiritual, intellectual, social, and economic progress.
   • It stresses the importance of adapting to changing times, fostering unity, and continuing the mission with renewed vigor. The aspiration is for the Jain community to uphold its unique heritage while contributing positively to national and global progress.

In essence, the book provides a detailed historical account of the Jain Shwetambar Conference's significant contributions to the Jain community in India over more than five decades, showcasing its evolution from an idea to a powerful force for social, religious, and educational reform.