Dr. Mahavir Raj Gelra
Truth means what really exists, Reality is that which 'is'. It is an ontological truth. The spiritual practitioners (sadhakas) possessed of extrasensory consciousness have discovered this truth and that is why they are known as the investigators of truth. The research into the realm of truth means the discover) of universal laws. Thus, that which is a universal law is truth. So scientists are also like sadhakas, as both are seeking and yearning for truth.
Lord Mahavira has directed - 'Search truth thyself. This approach (of self-search) is indeed a scientific one. Hence, it is difficult to draw a line of demarcation between the scientific research and research undertaken by sadhakas possessed of super sensory knowledge. Both are equally committed to unearth the truth - the fundamental laws of nature, facts and axioms governing the entire existence.
I have incessantly endeavoured to establish a link between the philosophical and scientific theories. We may consider such resemblances as complementary.
Dr. Mahavir Raj Gelra has concentrated on the comparisons and has given shape to this treatise aptly named as "Jain Vidya Aur Vigyan; Sandharbh - Acharya Mahapragya ka Sahitya." Comparative Study of Jainology & Science in context of the Finding of Acharya Mahapragya. Dr. Gelra is an erudite scholar of Jain Agamas and also keeps himself well abreast of the most recent findings in the field of modern scientific discoveries. He is a recipient of several awards. "Jain Vidya Manishi" is one such award which is indicative of his excellence in Jainological Studies. Ganadhipati Shree Tulsi had graced Dr. Gelra with the dignified title of "Terapanth Pravakta (Spokesperson)". He is also awarded "Kundakundad Jnanapitha Puraskara 2005" for his work "Science in Jainsm" by Kundakundad Jnanapitha (Digamber Jain Udasina Ashrama Trust) Indore.
Dr. Gelra and his family have remained sincere in Anuvrat and have also remained associated with the programmes of the Anuvrat from the very beginning. The Anuvrat Award (2005) is appreciation of his contributions to the enhancement of the moral values. His son, Piyush Jain, has made commendable efforts in English translation of the present book.
The present book on 'Jain Scientific View and Modern Scientific View' is as much important and useful to a student of philosophy as much as it is to a student of science. This sincere effort of Dr. Gelra will open new horizons for those who undertake the task of unveiling the truth.
- Acharya Mahapragya
14th January, 2007 Gangasahar (Raj.)
