New Delhi, 25 August (H.S.): Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sahsarkaryavah Arun Kumar said Jain manuscripts and Jain literature written in the Prakrit language represent an outstanding example of India’s civilisation, culture and ancient knowledge systems. He emphasised that preserving such rare repositories of knowledge is an important priority so that future generations can remain connected with India’s rich intellectual heritage.

Arun Kumar made the remarks while inaugurating the ‘Virasat’ Jain Manuscript and Literature Exhibition organised by the Shahzad Rai Research Institute, Baraut, at Jain Bhawan in New Delhi. The exhibition features ancient Jain manuscripts and rare Jain literary works preserved by the institute.

He described the manuscript collection preserved by the Shahzad Rai Research Institute as exceptionally rare and inspiring and expressed his appreciation to the institute’s Founder and Director, Dr Amit Rai Jain, for undertaking the important work of preserving the collection.

Arun Kumar said Jain literature is significant not only from a religious perspective but also because it contains valuable material relating to Indian philosophy, languages, art, history and ancient knowledge traditions. He noted that literature preserved in Prakrit plays an important role in understanding various dimensions of Indian civilisation.

The programme was chaired by Atul Jain, National President of the All India Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Conference. International Joint General Secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad Surendra Jain, Jammu and Kashmir Study Centre Director Ashutosh Bhatnagar, RSS Central Team member Mukul Kanitkar and Organiser Weekly Editor-in-Chief Prafulla Ketkar were among those present, along with several scholars, intellectuals and prominent members of the Jain community.

Scholars from different parts of the country visited the exhibition and described the rare manuscripts and ancient texts on display as invaluable repositories of India’s knowledge traditions and cultural heritage. They said the manuscripts contain significant information and knowledge relating to philosophy, language, culture, history and social life.

The exhibition also conveyed the message that Jain manuscripts constitute an important source of India’s diverse intellectual heritage and that their preservation can help transmit ancient Indian knowledge and cultural traditions to future generations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar