Book Review
Summary
The Book Review section introduces the first volume of the *Bhagavati Sutra* published by Jain Bhawan, Calcutta in 1973. This canonical text, attributed to the Vedic-era preacher Sudharma Svamin, is one of the most encyclopedic works in the Jaina canon and is part of the ancient fifth–sixth century A.D. scriptural corpus. The reviewer explains that Jaina religious literature is extraordinarily vast and diverse: it spans Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsha and regional languages and includes sermons, legends, historical narratives and ethical discourses. Because much of this literature is philosophically subtle and linguistically obscure, it has traditionally remained inaccessible to the general public. Over the past century scholars in Europe and India have translated segments of the canon into English and regional languages, but large parts remain untouched. The present volume offers the Ardha–Magadhi Prakrit text alongside an English translation with detailed commentary and notes. The reviewer stresses that the translator, Kastur Chand Lalwani, is a scholar known for his mastery of Jaina philosophy, command of modern critical methods and ability to write lucid English. His previous translations of canonical texts such as the *Dasavaikalika Sutra* have won acclaim for their accuracy and clarity, and the *Bhagavati Sutra* promises to be his magnum opus when all six planned volumes are completed. The book includes an introduction that situates the sutra historically, subject and proper-name indices for easy reference, and explanatory notes drawing on commentarial traditions. By providing both the original Prakrit and a faithful translation, the volume makes an important but abstruse scripture accessible to students, scholars and lay readers. The review highlights the importance of such publications for preserving and disseminating Jaina heritage. It argues that the cyclopaedic nature of the *Bhagavati Sutra*—covering metaphysics, cosmology, ethics and mythology—means that a comprehensive translation will be an invaluable resource for Indologists. The reviewer commends Jain Bhawan of Calcutta for sponsoring the project and urges further efforts to translate and publish canonical works so that the riches of Jaina literature can reach a wider audience. Overall, the tone of the review is celebratory and appreciative, emphasising both the scholarly rigour and cultural significance of Lalwani’s work.
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Conclusion
The review praises Kastur Chand Lalwani’s translation of the *Bhagavati Sutra* for combining scholarly depth with readability. By presenting the Prakrit text with a clear English rendering, explanatory notes and indices, the volume opens a key Jaina scripture to a global readership. The article underscores the need for similar efforts to translate the remaining volumes and other canonical texts, arguing that making ancient Jaina literature accessible is crucial for understanding India’s religious and cultural history.