News on Jainism Around the World

Summary

The 'News on Jainism Around the World' section reports on recent activities related to Jain scholarship and education, focusing particularly on events organised by the Bhogilal Leherchand Institute of Indology (BLII) and other institutions. The article describes two refresher courses in Prakrit language and literature conducted by BLII between 25 May and 15 June 2003. These courses, taught by experts in elementary and advanced levels, aimed to revitalise interest in the study of Jain canonical languages and to equip scholars with skills needed for research in Jaina scriptures. The report highlights the presentation of a unique panel of forty‑four copper plates depicting the Kalyan Mandir Stotra, a Jain devotional hymn. Prepared with gold plating and protective coating, the plates were presented by Seth Rajendra Shah of Bombay and are now preserved at the Museum of Jain Art and Culture, adding a valuable visual dimension to the institute’s collection. The article also covers the awarding of the Acharya Hemachandrasuri Puraskar, valued at Rs 51,000, to scholars Dr. G.V. Tagare of Pune and Dr. N.J. Shah of Ahmedabad for their contributions to Jain studies. The awards were presented by critic and author Dr. Namwar Singh and Mrs. Laila Mulgoakar, Chief Officer of the U.S. Library of Congress in India. The ceremony underscored the institute’s commitment to recognising outstanding scholarship and promoting research. Dr. Nagin J. Shah, one of the awardees, delivered remarks emphasising the importance of sustaining Sanskrit studies within the Jain community. He argued that despite a long tradition of writing in Sanskrit, interest has waned, and without combining Prakrit studies with Sanskrit, modern Jains risk losing a key part of their intellectual heritage. The programme concluded with an appeal for BLII to continue teaching Prakrit and Sanskrit and to resist any pressure to discontinue these courses. Throughout the report, the author stresses the broader cultural significance of such initiatives. Teaching ancient languages not only preserves literary heritage but also fosters unity and understanding across India’s diverse states. The presentation of art objects, the conferment of prestigious awards, and the organisation of language courses demonstrate how Jain institutions engage with both scholarly communities and the public. The article suggests that sustained institutional support is essential for maintaining the scholarly tradition of medieval and modern Jain thinkers and for nurturing new generations of researchers.