Nahta Bandhu Abhinandan Granth - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Nahta Bandhu Abhinandan Granth," authored by Dashrath Sharma and published by Agarchand Nahta Abhinandan Granth Prakashan Samiti:

Overview:

The "Nahta Bandhu Abhinandan Granth" is a felicitation volume dedicated to honoring and celebrating the significant contributions of the Nahta brothers, primarily Sri Agarchandji Nahata and Sri Bhanwar Lalji Nahata, to Jain literature, history, culture, and archaeology. The book compiles a vast collection of essays, tributes, and biographical details from numerous scholars, writers, and admirers, highlighting their multifaceted personalities and extensive work.

Key Individuals and the Purpose of the Granth:

Sri Agarchandji Nahata: He is portrayed as the central figure, revered as a prodigious scholar, a prolific writer, a meticulous historian, an ardent researcher, and a dedicated patron of literature and arts. His dedication to uncovering, preserving, and promoting ancient Jain literature, manuscripts, and historical artifacts is a recurring theme.
Sri Bhanwar Lalji Nahata: While Agarchandji is the primary focus, Bhanwar Lalji is also recognized for his contributions, particularly in literary endeavors and research.
The "Abhinandan Granth" Project: The book was conceived as a gesture of deep gratitude and honor towards the Nahta brothers, recognizing their immense service to society, particularly in the fields of literature and history. The effort to compile this extensive tribute was spearheaded by Hazarimal Baanthia, the convener of the Agarchand Nahata Abhinandan Granth Prakashan Samiti.

Content and Themes:

The Granth is structured into multiple volumes or sections, each contributing to a comprehensive portrayal of the Nahta brothers:

Biographical and Family History: The initial sections delve into the lineage and life history of Sri Agarchandji Nahata. It traces his family tree, highlighting the contributions of his ancestors, their business acumen, their resilience in the face of adversity (like fire and famine), and their integration into the social fabric of Rajasthan. It details his upbringing, the influence of his family, and the values instilled in him. The text also touches upon the lives of other family members, including his father Shankaradanji, his uncles, and his brothers, painting a picture of a closely-knit and supportive family.
Literary and Research Contributions: This forms the core of the Granth. Numerous essays detail Agarchandji Nahata's monumental work in:
- Collecting and Preserving Ancient Manuscripts: His tireless efforts in identifying, acquiring, and cataloging rare and ancient Jain manuscripts from various Jain Granthalayas and private collections across Rajasthan and beyond are extensively praised. The sheer volume and rarity of his collection are emphasized.
- Research and Scholarship: The Granth showcases his deep understanding of Jain philosophy, history, literature, archaeology, and art. His meticulous research methodology, evident in his publications and contributions to academic journals, is a subject of admiration.
- Publication and Editing: His role in editing and publishing numerous ancient Jain texts, thereby making them accessible to a wider audience, is highlighted. The establishment of institutions like the "Abhay Jain Granthalaya" and the "Shankaradan Nahata Kala Bhavan" are testament to his commitment to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge.
- Writing: The sheer volume of his own writings, encompassing historical analysis, literary criticism, biographical sketches, and essays on Jain tenets, is staggering. His prolific output across various journals and publications underscores his dedication.
- Promoting Literature and Culture: He is credited with fostering a love for literature and research among younger generations and encouraging aspiring scholars.
Personal Qualities and Ideals: Beyond his academic and professional achievements, the Granth also celebrates his personal attributes:
- Humility and Simplicity: Despite his vast knowledge and achievements, he is consistently described as humble, simple, and unassuming.
- Dedication and Perseverance: His unwavering commitment to his work, even in the face of personal difficulties or financial constraints, is a major theme.
- Generosity and Support: He is portrayed as a generous supporter of scholars and research students, readily providing them with resources and guidance.
- Moral and Ethical Values: His adherence to Jain principles, his focus on spiritual development, and his commitment to ethical conduct are frequently mentioned.
- Inspiring Personality: He is seen as a role model, demonstrating how one can excel in both business and scholarly pursuits while maintaining a simple and principled life.
Tributes and Testimonials: A significant portion of the Granth comprises heartfelt tributes from numerous scholars, admirers, and family members. These testimonials offer diverse perspectives on his character, his scholarly contributions, and his impact on the fields he dedicated himself to. They often highlight his remarkable memory, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his unwavering passion for knowledge.
Specific Works and Institutions: The Granth details several key works and institutions associated with Sri Agarchandji Nahata, including:
- Abhay Jain Granthalaya: A significant library he established, housing a vast collection of Jain manuscripts and books.
- Shankaradan Nahata Kala Bhavan: A museum showcasing ancient art and artifacts.
- Numerous books authored and edited by him, such as "Yugpradhan Sri Jinchandra Suri," "Bikaner Jain Lekh Sangrah," "Samaysundar Kriti Kusumavali," and "Chitai Charitra," are mentioned, underscoring his scholarly output.

Overall Impression:

The "Nahta Bandhu Abhinandan Granth" is a testament to the profound respect and admiration the Jain community and the wider academic world hold for Sri Agarchandji Nahata. It's more than just a felicitation; it's a scholarly compilation that chronicles the life and work of a truly exceptional individual who significantly enriched Indian culture and literature. The Granth serves as a valuable resource for understanding the history of Jain literature, the scholarly landscape of Rajasthan, and the life and achievements of a dedicated intellectual and philanthropist. The numerous contributions from prominent figures underscore the widespread recognition of his lifelong dedication to knowledge and cultural preservation.