Sheth Anandji Kalyanji Pedhino Itihas 2

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Book Title: Sheth Anandji Kalyanji Pedhino Itihas – Bhag 2 (History of the Anandji Kalyanji Firm – Part 2) Author: Ratilal D. Desai Publisher: Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi Year of Publication: V.S. 2043 / October 1989 (Viranirvana Samvat 2512)

This second volume of the history of the Anandji Kalyanji Firm continues the monumental task of documenting the firm's extensive and impactful work, primarily focusing on its role in managing and preserving Jain pilgrimage sites, especially Shri Shatrunjaya Tirth.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Continuation of Shatrunjaya Tirth Management: Following the first volume's coverage of chapters 1-10, this volume delves into the remaining aspects of the administration and management of Shatrunjaya Tirth. It details the firm's involvement in various legal and administrative matters concerning the holy mountain.

2. Disputes with Palitana State: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the numerous disputes and conflicts that arose between the Jain community (represented by the Anandji Kalyanji Firm) and the Palitana state. These disputes often centered around:

   • Land Rights: Issues concerning ownership and usage of land within and around the holy mountain for the construction of new temples and structures.
   • Collection of Fees and Taxes: The Palitana state's attempts to levy various taxes and "nazarana" (gifts/tributes) on pilgrims and the firm's efforts to protect the community's traditional rights.
   • Maintenance and Repairs: Disagreements over the responsibility and expenses for the upkeep of various structures and pathways on the hill.
   • Disrespectful Actions: Instances where the Palitana authorities or individuals associated with them allegedly disrespected Jain religious sentiments, such as allowing the use of leather footwear or smoking within the sacred precincts.
   • Legal Battles and Appeals: The text details how these disputes often escalated into legal challenges, with the firm frequently appealing to higher authorities, including the British political agents and the Bombay government, and even the Privy Council in London.

3. Mughal Imperial Firmans: The book meticulously presents the translations and summaries of several important Mughal imperial firmans (royal decrees) that were granted to the Jain community, particularly to Nagar Sheth Shanti Das Zaveri. These firmans, issued by emperors like Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan, Murad Bakhsh, and Aurangzeb, often exempted the Jain community from certain taxes, protected their pilgrimage sites, and ensured the sanctity of the holy places by prohibiting animal slaughter or the carrying of weapons within their precincts. These firmans are presented as crucial evidence of the historical rights and privileges enjoyed by the Jain community.

4. Financial Management and Prudence: The text highlights the firm's meticulous and prudent management of finances. It details how funds collected for various religious purposes were carefully handled, invested, and utilized. The author emphasizes the firm's commitment to transparency and accountability in financial dealings. Examples are given of decisions regarding fund allocation, such as the careful management of the "Rakhaapa" (protection) funds and the prudent handling of loans and investments.

5. Philanthropy and Anukampa (Compassion): The firm's dedication to extending help and support to various segments of the community is a recurring theme. This includes:

   • Service to Sadhus and Sadhvis: Providing necessary materials and support for their religious practices and studies.
   • Assistance to Shravaks and Shravikas: Offering financial aid, scholarships, and support to individuals and families facing hardship, poverty, or distress due to natural calamities like droughts or plagues.
   • Promoting Education: Supporting educational institutions and providing scholarships to students.
   • Animal Welfare (Jivdaya): The establishment and maintenance of "Panjrapoles" (animal shelters), particularly the significant work done at Chhapariali village, is elaborated upon. This demonstrates a deep-seated commitment to compassion for all living beings.

6. Preservation and Restoration (Jirnoddhar): The book details numerous significant renovation and restoration projects undertaken by the firm for ancient Jain temples and pilgrimage sites across India. Notable examples include:

   • Shri Ranakpur Tirth: Extensive restoration work, including architectural details and the challenging task of relocating idols.
   • Shri Abu Tirth (Delvada Temples): The meticulous restoration of these famous marble temples, emphasizing the use of original quarry stones.
   • Shri Kumbhariyaji Tirth: Restoration efforts including the removal of non-Jain structures.
   • Shri Muchhala Mahavir Tirth: The firm took over the management of this tirth and oversaw its restoration and consecration.
   • Shri Taranga Tirth: Efforts included resolving disputes with the Digambar community and undertaking restoration work.
   • Shri Shatrunjaya Tirth: Numerous renovation projects on this most sacred of all pilgrimage sites, including the reconstruction of various "tunks" (temples/shrines) and the overall beautification of the pilgrimage path.
   • Shri Girnar Tirth: Ongoing restoration and repair work on this important site.

7. Focus on the Author's Dedication and Challenges: The author, Ratilal D. Desai, underscores the immense personal effort and dedication involved in compiling this history. He mentions his declining health, including paralysis, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which made the task physically demanding. Despite these challenges, his deep commitment to the firm's legacy and the Jain community motivated him to complete the second volume. The book also notes his passing shortly after completing the manuscript, highlighting the profound loss to the community. His granddaughter, Shilpa, is credited with assisting him and ensuring the completion of the publication process.

8. Biographical Sketch of Ratilal D. Desai: The book includes a detailed biographical account of the author, Ratilal D. Desai, highlighting his lifelong dedication to Jain literature, his scholarly research, his clarity of thought, and his unwavering commitment to truth and integrity. It traces his life from his challenging childhood, marked by frequent relocations due to his father's work, to his literary career, including his extensive work with the Anandji Kalyanji Firm. His interactions with prominent Jain scholars and spiritual leaders are also mentioned, underscoring his deep connection to the community's intellectual and spiritual life.

9. Structure and Organization: The book is meticulously structured with chapters covering specific areas of the firm's activities, including legal disputes, imperial firmans, financial management, community assistance, temple restorations, animal welfare initiatives, expansion of operational scope, and the firm's leadership. The extensive table of contents provides a clear roadmap to the diverse historical information presented.

Overall Significance:

"Sheth Anandji Kalyanji Pedhino Itihas – Bhag 2" serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the historical trajectory of the Anandji Kalyanji Firm. It showcases the firm's multifaceted role not just as a financial entity but as a guardian of Jain heritage, a champion of religious and social causes, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Jain community in preserving its faith and traditions. The detailed accounts of disputes, firmans, and welfare activities offer a rich tapestry of historical context and demonstrate the profound impact the firm has had on the Jain landscape in India. The book is a tribute to the author's tireless efforts in meticulously documenting this significant history.