Purattva Evam Kala Marmagnya Pratibhamutti Kantisagarji Ko Shraddhanjali

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Purattva evam Kala Marmagnya Pratibhamutti Kantisagarji ko Shraddhanjali" by Agarchand Nahta, in English:

This tribute, written by Agarchand Nahta, is a heartfelt homage to Muni Shri Kantisagarji, a scholar and visionary recognized for his profound knowledge of archaeology and art. The text details his life, spiritual journey, significant contributions, and his passing.

Muni Shri Kantisagarji's Life and Spiritual Journey:

• Early Life and Inclination: Born in Jamnagar, Saurashtra, Muni Kantisagarji developed a deep affection for ancient ruins and secluded natural settings from a young age. His childhood playground was a ruined fort near a lake. He recounts being drawn to these ancient structures, even as a child.
• Spiritual Calling: Despite being born into a non-Jain family, he embraced Jain monasticism at a young age, influenced by his studies and interactions with prominent Jain scholars and archaeologists like Shri Mohanlalbhai Dalichand Desai and Dr. Hansmukhial Dhirajlal Sankhalia.
• Academic and Literary Prowess: Muni Kantisagarji possessed exceptional intellect and excelled in various subjects. He had a strong command of the Hindi language and wrote scholarly works in Sanskrit-influenced, elegant prose. His two notable books, "Khandhron ka Vaibhav" (The Glory of Ruins) and "Khoj ki Pagdandiyan" (Trails of Discovery), published by the esteemed Bharatiya Jnanpith, were highly acclaimed. The Uttar Pradesh government even recognized their excellence with an award.
• Literary Contributions: His significant articles were published in prestigious Hindi magazines like Vishal Bharat, Anekanth, Bharatiya Sahitya, and Nagari Pracharini Patrika, establishing his prominent place in Hindi literature. He also served on the editorial boards of journals like "Gyanodaya."
• Exceptional Orator and Writer: He possessed a rare dual talent, excelling equally as an eloquent speaker and a skilled writer. His lectures were impactful, and his writings were scholarly and engaging.
• Expertise in Archaeology and Art: Muni Kantisagarji was considered the foremost scholar among Jain monks and acharyas in the fields of archaeology and art. He had an immense passion for researching and studying ancient temples, sculptures, and artistic relics.
• Fieldwork and Discoveries: He extensively explored villages and towns in Madhya Pradesh, which formed the basis for his two major books and numerous articles. His meticulous attention to detail allowed him to elaborate on even minor observations with great depth and insight. He had a deep understanding of history, archaeology, and art. During his stay in Jabalpur, he diligently collected ancient artifacts (sculpture fragments), which were later acquired by the Madhya Pradesh government.
• Work on Eklingji: While in Rajasthan, he compiled a significant treatise on Eklingji, the favored deity of the Maharana of Udaipur, shedding new light on surrounding ancient art centers like Nagda, including Jain temples and sculptures. He documented hundreds of artistic ancient relics through photography. It is noted with regret that this important, comprehensive work on Eklingji remained unpublished due to his untimely demise.
• Ayurveda and Other Interests: Due to certain circumstances in Udaipur, he also engaged in the study and practice of Ayurveda, successfully treating many patients with incurable diseases. He published a collection of his empirical Ayurvedic remedies in Gujarati titled "Ayurveda Anubhhoot Prayog" (Part 1). He had plans to publish many more works, but his life was cut short. Other published works include "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh" (Jain Metal Idol Inscriptions) and a collection of Hindi poems describing cities. He was also knowledgeable in music and possessed a strong voice, often singing devotional verses like the "Ajit Shanti Stotra" with great rhythm and melody.

His Spiritual and Public Engagements:

The text also briefly mentions his extensive travels and the various spiritual and religious activities he conducted, highlighting his dedication and influence:

• He performed Chaturmasas (monsoon retreats) in various important Jain pilgrimage sites and cities across India, including Udaipur, Gadhsiwana, Rajnandgaon, Palitana, Kolkata, Patna, Varanasi, Mirzapur, Riyan, and Bhopal.
• He was involved in numerous temple consecrations, installation of idols, and other religious ceremonies, often with great zeal and public participation.
• His inspiration led to the construction of a Gurumandir (temple for spiritual teachers) at the Jain Bhavan in Palitana, with the consecration of Dada Saheb and Guru Murtis.
• He participated in the 8th Centenary celebrations of Dada Saheb in Jaipur.
• He was instrumental in the construction and consecration of a new Dada-wadi in Rajnandgaon.
• He also oversaw the installation of a large bell weighing 51 kg in Palanpur, commissioned by a devotee.
• He was involved in the publication of various Jain texts and materials, including "Dada Saheb," "Panchpratikraman," and other publications.

His Passing:

Muni Kantisagarji's health began to decline after a strenuous Chaturmas in Jaipur. Despite the care provided by the Jaipur Jain community, his health deteriorated. He passed away on September 28th in Jaipur due to a cardiac arrest. His demise left a void in the Jain community, particularly in the fields of archaeology and art, as the loss of such a brilliant and talented scholar was difficult to fill.

The tribute concludes with a deep sense of loss and admiration for Muni Kantisagarji's unique genius, scholarly contributions, and spiritual dedication.