Jain Shwetambar Conference Herald 1909 Book 05

Author(s): Mohanlal Dalichand Desai
Publisher: Jain Shwetambar Conference

Page 230

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જૈન કોન્ફરન્સ હેરલ્ડ.
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(6) Our Architectural shastras are difficult to grasp, being couched in condensed metrical verses. After reviewing our present Architectural situation and causes
that led to it, in the active days of civilization A step forward, and progress, one naturally thinks where to
put a step forward. One may think to start technical schools managed under strict supervision, of best Yati professors who would explain the rules and principles laid down in ancient treatises, would insist on them being carried out in practice, exemplify their use from ancient buildings and exclude all western ideas. In reviving the antiquated style, if at all practical, what is the ultimate gain ?
To revive the dead past is not in the true line of progress any more than servilely to copy what is most recent.
In my humble opinion 'a step forward' in the right direction would be:
(1) To let the Conference Office undertake to make the public feel that the old Shilpa Shastras are well worth study and to understand correctly and intelligently the old methods and the structural remains of ancient works. An intelligent study of these works will be of immense service to a Jain builder who is able to assimilate improved methods and principles of design.
(2) To collect all works on Architecture whether originals, copies, translations or abstracts-either Sanskrit or Verpacular.
(3) To prepare, publish and circulate cheap series on the subject giving scientific and mathematical explanation and methods of arriving at old mechanical and artificial rules used by Salat in early days of temple building, made more valuable by giving photographic plan, sections, detail views &e, judi. ciously selected, complete, trustworthy and carefully laid down on the spot from accurate measurements. ' (4) To act as something to be an examining body,
(a) That would hold Test Examinations in Vernacular
or English if possible-open for all students in