In Memorium: Dr. A. N. Upadhye

Summary

In this obituary T. G. Kalghatgi pays tribute to Dr A. N. Upadhye (1906–1975), one of the foremost scholars of Prakrit, Sanskrit and Jain studies. Kalghatgi recounts how he received news of Dr Upadhye’s passing on 9 October 1975 and describes the deep grief felt by colleagues and students in Mysore. The article surveys the major milestones of Upadhye’s life: his birth in Sadalga, a traditional priestly family; his education in Belgaum and Kolhapur; and his distinguished academic career at Rajaram College, where he taught for 32 years before retiring as Professor in 1962. Upadhye is credited with publishing more than 100 research papers and numerous critical editions of Sanskrit, Prakrit and Apabhraṃśa texts. He produced authoritative editions of Jain scriptures and biographies, rescued little‑known works from oblivion and established high standards of textual scholarship. Recognised by peers and governments alike, he received the D.Litt. from Bombay University, presided over sections of the All India Oriental Conference and the Kannada Sahitya Sammelan and served as Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Shivaji University. In 1969 he became the first Professor and Head of the Department of Jainology and Prakrits at the University of Mysore. Kalghatgi emphasises not only Upadhye’s erudition but also his humility, kindness and mentorship. In his reminiscence he describes personal interactions with Upadhye and notes that even those unaware of his academic stature were charmed by his simple manners. The obituary concludes with reflections on the tragic irony that Upadhye died shortly after handing over the department to Kalghatgi and expresses gratitude for the trust he placed in his successor. The author laments the loss of a great scholar but hopes that the foundations laid by Upadhye will continue to guide future generations of Jainologists.