________________
134
THE JAINA GAZETTE Sabha has already made a move in the matter and resolved not to spare any pains in accomplishing the erection of a Dharamsala where the orthodox visitors can conveniently be accommodated and the performance of their worship. etc., conducted without any compunction or sense of uncongenial surrounding or atmosphere. A site adjoining the Jain temple has already been acquired for the purpose at a cost of Rs. 20,500,
At a general meeting held recently, the Jain Sabha has approved of the plan of the proposed Dharamsala, prepared by Mr. D. A. Mande, F.I.A.A., a well known architect of Simla. This plan has been submitted to the Simla Municipality for sanction.
The construction of the Dharamsala is estimated to cost Rs. 50,000 approximately, The donations and subscriptions so far realized and promised amount to about Rs. 20,000 which leaves a balance of Rs. 30,000 still to be raised.
Much as it desires, the Jain community in Simla being circumscribed cannot however, possibly finance the scheme without the generous support and hearty co-operation of its mofussil brethren, who we feel sure, will not hesitate to open cut their purse towards an object so noble and laudable in itself as not to need any word of explanation in its justification, Further, the Scriptures of Jain religion enjoin on its followers that they should congregate for worship in Jain temples, and build Dharamsalas in order that the unification of their communily may be encouraged, developed and perpetuated. There is, therefore no important or big town in India where one does not find our temples and Dharamsalas. Indeed, there is no reason why the existing deficiency in such an important station as Simla be not made up by the addition of a Dharamsala to the Jain temple.
"UNITY IS STRENGTH" and there is nothing which a united effort cannot accomplish. The whole record of the Jain community is a standing proof of this dictum. Let us then rise up to the occasion so that the task already taken in hand be brought to a successful close.
We earnestly hope that this humble appeal will evoke Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat
www.umaragyanbhandar.com
