________________
- Contribution of Jainism to Philosophy, History and Progress critics of Europe. Their most sacred place is Mount Shntrunjay, situated near Palitana, in Kathiawar. Its summits are encrusted with marble temples and cloisters, erected in the course of many centuries at the expense of Jaina people. Several times in the year rich Jainas convey large bodies of their coreligionists to this and other holy places for pilgrimage at their cost. Besides, Jaina pilgrims singly and in large bands from all parts of India flock to these temples at all times of the year.
It may be noted that Lord Reay, as Governor of Bombay, having, after careful study, settled the disputes between the Jaina Community and the Chief of Palitana, fifteen years ago, an address of welcome was presented to him when he, with Lady Reay, visited that hill. That was the first official and public presentation to a British representative. In conclusion, I may observe that the present Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon. in reply to an address by the Jainas of Calcutta, made the following remarks :
“Among the various communities which have addressed me since my arrival in India there is none whose words of welcome awaken a more responsive echo in my breast than the Jainas. I am aware of the high ideas embodied in your religion, of the scrup pulous conception of humanity which you entertain, of your great mercantile influence and activity, and of the ample charities that have characterized your public and private dispensations. Previous travels in India have also familiarized me with many of your temples, in whose architectural features I have observed a refinement that reminds me of the great days of Asiatic art.”
221
mm
Jain Education International
For Personal & Private Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
