Kailashchandra Shastri Abhinandan Granth

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The text is a felicitation volume (Abhinandan Granth) for Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri, a distinguished Jain scholar, compiled and published in 1980 by the Siddhantacharya Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri Felicitations Committee in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. The volume celebrates his profound contributions to Jainism and Indian culture.

Key Aspects of the Volume:

• Honoree: Siddhantacharya Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri, a highly respected scholar, teacher, orator, and writer in the Jain community and wider scholarly circles. He is acknowledged for dedicating over half a century to study and teaching, inspiring thousands of students, and upholding the prestige of the scholarly community through his speeches and writings.
• Purpose: The volume aims to honor Pandit Shastri for his immense contributions to Jain philosophy, literature, history, and culture. It is a testament to the high regard and respect he commands.
• Content: The felicitation volume is extensive, comprising seven volumes, each dedicated to a specific area related to Pandit Shastri's work and Jain scholarship in general.
  • Volume 1: Personality and Works: This volume focuses on Pandit Shastri's life, his personality, his extensive writings (including original works, edited texts, and translations), and provides a catalog of his literary contributions. It highlights his role in shaping the intellectual landscape of Jainism.
  1. Personalities and Contributions: Includes blessings, greetings, and memoirs from numerous scholars, contemporaries, disciples, and admirers from India and abroad, showcasing different facets of Pandit Shastri's life and work.
  2. Works of Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri: This section details his significant contributions, including analysis and review of his major works like "Jain Dharma," "History of Jain Literature," and "Critique of Jain Logic." It also includes a list of his published and edited works.
  3. Biographical Glimpses: Contributions from individuals who knew him personally, offering insights into his life and work.
  4. Lists and Critiques: Includes subject-wise lists of his editorial articles and critical reviews of his important books.
  5. Geneological and Academic Trees: Visual representations of his lineage and academic lineage (teacher-student lineage).
• Volume 2: Religion and Philosophy: This volume features scholarly articles on various aspects of Jainism, including karma theory from a psychological perspective, the path to liberation (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Jnana, Samyak Charitra), the nature of saints and their practices, and discussions on Agamas and their interpretations within the Digambara tradition.
• Volume 3: Literature: This section delves into Jain literature, covering topics like the concept of time in Jainism, the significance of Samyaktva, the role of saints, comparative studies of Jain grammar, and contributions from specific regions like Karnataka to Jain literature.
• Volume 4: History and Archaeology: This volume explores the historical presence of Jainism, including the role of Jain figures in the history of Bundelkhand, Jain archaeological sites, ancient Jain temples, and the historical presence of Jainism in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh. It also touches upon Jain influence in the art of Chanderi.
• Volume 5: Scientific Tradition of Jain Philosophy: This volume highlights the scientific aspects of Jain philosophy, discussing concepts like reality and physics, the philosophical basis of Jainism, and the scientific perspective within Jain cosmology. It also includes a comparative study of Jain concepts with modern science and philosophy, including discussions on the reality of soul versus matter and the refutation of materialism.
• Volume 6: Current Horizons of Research: This volume looks towards the future of Jain research, identifying problems and solutions, surveying research areas in various Jain disciplines (like biology, chemistry), and suggesting future directions for study.
• Volume 7: Jaina Studies Abroad: This volume explores the study of Jainism in countries outside India, providing an overview of how Jain philosophy and literature are being researched and understood internationally.

Overarching Themes and Pandit Shastri's Role:

• Scholarly Prowess: The volume consistently emphasizes Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri's vast knowledge, his ability to make complex philosophical concepts accessible, his impartial approach, and his dedication to propagating Jain teachings.
• Felicitation Committee's Efforts: The introductory sections detail the extensive efforts of the organizing committee, including the widespread outreach to scholars and patrons, the formation of editorial and executive committees, fundraising activities, and the logistical challenges overcome to publish such a monumental work. The dedication highlights the collaborative spirit involving former students, esteemed scholars, and influential figures.
• Jainism's Richness: The compilation implicitly showcases the depth and breadth of Jain thought, covering its philosophical underpinnings, ethical principles, historical evolution, literary achievements, and its presence across different regions and globally.
• Addressing Contemporary Issues: Pandit Shastri's writings, particularly his editorials in 'Jain Sandesh', are noted for their forthrightness in addressing social issues, including the perceived decline in religious practices, internal community disputes, and the need for preserving the purity of the monastic tradition.
• Interfaith Dialogue and Inclusivity: The volume, through the contributions of scholars from various backgrounds, reflects a spirit of intellectual exchange and an attempt to bridge perceived divides within the Jain community and with the broader scholarly world.
• Legacy of Knowledge: The overarching goal is to present a comprehensive body of knowledge that serves as a valuable resource for future scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in the multifaceted world of Jainism, thereby honoring the life and legacy of Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri.

In essence, the Kailashchandra Shastri Abhinandan Granth is a monumental tribute to a towering figure in Jain scholarship, reflecting not only his personal achievements but also the vibrant and evolving landscape of Jain literature, philosophy, and culture.