Notes And News
Summary
The Jaina Gazette begins with New Year wishes to donors, contributors, and readers, acknowledging their ongoing support. Donations totaling Rs. 26 were received from various individuals and organizations, including Mr. W. G. Bannore, J. L. Mithal, Raghubir Dayal Jain, and others. Professor Dr. Helmuth Von Glasenapp of the University of Berlin visited India since November, aiming to study Jainism firsthand by visiting sacred sites and engaging with Jain leaders. In Madras, he interviewed with the Editor, Mr. C. S. Mallinath. His travels included Bangalore, Mysore, Sravana Belgola, and the Deccan region before arriving in Delhi on January 17. He was warmly welcomed by over a hundred members of the Delhi Jain community, including prominent figures like Rai Bahadur Lala Sultan Singh and Lala Rala Ram Sahib. He visited the Harsukhdas Jain Temple and its manuscript library, appreciating the altar's craftsmanship. Pandit Jagrup Sahai and Babu Mahabir Prasada accompanied him, presenting him with scholarly works like the *Shri Sarvartha Siddhi* and *Vrihat Jain Shabdarnava Kosha*. A tea party and a lecture on Eastern philosophy were held in his honor, attended by notable scholars and community members. Von Glasenapp emphasized the growing Western interest in Jainism and urged Indian Jains to foster this engagement. He departed for Alwar, reportedly recommended for a lectureship at Calcutta University on Jainism and Indian thought's influence on German philosophy.
Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.
Conclusion
This document highlights the Jaina community's continued support through donations, fostering the publication's growth, and underscores Dr. von Glasenapp's significant academic engagement with Jainism during his Indian tour. His visits to key Jaina centers, interactions with prominent community leaders, and lecture on Eastern philosophy emphasize the growing Western scholarly interest in Jainism. The detailed account of his reception in Delhi, including the presentation of scholarly works and a well-attended lecture, underscores the community's role in facilitating academic exchange. The conclusion of his visit with a recommendation for a university position signals the potential for deeper scholarly collaboration, positioning Jains as key contributors to global understanding of their heritage. This interplay of community support and academic interest marks a pivotal moment in Jainism's contemporary documentation and cross-cultural dialogue.