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INTRODUCTION
(FIRST EDITION)
This booklet, seventh in the series, published by Shree Vallabhsuri Smarak Nidhi contains five interesting essays on the various facets of Jainism penned briefly by erudite scholars popular for their easy catchhold on the subject.
The Nidhi started to commemorate the memory of Acharya Shri Vijayavallabhsuri Maharaj, whose life in a nutshell was a message and a mission to the society. The great Acharya was an ardent scholar of Jainism in all its myriad manifestations and implications. The Nidhi has, therefore, decided to include an essay on the life of the Great Acharya written by Shri Chimanlal J. Shah, the author of the scholarly treatise 'Jainism in Northern India.' To stand in tune with the motivating force of this great dedicated soul, the publication of booklets on Jainism has been undertaken. Besides the study of Jainism, the Nidhi aims at dispelling misunderstanding and wrong conceptions as well as to carry the message and gospel of Jainism, which has served to develop the noblest elements of character.
These efforts, modest in many ways, have generated appreciative feelings, which prompt the Nidhi to carry on the publication activities with greater zeal and vigour. 'Cheap in price but rich in matter' has, therefore, been the guiding factor of the Nidhi.
We are thankful to Dr. B. C. Law, Dr. Indra Chandra
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