Abstract
This paper attempts to understand the history, art and architecture of Jains in
Pakistan with the new perspective. Among ancient religions of Indian
Subcontinent, Jainism is the only one that remained a practicing religion in
Pakistan till the country gained independence in 1947. Historical records clearly
mention presence of jain community in major cities of Pakistan. Archaeological
data consisting of jain temples, community halls and other shrines also throws
light on the contribution of jains in the socio-religious, cultural, architectural and
artistic activities of the country. Researches related to Indus Valley, Gandhara,
Islamic and Hindu art and architecture have overshadowed the study of jain
archaeology. Purpose of the present paper is to share what we intend to do
regarding the study of Jainism in Pakistan. No major work has been done for the
systematic exploration, identification and documentation of the jain built heritage
of Pakistan. The Department of Archaeology, University of the Punjab is taking
this initiative for the first time to make detailed study of history of Jainism, its rise
and decline. The study would highlight glory of the religion and contributions of
its followers in social, cultural, economic, artistic and architectural fields.
Comparative and analytical study of the jain archaeology would also be made
keeping in view variety of the jain building traditions. Awareness among research
scholars and local community would also be given to play their role for the
preservation of Jain heritage scattered in different parts of Punjab as well as of
Sindh province. Moreover, suggestions and expertise would also be offered to
preserve and conserve what we have of Jainism in Pakistan.
Muhammad Iqbal Chawla, Muhammad Hameed, Syeda Mahnaz Hassan. (2019) The Jain History, Art and Architecture in Pakistan: A Fresh Light1, Journal of the Research Society of Pakistan, Volume 56, Issue 1.
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