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description of the themes discussed. The authors of later period, including Devardhigani, used this style of referring other sources in order to avoid repetition and reduce the bulk. Therefore it is not right to infer that this Agam belongs to a later period. In fact Vyakhya Prajnapti was composed by Ganadhars and its original style of writing is ancient. THIS EDITION
Numerous translations and commentaries of Bhagavati Sutra by fi different authors have been published till date. In this translation we fi have mainly used the following works—(1) Bhagavati Sutra : Seven i fi Volumes edited by Pt. Ghevarchand ji Banthia. (2) Vyakhya Prajnapti fi Sutra : Four Volumes edited by me with commentary. (3) Bhagavai : Two F Volurnes edited by Acharya Mahaprajna ji.
The extensive commentary this scripture deserves is yet to be done. However, I have composed the necessary and useful elaboration in simple style. The uniqueness of this edition is that it contains Hindi as 4 well as English translations. This makes it useful for the international community of scholars. It is, indeed, true that exact terminology for Jain technical terms is not available in English. Thus an exact verbatim translation in English is not possible. At such places we have retained the original term (either in Prakrit or in Hindi or both) giving meaning and explanation in parenthesis. This would facilitate quick and better understanding of the original text, may be at the cost of repetition.
Although this Agam required a larger number of illustrations to enhance the clarity of topics discussed, limitations of deadlines and volume restricted this number to include only important topics. As in earlier Agams, this adds to the interest of the reader even in complex themes.
We are also trying to include a glossary of important technical terms as appendix.
My preface would not be complete without the pious remembrance of my revered teacher Uttar Bharatiya Pravartak Gurudev Bhandari Shri Padmachandra ji M. who always inspired me to work in service of the Shrut (Agams). Whatever I have achieved and whatever I am presently doing is the fruit of his kindness and blessings.
As always, scholarly editors like Shri Srichand Surana 'Saras', Shri Surendra Bothara and Sushravak Shri Rajkumar ji Jain, as well as generous devotees have extended their co-operation and contributions to this pious project of publishing Illustrated Agams. They all deserve thanks and commendations. Jain Sthanak,
-Pravartak Amar Muni Ludhiana.
(Uttar Bharatiya Pravartak)
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