Sampadak Ratna Pandit Shri Nathuram Premi

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Sampadak Ratna Pandit Shri Nathuram Premi: A Life Dedicated to Jain Literature and Social Service

This document outlines the remarkable life and contributions of Pandit Shri Nathuram Premi, a revered figure in Jain literature and intellectual circles. Born in 1881 AD in Madhya Pradesh to an ordinary merchant family, Premi's early life was marked by simplicity and a strong inclination towards learning. Despite modest beginnings, he excelled in his studies, becoming a beloved teacher. His early career as a teacher, though brief, instilled in him a habit of frugal living and a commitment to using any savings for literary pursuits and service to others.

Premi's journey took a significant turn when he moved to Mumbai in 1901 AD, initially working as a clerk for the Mumbai Prantik Jain Sabha. During this time, he diligently managed his administrative duties, learned multiple languages (Sanskrit, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali), and actively engaged in editing the periodical "Jain Mitra." He demonstrated exceptional honesty and integrity in his work, even choosing to resign from a position when he felt his master lacked trust in him.

A pivotal influence in Premi's life was his encounter with Shri Pannalalji Bakliwal, a highly respected and learned Jain scholar known for his lifelong celibacy and dedication to public service. Bakliwal recognized Premi's talent, selflessness, and dedication, entrusting him with the responsibility of editing key Jain periodicals like "Jain Hitaishi" and "Jain Granth Ratnakar," significantly elevating their quality and reach.

Premi's literary endeavors were further bolstered by the generous support of Sheth Shri Manikchand, J.P. Sheth Manikchand was a significant patron of Jain learning, providing financial assistance to scholars and purchasing substantial copies of Premi's publications to distribute them widely. Following Sheth Manikchand's philanthropic legacy, Premiji established the Manikchandra Digambar Jain Granthmala, which played a crucial role in making authoritative Jain texts accessible at low costs. This institution later evolved into Gnanpith.

In 1912, Premiji founded "Hindi Granth Ratnakar" in Mumbai with the dual purpose of securing his livelihood and promoting Hindi literature. This venture proved highly successful, establishing him as a prominent publisher and editor. His extensive knowledge of languages and his deep understanding of research and publication allowed him to produce high-quality books at affordable prices. Despite personal tragedies, including the deaths of his wife and son, Premiji remained steadfast in his commitment to this work, upholding principles of ethical dealing, careful research, and fostering good relationships with writers. His publication house was renowned for publishing works by esteemed authors like Acharya Mahavirprasad Dwivedi, Premchandji, Jainendraji, and Chatursen Shastri, demonstrating his commitment to literary excellence and fair practices, even providing financial support to writers beyond the expiration of their copyrights.

Premiji's scholarly contributions extended to his monumental work, the "History of Jain Literature." This comprehensive study delved into various philosophical schools, scriptures, linguistic aspects, and the biographies of prominent Jain Acharyas from the 2nd to the 13th century. It also offered insights into "Nitivakyamrut" and "Aradhana," rare Jain texts, and covered a wide range of subjects including pilgrimage sites, historical figures, etymology, and rulers. His meticulous editorial work on "Jain Mitra" and "Jain Hitaishi" significantly enhanced their reputation for scholarly content.

The document highlights Premiji's deep and enduring intellectual relationship with Pandit Sukhlalji. Their bond, spanning over three decades, was characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Pandit Sukhlalji often recited a prayer written by Premiji, reflecting themes of universal welfare and empathy. Premiji's secular outlook, combined with his profound Jain scholarship, deeply impressed Pandit Sukhlalji. Their meetings were marked by warm camaraderie and intellectual discussions on Jain philosophy, literature, and history. Premiji's encouragement led Pandit Sukhlalji to undertake editorial work on significant Nyaya texts and facilitated his connections with other prominent Jain scholars, fostering a vibrant intellectual exchange.

Premiji's personal qualities of simplicity, fearlessness, liberalism, and unwavering dedication to truth were deeply admired by Pandit Sukhlalji. Premiji shared three key aspirations with Pandit Sukhlalji: elevating the status of Jain intellectuals, preserving and promoting Digambar Jain literature and pilgrimage sites, and addressing the societal challenges faced by Jain women, particularly widows.

In conclusion, Sampadak Ratna Pandit Shri Nathuram Premi rose from humble beginnings through his own efforts to become a celebrated editor, compiler, poet, critic, and literary figure. His life's work, recognized and admired by a vast number of learned individuals across various fields, stands as a testament to his profound dedication to Jain literature, intellectual pursuits, and social upliftment.