Review: A Treasury of Jain Tales
By Narayan M. Kansara
Summary
In this review, Kansara discusses Prof. V. M. Kulkarni’s anthology ‘A Treasury of Jain Tales’, which offers English translations of selected stories from Prakrit sources. Initiated by the Shardaben Chimanbhai Educational Research Centre, the project aims to make Jain narrative literature accessible. Kulkarni selects stories for their moral and literary appeal and provides introductions explaining their context. The tales illustrate values such as non‑violence, truthfulness and the workings of karma. Kansara praises the fluent translations and notes that the book will interest both scholars and general readers. He observes that collaborative efforts and financial support made the project possible and that the anthology promotes cross‑cultural understanding by bringing Jain storytelling to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Kansara concludes that ‘A Treasury of Jain Tales’ successfully showcases the richness of Jain narrative literature. By translating and contextualising diverse stories, the anthology preserves cultural heritage and encourages appreciation of Jain ethical teachings.