An Appeal
By Unexhibited
Summary
C.S. Mallinath, Managing Editor of the Jaina Gazette, issued an appeal for contributions to a special Silver Jubilee edition commemorating the publication’s 25th anniversary. The request was addressed to Jaina scholars and enthusiasts, inviting articles on topics listed in Sections I and II, including the history of the Jaina Gazette, Jaina philosophy (God, universe, soul, moksha, and path to liberation), religious practices, literature, and contemporary Jaina institutions and challenges. He also sought photographs or illustrations for the edition and welcomed opinions and messages from readers. Submissions were requested by 30 April 1930. The appeal referenced recent events, noting the arrival of Champat Rai Jain, a legal scholar and Jain layperson, in Madras on 28 November 1929. He was celebrated by the Jaina Young Men’s Association and the Swetambar community, with a formal welcome address by Professor A. Chakravarti, Principal of Rajamundry College. Champat Rai emphasized the importance of daily religious study and community service among young Jains, stressing their role in shaping the community’s future. The notice included a list of proposed topics for the Jubilee edition, covering historical, philosophical, and socio-religious aspects of Jainism, alongside practical guidelines for laypersons and ascetics.
Conclusion
This appeal underscores the Jaina Gazette's enduring legacy and its role in fostering Jaina identity and scholarship. By soliciting contributions for its Silver Jubilee Special Number, the Gazette not only celebrates its historical significance but also invites collective reflection on Jaina thought, institutions, and contemporary challenges. The requested articles, photographs, and messages aim to enrich the discourse on Jaina philosophy, ethics, and cultural heritage, ensuring the community's values are preserved and transmitted. The Gazette's emphasis on engaging younger generations, as highlighted in the notes, reinforces its commitment to sustaining Jaina traditions and intellectual engagement. This initiative serves as a call to action, uniting the community to contribute to a living, evolving narrative of Jaina identity, ensuring its relevance for future generations.