Kamtaprasad Jain Vyaktitva Evam Krutitva

This document is a comprehensive summary of the life and works of Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain, a prominent Jain scholar, writer, editor, and social reformer. The book, titled "Kamtaprasad Jain Vyaktitva evam Krutitva" (Personality and Works of Kamtaprasad Jain), authored by Shivnarayan Saxena and published by Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia, is dedicated to celebrating his contributions.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the text:

1. Introduction and Purpose:

• The book is presented as a tribute to Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain, a significant figure in the Jain community.
• It's part of the "Brahmachari Shitalprasad Smarak Granthamala," a series dedicated to honoring prominent Jain individuals.
• The publication aims to highlight Dr. Jain's personality, his extensive literary contributions, his role as a social activist, and his tireless efforts in propagating Jainism, particularly the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence).

2. Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain's Life and Background:

• Early Life and Influences: Born on May 3, 1901, in Kempbelpur (now in Pakistan), his father was Lala Pragdas, a businessman with a banking firm. His childhood was spent in Sindh Hyderabad. His mother, Bhagvantidevi, played a crucial role in instilling Jain principles in him from an early age.
• Education: He received private education in Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu, and Sindhi. Despite not completing formal higher education (only up to class 9), his self-study and dedication made him a profound scholar.
• Personal Life: He had two marriages. His first wife passed away without children. His second marriage was to Sarojini Devi, with whom he had children. His son, Virendraprasad Jain, continued his father's legacy.
• Ideology and Mission: Dr. Jain was a fervent advocate of Jainism and Ahimsa. He founded the "Vishva Jain Mission" (World Jain Mission) with the aim of spreading Jain teachings globally. His core belief was that true religion is lived through action, not just words.

3. Literary Contributions (Krutitva):

The book details an extensive list of Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain's works, spanning various subjects including Jain history, philosophy, ethics, and biographies. Some prominent themes and works mentioned are:

• Jain History: He was a prolific historian, writing extensively on Jainism's historical roots, the lives of Tirthankaras, Jain kings, and heroes. Notable works include:
  • "Sankshipt Jain Itihas" (Concise Jain History) in multiple volumes.
  • "Jain Veeron ka Itihas" (History of Jain Heroes).
  • "Jain Dharm aur Samrat Ashok" (Jainism and Emperor Ashoka), arguing for Ashoka's Jain leanings.
  • "Shravasti aur uske Naresh Suhildev" (Shravasti and its King Suhildev).
  • "Jain Dharm aur Sanskriti par Vichar" (Reflections on Jain Religion and Culture).
  • "Hindi Jain Sahitya ka Sankshipt Itihas" (Concise History of Hindi Jain Literature).
  • "Pratimā Lekh Sangrah" (Collection of Idol Inscriptions).
  • "Adi Tirthankar Bhagvan Rishabhdev" (First Tirthankara Lord Rishabhdev).
• Philosophy and Ethics: He extensively wrote on Jain principles, ethics, and the practice of Ahimsa. Key themes and works include:
  • "Ahimsa: Right Solution of World Problems."
  • "Manav Jeevan mein Ahimsa ka Mahatva" (Importance of Ahimsa in Human Life).
  • "Satya Marg" (The Path of Truth), a comprehensive guide to righteous living.
  • "Digambar Muni" and "Digambarattva aur Digambar Muni" (On Digambar Monks and Digambarism), defending the practice of nudity.
  • "Tatvartha Sutra Sarth" (Commentary on Tatvartha Sutra).
  • "Samadhi Shatak" (A Hundred Verses on Meditation).
  • "Swami Kundakundacharya ki Suktiyan" (Sayings of Swami Kundakundacharya).
  • "Panchsheel ke Arakshak" (Protectors of Panchsheel - referring to the principles of Jainism).
• Biographies and Inspirational Stories: He wrote numerous biographies of Jain figures and inspirational stories to guide readers.
  • "Maharani Chellani" (Queen Chellani).
  • "Bal Charitavali" (Collection of Children's Stories).
  • "Nav Ratna" (Nine Jewels).
  • "Panch Ratna" (Five Jewels).
  • "Bhagvan Mahavir."
  • "Mahavir aur Buddha" (Mahavir and Buddha - a comparative study).
  • "Jain Veeraanganaen" (Jain Heroines).
  • "Bahubali and his Wonderful Colossal Statue."
  • "Paryavaron ki Kathaein" (Stories of Festivals).
• Editing and Journalism: He was a prolific editor, serving as the editor of "Jain Siddhant Bhaskar" and "Veer" for many years. He also edited "Voice of Ahinsa" and "Ahimsa Vani" (English and Hindi magazines respectively), spreading Jain ideals globally.

4. Social Service and Activism:

• Community Leader: Dr. Jain was actively involved in social service. He served as an Honorary Magistrate and Assistant Collector, demonstrating his commitment to public welfare.
• Promoter of Jainism: He tirelessly worked to promote Jainism through his writings, speeches, and the World Jain Mission. He established branches of the mission internationally and organized conferences and lectures.
• Advocate for Ahimsa: His life was dedicated to propagating the message of Ahimsa, not just in theory but through practical application. He believed Ahimsa was the ultimate solution to world problems.
• Social Reformer: He addressed social issues of his time, advocating for various reforms and offering solutions through his writings.

5. Recognition and Honors:

• Academic Acclaim: He received a "Doctor of Letters" degree from the Jain Academy in Karachi and a Ph.D. from a Canadian Christian institution for his comparative studies of religions. He was also honored with titles like "Sahitya Manishi" and "Siddhantacharya."
• International Recognition: He was a member of the Royal Asiatic Society of London and received honors from international organizations, reflecting his global impact.
• Admiration from Contemporaries: The book includes numerous tributes from prominent scholars, religious leaders, and public figures who lauded his intellect, dedication, and character.

6. Legacy:

• Dr. Kamtaprasad Jain is remembered as a pillar of Jainism, a prolific writer, a dedicated social worker, and a true embodiment of Ahimsa.
• His extensive literary works continue to be a source of knowledge and inspiration for generations.
• The continuation of his mission and the spread of Jain ideals are seen as the true tributes to his memory.

In essence, the book "Kamtaprasad Jain Vyaktitva evam Krutitva" serves as a comprehensive biography and bibliography, painting a vivid picture of a life dedicated to learning, service, and the propagation of Jain principles, particularly Ahimsa, on both national and international levels.