Scraioar on Jainism

Summary

Objectives of the Seminar Commemoration: The seminar was a precursor to the 2500th Nirvana celebrations of Bhagwan Mahavira, emphasizing the need to revive and propagate Jain teachings in a world plagued by violence and materialism. Historical Revision: Scholars urged for a re-examination of Jainism’s role in Indian history, advocating for unbiased research to highlight its cultural and philosophical impact. 2. Key Presentations A. Jain Art and Architecture Dr. D. C. Sarkar: Highlighted Jainism’s unparalleled contributions to Indian art, noting its "variety, richness, and divine grace." Jain temples, found across India (including Bangladesh), reflect a synthesis of aesthetic and spiritual ideals. Prof. S. K. Saraswati: Explored the sarvatobhadrika architectural style—square shrines with four entrances, designed to house four-faced (chaumukha) Jain icons. This style influenced Buddhist and Brahmanical temples in India and Southeast Asia (e.g., Burma’s Lemeythna and Nat Hilaung Kyaung temples). B. Philosophy and Metaphysics Prof. K. C. Lalwani: Analyzed Jain metaphysics from the Bhagavati Sūtra, emphasizing the principles of motion (dharma) and rest (adharma) as foundational to cosmic order. He contrasted Jain dynamism with Sāṅkhya’s rajas-tamas duality. Dr. G. G. Mukhopadhyaya: Discussed the Jain concept of self (ātman), which rejects a creator God and elevates human potential for infinite progression (mokṣa). He drew parallels between Jain and Upanishadic thought. Prof. S. P. Banerjee: Examined mokṣa (liberation) in Jainism, stressing the soul’s individuality post-liberation and critiquing Nyāya’s abstract non-dualism. C. Socio-Economic Insights Dr. Adhir Chakravorty: Used Jain canonical texts to reconstruct ancient India’s socio-economic life, noting: Caste System: While not denied, caste hierarchies were overshadowed by power dynamics (e.g., kings, merchants). Regional Diversity: Early Jain texts reflect broader geographical horizons (e.g., Gujarat, Karnataka) compared to Buddhism. Limitations: Cautioned against conflating later regional practices with early Magadhan contexts. D. Iconography and History Sri A. K. Bhattacharya: Traced Jain iconography from Indus Valley motifs (e.g., kāyotsarga pose) to Gupta-era Tīrthaṅkara images, highlighting symbolic elements like dharmachakra and lion thrones. 3. Interfaith and Modern Relevance Prof. Vivekananda Mukherjee: Bridged Jainism and Upanishadic thought, advocating for Jainism’s "humanitarian outlook" as a remedy for contemporary crises. Dr. S. N. Sen: Linked Jain ethics (ahiṃsā, aparigraha) to democratic values, arguing that non-violence and non-possession are essential for social harmony. 4. Conclusions and Call to Action Preservation: Scholars stressed the need to document and protect Jain art, literature, and heritage. Dissemination: The seminar underscored the urgency of making Jain teachings accessible globally, positioning them as a guide for ethical living.