Shruta Upasak Ramanbhai C Shah

Shruta Upasak Ramanbhai C. Shah: A Comprehensive Summary

This document is a compilation of tributes and writings dedicated to Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah, fondly remembered as "Shruta Upasak Ramanbhai" and "Ramanbhai." The book, edited by Prof. Kanti Patel and published by Shree Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh, serves as a heartfelt homage to his multifaceted personality and significant contributions.

Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah (1929-2005) was a revered figure in the Jain community and the literary world. He was an exemplary academic, serving as a professor of Gujarati at the renowned St. Xavier's College in Mumbai for many years, and later as the Head of the Gujarati Department at Mumbai University. Beyond academia, he was a distinguished literary critic, researcher, editor, and a mentor to numerous Ph.D. students, guiding eighteen scholars to earn their doctorates.

Contributions to the Jain Community:

• Shree Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh: Ramanbhai was deeply connected to this organization, serving as its President and the editor of its publication "Prabuddha Jivan" for decades. He revitalized the Sangh's activities, including the prestigious Paryushan Vyakhyanmala (lecture series), lending it immense dignity and engaging people with Jain philosophy and literature.
• Promoting Jainism: He actively introduced people to the principles and literature of Jainism through his active participation in Jain literature festivals.
• Philanthropy: Inspired by the spirit of compassion prevalent during Paryushan, Ramanbhai initiated a program to support deserving organizations in backward areas of Gujarat that struggled due to lack of funds. Through the Paryushan lecture series, these organizations received substantial donations, leading to significant development in their service sectors.
• "Prabuddha Jivan": As the editor, he transformed the organization's newsletter into a comprehensive publication that explored a wide array of subjects, deeply enriching it with profound articles on Jain philosophy and principles.

Literary and Academic Achievements:

• Versatile Author: Ramanbhai's prolific output includes over a hundred books, showcasing his extensive knowledge and multifaceted talent. His writings offer insights into his diverse experiences, including his extensive travels, which he eloquently documented in numerous books.
• Academic Excellence: He was an outstanding teacher, researcher, and editor. His guidance helped eighteen students achieve their Ph.D. degrees.
• "Passpord ni Pankhe": His travelogues, particularly "Passport ni Pankhe," are highly acclaimed for their engaging narrative style, offering vivid descriptions of his journeys and experiences.
• Scholarly Depth: His writings consistently demonstrated deep learning, insightful analysis, and a commitment to conveying complex philosophical concepts in accessible language.
• Inclusivity in Academia: As Head of the Gujarati Department at Mumbai University, he fostered an environment of intellectual exchange by organizing annual faculty meetings that brought together academics from various institutions.

Personal Qualities:

• Humility and Simplicity: Despite his vast knowledge and achievements, Ramanbhai was known for his remarkable humility, simplicity, and down-to-earth nature. He was never seen to boast or seek self-praise.
• Compassion and Service: He possessed a profound sense of compassion and a genuine desire to serve others, extending his kindness to all individuals, regardless of their background.
• Dedication and Discipline: His NCC training instilled in him a sense of discipline, self-reliance, and meticulousness, which he applied to all aspects of his life.
• Inquisitiveness and Openness: He maintained a lifelong passion for learning and was always eager to explore new subjects and perspectives. His open-mindedness and willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints were hallmarks of his intellectual curiosity.
• Family Man: He was a loving husband to Taraben and a devoted father and grandfather, deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren, often sharing his wisdom and joy with them.
• Inspiring Mentor: He had a unique ability to connect with students and guide them not only academically but also in their personal and professional lives.

Tributes and Legacy:

The "Shruta Upasak Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah" book features tributes from over two hundred writers, including close relatives, friends, colleagues, scholars, monks and nuns, former students, and numerous admirers. These writings offer a touching tribute to his life and work, painting a comprehensive picture of his personality and achievements. The book is considered a valuable treasure for his admirers, capturing his vibrant personality and the indelible mark he left on the world. His passing created a void that is naturally felt by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on through his extensive writings, his teachings, and the countless lives he touched.

In essence, Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah was a "Shruta Upasak" – a devoted worshipper of knowledge – whose life exemplified the Jain ideals of knowledge, wisdom, compassion, and service. His legacy continues to inspire and guide generations.