Jain Journal 2009 07

Author(s): Satyaranjan Banerjee
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 41

Anupam Jash: The Präkṛta Jaina Literature and itsphilosophical value
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embrace various branches of literature such as poetics, politics, grammar, logic, dialectics, astronomy, astrology, medicine, cosmology, epigraphy, etc. these sources are highly critical, standard, authentic and contain abundant historical information34. As the Jainas have produced their vast literature in these languages from very ancient times, they have certainly played a very important part in the development of the different languages of India35. Prof. A.N. Upadhye has truly said, "Indian linguistics would certainly be poorer in the absence of Prakrta literature, for on its lap have grown the modern Indian languages. Prakṛta literature goes a long way in helping to add important and significant details to our picture of Indian culture and civilization".36
Acknowledgement: I gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance from the UGC, New Delhi, through a Minor Research Project grant (F. PHW-003/10-11, ERO, Dated 21.10.2010) to me, for this study.
34. Jamindar, Rasesh. Op. Cit,. p.-34.
35. Roy, Ashim Kumar. A History Of The Jains, Gitanjali Publishing House: New Delhi, 1984.
36. Upadhyaye, A.N. Op. Cit, P.-183.