Notes and News
Summary
The text discusses Brother Champat Rai’s contributions to Jainism scholarship, particularly his book on Jain Personal Law (pp. 25–106), praised for its lawyer-like clarity and value to both laymen and legal professionals. The reviewer commends the book’s translations, appendices, indexes, and high-quality production, crediting C. S. Mallinath for its excellent design. The note also acknowledges donations to the Jaina Gazette, including contributions from Jai Bhagwan Jain and L. Deoraj. Additionally, it highlights Mr. Champat Rai’s return from Europe after successfully advocating for the Shikharji Puja Case, leading to a Privy Council ruling affirming Shikharji as community property dedicated to the gods. His European tour included lectures on comparative religion, earning him the title “Jain Darsana Divakar” from the Digambar Jain Parishad. Finally, the text mourns the passing of Swetambar Jain Acharya Sri Vijaya Kamala Surisvarji at age 80 in Jalalpur, Surat, noting his distinguished career as a scholar and Balabrahmachari.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
The document highlights Brother Champat Rai's significant contribution to Jain scholarship through his meticulous analysis of the Personal Law of Jains, offering a lawyer-like, accessible treatment that complements existing works without redundancy. His translations, derived from original proofs, and the book's exceptional appendices and indices further enhance its utility for both laymen and legal professionals. The publication's high-quality production underscores the importance of presenting scholarly content in an accessible manner. Concurrently, Mr. Rai's return from Europe and conferral of the title "Jain Darsana Divakar" for his successful legal advocacy and propagation of Jainism in Europe, along with the sad passing of Sri Vijaya Kamala Surisvarji, reflect the dynamic interplay of legal, scholarly, and spiritual developments within the Jain community. These events collectively emphasize the ongoing evolution and resilience of Jain thought and practice.