Jainism in Bihar

Author(s): P C Roy Choudhary
Publisher: P C Roy Choudhary Patna

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probable expenditure on all accounts would he say 15,000 Rupees or less.
25. The construction of these bungalows, for there is no other place of shelter save the temple now available, would enable persons to reside in comfort for some time at the top of the hill, make observations on its climatal conditions, and explore its resources so as to collect data for a final judgment as to its capabilities and advantages as a sanatorium for the European soldier. If favorable, a Hospital for invalid soldiers could then be built next year.
26. If Government could depute any knowo scientific Medical Officer for the purpose of making observations, no doubt it would be very desirable, but if no one be available I would beg to suggest if a Deputy Collector be necessary to take up the ground, that Mr. Pearson, the Deputy Magistrate of Burdwan, might be nominated to that duty. He is, I believe by education and inclination well qualified to conduct a series of Meteorological observations such as would be required. With the aid of explorations by the Engineer Officers, and Departmental Subordinates, no more probably would be necessary.
A survey of the hill would of course require to be sanctioned and put in hand at once."
Besides being a sacred place for the Jains, Parasnath hill is also held sacred by the teeming Santhal population of the neighbouring districts of Hazaribagh, Manbhum, Bankura and Santhal Parganas. A traditional hunt for three days is carried on by the Saotbals of these districts during the full moon in the month of Baisakh. Inspite of the onslought on Santhal traditions and customs by the impact of modern civilisation tbeir customs of holding a tribal session after the hunt for the trial of charges against Mabajans and Parganaits (village headmen) and for other grave social matters still continue. There was a protracted litigation over this issue at the instance of the Swetambar Jains. This institution of the
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