Prakrit Ratnakar

This document is a comprehensive summary of the book Prakrit Ratnakar authored by Prof. Prem Suman Jain. Published by Rashtriya Prakrit Adhyayan evam Sanshodhan Samsthan, Shravanabelagola, Karnataka, in May 2012, this work is described as an encyclopedia patterned after the "Encyclopedia Britannica."

The book aims to provide concise yet significant information in simple and elegant Hindi about key aspects of Prakrit language and literature. Its content is organized alphabetically (अकारादि वर्णक्रम) and covers:

• Major Prakrit Works: Significant texts in Prakrit literature.
• Authors: Prominent literary figures associated with Prakrit.
• Prakrit Languages: The various Prakrit languages themselves.
• Indian Life and Society in Prakrit Literature: The depiction of Indian daily life and societal aspects within Prakrit texts.
• Folk Life: Various facets of common people's lives.
• Key Prakrit Institutions and Departments.
• Editors and Scholars of Prakrit.

Prof. Prem Suman Jain, a distinguished professor and senior scholar of Prakrit language and literature, has compiled this foundational encyclopedia. The publisher highlights that the book aims to fill a gap by providing authentic, albeit brief, information on these subjects. The appendix includes a list of published Prakrit works and research efforts, further enriching the encyclopedia. The publisher expresses hope that the book will be beneficial for Prakrit enthusiasts, researchers, and scholars alike.

The book is presented as a valuable resource for anyone interested in Prakrit language and literature, covering a wide range of topics from ancient texts and authors to the cultural and societal contexts reflected in this rich literary tradition.