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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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