Review: Bikaner‑Jaina‑Lekha‑Sangraha
By Dasharatha Sharma
Summary
This review assesses **Bikaner‑Jaina‑Lekha‑Sangraha**, a compendium of Jain inscriptions from Bikaner compiled by Agar Chand Nahata and Bhawar Lal Nahata. The reviewer praises the editors’ dedication in travelling throughout Rajasthan to copy and photograph inscriptions and notes that the volume contains over four hundred transcriptions accompanied by plates. The book begins with detailed indices that classify records by temple, locality and subject. The reviewer highlights sections on Jain memorial steles, temple renovations and secular donations, and lauds the inclusion of previously unpublished inscriptions from Jaisalmer. He observes that the editors provide contextual essays on Jain temples, rituals and the socio‑economic background of the Bikaner area. While acknowledging minor errors and misreadings, the review concludes that the work is an invaluable source for the political, social and religious history of Rajasthan and recommends it to scholars and libraries.
Conclusion
The review commends the Nahatas’ epigraphic compilation as a major contribution to Jain and Rajasthan studies. By making a large corpus of inscriptions accessible and providing helpful indices, the editors enable future research into regional history, art and religion. Minor shortcomings do not detract from the volume’s overall value.