Mumbaima Bharayeli Biji Jain Shwetambar Conferenceno Report - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the "Report of the Second Jain Shwetambar Conference held in Mumbai," based on the provided text and catalog link.

Book Title: Mumbaima Bharayeli Biji Jain Shwetambar Conferenceno Report (Report of the Second Jain Shwetambar Conference held in Mumbai) Author/Publisher: Jain Shwetambar Conference Office, Mumbai Year of Publication: 1904 (Sambat 1961) Price: Rs. 0-12-0

This report documents the proceedings and outcomes of the Second Jain Shwetambar Conference held in Mumbai from September 19th to 22nd, 1903. The report was compiled and published by the Jain Shwetambar Conference Office in Mumbai.

Key Aspects of the Report:

Objective: The conference aimed at the religious, social, and practical reform and progress of the Jain community, specifically the Shwetambar sect.
Context: The report begins by briefly mentioning the first Jain Conference held in Falodi, Rajasthan, in 1902, highlighting its purpose and success, which paved the way for subsequent conferences.
Organization: The organization of the Mumbai conference was a massive undertaking managed by a "Reception Committee." This committee was further divided into various sub-committees, each responsible for specific aspects like intelligence, health, volunteers, accommodation, correspondence, finance, food, pandal (venue), accounts, etc. The report details the meticulous planning and execution of these sub-committees.
Key Themes and Resolutions: The conference addressed a wide range of crucial issues pertinent to the Jain community at that time. These were debated through speeches and resolutions:
- Education: A significant focus was placed on the need for both secular and religious education for all members of the community, including a particular emphasis on improving female education. Resolutions were passed to encourage the establishment of schools, libraries, and educational institutions.
- Social Reforms: The conference tackled harmful social practices prevalent in the community. This included discussions and resolutions against child marriage, widow remarriage restrictions (though this aspect needs further clarity from the text), excessive expenditure on rituals like mourning ceremonies, and the practice of kanyavikray (selling daughters).
- Religious Practices and Preservation: There was a strong emphasis on adhering to Jain scriptures and correcting deviations. This included the need for proper upkeep of Jain temples and ancient manuscripts (Jirnoddhar), promoting pure religious practices, and discouraging the adoption of rituals from other religions. The report highlights the importance of preserving Jain literature and establishing libraries for the study and dissemination of Jain philosophy.
- Animal Welfare (Jivdaya): The core principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) was a central theme. Discussions revolved around protecting all living beings, preventing cruelty to animals, establishing and maintaining animal shelters (Panjrapole), and discouraging the use of products derived from animal cruelty (like leather goods, or products made from animals). Specific examples of religious practices involving animal sacrifice in other communities and the need to discourage such practices were discussed.
- Financial Management and Fund Raising: The report details the significant financial contributions received for the conference and its various initiatives, underscoring the community's commitment to supporting these causes. It highlights the substantial funds raised for the conference and its objectives.
- Community Unity and Cooperation: A recurring theme was the need for unity and cooperation among different Jain sects and communities within the Shwetambar tradition to achieve collective progress. The report emphasizes the importance of overcoming internal differences for the greater good of the community.
- Institutional Development: Resolutions were passed to establish and strengthen institutions like working offices, regional secretariats, and the ongoing need for dedicated personnel to manage the conference's affairs and ensure the implementation of its resolutions.
Key Figures: The report mentions several prominent individuals who played significant roles in the conference, including:
- Seth Veerchand Deepchand C.I.E.: The Chairman of the Reception Committee, who received significant praise for his leadership and efforts.
- Seth Fakirchand Premchand J.P.: The Chief Secretary, whose untimely demise was noted as a significant loss to the conference and the Jain community. His work in compiling the report was acknowledged.
- Seth Gulabchandji Dhaddha M.A.: A key figure in conceptualizing and organizing the conference, who travelled extensively to garner support.
- Seth Lalbhai Dalpatbhai: Another prominent leader involved in the organization.
- Seth Ratanchand Khimchand Motichand: The President of the Mumbai Jain Sangha.
- Rai Bahadur Badrinathji Kalikadasji: The President of the conference, whose presence and leadership were highly valued.
- Seth Amarchand P. Parmar: Secretary of the Intelligence, Health, and Volunteer Committee, and responsible for compiling parts of the report.
- Seth Kalyan Chand Sobhagchand: The Chairman of the Accommodation Committee.
- Seth Moti Lal Kashal Chand: A key speaker advocating for reforms.
- Numerous other individuals are mentioned as members of various committees and contributors.
Challenges and Delays: The report acknowledges delays in its publication due to unforeseen circumstances, including the unfortunate and untimely death of Seth Fakirchand Premchand, who was instrumental in its preparation.
Financials: The report includes detailed appendices (Purvanni A, B, C, D, E, U, O) listing the financial contributions received for various funds, the expenses incurred by different committees, and lists of delegates. The total funds collected were substantial, reflecting the community's support.
Appendices: The report is rich with appendices that provide detailed lists of committee members, financial accounts, delegate lists, and the text of circulars and notices distributed. These appendices offer granular insights into the organizational structure and the scale of the event.
Language: The report is primarily in Gujarati, with some speeches and resolutions translated into Hindi for wider accessibility. The mention of using "Balbodh Aksharo" (child-friendly script) indicates an effort to make the report accessible to a broader audience.

Overall Significance:

The report of the Second Jain Shwetambar Conference in Mumbai is a historical document showcasing the Jain community's organized efforts in the early 20th century to address critical issues related to religious observance, social reform, education, and community welfare. It highlights the proactive engagement of community leaders and the collective desire for progress and preservation of Jain traditions. The detailed breakdown of committees, resolutions, and financial contributions provides a valuable historical record of social and religious movements within the Jain community during that era.