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Origin of Chicago-Prashnottar
A reply to this letter was sent by the Jains of Bombay through Mr. Virchand Raghavaji Gandhi B. A., M. R. A. S., in consultation with the Muniraj Atmaramji. The purport of the reply was that the Muni Maharaj had received the letter and was highly pleased to hear of the undertaking about holding a Religious Parliament at Chicago. It was also stated that the Muniraj regretted that owing to old age, religious restrictions and some other private reasons he was unable to personally attend the Parliament of religions in compliance with the invitation. As desired, two photos of the Muniraj and a short biographical account of him together with some other interesting photos were also sent, an acknowledgment for which was requested. To this letter the following reply was received.
Chicago U. S. A. April 3rd, 1893
Muni Atmaramji, 9, Bank Street, Fort, Presidency Mills Co. Ltd.
Reverend Sir,
I am very much delighted to receive your acceptance of your appointment together with the photographs and the biography of your remarkable life. Is it not possible for you to attend the Parliament in person? It would give us great pleasure to meet you. At any rate, will you not be able to prepare a paper which will convey to the occidental mind, a clear account of the Jain Faith, which you so honourably represent? It will give us great pleasure and promote the ends of the Parliament if you are able to render this service.
I send you several copies of my second report. Hoping to hear from you soon and favourably, I remain with fraternal regards,
Yours cordially,
John Henry Barrows,
Chairman, Committee on Religious Congress.
A reply to the above letter was sent through Shah Maganlal Dalpatram, acknowledging the receipt of the letter and intimating
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