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Preface
Who can tell Mahavir's story better than Indrabhuti Gautam, a learned Brahmin pundit who became his first disciple? Gautam was honored as a 'Ganadhar' or Group Leader, by Mahavir. He walked in Mahavir's footsteps for 30 long years. This is a first hand account of the significant relationship that evolved between Mahavir and Gautam, and offers us the opportunity to see Mahavir through Gautam's eyes.
This book was made possible by the loving encouragement, support, unstinting patience and understanding of the Parikh clan - Nalini, Sagar, Madhuri, and Rita. We thank them. Our thanks also to Professor Gary Francione, Chimanlal Shah, Dr. Manoj Jain, Professor Chandrakant Shah, and Marji Rohla for their comments and generous assistance.
Acharya Chandana Vastupal Parikh January 6, 2009
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Jain Education Intemational
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