Mahendrakumar Jain Shastri Nyayacharya Smruti Granth - Book Summary

This Jain text, titled "Mahendrakumar Jain Shastri Nyayacharya Smruti Granth," published by Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya Smruti Granth Prakashan Samiti Damoh MP and authored by Darbarilal Kothiya and Hiralal Shastri, is a commemorative volume dedicated to the life and work of the esteemed Jain scholar, Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya.

The book is a compilation of essays, tributes, and analytical works by various scholars and dignitaries, celebrating the multifaceted contributions of Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya to Jain philosophy, logic (Nyaya), literature, and broader Indian intellectual and cultural heritage.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the text's content:

1. Commemorative Nature and Inspiration:

The primary purpose of the "Smruti Granth" (memorial book) is to express gratitude and acknowledge the multidimensional, dedicated life, struggles, unparalleled scholarship, immense literary contributions, and virtuous qualities of the late Nyayacharya (Dr.) Pt. Mahendrakumar Jain.
The publication of this volume is seen as a fulfillment for the "Smruti Granth Prakashan Samiti" (Memorial Book Publication Committee).
The source of inspiration for this significant undertaking is Param Pujya Upadhyay Gyansagarji Maharaj, a highly revered spiritual leader known for his deep knowledge of Jain Agamas, meditation, asceticism, scholarship, and his efforts in uplifting the Saraak (Jain lay community) population.

2. Genesis of the Project:

The idea for this memorial book originated from a three-day national seminar on the personality and work of Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya, held in Ambikapur (Madhya Pradesh) from April 18-20, 1994, under the auspices of Upadhyay Gyansagarji Maharaj.
This seminar was organized with the participation of prominent scholars and intellectuals from across India.
The consensus at the seminar was that a memorial volume should be published to perpetuate the memory and contributions of Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya.

3. Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya's Legacy:

Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain Nyayacharya is described as a towering scholar of Indian philosophy, Nyaya (logic), and Jain Darshan (philosophy) in the 20th century.
He breathed new life into Jain Nyaya literature by editing difficult texts and writing insightful, research-oriented introductions. His edited and authored works are part of university and Jain educational curricula.
He played a pivotal role in the establishment of Bharatiya Jnanpith, a leading Indian cultural and literary institution, and was among its initial directors. He also served as the editor of the influential magazine "Gyanodaya."
His sudden demise at a young age left many aspirations in the fields of Indian religion, philosophy, and Nyaya incomplete.
Despite his short life, his service to religion, philosophy (especially Jain Nyaya literature and ancient texts), and the nation was extraordinary.
He is praised for his profound scholarship, intellectual prowess, comparative study of various Indian philosophies (including Jain and Buddhist), clear and critical writing, effective public speaking, and a simple, unsullied, and sattvic personality.
He possessed a revolutionary vision and was a creative thinker, ideal teacher, and successful writer-editor.
He is remembered for his unbiased thinking, ability to analyze and compare subjects from a modern perspective, and his commitment to presenting complex philosophical concepts in a simple and accessible manner for future generations.
His contributions helped establish the importance of Jain philosophy and its unique aspects like Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness) and Syadvada (conditional predication) in academic circles.

4. Structure of the Memorial Volume: The book is meticulously organized into five sections and appendices:

Khand 1: Sansmaran: Adarjali (Memoirs: Tributes): This section contains heartfelt tributes, affectionate memoirs, and respectful salutations from saints, scholars, disciples, and societal leaders, reflecting on Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain's personality and vast knowledge.
Khand 2: Jeevan Parichay: Vyaktitva evam Krititva (Life Introduction: Personality and Works): This section provides a biographical sketch, delving into his life journey, personality traits, and significant contributions.
Khand 3: Kritiyon ki Sameekshayein (Reviews of Works): This section features analytical reviews and critical evaluations of his scholarly achievements, particularly focusing on his editing of classical Jain texts and his original works like "Jain Darshan."
Khand 4: Vishisht Nibandh (Special Essays): This section comprises key essays authored by Dr. Mahendrakumar Jain himself, showcasing his deep study, unique insights, philosophical acumen, elegant prose, refined language, and his goal of embodying "Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram" (Truth, Goodness, Beauty).
Khand 5: Jain Nyaya Vidya ka Vikas: Jain Darshanik Sahitya (Development of Jain Nyaya and Jain Philosophical Literature): This section provides a historical overview and chronological perspective of the evolution of Jain Nyaya and philosophical literature, making it a valuable resource for researchers.
Parishisht (Appendices): This includes a list of the organizing committee members and an introduction to the editorial board.

5. Key Themes and Praises:

Scholarly Depth and Breadth: Repeatedly, his profound understanding of Jain Darshan, Nyaya, Sanskrit, Prakrit, and other Indian philosophical traditions is highlighted.
Editorial Prowess: His scientific approach to editing ancient texts, his meticulous work on identifying and rectifying discrepancies, and his ability to reconstruct lost or fragmented manuscripts are lauded.
Original Contribution: His unique work, "Jain Darshan," is recognized as a foundational text, systematically explaining Jain philosophical principles in a comprehensive and comparative manner, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Intellectual Honesty and Clarity: He is praised for his ability to present complex ideas clearly, his objective analysis of different philosophical viewpoints, and his intellectual integrity.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The contributors express the hope that his life and work will continue to inspire scholars and seekers of knowledge.
Personal Qualities: Beyond his academic achievements, his simplicity, humility, kindness, and dedication to service are frequently mentioned, portraying him as an ideal scholar and a noble human being.
Overcoming Adversity: The volume touches upon the challenges he faced in his personal life and his struggles, yet emphasizes his perseverance and dedication to his mission.
Commitment to Jainism: A recurring theme is his deep devotion to Jainism and its intellectual traditions, striving to preserve and propagate its rich heritage.

In essence, the "Mahendrakumar Jain Shastri Nyayacharya Smruti Granth" is a rich tribute to a scholar who significantly contributed to the understanding and propagation of Jain philosophy and Indian intellectual traditions, leaving an indelible mark on the scholarly world. The book serves as a repository of his life's work and the high regard in which he was held by his contemporaries and admirers.