Jain Digest 2001 03 Vol 18 No 02

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/527081/1

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The Magazine of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America
JAIN DIGEST
Summer 2001 Volume 18 No 2
JAINS in the US CONGRESS!
www.jaina.org www.jaina2001.com

Jain Education Intemational 2010_02

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JAIN TEMPLE, WASHINGTON, DC
Cardiology Vinod K. Shah, MD, FACC A. A. Patal, MD, FACC Mahesh P. Shah MD,FACO Anil K. Shah, MD, FACC Anantha Rao, MD, FACC Gastroenterology Umed K. Shah, MD, FACG Atul R. Shah, MD, FACG Nayan R. Shah, MD, FACG Sreenivas Mannam MD Pulmonology Kiran D. Mehta, MD, FOCP Neurology Beena A. Shah, MD Internal Medicine Bhasker A. Jhaveri, MD David M. Federle, MD Mary Kramer, MD Avani D. Shah, MD Dhiren Shah, MD Chandra B. Saja, MD Manoj Panwala, MD Hematology/Oncology Gurdeep Chhabra, MD Harminder S. Sethi, MD Gerontology Anwar T. Munshi, MD, FACP Rita B. Jhaveri, MD Pediatrics IL V, Shah, MD, FAAP M.FO. Lafeer, MD, FAAP Dawn Bertram Stewart, MD Beera Kheepal, MD Fahmi H. Fahmi MD Pediatrics/Internal Medicine James L. Harring, MD, FAAP, FACP Family Practice John E Fenwick, MD J. Patrick Jarboe, MD Robert J. Bauer, MD John L. Bennett, MD J. Scott Tidball, MD Roy H. Bunales, MD Radiology Halappa G. Hakkal. MD Harris E. Orzach, MD Paychiatry Aruna A. Patil, MD Endocrinology John Tourtelot, MD
JAI JINENDRA अहो! अहो! श्री सद्गुरु, करुणासिंधु अपार 31 TR RTY UT, 3TET! 3TET! 34c5R (828)
Thanks! the Holy True Teacher! Unfathomable ocean of compassion;
I'm highly obliged; Oh! good Teacher, The Pupil poor has no expression. (124)
शु प्रभुचरणकने धरूं? आत्माथी सह हीन, ते तो प्रभुओ आपियो, वर्तु चरणाधिन (१२५) What should I offer to you, Lord? In soul-comparison all is trifle;
The soul is gifted by the Lord, I wish to act to your oracle. (125)
- Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra, Srimad Rajchandra -
Hollywood Office Philip J. Bean Medical Center PO, Box 640 24035 Three Notch Road Hollywood, MD 20636 301-373-7900 Leonardtown Offices Shanti Medical Center PO Box 664 26840 Point Lookout Road, Suite 101 Leonardtown, MD 20650 301-475-5577 301-475-5524 St. Mary's Medical Arts Building PO Box 306 22650 Cedar Lane Court Leonardtown, MD 20650 310-475-5021 301-475-5023 Prince Frederick Office Calvert Medical Office Building 110 Hospital Road, Suite 303 Prince Frederick, MD 20678 410-535-4333 Lexington Park Office 22335 Exploration II Suite 1030 & 1035 Lexington Park, MD 20653 301-863-7041 301-863-9000 California Office PO Box 540 23263 By the Mill Road California, MD 20619 301-863-5835 Charlotte Hall Office Charlotte Hall Medical Centre PO Box 507 29795 Three Notch Road Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 301-884-7322 301-884-7330 Mechanicsville Office Village Medical Annex 28160 Old Village Road, Suite A Mechanicsville, MD 20659 301-884-4666 Washington Area 831 University Blvd.. #32 Silver Spring, MD 20903 301-445-4430
We dedicate ourselves to ceaseless efforts of Acharya Sushil Kumarji and Gurudev Chitrabhanuji,
in spreading the principles of Jainism among all the Jains settled in North America.
We congratulate the Executive Committee for their devoted service to JAINA.
SHAH ASSOCIATES, M.D., L.L.C.
Shanti Medical Center, P.O. Box 664, Leonardtown, MD 20650 Phone: 301-475-5579 Metro 301-870-2049 Fax 301-884-7419

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JAIN DIGEST
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
SUMMER 2001 VOL.18 NO. 2 CIRCULATION: 7500
Dear Dharambandhu,
In this issue
Headquarter News..
Life of Virchand Raghavji
Gandhi...
V. R. Raghavji's
Contribution to Jaininsm..10
V.R. Gandhi's Literature...12
Committee News....
Regional News
It only feels like yesterday that this Executive Committee was sworn in two years ago. As they say, time flies when you have fun, even if it is in performing your duties. The enjoyment for this Executive Committee was in discharging its duties to advance the cause of our religion in a very sincere and cooperative manner, always following the essential spirit of our religion-Anekantvad and Ahimsa.
In my acceptance speech, I promised to work on the strong foundation laid down by our past presidents. I would like to review with you some of the achievements we have accomplished in these two years.
As you may have realized, Jain Digest has spectacularly improved in its appearance as well as its diversified contents. Many issues were dedicated to special occasions, such as Prathishtas, YJA/ YJP Conventions, Shrimath Rai Chand's Centennial, and Shri Kanji Swami's Birth Centennial. The Spring issue is dedicated to the commencement of Lord Mahavir's 2600" Janm Kalyanak Celebrations. Our congratulations to its Editor-in-Chief and the entire editorial board.
JAINA's World Community Service, under the leadership of Bachubhai Ajmera, Bhadresh Dhila, and Prakash Mehta, with the guidance of Mr. Dhiraj Shah, has also stood the test of time. As we all know, at present, it's deeply involved in rebuilding villages by adopting them in the earthquakestricken state of Gujarat. Most of JAINA's member centers, such as New York, Boston, and Washington, have joined with JAINA in contributing their funds, putting full faith in the experience, devotion, and sincerity of our committee members. To other centers, who have still not joined in this long-term task of helping to rebuild, I sincerely advise you to join your hands with JAINA.
JAINA's Tirth Yatra project is getting more and more popular with Jains in North America and receiving full support and welcome in India. Maybe, the dream of its chairman, Mr. Dilip Shah, of taking more sanghs to various Tirths each year may come true one day.
JAINA's newly-formed Tirthodhar Committee, has not only done well in helping institutions take care of our Sadhu sangh, but has also taken important lead in taking care our modern Tirths (our primary educational schools). My hearty congratulations to Mr. Kirit Daftary and his team and his committee members.
JAINA's Media Watch and Public Relations Committee, under the leadership of its chairman Dr. Sushil Jain, has done a tremendous job in promoting recognition of Jain religion and the Jain community in our nation's capital, Washington D.C. For the first time in the history of the United States, a Jain prayer will be recited in the United States Senate and the House of Representatives on May 22nd 2001. The committee has also been active in protecting the name 'JAIN' from becoming a trademark name for a product of the technology giant Sun-Micro Systems.
JAINA's Mahavir Memorial Committee, under the able leadership of JAINA's past president, Dr. Manoj Dharamsi, has already developed plans for year-long celebrations for the 2600ch Janm Kalyanak of Bhagwan Mahavir, along with a very impressive and informative booklet on Jainism and Lord Mahavir.
Life Members Update........22
JAINA Current Financial
Statement.
MIS Registration Form......23
Matrimonials
Young Jian Professionals....27
Young Minds............
Moving? Receiving duplicate copies? Send your address corrections to:
Cover: The cover photograph was taken on the steps of the Capital Building, in Washington DC, right after the prayer in US Congress with Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., House Chaplain Conghlin, Manek Muniji and Gurudev Cbitrabbana small photo: All the past presidents of JAINA
JAIN DIGEST CIRCULATION Federation of JAINA P. O. Box 700 Getzville, NY 14068-0700
Cover Design by: Dhrumil Kumar Purohit, Bear, DE
(DRUMDOG007@aol.com)
Jain Education Intemational 2010_02

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 200141.rary.org

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JAIN DIGEST
Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA)
A publication of the FEDERATION OF JAIN ASSOCIATIONS
IN NORTH AMERICA (JAINA)
HEADQUARTERS PO Box 700. Gerzville, NY 14068-0700
Phone/Fax: 716/636-5342 Telephone Hours: Monday - Friday
2 PM - 5 PM EST
JAINA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President Mahendra K. Pandya Phone: 718/816-0083, Fax: 212/319-6781
EDITOR IN CHIEF Lata Champsee 21 Swiftdale Place Don Mills, ONT M3B 1M3 Canada Phone: 416/441-2200 Fax: 416/441-2211 latachampsce@usa.net
First Vice President Bipin D. Parikh Phone: 847/699-1294, Fax: 312/726-4274
Regional Vice Presidents Jasvant Mehta, Canada Phone: 780/435-9070, Fax: 780/497-5598
REGIONAL EDITORS Canada Dr. Mahendra Mehta 26 Vancho Cres Islington, Ont M9A 472 Phone/Fax 416/241-2044
lla G. Mehta, Midwest US Phone: 419/865-2727, Fax: 419/868-7476
Hansraj C. Maru, Northeast US Phone/Fax: 203/775-1906
Midwest, US Manubhai Dashi 931 Golden Road Lake Forest, IL 60045 Phone: 847/735-0120
Deepika Dalal, Southeast US Phone: 954/431-5957, Fax: 954/545-6501
JAINA COMMITTEES Abimsa Day Celebration
JAINA Website Committee Surendra Singhvi 937/885-7414
Girish P. Shah 408/378-8765 Calendar Committee
Long Term Planning Rajiv Pandya
Prabodh Vaidya 630/985-9144 Community Leadership Council
Mahavir Memorial Ramesh Shah 440/442-4596
Dr. Manoj Dharamsi 703/620-9837 Environment and Ecology
Marriage Information Service Nancy Jain 416/447-1650
Hasmukh Shah 727/376-7989 Essay Competition
Media Watch/Public Relations Chhaya Kapadia 516/829-3316
Sushil Jain 301/670-0519 JAINA Convention Board
Membership Bipin Parkih 847/669-1294
Kamlesh Shah 301/838-9778 Gout - International Organizations Relations N. American lain families Assitance Program Dhiraj H. Shah 716/773-1314
Ila Mehta 419/865-2727 Interfaith Activities/World Council of Jains
Pilgrimage Manoj Dharamsi 703/620-9837
Dilip V. Shah 215/561-0581 Rashmi Gardi 847/428-4298
Senior Citizens fatin Poojas
Kantilal Shah 949/831-8687 Naresh Shah 516/741-9269
Scholar Visitation Arhant Jain 905/827-7494
Nirmal Dosi 732/390-0296 JAIN DIGEST Membership
Tirthodhdhar Keerti Shah 630/837-8716
Kirit Daftary 254/776-4209 JAINA Education Committee
VR Candhi Scholarship Fund Pravin K. Shah 919/859-4994
Pravin C. Shah 516/248-8265 JAINA Temple Guidelines
World Community Service Jagat Jain 716/688-0104
Bachtibhai Ajmera 301/924-8070 Jiv Daxe
Bhadresh Dhila 301/589-4610 Ratibhai Shah 8177430-8081
Prakash Mehta 703/318-8252 JAINA Library Committee
Young Jains of America (YJA) Virendra Shah 310/326-5685
Birud Jhaveri 503/292-1965 JAINA Publication Committee
Nirav Shah 215/361-1544 Prem Gada 806/794-4777
Young lain Professional (YJP) MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS
Manav Jain 818/360-4178 Regulor Two directors on JAINA's Board over 50 families. Asezate: One director on JAINAS Bxird (up to 50 families
Kirit C. Daftary, Southwest US Phone: 254/776-4209. Fax: 254/753-1411
Northeast, US Dineshbhai Chheda 9 Johnson Ave West Caldwell, NJ 07006 Phone: 973/394-1701
Girish P. Shah, West US Phone: 408/378-8765, Fax: 650/694-6961
Southeast, US Surendra Shah 1465 Sumter Drive Marietta, GA 30064-2920 Phone: 770/422-1483
Secretary Vinay K. Vakani Phone: 201/967-9344, Fax: 201/967-9344
Treasurer Anop R. Vara Phone: 716/473-9290, Fax: 716/473-9450
Southwest, US Jadavji Kenia (jkenia@iname.com) 1819 Plymouth Rock Drive Richardson, TX 75081-3942 Phone: 972/690-3593
Immediate Past President Dhiraj H. Shah Phone: 716/773-1314, Fax: 716/775-0268
West, US Chandrakant Parekh 12914 Wolverton Lane Cerritos, CA 90703-7265. Phone: 562/865-1679, Fax: (562) 865-0851 engsys@aol.com
SPECIAL OFFICE BEARER Executive Director of JAINA Kamalesh Amin Phone/Fax: 716/646-5342 jainah@aol.com
CANADA Regular
Toronto Associate
Edmonton Montreal Ottawa Vancouver
SOUTHWEST Reynler
Dallas Houston
Phoenix Associate
"Tulsa Lubbock Colorado
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Young Minds Reshma Modi 248/ 851-3965, reshmamodi@mail.com
All Board of Directors names were printed in the Summer 2000 issue.
SOUTHEAST Regular
Atlanta Miami Asia Augusta Charlotte Fe Meyers Jacksonville Memphis Middle Tennessee Morgantown New Orleans Orlando Palm Beach Raleigh Tampa
NORTHEAST Regular
Boston Buffalo Cherry Hall Exsex Fells Hudson Valley New York Orange Philadelphia Pittsburgh Rochester
Washington, DC Ascociate
Albany Allentown Elmira Harrisburgh Hartford Syracuse
JAINA CHARITABLE TRUST
Mansi Shah 562-404-2851, MansiShah@aol.com
MIDWEST Regular
Chicago Cincinati/Dayton Cleveland Columbus Detroit St. Louis Associate
Kansas City Minneapolis Milwaukee
Executive Council Chairmen - Dhiraj Shah, Buffalo, NY
Mahendra Pandya, New York, NY Comptroller - Jagar Jain, Buffalo, NY Secretary General - Kiri Kapadia, New York, NY Members-ar-Large
Rajen Jaswa, Saratoga, CA Bipin Parikh. Chicago, IL. Bhupendra Tolia, Norwood, NJ
WEST Reguler Los Angkes
San Francisco Aware
Portland Sacramento San Diego
Matrimonials Hasmukh Shah 8721 Scrimshaw Drive New Port Richey, FL 34653-6623 Phone: 727/376-7989
AFFILIATES
JAINA FOCUS
MANAGING EDITORIAL BOARD Lata Champsee, Manubhai Doshi, Jagat Jain. Ramesh Jain, Vijay Jain, Harshad Shah, Anop Vora
Trustees All Trustees names and photos to be printed in the Fall 2000 issue.
The Managing Editorial Board will endeavor to publish all material submitted but reserves the right to edit and/or reformat for dacicy and space restrictions. The views expressed in the articles are chose of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Managing Editorial Board of JAIN DIGEST.
JAINA ON THE INTERNET SAINA
Jain BBS hetp://www.jaina.org/ http:/www.jainism.org
Young fains of America http://www.yja.org/
Brahmi Jain Society, US and Canada International Alumni Association of Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya, Rochester, NY International Mahavir Jain Mission, US and Canada Jain Meditation International Center. US & Canada Jain Social Group, LA and Toronto Kutchhi Gurjar Jain Society. Grand Island, NY Kutchhi Oswal Samaj, San Francisco Shri S. S. Jain Foundation, Toronto, Canada Shri Mahavir Jain Foundation, Santa Ana, CA Jain Academic Foundation of N. America. Lubbock. 7X
JAINA publishes the JAINA Focus monthly newsletter for administrative purposes. It is sent to all member organizations and committee members of JAINA. All news items for publication in the JAINA Focus must be sent to the Editor by the 10th of each month: Dilip V. Shah 1902 Chestnut Street Philadelphia, PA 19103-4678 Phone: 215/561-0581, Fax: 215/567-3146 dilipivshah@aol.com
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OF JAIN DIGEST
PUBLICATION DATES AND DEADLINES Spring (March)
February 15 Summer (June)
May 15 Fall (September)
August 15 Winter (December) November 15
We encourage our readers to send their questions, comments or views on current issues or concerns facing the Jain community of North Anterica to the Editor in Chief, Lata Champree. We endeavor to publish all letters, space permiting. The JAIN DIGEST reserves the right to edit all material for clarity and/or space. All letters must include the sender's name, address and phone number to be considered for publication.
Jain 3GJAIN DIGEST: SUMMER 20012

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President's Message (cont.)
JAINA's Convention Board, with Dr. Bipin Parikh as its conveyor and Mr. Kishore Shah and Mr. Prabodh Vidhya as its coconveyors, along with the entire dedicated convention team, is making very sincere efforts in giving us a unique, memorable convention, religiously and socially. Full involvement of YJA and YJP will bring our new generation ever closer to our religion. I invite you to come, along with your family and friends to fully enjoy and be exposed to the richness of our religion.
JAINA's Matrimonial Committee has brought many Jain youths together for life long commitments in keeping our Jain heritage alive. Thank you, Hasmukhbhai Shah, for the sincere dedication you have shown in carrying on this vital and time consuming service to our society.
JAINA's Education Committee chairman Mr. Pravinbhai Shah and JAINA Publication Committee chairman Dr. Prem Gada are developing plans to help teachers of Jain Pathshalas and Jains at various centers to publish and disseminate books to enable Jain families in North America to do Swadhaya through self-study.
JAINA's Temple Guideline Committee, under the able leadership of our past president Dr. Jagat Jain, has accomplished a lot in establishing united, non-sectarian Jain institutions in North America.
Our Sadhus, Sadhvis and scholars are the foundation on which we learn the basics of our religion. And for that, we appreciate the long-term commitment of Mr. Nirmal Doshi, in his efforts to make them available to the North American Jain community.
JAINA's Calendar project, which began two years ago, has made Jains throughout North America more cognizant of our heritage. Incorporating all of your valuable suggestions, we are now in the process of producing calendars for the year 2002. We appreciate the hard work and dedication of its newly elected chairman, Mr. Rajeev Pandya, for handling this project from its very inception.
JAINA Trustees and Patrons have proved to be the financial backbone of JAINA, without whose help we would never have been able to make the progress we have made. I sincerely thank them for their regular contributions and commitment by upholding their belief in Jainism
JAINA has too many other committees to be mentioned performing their duties faithfully. We thank all of these for their continual hard work and sincere efforts, which continue to keep JAINA strong.
Our sincere thanks to Mr. Kamlesh Amin, administrator of JAINA Headquarters, for his sincere hard work and dedication.
While we can take pride in all of the above achievements, there has been increasing concerns about maintaining our Jain unity among different Jain traditions. The non-sectarian approach taken by Jaina and so far whole heartedly supported by the Jains in North America, has become a bright and refreshing example for the Jain community worldwide. It therefore becomes the responsibility of each and everyone of us as well as the Sadhus and Sadhvis and Scholars to help preserve this unique character of Jains in North America. Those who are coming here to enlighten us about our religion would better serve the Jain community if they refrained from pursuing their own agendas or opening their own ashrams or a branch of their institution in North America. The goal of unity is paramount for us to flourish here and pass our valued religious heritage to the young generation.
Last but not the least, I find no words to express my feeling of happiness and gratitude towards the members of JAINA's Executive Board and their families, for their dedication in performing their sacred duties for JAINA. I also thank all our past presidents, who always extended their guidance to me personally, and to the entire JAINA Organization.
Finally, I do not want to fail in discharging my humble duty to thank Mrs. Asha Pandya, who, along with our joint family of two sons - Sanjay and Rajeev and daughters Renu and Deepti and our six grandchildren, let our family become a JAINA office for the past two years; helping me in each and every task that I was involved in doing for JAINA. I am sure they will all miss this fortunate opportunity given to them, but I can reassure them that I will keep them as busy as I have in the past two years with my continued commitment to JAINA.
Once again, I thank each and every member of the Jain community of North America for their wholehearted support to JAINA. I take full responsibility of not being able to do as much as I wanted or was expected to accomplish. Also for any hurt feelings, which I personally or JAINA members might have caused during the past two years, Micchami Dukadam.
Jai Jinendra and Thank You Very Much!
Dr. Mahendra K. Pandya, President, JAINA
Jain Education Intermational 2010_02
Jain Education Interational 2010_02

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HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
JAINS MADE HISTORY IN THE U.S. CONGRESSE
lation of Shivamastu "May the entire universe attain bliss. May all beings be interested in one another's well being. May all faults be eliminated. May people be happy everywhere. Om Shanti! Shanti! Shanti!".
Over 140 delegates of Jain community from all over USA and Canada along with the representatives from Indian Embassy witnessed this momentous event from the Gallery of the House of Representatives. Among the delegates were Shree Manak Muniji, current President of JAINA, Dr. Mahendra Pandya, accompanied by all the past presidents of JAINA (Drs. Manoj Dharamsi, Tansukh
Salgia, Sulekh Jain, Jagat Jain, Manibhai Mehta, and Dhiraj Shah), Jaina Presidents with HouseChaplain Congblin, Gurudev
Jain Center Presidents and other Jain dignitaries. The day before, Chitrabbanaji, and Manekemuniji at the reception
the Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. held a recep
tion at the Jain Center in honor of all the out of town visiting Jains of North America made history on May 22, 2001 when dignitaries. Gurudev Chitrabhanuji delivered the opening prayer in the House After the ceremonies, Congressman Frank Pallone held a reof Representative in celebration of 2600th birth anniversary of ception for all the delegates of Jain community. Father Daniel Lord Mahavir. For the first time in the history of the United Coughlin, Chaplain for the House also participated in the recepStates of America, Jainism and Jains of North America received tion, and thanked the Jain community for taking the initiative. this unprecedented recognition and honor of delivering a prayer JAINA representatives also presented a set of books on Jainism to in the US House of Representative. The cover photograph was Congressman Pallone, Chaplain Coughlin and their staff. Foltaken on the steps of the Capital Building after this historic event. lowing the reception, a senior staff member of Congressman Pallone
After the prayer, congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. of New Jer- also gave an extensive tour of the Capitol Buildings to all Jain sey, the sponsor of the event, paid trib
delegates who attended the utes to the Jain philosophy of non-vio
prayer. lence and to the Jain community in North
A group of JAINA DelAmerica for organizing this event. He
egates met with Senator Stated "Jains all around the world cel
Hillary Rodham Clinton of ebrated the 2600th Birth Anniversary of
New York to follow-up on the Lord Mahavir, the last of the revered 24
invitation to be the Chief Jinas who spread the Jain message. I guess
Guest at the 11th Biennial you could say, in a way, Lord Mahavir
JAINA convention. Senator was ahead of his times, once proclaiming
Clinton expressed a strong that all human beings are equal whether
desire to accept the invitation. male or female, rich or poor. The Jain
This delegation also met with religion, which places heavy emphasis on
Senator George Voinovich of personal and societal non-violence in JAINA delegates with Senator Hillary Clinton
Ohio to co-sponsor similar
prayer in the US Senate somethoughts, speech and actions, has flourished in India for over 3500 time
later this year. years”. He congratulated Dr. Sushil Jain for organizing, and thanked This landmark event was initiated and guided by Dr. Sushil House Chaplain Coughlin for allowing Jains the opportunity to Jain, Chairman of the JAINA Public Affairs Council and Dr. Manoj celebrate the Jain spirit on the House floor.
Dharamsi, Chairman of the 2600th Birth Anniversary Celebrations The prayer was delivered in English in accordance with the of Lord Mahavir. rules for the prayer in the congress. It started with "Let us all join our hands, heads and hearts together and bow to all perfect and liberated souls, and to all spiritual teachers" and ended with trans
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HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
JAIN RATNA AWARD
PRATISHTHA IN MILWAUKEE
हावीर
2600 ST
Dr. Dhiraj Shab receiveing JAIN RATNA award
from Prime Minister Mr. Atal Bibari Bajpai
JAINA is pleased to inform you that at a 2600th Birth Anni- versary Celebration ceremony held in Bombay on April gh, the Prime Minister of India Mr. Atal Bihari Bajpai awarded JAIN RATNA award to Former President of JAINA Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah of Buffalo, N.Y.
Dr. Dhiraj Shah, acting chairman of JAINA Charitable Trust was among the 26 prominent Jains world wide to receive this honor at a function organized jointly by many Jain societies representing all four Jain sects. Among others receiving the honor were Dr. L. M. Singhvi, Sheth Shrenik Lalbhai, Shri Kumarpal Desai, Indu Jain of Times of India Group, C. N. Sanghavi. Dr. Natubhai Shah, Nemubhai Chandaria and Musician Ravindra Jain.
The Prime Minister released Vardhman, a book on Jainism and the constitution of the World Jain Confederation. The Prime Minister and the other speakers spoke of relevance of Mahavir's message of Ahimsa and Anekantwad in the world today.
A small community of less than 30 Jain families in Milwaukee now has a Jain temple of their own. Under the banner of Jain Religion Center of Wisconsin, they have come together and have completed a temple adjacent to the Hindu Temple. The temple now has three beautiful Pratimajis of Lord Mahavira (37"), Parswanth (33") and Adinath Bhagwan (33"), specially carved from top quality Makrana Marble.
For three days this past Memorial Day weekend, Jains from all over the United States and India celebrated “Pratishtha Mahotsav" in a traditional manner. Pandit Nirmal Doshi from Mumbai and Shri Devendrakeerty Bhattarakji conducted the Pratishtha ceremonies. Sadhavi Shri Shubhamji of Veerayatan and Saman Shrutpragyaji and Sthitpragyaji of Ladnun also graced the occasion and provided spiritual discourses. Three large video screens were set up in various halls on the campus to make sure that all present were able to participate in all of the Pujas and rituals. Saturday evening's performance of the musical drama Nem Rajul attracted a crowd of record size. The weather Sunday morning started out cold and rainy but at the time of 108 Kalash Rath Yatra the skies cleared and the sun came out, making the sight of the procession truly heart warming. The highlight of the day was the actual pratishtha at 11.31 A.M. The welcoming of the lords in the murtis' final positions sparked spontaneous dancing and singing. All present had tears of joy in their eyes. The atmosphere was filled with singing, dancing and the celebratory ringing of the bell. Faith and emotions had overwhelmed the entire crowd of about 1,000 devotees. The evening's Raja Kumarpal Aarti of 108 divas with a band and dancing procession was another emotional experience for the entire congregation. Many claimed that they
had a religious experience of a lifetime during this event. A program of Bhajans and Dandia Ras concluded this remarkable day in Wisconsin for Jains.
Everyone that attended the pratishtha walked away with renewed enthusiasm in his or her belief in Jainism. Many out of town guests said they are now encouraged to build temples in other cities in the United States. For local adults and children these experiences strengthened their faith in the Jain religion and brought it closer to their hearts.
Milwaukee Temple
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HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
GIVELSE
JAINA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETS IN CHICAGO
The Executive Committee of JAINA held its meeting on . On April 6th, 2001, there will be a program on 2600h March 31, 2001 at the Temple in Bartlett, IL.
Birth Anniversary in New Delhi and JAINA will be represented. The following items were discussed at this meeting:
Dhiraj Shah whould represent JAINA as a member of the Execu• The meeting was opened with the recitation of Namokar tive Committee. Mantra.
• JAINA calendar was very well received by our commu• JAINA President Mahendra Pandya was unable to attend nity. Rajiv Pandya is already working on the 2002 calendar. the meeting due to health problems. In his absence Bipin Parikh,
Gujarat earthquake relief work is going on well. Some of First Vice President, JAINA chaired the meeting and welcomed the JAINA members had already visited the affected area. the Executive Committee members, Convention Board members · April 7th, 2001 is the last day for sending the names of and other guests.
Board of Directors for 2001 to Vinay Jain, Chairman, Nomina• Bipin Parikh and Vinay Vakani, Secretary, JAINA stated tion and Election Committee. that Mahendra Pandya had been hospitalized in India and wished . The First Vice President of JAINA traditionally acts as him a quick recovery. All attendees expressed the same sentiments. the chairman of the Award Committee. Though he would like to
. Vinay Vakani read the minutes of the meeting held on stay on the committee, because of other responsibilities he proSeptember 30, 2000 at Siddhachalam. The following items were posed to include Chandrakant Mehta from New Jersey as a memdiscussed prior to approving the minutes:
ber. Executive Committee approved the proposal. Award nomi1. Dhiraj Shah raised a question regarding the discussion at
nation details went out with the JAINA Convention flyer- first Siddhachalam that all JAINA Committee Chairpersons should do
two award are one each and the remaining number would be dethe disbursement of the funds after review by the Executive Com- cided later. mittee. He stated that individual committee traditionally disbursed . Anop Vora presented the Treasurer's report. He pointed the funds raised by the committee and did not see need for in- out that JAINA did not have sufficient funds in General Fund. forming the Executive Committee about this matter. Vinay Vakani He proposed to take $20,000 out of Calendar and Booksource stated that all funds raised by various committees were received in Committee's account. According to Anop Vora, Calendar and the name of JAINA. It was therefore appropriate and prudent Booksource Committee has a balance of $45,000 and it needs that JAINA Executive Committee was apprised (not specifically only $20,000 to publish calendars. It was reasoned that when people seeking an approval) of disbursement of the funds. Anop Vora, send money to JAINA in response to calendar they are really supTreasurer, JAINA stated that he felt comfortable with the current porting JAINA and not just the Calendar Committee's effort. So arrangement and did not see the need for informing the Executive it should be acceptable to take the money from Calendar Committee. Since there was no resolution adopted on this issue Committee's account. Anop Vora also proposed to get $10,000 at Sidhhachalam meeting, it was decided to delete the reference to from JAINA Charitable trust. this subject from the minutes.
Dhiraj Shah suggested that just as Jain Digest is a JAINA 2. The Minutes of the Meeting inadvertently omitted to project we should make calendar also a JAINA project. This way record the resolution that was adopted at Sidhhachalam meeting any donation received against the calendar will go to JAINA Genthat elected Rajiv Pandya as the chairman of the Calendar Com- eral Fund. mittee. The resolution was adopted at the time of splitting the Vinay Vakani stated that it is totally inappropriate to take Education Committee into various committees. This omission money from the Calendar and Booksource Committee without was discovered while discussing the funds needed for JAINA's deficit first discussing it with the committee chairman. In light of previfor the year. For the record, Rajiv Pandya is the duly appointed ous discussion on disbursement of funds by the committee chairchairman of the Calendar Committee.
persons, it is only proper to follow the same guidelines. He proThe minutes of the meeting were approved with above two posed that Bipin Parikh should talk this over with Mahendra amendments.
Pandya, and both of them approach Rajiv Pandya to obtain his • Bipin Parikh, the acting President, presented the follow
views on this matter. ing President's Report:
Dilip Shah suggested that the general practice of JAINA should • The celebration of Bhagwan Mahavir's 2600th Janna be to request the committee for money and not take away directly Kalyanak (Birth Anniversary) will be a focal point of the JAINA as these committees raise money for their own use. Convention.
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Page #9

HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
Manibhai Mehta's suggestion was to send a Jain Digest registration form along with the calendar, so that we can increase the Jain Digest registration.
Kishore Shah suggested that JAINA General Fund should charge some amount to each committee for administrative expenses. This way we can build the JAINA general funds.
It was decided that Bipin Parikh should discuss the matter with Rajiv Pandya. It was also agreed to request JAINA charitable trust to give $10,000 for operating expenses of JAINA.
Dilip Shah put forth a proposal to make Jain Digest self-supporting by selling the advertisement space in Jain digest. To achieve this, he proposed that the Executive Committee should create a marketing manager's position. The marketing manager will compile the demographics of Jain Digest readers and present that information to companies to get their advertisement. This will create a continuous stream of revenue, which will support the publication of the Jain Digest.
Lata Champsee, liked the idea of making Jain digest self-sufficient. However, she felt that advertising fee would have to be between $500-$1000 for a page and there should be guidelines for the kind of ads we publish.
Vinay Vakani expressed skepticism about treating the Jain Digest as an advertising tool- like a for-profit publication. He also asked whether JAINA - as non-profit organization - could sell advertising space.
Bipin Parikh proposed Samprati Shah as marketing manager for Jain Digest. Dilip Shah suggested that Executive Committee should create an Editorial Board (at present there is an Editorial Board that will be dismantled) that can respond to the readers and the advertisers in a coordinated manner.
It was decided to establish a Managerial Board for the Jain Digest, which will comprise of Editor-in-Chief, marketing manager and circulation manager. It was also agreed that Editor-inChief would act as the chairperson of this board.
⚫ JAINA Patrons: JAINA should deliver all the services and privileges to the Patrons as promised. Bipin Parikh assured that steps have been taken on this issue for 2001 Convention to avoid the past mistakes. The Patrons will be given lapel pin and the preferred seating at the opening ceremony, cultural programs, etc. JAINA Committee Reports:
⚫YJA Committee: Chintan Shah reported that YJA have elected 4 new members to the YJA Board during their January meeting. They also started 7 new projects. They have started a project to involve more youths in voluntary activities at the local level. YJA was involved in collecting and shipping much needed supplies for the victims of the earthquake.
They have also started a project nicknamed Adinath to upgrade and enhance their website. The website will be more inter
active and will also feature online Pathshala.
Jain Education Intemational 2010_02
To celebrate the 2600th Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir, YJA has created a play depicting the 27 lives of Bhagwan Mahavir. The play will be performed at various Jain Centers throughout North America. They requested donation for this effort.
He also mentioned that they had planned 5 regional conferences over Thanksgiving weekend last year out of which 3 took place. The conferences were self-supported by the attendees and no money from YJA was spent on it.
Shama Khandwala mentioned that YJA have started a project to update their membership database. She also mentioned YJA website has all the information about the projects that they are working on for 2002 YJA convention. The bids are being accepted from different cities to host the convention. So far one bid has been received. YJA is involved in the Chicago Convention
YJA is also in contact with young Jains in UK, Singapore, and Japan to have more open communication.
Anop Vora suggested to YJA members that they collect all the accounting information within 3 months after the YJA convention and submit it to JAINA Treasurer. This will make the accounting easier. Bipin Parikh suggested that all committees including YJA use accounting guidelines set by JAINA.
Mahavir Memorial Committee: On behalf of Mahavir Memorial Committee, Sushil Jain reported on the efforts that are being made to kickoff the North American celebration of 2600th Janma Kalyanak of Bhagwan Mahavir. He stated that the committee had prepared a flyer narrating the history and the tenets of Jainism, and the life of Bhagwan Mahavir. This is for distribution to Jains as well as non-Jains while kicking off our celebration.
⚫ Education Committee: Pravin Shah (NC), Chairman of the Education Committee reported that he had contacted the Pathshala coordinators and Pathshala teachers to obtain their input in developing the plans for future activities. The committee will set up a website that will allow all Pathshalas to communicate with each other. Starting in May 2001, he wants to start a 2-day class on Jainism for the Executive Committee members as well as other adults. There will be $50 fee that will cover food and lodging. If there is good response to this offer, he plans to continue this program every month.
Website Committee: Girish Shah, Chairman of the Website Committee is planning to have 7 members to work on setting up the website and other IT infrastructure. The committee will have a sub-committee involved in fund raising to support the
IT projects. There will also be a sub-committee that will manage the content to be published on the website. Vinay Vakani asked about the advisability of publishing the phone numbers, e-mail
addresses and other personal data about the JAINA volunteers. Girish Shah also expressed his concern about this matter and promised to look into the potential problems.

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/7

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HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
Media Watch and Public Relations Committee: Sushil Jain, Chairman of the Media Watch and Public Relations Committee informed the attendees that Jain prayers would be recited in the upcoming session of the United States House of Representatives and the Senate on May 22, 2001. For the first time in the history of the United States of America, Jainism and Jains will receive this unprecedented recognition and honor. Bipin Parikh and Vinay Vakani enthusiastically commended the achievements of the committee and all present applauded. (See details on this historic event and committee report else where in this issue)
Sushil Jain proposed to change the name of JAINA Media Watch to JAINA Public Affairs Council because the term council would have a lot more impact during press briefings. The Executive Committee members approved the proposal.
⚫ Jain Digest Membership Committee: Keerti Shah, Chairman of the membership Committee stated that more Jain Digest members were added since last year. He suggested that it would be good if we could make it a requirement that new directors be come life members of Jain digest. He also suggested that all Jain Centers should take the opportunity of Mahavir Jayanti celebration to start the drive to increase Jain Digest membership. Kirit Daftary suggested that the life membership should be increased to $201 from $101. Dhiraj Shah suggested increasing the life membership fee to $151fee starting July 2001. No decision was made. Keerti Shah mentioned that currently some people get multiple copies of the Jain Digest. This needs to be corrected. Veerendra Shah (CA) volunteered to correct this problem for his Jain Center.
Pilgrimage Committee: Dilip Shah, Chairman of the Pilgrimage Committee reported on the last pilgrimage to Sammet Shikhar. During this pilgrimage, they visited 75 Kalyanaks in 15 days. The details of the pilgrimage are published in the Spring Issue of the Jain Digest. Next year the pilgrimage will include a visit to Shatrunjaya (Palitana), Girnar and Kutch around the same time and for approximately the same cost as this year. Reference material on JAINA was distributed to Jain centers in India to familiarize them with JAINA and its activities.
Tirthoddhar Committee: Kirit Daftary, Chairman of the Tirthoddhar Committee talked about the visit to Lachwad during the pilgrimage. A local school that is in complete disrepair was promised to be rehabilitated. The committee has made arrangement Veerayatan to manage the work and the committee will finance it. Veerayatan is building a new eye hospital in Lachwad.
World Community Service: Dhiraj Shah presented a report on behalf of the Committee. He informed that JAINA has participated with Bhartiya Jain Sangh in setting up schools in earthquake affected areas. JAINA has so far raised $300,000 in donations. The largest donation of $100,000 came from the Jain Cen
8/ JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001 2010_02
ter of America, New York. A total of 500 families have contributed out of which 22 are Jain Centers. Some of the Jain Centers have given donations for specific projects. There are two additional projects- (1) Community Health Center and (2) First Aid Center- that needs funding. If any Jain Center is interested, they need to donate at least $25,000. Government of Gujarat is likely support these projects in terms of providing land. JAINA plans to sponsor 250 pre-fabricated houses. The houses will be donated based on approved criteria. JAINA has already donated half the money required to build a school in Samakhyani. The committee has also donated to take care of 600 people who were taking shelter in Samakhyani. When Dhiraj Shah went to Gujarat, he took along with him 5000 blankets, 10000 food packets, 10000 mineral water bottles, 1000 torches, and 30000 lbs. of clothes. The second container carrying essentials is on the way to Gujarat. He has also sent 100 wheelchairs, 72 crutches and 18 canes. We still need $100,000 in donations. The names of the donors are available on www.jaina.org website.
Veerendra Shah of Los Angeles Jain Center gave an update on the relief activity that they carried out to help the victims of the earthquake. He informed the Executive Committee that $350,000 were collected in the form of donations and 11 containers of essential supplies were sent. He mentioned, he had gathered a lot of information on relief work and was willing to share it.
New Committee: Kirit Daftary proposed a new committee called Book Depot. As per his proposal, the committee will sell books to any individual. The books could be sold at the Convention. Also people can order books for Prabhavna distributions and Gift certificates will also be available. The book depot will work on no profit no loss basis. Currently two publishers in India have agreed to supply books. Girish Shah suggested the name of the committee should be Book Store instead of Book Depot.
Pravin Shah suggested when we sell the books through bookstore, we should ask for donations, because if you sell anything, you have to pay sales tax and that will become very complicated. Instead we can ask for donations. There were others who expressed concern about JAINA selling books (or other artifacts).
The Executive Committee approved the formation of new Book Depot Committee and Rohit Doshi was selected as the chairman of this committee.
JAINA Convention Board: The Executive Committee was briefed on the activities planned for the July Convention by various individuals involved in those activities.
Vinay Vakani recited the prayer "Khamemi Savva Jeeve..." and the Meeting was adjourned.
-Vinay K. Vakani, Secretary, JAINA

Page #11

THE LIFE OF VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI
2001 is the Death Centenary Year of first Jain ever landed on American soil Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi. He came more than one hundred years ago to at tend the first Parliament of World Religions, in 1893 in Chicago, to represent Jain religion, at the age of 29. Shrimad Acharya Vijayanand Suri (Atmanandji) was invited to attend. But being Jain monk, he could not. So Jain Association of India selected him. He attended it in traditional Kathiawadi cos
VR Gandhi 1864-1901
tume wearing dhoti, kurta, golden bordered turban (paghdi), white shawl on his shoulder and pointed shoes. To commemorate the centenary of his great historical visit and honor him, Chicago Jain Center had installed his statue at the temple in 1995. JAINA has also established a scholarship in his name.
Shri Virchand Gandhi was born at Mahuva, Gujarat on Aug. 25, 1864.He was a great exponent of Indian culture, religion and philosophy as well as a brilliant scholar of Jainism. He was a great patriot and humanitarian too. He mastered fourteen languages. He was the first Jain graduate of Bombay University in 1884 at the age of 20.He was the first elected secretary of Jain associations of India, in 1885 at the age of 21.He was also the first Jain Barrister qualified in London.
IN INDIA: He represented Jains at "Dharma Mohotsav," held at Ajmer, in 1895 and received gold medal. He founded Hemchandracharya Institution, in India. He fought and won in closing down proposed animal fat manufacturing plant at Sametshikhar and in abolishing Poll-Tax levied on Jain Pilgrims at Shatrunjaya amid lots of risks, including his own life. Sametshikhar at that time was in Bengal and all documents were in Bengali. He stayed in Calcutta for 6 months to learn Bengali to study documents. He not only won the Sametshikhar case but proved in the High Court that Sametshikhar belonged to Jains only.
IN THE WEST: He delivered about 535 speeches on Jainism, which received wide publications. He spoke as a Jain, but as Indian first. He illustrated the specific Jain Code Of Conduct, Jain way of life, non-violence, Anekantvad and Karma philosophy and convinced people about Jain religion as a rational and authentic religion. His approach was the most non- sectarian. He also gave lectures on Vedanta and Budhdhism.
He had an impartial ideology. He had a deep knowledge of all world religions. He criticized none (of the religions). He defended Hindu religion when Christian missionaries attacked it. He was awarded a silver medal. Many literary and spiritual insti
Jain Education Intemational 2010_02
Mr. Pravin K. Shah, New York, NY
tutions, churches, societies honored him and accorded him warm welcome. Many people thought though he was a household man and not a monk, can expound so well how capable his Guru was to whom he represented. Swami Vivekanand in his letters praised his (VRG's) life style and work.
He talked about economics and political freedom of India well before five decades of India becoming independent. His speeches echoed the true spirit, culture, and perspective of India. He tried to corrected the false, twisted and perverse impression of India.
When he was in USA in 1897, India was engulfed in worst famine. He arranged whole ship loads of food grains and forty thousand rupees. He had established a relief committee, under the chairmanship of Mr. C.C. Bonney, then president of Parliament of World Religions. He had also visited England, France, Germany, etc. and gave lectures about Jainism there. Thousands of his followers became Jains under his influence and performed Jain rituals and became vegetarians. One of them, English gentleman, Herbert Warren wrote books about Jainism.
VRG had founded the following organizations in the West. 1. Gandhi Philosophical Society" in Washington. 2."Society For the Education of Women In India", in Chicago. 3. School of the Oriental Philosophy. 4. "Jain Literature Society" in London.
ASPIRATIONS AND EARLY DEMISE:
Several Jains in India opposed his travel to the West sailing seas. Every time he returned from the West, they boycotted him, but prominent Jains and nonJains, dignitaries like Premchand Raichand and Mahadeo Govind Rande, Chief Justice, welcomed and felicitated him.
His lifetime ambition was to serve Jain Community and spread Lord Mahavir's message of universal love and nonviolence, across the world. But this young promising man, full of hopes and aspirations, died at the young age of thirty seven on Aug. 7 1901 within a few months of his return from the West of short illness, caused by weather, exhaustion of three long journeys to the West since 1893. The Jain Community mourned his death and kept their businesses closed for five days. His short life span was full of multifarious achievements. He lived and died for the cause of Jainism. It is unfortunate that Jains did not continue his unfinished work.
Year 2001 is his death centenary year and we should make every effort to achieve his lifetime goal. We, Jains, owe him too much for his service to our community. It is our humble duty to leave no stone unturned to revive his memory and accomplish his unfinished work.

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/9
www.jamembrary.org

Page #12

SHRI VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI'S CONTRIBUTION TO JAINISM
-- Dr. Kumarpal Desai, Ahmedabad, India
Certain personalities leave indelible footprints on the sands spoke as a Jain and yet he often took sides with Hindus but above of time, their legacy is not affected by the constantly revolving all, he always spoke as an Indian. wheel of time.
At the conference Virchand Gandhi made a brief but striking At the World Religions Conference held in Chicago, U.S.A., presentation on the fundamentals of the Jain religion. He exover a century ago, America, and the west, for the first time, heard pounded the Jain religion in two of its main aspects, namely, Jain the determined, spirited, resonant voice of ancient India, and the philosophy and the Jain way of life. He elucidated the nine elemessage of Indian philosophy and culture. Two Indian delegates ments, the six types of Jivas, the subtle strands of thought in Jain participating at this conference awakened the western world to philosophy regarding Dravyarthik and Paryayarthi-kanaya, the the spiritual heritage of India. One of these was Swami Vivekanand Syadvad and other philosophical aspects which fascinated all. He whose success in the World Religions Conference of Chicago is illustrated the specific Jain code of conduct, the Jain way of life fresh in everyone's memory today. But the contribution of an- and explained the cardinal principles of Jain cosmology, comparother Indian delegate to the same Conference, Shri Virchand ing it with Buddhism and other religions. He also established the Raghavji Gandhi, the representative of the Jain religion, has a claim fact that Jainism is older than Buddhism. His discourses convinced to equal attention by virtue of the success he achieved at the Con- the elite of America of the fact that the Jain religion has an auference and also by his work as a religious thinker.
thentic and rational religious tradition. Expressing his joy about Hundred years ago in 1893, more than three thousand del- this new knowledge, an American gentlemen gave his opinion about egates of different nations and religions had assembled at the con- Virchand Gandhi in these words: ference. The conference was inaugurated on 11th September, 1893, "In this religious gathering a number of philosophers, preachand Virchand Gandhi, Swami Vivekanand, P. C. Majumdar and ers and scholars came from India and delivered lectures and each other eminent scholars from India were present as distinguished one of them presented a new perspective and presented a new participants. The aim of this religious conference was to impart to element so as to convince that their religion ranks high with great the world the knowledge of different religions and to promote a religions of the world, moreover, their oratory and devotion prefeeling of fraternity between followers of diverse religious persua- sented distinct types and were full of wisdom and contemplation. sion, and so to pave the way for world peace.
Among them was an outstanding young man of Jain religion who Virchand Gandhi, a young man of twenty-nine, impressed gave new ideas about morality and philosophy. Though he is only the delegates not only by his eloquence, but also by the sheer weight a house-holder and not a monk or religious preacher, he can exof his scholarship. He wore a long and loose kurta, a white shawl pound so well. Who must then be his gurus ? His simple but strikon his shoulder, a golden-bordered Kathiawadi turban and coun- ing philosophy of life is worth knowing, worth understanding." try shoes. This external appearance bore the imprint of India. The Another special characteristic of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi's scholarship, the impartiality of outlook and the oratorical skill of lectures on the Jain religion was that they did not deal in criticism this man fascinated the delegates at the conference of World Reli- of other religions. Free from sectarian preferences and prejudices, gions. An American newspaper wrote, "of all Eastern scholars it his impartial ideology is an apt expression of the Jain who pracwas this youth whose lecture of Jain faith and conduct was lis- tices Ahimsa in life and Anekanta in thoughts. His lectures were tened to with the interest engaging the greatest attention." marked by a fusion of natural sentiments, profound study, and
Virchand Gandhi talked about the doctrines of Jainism in genuine enthusiasm. The lectures served to educate the American such a coherent manner that some newspapers published the text society regarding the salient features of Indian culture. Virchand of his lecture in full. He had a most effective way of handling the Raghavji Gandhi is the author of The 'Yoga Philosophy', 'The otherwise abstruse terminology of Jainism. He had an extraordi- Jain Philosophy and other books of which 'The Karma Philosonary ability to clarify his statements in a consistent and logical phy' may be regarded as his best contribution. In discussing the manner. As he expounded his views, he would give his own inter- Jain doctrine of Karma in the book, the author reveals his propretations of some of the most difficult points. His lectures dem- found devotion to studies and his awakened and discerning relionstrated the fact that the study of Sanskrit and Prakrit alone was gious sentiments. not enough for a proper understanding and exposition of Indian Virchand Gandhi was not only a philosophical thinker but he philosophy; it was also necessary to assimilate and to realise India's also had the welfare of the nation at heart. There prevailed in past culture in its proper context. Virchand Gandhi had realised America the belief that India was a country of tigers, serpents, the cultural context and that is why he was never dogmatic; he magicians and the Kings. Chirstian missionaries also presented to
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V. R. GANDHI'S CONTRIBUTION TO JAINISM(cont)
foreign countries a missionaries also presented to foreign coun- disciple, so Mrs. Howard became Virchand Gandhi's disciple and tries a distorted picture of the people in India. Virchand Gandhi like Jain she practised Samayika. made as great an effort as Vivekanand did to give to the people Later, Virchand Gandhi went to England, where he fulfilled abroad the true perspective on India. Explaining the importance his desire to be a barrister but he did not use this training for of Indian culture to foreigners, he said, "It is an astonishing fact monetary gain. Considering the curiosity for Jainism in England, that foreigners have been constantly attacking India and face that he started a coaching class. Later he founded the 'Jain Literature foreigners have been constantly attacking India and in the face of Society in London. Herbert Warren, a religious enthusiast, abanall these aggressions the soul of India has stood vital and watchful. doned non-vegetarianism and adopted the Jain religion. He took Her conduct and religion are safe and the whole world looks at notes of Virchand Gandhi's lectures and wrote in English a book India with a steady gaze."
on the Jain religion. Moreover, Charles C. Bonny, the President of "Cultural distinctions, art, artistic skill, literature, good con- the Conference of world religions, was impressed by him. At the duct, means of knowledge and science, hospitality, feminism, love time of the famine of 1896-97 in India, Mr. Bonny was the presiand respect - all these are found in India in quite a different form. dent of the Famine Relief Committee founded in America by If that culture was purchasable, England could have purchased it, Virchand Gandhi. This committee immediately sent to India forty adopted it. But it has not happened, it cannot happen." thousand Rupees and a steamer full of corn. During this travel
As early as in 1893 Virchand Gandhi talked of the economic Virchand Gandhi delivered as many as 535 lectures. He had the and political freedom of India. He said to the American people :
command of fourteen languages including Gujarati, Hindi, "India is at present under the foreign hell. She is independent
Bengali, English, Sanskrit and French. in the field of religion but when India will be free, she will not
Thus a young man of twenty-nine, preached religion in forinvade any country in a violent manner."
eign countries in the face of opposition from his own community Virchand Gandhi had a rare ability to see beyond the imme
who objected to travel abroad. He toured abroad three times to diately visible world. He could see beyond this world, he could
spread the message of Jain Philosophy and he was equally a spokesknow the future. Even before the dawn of political independence,
man of Indian Philosophy. Virchand Gandhi had foreseen the proper role of India.
The short life span of Virchand Raghavji Gandhi is full of "If India becomes free, she will live in political co-operation
multifarious achievements. He was the first graduate of the Jain with all countries." Five decades before the independence of In
society to get his BA with Hons. in 1884. When his father died in dia, Virchand Gandhi had the prophetic sense; he said in his lec
1890, he did not allow the primitive practices of wailing and ture of 'The Jain Philosophy - "You know my brothers and sis
breast-beating during mourning. At the age of twenty-one, as the ters, that we are not an independent nation. We are subjects of
secretary of Shri Jain Association of India', he worked for the aboHer Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria" the defender of the faith',
lition of poll-tax levied on pilgrims to Palitana. but if we are a nation in all that name implies with our own gov- Annoyed by poll-tax and other forms of ernment and our own rulers, with our laws and institutions con
Anandji Kalyanji firm had filed a suit against the ruler of Palitana. trolled by us free and independent, I affirm that we should seek to Bur Sursinghji, the ruler (Thakor) of Palitana, was a right-hand establish and forever maintain peaceful relations with all the na
man of the Political Agent. The Political Agent did not give fair tions of the world."
justice. Virchand Gandhi took up the problem. In those days to Virchand Gandhi made such a great impact that the conven
protest against the dictates of the ruler was to invite severe punishers and scholars of the conference of world religions awarded a
ment and even death. He often went up form Mahuva to Palitana silver medal to him. Subsequently on 8th August 1894 the citi
and prepared the ground for compromise. He met Lord Ray, the zens of Kasadova awarded a gold medal to him. In this city he
governor of Bombay, and Colonel Watson, the Political Agent and delivered a lecture on 'Some mistakes corrected. The newspaper,
made a strong representation and eventually forced the abolition "Buffalo Courier', records the immense success of the lecture. In
of the poll-tax. An Englishman set up at Mt. Sametshikhar, a place America Virchand Gandhi founded two institutions namely, 'The
of pilgrimage in Bihar, a factory for extracting pig's fat on order. Gandhi Philosophical Society' and 'The School of Oriental Phi
Virchand Gandhi went all the way to Calcutta to have the work losophy. In Chicago he founded an institution namely 'Society
on the project stopped. He stayed in Calcutta for six months studyfor the Education of Women of India.' The secretary of this insti
ing the papers regarding the case and learnt the Bengali language tution was Mrs. Howard who had adopted pure vegetarianism
and ultimately got this verdict issued. and other codes of conduct of Jainism under the influence of
"Sametshikhar is a place of Jain pilgrimage and nobody else Virchand Gandhi. As sister Nivedita became Swami Vivekananda's has any right to interfere there." He did not give up his fight until
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Page #14

SHRI VIRCHAND R. GANDHI'S LITERATURE
Pravin K. Shah, Raleigh, NC
Shri Virchand Gandhi was a brilliant scholar of Jainism and a great exponent of Indian culture. His speeches at the first parlia- ment of world religion conference in Chicago echoed the true spirit of Jainism and true culture of India. He spoke as a Jain but forcefully defended Hinduism from the attack of Westerners at the Par- liament. Above all, he was first Indian then Jain.
He was the only the Jain representing Jainism at the first parliament of world religions held in Chicago in 1893. After the conference he stayed about two years in the USA and delivered more than 535 lectures on Jainism, Yoga, Indian systems of phi- losophy, Indian culture, occultism, and spiritualism at various institutions.
Virchand Gandhi talked about the doctrines of Jainism in such a coherent manner that some newspapers published the text of his lectures in full. He had a most effective way of handling the otherwise difficult terminology of Jainism. He had an extraordi- nary ability to clarify his statements in a consistent and logical manner. At the conference, he made a brief but striking presenta- tion on the fundamentals of the Jain religion. He expounded the main aspect of the Jain religion namely: Jain philosophy, Jain way of life, and Jain code of conduct.
The following is the list of publications that summarizes his lectures and articles that were compiled and published either by him or by others after his death.
1. The Jaina Philosophy
His lectures on Jain philosophy, logic, and anekantwad have been published in a book named 'The Jaina Philosophy. The book was compiled by Shri Bhagu F. Karbhari and published by Shri Agamodaya Samit, Bombay in 1910. In these lectures he made the Jaina positions comprehensible to a non-Jain and non- Indian audience. His approach was most non-sectarian and ratio- nal. He explained the following basic topics of Jainism in his lectures; Shaddravya Six substances of the universe
Navaratva Nine principles covering philosophy of karma and path of liberation
Chargati Four states of existence Panchavrata Five great and small vows of conduct Moksha Ultimate state of soul when liberated from karma Nyayavad Assertion of truth from a particular point of view Anekanthavad Principle of Jain Philosophy, which explains that truth should be viewed from all different point of views.
2. The Karma Philosophy
His lectures on the Jaina theory of Karma have also been pub- Jished in a book "The Karma Philosophy'. The book was com-
piled by Shri Bhagu F. Karbhari and published by Shri Agamodaya Samit, Bombay in 1913. All Indian religions agree that each action entails its fruit or its result; none can escape the consequences of one's own actions. This fundamental idea on which the doctrine of Karma is based holds crucial importance in the development of ethical thoughts of ancient Indians. The Jaina version of it is illuminating in more ways than one.
V. Glasenapp, a well-known German scholar on Jainism, wrote his doctoral dissertation on the Jaina doctrine of Karma; and acknowledged Gandhi's lectures as his sole influence. Even today, these lectures remain unsurpassed and serve as an independent source of enlightenment on the subject.
3. The Systems of Indian Philosophy
His lectures on the various systems of Indian philosophy have been compiled by Shri K. K. Dixit and published under the title 'The Systems of Indian Philosophy' by Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya, Bombay in 1970. It explains the various Indian philosophies, which are Sankhya, Yoga, Nyaya (Vaisesika), Mimamsa, Vedanta, Buddhism, and Jainism.
T hese lectures bear testimony of his powers of comprehension, his philosophical acumen and his profound learning. He is particularly conscious of the fact that the true strength of India lies in what is moral and spiritual in Indians. He draws no distinction among Brahmanic(Hindu), Jain, or Buddhist cultures. According to him, the basic Indian culture is neither Hindu, nor Jain nor Buddhist. By giving an impressive account of Indian life, he draws a true picture of the social and moral status of ancient Indians.
His lectures on the various aspect of yoga have been compiled by Shri Bhagu F. Karbhari and published by Shri Agamodaya Samit, Bombay in 1912. His exposition of Yoga philosophy and its technique of eight-fold yoga to achieve the suppression of the manifestations of mind entailing the unagitated pure state of mind, is brilliant. He aptly discusses the interesting topic of miraculous powers, which a yogi acquires by reason of performing the highest form of concentration on the required event, aspect, or thing.
The source of the positive power lies in the soul. The very wording of the definition of yoga involves the supposition of the existence of a power which can control and suppress the manifestations of the mind.
5. Essay - "Radya Kutvani Hanikarak Chal"
Shri Virchand Gandhi was a great social reformer at a very young age. He wrote a 37 page long essay "Radya Kutvani Hanikarak Chal" (crying and breast-beating by a widow or other women relatives after a death of a person) against social evils at the
12 / JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001 Jain Education Interational 2010 02

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V. R.Gandhi's Literature(cont.)
young age of 22. When his father died in 1890, he did not allow the primitive practices of wailing and breast-beating during mourn ing. He continuously fought against social evils and was successful in eradicating some.
6. The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ
Shri Virchand Gandhi wrote this book by translating an ancient manuscript. The book was published in India in 1894 while he was in Chicago.
7. Savirya-dhyan
Shri Virchand Gandhi translated the first two chapters of the original text "Jnanarnav" written by Acharya Shubhachandra. The translation was published in the book called Savirya-dhyan in 1903. 8. Concentration
This small book consisting of 64 pages was first published in 1916. It contains a summary of Shri Virchand Gandhi's 12 lectures on meditation according to Jain tradition. He describes that the need of meditation is to attain mental peace and to rise above feelings of worry and anxiety. Next he explains the basic rule governing the practice of meditation.
It can be said that Gandhi was a formidable champion of Jain philosophy, a brilliant exponent of the systems of Indian philosophy, and a fervent lover of Indian culture. He was the most astounding scholar with a versatile personality combined with a catholicity of outlook. Various publishers republished most of his literature in 1993 on the occasion of the 2nd parliament of world religions conference.
(VR Gandhi's contribution ....(cont from page 10)
he achieved his objectives and got the factory closed down. He brought the dispute regarding the temple at Kavi to a happy resolution. He attended the International Commerce Conference as an all-Asia delegate. As a delegate from Bombay, he attended the Indian National Congress held at Pune in 1895. He was a strong advocate of Rashtriya Mahasabha or the congress. He seems to have come in intimate contact with Mahatma Gandhi. In a letter written to V. R. Gandhi's son, Gandhiji sends his blessing and asks
'Have you adopted any ideals of your father?"
Virchand Gandhi passed away in 1901 when he was only thirty seven. He rendered yeoman service to India and Jainism by interpreting Indian culture and religion in its true spirit to the western worlds. In this respect he enjoys the pride of place in the galaxy of Indian thinkers and philosophers and his name will continue to be remembered as a great champion of Jain religion.
2010_02
MESSAGES FOR
2600TH JANMA KALYANAK CELEBRATION
Voices from all over the world have rejoiced in celebration of the 2600th Janma Kalyanak or Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir.
Jain community throughout the world is participating in the celebration that was kicked off in New Delhi, India on April 6, 2001. The following are excerpts from some messages from the dignitaries that were received by various Jain organizations:
From Vatican City- (From Secretary of State at Vatican in Rome addressed to Mr. R. P. Chandaria in U.K.)
"His Holiness Pope John Paul II was pleased to learn that the followers of the Jaina Dharma are celebrating the 2600th Anniversary of the birth of Vardhaman Mahavira, and he sends good wishes to all taking part in the celebration on 7 April in London..... His Holiness has stressed that all religious man and women of every kind must work together for peace..."
From United States Senator Hon. George V. Voinovich from Ohio:
"I am pleased and honored to take this opportunity to recognize all those joined today to commemorate the 2600th birth (anniversary) of Lord Mahavira. The year 2001 has been designated the Year of Ahinsa. In today's celebration we must all strive to help achieve individual peace and peace as a community...."
From Buckingham Palace, U.K.:
"I am very pleased to have this opportunity to congratulate the Jain Community on the 2600th anniversary of the birth of Lord Mahavira ...."
From Hon. Robert Taft, Governor of the State of Ohio: "I want to extend my warmest greetings to the Jain community... as you celebrate the 2600th anniversary of the birth of Lord Mahavira...."
From the State of Ohio House of Representatives:
"On behalf of the members of the House of Representatives of the 124th General Assembly of Ohio, we are pleased to extend special recognition.....on the auspicious occasion of the birth of Lord Mahavira..."
(Editors Note: Please forward messages related to the celebration of the 2600th Janma Kalyanak that your organization may have received for publication in the Jain Digest.)

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/13

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COMMITTEE NEWS....
WORLD COMMUNITY SERVICES:
GUJARAT EARTHQUAKE AND JAINA
It is a matter of great pride and pleasure to inform all of you that the Federation of Jain Association in North America (JAINA) has raised $350,000. JAINA sincerely appreciates 25 Jain Sanghs and more than 500 donors who generously responded and contributed such a large amount to alleviate pain and suffering caused by this massive natural calamity.
JAINA has spent so far $24,000 cash for earthquake victims. Distribution of 500 blankets, 10,000 food packages, 10,000 water bottles, 1000 flashlights, sponsoring a primary school at Samkhyali near Bhachau, feeding 600 people for one month at Mandvi, immediately after the earthquake were carried out. JAINA also donated ten (10) computers for children, victims of earthquake at Veerayatan Vidhyapeeth, Bhuj. JAINA also shipped 100,000 lbs. of clothes, 100 wheelchairs, 50 walkers, 100 crutches, 100 canes and medical supplies to earthquake affected area, worth hundred thousand dollars.
WHAT JAINA PLANS TO DO IN NEAR FUTURE:
JAINA has planned to rehabilitate 250 families who lost everything and have no source of income. e.g. a widow with a child or children who have lost their bread winner, widower (who has lost his business or job) with child or children, widows, physically handicapped, old aged couples who have no family members to
B.S. Ajmera Chairman
WCS
301-431-2525
Prakash Mehta Co-Chairman
WCS 703-318-8252
JAINA CALENDAR AND MINI-LIBRARY
The response to the JAINA Calendar in the past two years has been extremely heartwarming, both spiritually as well as financially. Incorporating your valuable suggestions, we have:
For further information and suggestions please contact following JAINA representatives:
Bhadresh Dhilla Co-Chairman WCS
a) increased the quantity of calendars printed to 11,000 b) changed the layout of Calendar 2002, making it more
informative and educational
c) ordered 1,200 sets of the following three books, making them available to all of the active Trustees, Patrons, Sponsors, respondents and selected educational institutions in North America:
1) JAINISM-A Pictorial Guide to the Religion of NonViolence by Mr. Kurt Titze
14/JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001 2010_02
support. JAINA also intends to build primary and middle school, library, community hall and first aid health care center.
Average house will be 350 sq. feet, built on a 1000 sq. feet plot. Total cost for each unit will be approximately $3000. JAINA'S share per unit will be $1500 (50% of total cost), the other $1500 will come from Government and local N.G.OS. JAINA is still short of approximately $50,000 for the construction of 250 houses. Jain Sanghs who have raised funds for earthquake victims and have not forwarded them to JAINA are humbly requested to do so.
Primary school is sponsored by Jain Society of Toronto. Middle school is sponsored by Jain center of greater Boston. Library is sponsored by a community from upstate New York. Community hall and first aid health care center each costing $30,000 needs a sponsor. Jain Sanghs sponsoring any of above projects will have privilege to inscribe their names on marble plaques in front of these buildings.
Marble plaque in front of Mahavir nagar or Vardhman nagar (a name of entire project) will have the name of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America and Jain Center of America, New York, NY. The Jain Center of America contributed very generous sum of $96,000 for this humanitarian project. The entire project will be built near village Bhujodi, Seven (7) kilometers away from Bhuj.
We urge all the individuals and Sanghs who have yet to contribute to JAINA, please do so as soon as possible.
301-570-1117
Dr Dhiraj H. Shah Project Manager
Earthquake Victims Relief 716-773-1314
2) JAINA-Religion and Philosophy by Dr. Nagin Shah 3) ASPECTS OF JAIN RELIGION by Dr. Vilas Sangave
As we celebrate the 2600th Janm Kalyanak of Bhagwan Mahavir, during the year 2001-2002, we plan that the remaining 5,000 Jain households in North America will receive these books and calendars free of charge, which will cost us approximately $ 200,000.00.
To fulfill this objective, an early commitment of your generous contribution will help us in planning and carrying out this great
project.

Rajeev K. Pandya
Chairman, JAINA Calendar Committee

Page #17

COMMITTEE NEWS...
MEDIA WATCH & PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE:
MAHAVIR MEMORIAL COMMITTEE
For the past 4-5 months the Committee has been involved in The 2600th Janma Kalyanak day of Lord Mahavir on April 6 clearing misconception in the media about Jainism. Sushil Jain was celebrated with Navkar Mantra Jaap and other religious achas prepared an Interfaith Alliance statement and issued a state- tivities at all Jain centers. Various other programs will be held at ment on gun control and a statement on houses of worship. The all Jain Centers throughout the year 2001 to celebrate this historic committee is continuing the work with Interfaith Alliance in edu- event. Several mayors and Governors have declared year 2001 as cating the public about bias against prayers in the community. the year of nonviolence to commemorate these celebrations. CelRegarding Mr. John Ashcroft's nomination as Attorney General, ebration of 2600th birth year of Lord Mahavir will be a focal point the Committee neither opposed it nor endorsed it, instead ques- of the JAINA Convention in Chicago on July 5-8, 2001, tions were sent to the United States Senate asking how Mr. Ashcroft A 3-fold leaflet providing a short summary of Jainism was will distance himself when making race related decisions. The published on that day to commemorate the 2600 Janma Kalyanak Committee also issued a statement on faith-based charity. The day of Lord Mahavir. This colored leaflet has been written mainly Committee was successful in not allowing Sun Microsoft's claim for those who do not know much about Jainism. The main purto make JAIN as their company-owned trademark. This issue pose of this leaflet is to promote awareness of Jainism in North may come up again in about 5 years, so we need to educate non- America through media, interfaith organizations, educational inJains and non-Hindus about Jainism. This should also include in- stitutions, etc. Copies of the leaflet have been sent to all Jain terfaith leaders, United States Congressmen and Senators so that Centers for their distribution to libraries, schools, media, comthey would be aware of Jainism as a faith. The Committee worked munity leaders, religious leaders of other faiths, and interfaith orwith Interfaith Alliance in issuing a statement on campaign fi- ganizations. Please join hands with your Jain Center officials in nance reforms and is preparing a statement against hate crimes. increasing awareness of Jain religion. The Committee is currently looking at other religion-websites to
A historic event took place on May 22 when the U.S. Consee how they are organized and what they offer.
gress opened with a Jain prayer in celebration of the 2600h birth Jain prayers would be recited in the upcoming session of the anniversary year of Lord Mahavir. (Details given on page 4). United States House of Representatives and the Senate on May
te on May
A hio cele
A big celebration is being planned in September 2001 in New 22, 2001. For the first time in the history of the United States of
York. This function is expected to be presided over by the Prime
varl America, Jainism and Jains will receive this unprecedented recog- Minister of India Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan nition and honor. (See report about this historic event elsewhere
and the Jain Community are working on these celebrations. in this issue) Sushil Jain, Chairman
Dr. Manoj Dharamsi, Chairman
Phone: (703) 620-9837 MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE :
E-Mail: Dharamsi@hotmail.com
At a recently held executive committee meeting, JAINA has added one more center to the JAINA family. Please join me in welcoming Jain Society of Greater Lansing, Michigan. With the continuous efforts of the membership committee, JAINA is becoming a stronger organization year by year. Let us all work together to keep up with our united actions to attain newer heights. A Special Request to ALL member centers.... In order to keep you informed of all the developments at JAINA, we need to have the current contact information for your center. When your center has a change in the administration/president, please notify us the changes within 30 days. Please incorporate this in your procedure for change of administration. The incoming Presidents are requested to include your name, address, phone, fax and e-mail address and mail (on the letterhead of your center) with your original signature, to : Kamlesh Shah, Chairman 13704 Valley Oak Circle ,Rockville MD 20850 PH: (301) 838-9778.
Jain Education Interational 2010_02

JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001/15

Page #18

Jain
COMMITTEE NEWS....
VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI SCHOLARSHIP
We are pleased to announce that the award of scholarship has started this year the Death Centenary Year of Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi and 2600th Janma Kalyanak of Bhagwan Mahavir.
Jain society of Middle Tennessee (JSMT) celebrated 2600th Birth Anniversary of Lord Mahavir, on 7th April 2001. With the sincere and dedicated efforts of the outgoing members and youth the program was a great success! We had sequence of few cultural programs in the celebration of the occasion. On that auspicious day all the Jains recited the Jain prayer and stavans, which added life to the program. Another high light was the performance of 3 skits provided by YJA regarding Bhagwan Mahavir's Life. Deven, Kunal, Nirav Shah, Ishita and Ishan Parikh's performance was loved by
Name of student Course/subject Amount of award
2.Mishra Arunkumar M.Phil. (Jainism) Rs. 7,500 3.Shah Pravin C. M.Phil. (Jain Philosophy) Rs. 7,500
4.Babaria Ketna L. M.Phil. (Jain Darshan &Achar) Rs. 7,500 5.Shah Jawaharlal PPh.D.(Jainology) Rs. 10,000 Applications for the year 2001-2002 would be invited by issuing notification at appropriate time.
Committee is also planning to publish the reprint of small booklet in Gujarati "Jyotirdharni Jivan Gatha", his life story, by PR. Shah and distribute free at VRG booth at the Chicago convention and thereafter, after its due release at convention. Publication of its English edition is also under consideration.
1.Mehta Pravinaben P. M.Phil. (Amdavadni Chaitya Paripati) Rs. 7,500 the audience. Balbhadra had graced the occasion with knowledge of Jainism and spiritual uplift to more than 200 in attendance people. He laid emphasis on how important the "NavkarMantra" and other slogans are and how it generates powerful vibrations throughout the day. He also laid emphasis on Soul "The ATMA" he says ATMA is Eternal and is very powerful. We also had number of cultural items such as Divda Dance performed by enthusiastic youths. Ghada Dance and Raas was performed by youths and adults. sequence of dances like ghadadance,stick dance, divdadance performed by youths and adults.Program was attended by 30 students and Professor of Western Kentucky University - Bowling Green, KY. They are taking Comparative religious class. They were very much impressed by our philosophy, culture and delicious vegetarian food. President Pravin Mehta thanked Ashok, Dilip, Natvar Shah, Mona and Dr. Paresh Sheth, Navin and Nisha Shah for their contributions. People came from Bowling Green, Owensboro, KY and within 150 mile radius to make it a great success.
For further information and comments please contact Pravin C. Shah 516-248-8265: email kenpet007@hotmail.com and/or any committee member."
After review of several applications received from different institutions and universities through our India based subcommittee and its recommendations, five scholarships for year 2000-2001 were awarded:
INTERNATIONAL NEWS:
REGIONAL NEWS.....
16tmenatoria
TENNESSEE, TN
20012
2ND MEDICAL CAMP BY JAINA AT BHAGYODAYA TIRTH IN SAGAR, MADHYA PRADESH
To serve the poorest of the poor with the assistance of JAINA and Jain doctors from USA, a second free surgical camp was organized at Bhagyodaya Tirth Hospital during February 19th to 21, 2001.
Last year, a medical/surgical ICU unit was sponsored by and dedicated to JAINA, with a contribution of $ 21,000. This year again, we have contributed $ 25,000 for the expansion of the medical staff. After the camp, the doctors attended the celebration of Mahamastikavishek of Bade Baba in Kundalpur and received the blessings of Shri. Acharya Vidhya Sagarji Maharaj.
For information on our third camp and planned yatra of Central India (Bundelkhand), please contact Dr. M. K. Pandya (718 8160083), Dr. Ishwar Bhuta (334 834-2862), or Dr. Dilip Bobra (480 839-2682).
Next Program will be a camp of Saman Sthitpragya and Shrutpragyas from June 7 to 10. After Summer there will be self study classes and preparations for the Paryusana.

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we REGIONAL NEWS....
MIDWEST
ing of 100 lamps by different people. The Student day celebration is fixed for May Manubhai Doshi, Regional Editor
devotional songs, Separation songs, 13th. This year's theme is Bhagwan Mahavir's Atmasiddhishastra etc. were recited on that life. The highlights of his 27 lives are to be occasion. That was followed by presented in dance drama and skit from by
Swamivatsalya. About 200 persons partici- students of various Jain study classes. CHICAGO,IL pated in the function.
Ayambil Oli was observed from March Indira Mansukhlal Doshi Memorial Trust
A meeting of Mahavir Senior Center was 31" to April 8th. Twenty six members pardecided to extend relief to the earthquake
organized the same day. About 40 seniors ticipated in Oli. stricken people of Gujarat. Two of its Trust
were present. The information about Med- JOY had their winter camp from March ees went to India for that purpose in March
icaid. Medicare, SSI, retirement benefits etc. 23rd to 25, 2001, @ Khardomah Lodge and extended financial aid to the extent of was given to them.
for fun filled weekend. about Rs. 900,000.
A Musical Fund Raising program for earth On the occasion of Chaitri Oli arrange
quake stricken people was organized on ST. LOUIS ments for observing Ayambil were made at
April 21". About 300 persons took advanthe Jain Center on March 31, April 1, 7
tage of it and about $ 3500 were collected and 8. Total Ayambils observed were more
An earth quake relief lunch program was Laghurajswami Samadhi day was obthan 350. 32 persons observed 9 days oli
organized on March 4, which was helpful served on May 6. More than 50 persons on that occasion. It is noteworthy that
in raising an amount of about $ 10000. The participated. Yashoda Shah 72 years old has been in the
efforts of the persons who took part in the midst of 33 Oli of Vardhaman Tap.
collection were recognized on April 7. A 26th centenary of Lord Mahavir's birth
small skit by the youth members was also day was celebrated on April 8. The pro- DETROIT, MI
organized on the same day. gram started with a short drama, which was A consortium of organizations of Detroit 26th Centenary celebration of Lord followed by the declamation contest. Dif- Metro area have formed "India Earthquake Mahavir was organized from April 6th to 8th. ferent subjects were assigned to the differ- Relief Organization of Michigan" - Rajnibhai Shah of New Jersey was invited ent age groups. The subject for those be- "IEROM”. The Jain society is an active to speak on that occasion and he gave talks longing to 10 to 13 was Message from the member of this organization to help sup- on different subjects during those three Life of Jain Entity of Your Choice; for 14 port the relief efforts in India. About days. to 18 years the subject was Keeping Jain $500,000 were raised for distribution to Values alive in the Western World and for various non-Governmental relief agencies SOUTHEAST 19 and above the subject was Jainism and in India.
Surendra Shah, Regional Editor Global Peace. 34 students took part in the 2600h Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated on contest. Three prizes of $ 101, 75 and 51 April 8, 2001. The day long program started were announced for each age group. They with Shatrunjay Patt Darshan, Snatra Puja,
ATLANTA, GEORGIA were given to the following contestants. followed by Cultural Program of Devo
The age group 10 to 13: Palak Shah, tional dances by local students of Nartan Madhur Paharia and Soniya Vasanwala; group, Arti/Mangal Divo and The inaugural ceremony of the permaThe age group 14 to 18: Teena shah, Swamivatsalya Dinner. Program was well nent center building for the Jain Society of Hemant Mehta and Arun Singavi:Age 19 attended by 700 members.
Atlanta took place on April 6-8 of 2001. and above: Sejal Jain, Shailee Masharuwala A special "Bone Marrow Drive" was or
The ceremonies started on Friday with the and Ankur Mehta. ganized at the temple, on the same day by
Bhavana followed by Garba and Dandia The contest was followed by a talk of Shri Social Services Committee. Approximately
Rass. Snatra pooja and vastupuja were on Chitrabhanuji. Thereafter there was 100 members registered to volunteer for
Saturday. Sadhviji Shri Subhamji from Swamivatsalya. The celebration was at- bone marrow donation. One of the mem
Veerayatan, India graced the occasion. tended by about 1500 persons. bers of the society has been diagnosed with
On Saturday April 7h Shri Virendrabhai The first centenary of Shrimad a rare disease requiring bone marrow trans- Shah and Chandrakant Mehta from New Rajchandra's passing away was organized on plant.
Jersey provided music, stavans etc. for the April 15th. The program started with light
occasion. Idols of first tirthankar Bhagavan Adinath and 24th tithanker Mahavirswami
Jain Education Interational 2010_02
JAIN DIGEST- SUMMER 2001/17

Page #20

REGIONAL NEWS (continued)
were also installed. Later in evening a program of dances and music followed.
On Sunday Shilaropan (Foundation laying) ceremony followed Navagraha pooja for the planned temple on the center building. About 500 people from Atlanta and adjoining states participated in the ceremo
nies.
The center has a large 4500 square foot assembly hall. The kitchen, dining hall, library, and study halls are to be added next. Also, a temple to house the idols is also planned. The hard work of volunteers has paid off. Mrs. Madhuben and Dr. Jagdish Sheth along with others have contributed monetarily as well as in time.
The center is centrally located in Norcross, a suburb of Atlanta. The center cost about one million dollars. The center fulfills the critical need for the permanent gathering place for the Jain community of
the Atlanta area.
WEST
Chandrakant Parekh, Regional Editor
LOS ANGELES, CA
Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC) celebrated the 2600th Mahavir Janma Kalyanak on April 8. The program included a cultural program presented by Pathshala students, a lecture by Girishbhai Shah, a progress report on the new Jain Bhavan, an update on the earthquake relief fund, and a report on the onsite relief efforts by the members who had recently returned from a visit to Gujarat. JCSC has raised nearly $430,000 for earthquake relief efforts, and distributed an additional $32,000 to 32 Panjarapors in India. The outgoing members of the Board of Directors were recognized for their services. The Centennial of Shrimad Raj Chandraji's
18/JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001 Jain Education Themational 2010-02
Nirvan was celebrated with a bhavana program on April 13. The 10th Annual Medical Camp jointly organized by JCSC and Jain Social Group was held on April 28. Medical professionals representing nearly 30 specialties were present to provide free services, tests, screening and consultations. John Muller, Chairperson, and Franki Berry, Vice Chairperson of the City of Buena Park Planning Commission were the guests of honor for the event.
Following nearly 15 months of efforts by the Architects, various consultants, the Building Committee, 15 Sub-committees, and community input, the first set of draw ings of the new Jain Bhavan was submitted to the City of Buena Park Planning Department on May 15 for plan check. If no major issues would be outstanding to gain the City's approval, the goal is to organize the groundbreaking ceremonies in August, in time for the Paryushan Mahaparva.
Information about forthcoming programs and regular activities are posted on JCSC's website at http://www.jainbhavan.com. For additional information, please contact Sumatibhai Shah, JCSC President, at 562/ 926-4075 or at sumatil@hotmail.com.
Bhakti and Swadhayay, exhibition of over 250 pictures depicting Shrimadji's life, and discussions in English on Jainism Today for young professionals and youths.

With the opening of the Jain Bhawan in August 2000, there has been a tremendous increase in the number of activities and participation. Puja, Arti, and Mangal Divo are conducted daily. In addition there are regularly scheduled monthly Snatra Puja, Bhakti Bhavana, Navkar Mantra Jaap and Swadhyays and lectures by visiting Monks and Scholars. Over 250 children and youths, ranging in age 4 to 18 years, attend the Pathshala held twice a month at the Jain Bhawan. The Pathshala, conducted by 45 teachers and volunteers, has become one of the most successful programs. In addition there are also regularly scheduled Mokshmala Youth Swadhyay and Preksha Dhyan Classes.
A comprehensive schedule of programs for various Jain traditions has been planned and posted on JCNC's website at http:// www.jcnc.org. This popular website is updated regularly. For additional information, please contact Jay Itchhaporia, JCNC President, at 408/263-8739 or e-mail: Itchhaporia@yahoo.com.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Jain Center of Northern California (JCNC) celebrated the 2600th Mahavir Janma Kalyanak from April 21-22 with a wonderful cultural program Trishla No Jayo presented by Pathshala students, and lectures by Saman Shrut Pragyaji and Sthit Pragyaji. Bhakti and Pujas were conducted in all the major Jain traditions over the two days' event. Samanjis also gave a series of lectures to both adults and youths during their two weeks' stay. JCNC will celebrate SAN DIEGO, CA the Centennial of Shrimad Raj Chandraji's Nirvan from May 25-28 in the presence of Swadhyaykar Shrimati Sudhaben Sheth and Shri Niranjanbhai Sheth from India. Planned activities for this event include
SACRAMENTO, CA
Jain Center of Greater Sacramento (JCGS) organizes a number of activities, religious celebrations, and lectures by visiting dignitaries. Members meet regularly for a monthly swadhyay. For additional information, please contact Manoj Desai at 916/ 791-4111 or e-mail: manoj.desai@neccomputers.com.
Jain Society of San Diego (JSSD) has elected a new committee, which includes Parul Kothari, Rekha Savla, Swati Vora, Jagruti Maniar, Lata Vora, Suniti Jain,

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REGIONAL NEWS (continued)
Nayana Sanghani, Apurva Shah and Vipul Shah. The 2600th Mahavir Janma Kalyanak was celebrated on April 6 at Shri Mandir, and included a bhavana by Paresh Shah. Sahil Sanghni, Sparsh Kothari, and Shreya Doshi were the first place winners of an essay competition on Life and the Message of
presented a drama on Life of Mahavir - A
Journey of the Soul from Ordinary to Divine. The drama directed by Kokila Doshi de
picted the theme of Trishaladevi's Dreams, Mahavir's past life as King Tripustha and Gowal, and Janma Abhishek. The skit and the props were provided by YJA. An adult drama entitled Parivartan directed by Rohak Vora emphasized the theme of Asharan Bhavna with a message that only our Karmas come with us. Inspiring pravachanas on Karmavad, Niyati and Purusharth were presented by Shramanji Shrutpragna and Sthitpragna from May 6 9. Regular activities include a monthly Jainshala for children, adult classes, swadhyay by Girishbhai Shah, and a weekly pooja on Saturday at Shri Mandir. For additional information, please contact Kokilaben Doshi at 858/679-7645 or email: kdoshi@acusd.edu.
-
SEATTLE, WA
Over 150 people participated in the 2600th Mahavir Janma Kalyanak celebration on April 7. The program included skits and devotional songs presented by the Pathshala students. Jain Pathshala is held on the 1st Saturday of the month and is conducted by Aleena. For additional details, please contact Aleena at 206/236-0170. Jain community members get together every month. For additional information, please contact Mukesh Jain at 425/558-1949 or email:
mukeshi@microsoft.com.
CANADA Dr. Mahendra Mehta, Regional Editor
Mahavir, which was judged in three age
categories - 5-8 years, 8-11 years, and 12
15 years. On April 22, nearly 33 Jainshala children ranging in age from 4 to 15 years of them having separate functions at dif. posed amendments to the constitution and write the executive of their concerns within 30 days. And after 60 days in the later part
ferent times. There were special Pujas, Bhavnas, Angi, Bhakti and a video of a play
entitled 'Shaibhadra'.
of June 2001, a Special General Meeting will be convened to vote on the issue of Incorporation and Constitutional Amend
ments.
2010_02
TORONTO, ONT 2600th Bhagwan Mahavir Janmakalyanak:
The auspicious occasion of Bhagwan Mahavir's birthday was celebrated in Sanatan Mandir and Sri Jain Mandir, each Toronto on 6th April 2001 at Jain Society,
And 12.39pm, a chanting of Namokar Mantra was organized to mark the Vijay Muhart or the time of Bhagwan's birth.
Among other initiatives taken were an Inaugural Acharya Sushilkumarji Peace and Non-violence lecture on 'Religion and Warfare', an article in Toronto Star entitled 'Understanding Nonviolence' by Prakash Mody and issuing of 'Picture Postage' Canadian stamp with Jain Symbol.
Two books in English were released on this occasion. Jain Vishwa Bharti published 'Economics of Lord Mahavir 'and' Lord Mahavir's Scripture of Health by Acharya Mahaprajna.
Shrimad Rajchandraji's Emancipation Centenary Celebrations were concluded and a special bhakti was organized at the Jain Center in April.
Jain Society of Toronto participated in Interfaith Universal Peace Festival, as part of 2600th Janmakalyanak Celebrations. The Interfaith event took place at Metro Hall Square in Toronto. Last year, the event attracted over 2000 visitors and 11 faith groups at Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto.
Annual General Meeting: This meeting took place on Sunday 22nd April at Jain
Center. After presentations of reports from the President, General Secretary and the Treasurer, the work of 'Land Acquisition Committee' was presented. There were many varied points of view voiced and it
seemed the audience was not in favor of the report.
The next item was 'Consideration of Incorporation and Constitutional Amendments'. The invited speaker, a member of one of the local law firm, explained the advantages of incorporating our Society. However, the discussion went off the track and the chair decided with audience's concurrence, to let the members study the pro

Elections for the Board of Trustees: There were three vacancies following competition of terms of three trustees, and the three new Trustees are, Mr. Bhusan Vora, Mr.Ramesh
Varia and Dr.Mahendra Mehta.
"Revealed: Voices of Women" was the theme of a three-day exhibition at Toronto's Women's Day. Amongst the seven particiQueen Quay to coincide with International pating artists was Jayshree Khimasia with her several paintings and ceramics.
Dr. Chandrakant P. Shah was presented with Special Honor by the City of Toronto's Department of Public Health for his long and meritorious services.
Dr. Sirish L. Shah is appointed to the newly created Chair of Senior Industrial Research in Computer Process Control at the Faculty of Engineering, University of
Alberta, Edmonton.
Vikas Jain, 21, recently won the EDCO 2000 Marketing Award of Excellence, an award of distinction for non-traditional pro
motion by the Economic Development Council of Ontario (EDCO).
Prakash Mody, won the two of the three
prizes in the Bhagwan Mahavir Stamp design competition by the Jain Social Group International Federation, Mumbai, India.
JAIN DIGEST SUMMER, 2001/19.

Page #22

BRE
REGIONAL NEWS (continued)
EDMONTON, ALBERTA
the birth of baby Vardhaman and the cel- Two samanji (saman Shrutpragya and
ebration by the angels. This celebration was saman Sthitpragya) from Ladnu, Rajasthan 2600 Birthday of Lord Mahavir was
depicted by a beautiful dance by the visited Phoenix for the first time from April celebrated on April 8 before 350 guests at
Pathshala girls on a song "Helo Maro 27 to April 30. Samanjis are well-qualified the Hindu temple. The program began with
with Sambhalo He Vardhaman Jina Raya." Sev- Jain scholars who spread the words of Mahavir Puja for an hour, followed by Crys
eral weeks of practice by students along with Bhagwan Mahavir without any religious tal Glass Meditation and Interfaith Dia-
Dia the help from some dedicated parents and the help from son
barriers. Both Samanjis spoke in very simple Queberween the lins. Hindu, Buddhists teachers really paid off as the performance and practical language, with personal touch and Christians on Ahimsa and Compassion.
went very well. It was not only entertain- of humor. They spoke in Gujarati, Hindi, The Speakers and Jain Families were pre
ing but informative as well and was well and English. Pravachan, Yoga, meditation sented with a Book on Lord Mahavir, with received by everyone present. All the par- and exercise sessions were held during those compliments from Chandaria family lain ticipants (47 in all) were given a trophy with days. Many members took part in the acDigest, supplied by IAINA was distributed a Jain logo and a Jain storybook in appre- tivities. Members enjoyed and learned from to each family. ciation of their efforts.
these sessions and expressed interest in inMahavir Javanti was also celebrated in Weekly and monthly programs at the Jain viting them in the future.Contact for ICGP Calgary. Jain Prayer was recited at the 'UN Society of North Texas including Swadhyay is Mehul Rajparia at jainphoenix Day for the eradication of Racism', at the
sessions, Poojas, Pathshala classes, etc. are hotmail.com Edmonton City Hall by Niraj Maniar &
continuing as usual. Among the dignitarAlisha Patel. On 9th April, Jain Prayer was
ies during summer we will have Niraj Jain recited at the City of Edmonton Council
in mid-June, Dr. Bharill in mid-July and TULSA, OK meeting by Niraj Maniar. Jain Digest was
Dhirajbhai Mehta and Sunandaben Vohra
later in the year. We also had an unplanned distributed to each Council Member. visit by Dr. Pravin L. Shah of Reading, PA
The Tulsa Jain Sangh has reached a major On April 25, Jitendra Shah made a pre
milestone in their quest for a new Jain Cenin May where he was able to come to the sentation on Jainism at the Streathern Jain Center 3 times and deliver discourses
ter building with Derasar, Pathshala rooms United Church. Jain Digest was distributed on Samaysar and Aatma Siddhi while on a
and an assembly hall. The SHILA ROPAN at the Church. personal visit to Dallas. A picnic is being
has been scheduled on June 24, 2001 with Regularly monthly pathsala and puja are planned for early June.
a 2-day ceremony. Gurudev Chitrabhanuji held at the temple and at private Jain Resi
and Pramodaben will be here June 23-24.
JSNT contact is our president Swatee dence.
Also present will be Saman Shrutpragya and Kalamkarat 972-530-7356 swateek
Saman Sthitpragya from June 22–28. @yahoo.com. The web page for the JSNT SOUTHWEST
The following are the scheduled events is www.dfwjains.org
for SHILA ROPAN ceremony: Jadavji Kenia, Regional Editor
SATURDAY AM : Kumbh Sthapana,
Navgrah Puja, Meditation led by Gurudev PHOENIX, AZ
Chitrabhanu, Lecture by Samanji, Lunch. NORTH TEXAS (DALLAS AREA)
SATURDAY PM: Dinner, Lecture in En
2600th Janma Kalyanak of Bhagwan glish by Shrimati Promodaben, Bhavana. Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated on April Mahavir Swami was celebrated on April 15th SUNDAY AM : Meditation by Gurudev 08, 2001 at the Jain Center in Richardson, with over 270 people in attendance. High- Chitrabhanu, Snatra Puja, Lecture by TX. Program started with Mahavir Jin light of the event included a drama on Gurudev, Shila Ropan ceremony, Lunch. Pooja. Then Pathshala children took over. Kunkunda Swami and a dance by Pathshala for additional information about our Young group (ages 4-8) sang Jain songs and students, teachers and parents. Audience Derasar, Sangh or the dignitaries, please one of them read a short essay that he had also enjoyed "Kaun Banega Disciple of written on Mahavir's teachings. Both older Mahavir" (Based on the famous TV show (918) 299-2873 or E-mail at: groups (ages 9-13 and 14 & up) presented "Who Wants to be a Millionaire). All mukesh@galaxy-1.com a play written by YJA about Bhagwan Pathshala students prepared seriously for Mahavir's past lives. The play ended with this game show and correctly answered the
questions from the life of Bhagwan Mahavir.
20/JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001 2010_02

Page #23

REGIONAL NEWS (continued)
HOUSTON, TX
Here are some updates for last several months from the Jain Society of Houston. Past year has been a very busy year. Executive committee accomplished a lot of things. The biggest of all was the approval of a revised constitution by the committee, trustees and finally by the general body. Last year we were blessed by quite a few scholars and Sadhus. Earlier Atmanandji, Tarlaben Doshi, Dr. Atul Shah, Muni Rupchandji and Muni Jinchandraji visited and Samaniji Akshaypragyaji and Sanmatipragyaji blessed us during Paryushan.
Under Secretary General Wangde's guid
ance and leadership each and every religious and cultural organization in Houston participated in millennium Republic day celebration. Our society also participated. Our
Jain fellowship students' band was very
impressive.
celebration, and to top it all off, the best one was the 2600th Janma Jayanti of Bhagvan Mahavir in April 2001. It was a three-days celebration. On Friday evening, April 6th we did jaap and bhajans which were sung by a famous singer Mrs. Minoo Purushottam. On Saturday, April 7th, lectures and seminar started at 10.00 am.
2010_02
Around 2:30 p.m., Mr. Wangde visited our center. Then, Jain fellowship students 14 and up presented the YJA drama on Bhagwan Mahavir's past lives. They did an excellent job. The background and the costumes were excellent. Everybody worked hard. Thanks to the participants, and the organizers. On Sunday, April 8th we had 2 more hours of fun. This time it was younger
Pathshala children who performed very
well. Now, the parents, teachers and students are so excited that they want to do similar type of presentations more often. Such programs are very healthy for the Jain Sangh as they bring out togetherness, lead
ership, and teach us to tolerate other people. JSH contact is Parimal Desai at 281-8593661 Perry.Desai@Jacobs.com
NORTHEAST
Dinesh Chheda, Regional Editor
We have a new executive committee in place. Our new president is still Bhupesh Sheth and VP is Pratima Desai. Navin Shah will likely be our chief trustee. Udaibhai Jain will assume the JAINA VP position for the Southwest region. Among other accomplishments, we organized our library and bought a new computer for the library. Now, we have bar codes for library books and video for quick check in/out. About 100 of us went to New Orleans for "Chaitya Paripati". New Orleans Jain Sangh took good care of us. That Sangh is very small
but everybody there has a big heart. They were very good hosts. Hats off to them. We successfully collected $55,000.00 for the Gujarat Earthquake Relief fund. This includes $25,000.00 contribution from the Jain Society of Houston.
on April 6th, 2001 Uthapan (removing)
Throughout the whole year our executive committee worked hard. Under their coor- ceremony of Ithaca street temple was urday June 16, and a Pravachan series by dination and full support from parents and
Dr. Hukamchandji Bharill from June 25 to
July 1, 2001.
children we celebrated lots of blessed occasions such as Diwali day celebration, Swami Vatsalya day, Mahavir Jayanti, Republic day
NEWYORK, NY
Jain Center of America (JCA) New York February 4, 2001 JCA had fund raising for devastating earthquake in India. More then 500 members gathered and collected approx $130,000.00 for this fund. March 31st, 2001 to April 8th, 2001 more then 30 tapasvis took part in Aayambil Oli
celebrated for construction of new temple
of a about 25,000 sq. ft. Jain Center of America celebrated 2600 Janma Kalyanak of Lord Mahavir on April
22, 2001. More than 150 participants ranging from age 5 to young adults presented 9 cultural items related to Jainism. More than 1500 sadharmik brothers and sisters joined the celebration. Shri Chitrabhanuji read Janma Mahotsav.

WASHINGTON, DC
Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington The 2600th Janma Kalyanak day on Friday April 6, 2001 was celebrated with Pooja in the morning, Navkar Jaap during the day, and a Bhavana program in the evening. Mahavir Jayanti celebration was held on
Sunday, April 8, 2001 with a stage program
followed by Swami Vatsalya Bhojan. The stage program was presented by youngsters and consisted of prayer songs, prayer dances, Ras/Garba and skits. About 600 people attended the program.
A reception was held in honor of Gurudev Chitrabhanu, Manak Muniji, JAINA presidents and other dignitaries who had come to Washington to witness the historic recitation of a Jain prayer in the US Congress. The reception was unique in that all JAINA presidents attended it. All dignitaries were requested to give a short address to the audience. Their message, in general, stressed that JAINA is well known for its unity and that we must continue the same. On May 22, the U.S. Congress opened with a Jain prayer in English recited by Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanu. This historic event was followed by a short speech by congressman Frank Pallone who paid tributes to the Jain philosophy of non-violence and to the Jain community in North America.
Upcoming programs include a Meditation/Pravachan session with Samni Mangal
Prajnaji and Samani Vineet Prajnaji on Sat
JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001/21

Page #24

ERSONEN
JAINA DIGEST LIFE MEMBERS UPDATE
JAINA CURRENT FINANCIAL STATEMENT
SISSE
M
ONSTER
JAINA FINANCIAL STATEMENT AS OF 30/05/01
5980
Jaisukh Gosalia
Tallassee, AL
$22,606.77
599U
Hansraj & Usha Maru
Brookfield, CT
6000
Kirit & Pramila Daftary
Waco, TX
6010
Ashok & Deepika Dalal
Cooper City, FL
JAINA General Fund Various sub-committee balances: Education Committee Jiv Daya Committee World Community Service Temple Guideline YJA Virchand R. Gandhi Fund Mahavir Memorial Committee N. American Jain Family Assistance Program Tirthoddhar Committee Pilgrimage Committee JAINA Book Source Committee
$10,028.92
351.16 5,163.20 1,401.00 33,796.59 9,308.00 1,573.41 5,484.00 35,083.55
1,020.40 17,833.28
6020
Girish & Dutta Shah
Campbell, CA
603U
Madhuker & Gita Mehta
Durham, NC
6040
Gita Pancholy
Troy, OH
605U
Mahendra Doshi
Alpharetta, GA
COMMITTEES TOTAL
$121,043.51
Please send your S101.00 Jain Digest life membership dues to Keerti Shah, 842 Lakeside Drive, Bartlett Illinois 60103, Phone: 630-837-8716.
Money Market fund for JD Endowment CD for JAIN Digest Endowment Fund JAINA Charitable Trust as of 3/13/00 as per information supplied by Jagat Jain
$17,559.91 $57,674.02 $176,785.23
GRAND TOTAL
$395,669.44
submitted by Anop R. Vora, Treasurer
-
-
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
FEDERATION OF JAIN ASSOCIATIONS IN NORTH AMERICA APPEAL I want to help retaining Jain identity and culture by supporting JAINA and I want to be a proud Jain!
Please fill out this form and support JAINA.
Mail this completed form and your financial contribution to: JAINA Headquarters PO Box 700 Getzville, NY 14068
!
Name
Address
I want to be a Trustee of JAINA Charitable Trust and will donate $500 every year I want to be a JAINA Patron and will donate $251 every year I want to be a Life Member of JAIN DIGEST and will donate $101 I want to subscribe to JAIN DIGEST for one year (Winter 1999 to Fall 2000) for $11 ocher amount: $10 $25 $500
Phone
Email
1
Please make checks payable to JAINA. Your donation is tax-deductible. Please advise if you wish to remain anonymous. 950 Jain families have already done so, would you not do so? If not for you, do it for your children and grandchildren.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
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22 / JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001 2010_02

Page #25

MIS REGISTRATION FORM - PAGE 1
Send this completed form, a check in the amount of $25 and a recent, full-length photograph of yourself with your name printed on the back to:
Hasmukh M. Shah, 8721 Scrimshaw Drive, New Port Richey, FL 34653-6623 Phone: 727/376-7989
hasmukh33@yahoo.com
Name (please print):
LAST
FIRST
MIDDLE
ZIP
Height: -
MONTH/YEAR
Address: STREET
CITY
STATE Phone: 0
Fax: () _
Email: Date of Birth:
Weight: Are you a vegetarian? YES NO Do you smoke? YES NO Do you drink? YES NO Have you been married before? YES NO If yes, indicate the name of your divorced spouse. Your visa status in the USA/Canada? ____When did you enter the USA/Canada? What languages do you speak?
What is your religion? What languages do you read? ___ What languages do you write? Education: DEGREE YEAR RECEIVED MAJOR NAME OF UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE Work experience: COMPANY'S NAME POSITION DURATION Father's Name:
Occupation: Mother's Name:
_ Occupation: Brother(s) and/or Sister(s) NAME(S) AGE(S) EDUCATION OCCUPATION Do you have other relatives living in the North America? NAME RELATIONSHIP OCCUPATION ADDRESS Other relevant information (use additional paper if necessary):
Candidate's signature:
Date:
Important Considerations: It is important to remember that the MIS is a non-for-profit, voluntary community service. The MIS and JAINA assume no respon-sibility or liability for the accuracy or authenticity of the information furnished in the ads or any consequences resulting thereof. The entire responsibility rests with the candidates themselves. All information furnished to the MIS is confidential. Only those who are sincerely interested in looking for a Jain life partner should send a Registration Form. While matching, photographs will not be passed on to the candidates by the MIS. Parents/guardians should communicate with the candidate before placing ad and assist them in making a final decision.
Jain Education Intemational 2010_02

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/23 org

Page #26

ESSER
MIS REGISTRATION FORM - PAGE 2
MIS INFORMATION: THIS IS HOW IT WORKS
1. Two references who are members of the Jain Community or other Indian organizations. A. Name:
Address: Phone: - Member of:
Our world is shrinking and we are a global village and life is not always easy. However, we can carry our philosophy and our value system that is very worth while, with us. Accept the challenge and make your choice be a worth while one.
Placing an Ad and Registration with MIS
ORGANIZATION'S NAME
Anyone wishing to place an ad and register with the MIS must follow these instructions care-fully:
1. Fill out the attached Registration Form Page 1 and Page 2, The registrant must fill out this form. Do not leave anything blank.
2. Mail the the completed form + a check in the amount of $25 payable to Hasmukh M. Shah. Leave the Memo or For column blank.
3. a recent, full-length photo of yourself with your name printed on the back.
4. Upon receipt of this information the MIS will draft an ad for you and it will appear in the JAIN DIGEST—but only once. Remember, JAIN DIGEST is a quarterly publication.
Placing an Ad Only
B. Name:
Address: Phone: - Member of:
ORGANIZATION'S NAME 2. Indicate your personal preference of these criteria for the match. Age: Between the ages of ___ _ and _ or open. Height: Between the height of ___and _ or open. Weight: Between the weight of ___ and or open. Education: Bachelor Masters Degree Other Major: Vegetarian: YES NO
Work experience: YES NO Residence: (state) Visa Status: Length of time in North America:
years. Language. English: YES NO Other (specify):
If you do not wish to register with the MIS and wish to draft an ad yourself, you may do so in 30 words of less. Remember that the MIS reserve the right to edit all such ads. Follow step 2 above, but submit your own ad with phone number instead of a completed form and photo. Full Name, Address, Phone number of the candidate must be furnished with the ads for MIS records, without which MIS will not be able to process the ad for publication.
Responding to an Ad (only if contact info isn't available).
Congratulations!
If the phone number or address is not given in the ad, then you must contact the candidate through MIS. Follow these step-by-step instructions. Place your bio-data and a recent photograph of yourself in a sealed, stamped envelope with your return address in the upper left-hand corner and the MIS ad reference number in the lower lefthand corner of the envelope. Leave space on the envelope for an address. Place this envelope in another envelope with your return address in the upper left-hand corner and mail it to Hasmukh M. Shah. Upon receipt of these responses the MIS will place the ad holders address on the inner envelope and mail it. Remember, MIS is not responsible for responses that do not conform to these instructions.
Female: 113, Male: 102 (Married / Engaged) JAINA would like to congratulate all couples who have come together with the help of the services of the MIS. JAINA wishes to thank them for their generous donation. More and more Jains around the world are not only appreciating this much needed service, but are also taking advantage of it. Simulta-neously, the flow of ads in JAIN DIGEST is gradually increasing.
Please notify the MIS
Guideline to all perspective participants Be positive, constructive, creative and friendly! No match is going to be perfect." Complement and support each other practicing respect,sharing, acquire knowledge and maintaining your uniqueness while keeping an open mind. These are the qualities that make for human perfection.
Please notify the MIS when an engagement or marriage has been announced. This helps us to know if this community service is working to help maintain our traditions. Please note that if a successful alliance has taken place, both parties will agree to donate what ever amount they wish to JAINA to help defray the cost of publication.
24 / JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001

Page #27

MATRIMONIALS - MALE
M657: Alliance invited from cultured, M856: Gujarati parents invite AM254: Alliance invited for handsome, educated girls for handsome, talented, correspondence for handsome, talented, athletic, US citizen, born Jan 67, 5'7", vegetarian, Gujarati boy, born Oct 69, vegetarian, US born / raised son, July 72, MS(Mech. Engg), employed at Ford Motor 5'11", BS (Comp. Sc.), well employed as 5'9", 150 lb, BA (Fin), MBA (MIS), well as Product Development Engineer. Email: Analyst. Call: 732/821-2055.
positioned as Sr. Fin. Analyst, in an Intl. Smehtaone@yahoo.com or Call: 734/207
Co., from US raised, cultured, caring, 1773. M720: Alliance invited for Gujarati, professional, vegetarian girls. Call: 631/789handsome, vegetarian boy, born July 76, 9157. Email: SHAH2791@aol.com
AM306: Gujarati parents invite 5'11", BS (Comp. Sc.), well employed with
correspondence with biodata for US born software co., from cultured, educated Girls. M857: Correspondence invited for son, Aug 73, 5'9", 150 lb, MD, doing Call: 860/6 73 - 754 9. Email: handsome, fair, brilliant, vegetarian Surgery residency at prestigious university kamanis@yahoo.com
Gujarati boy, born Sept 72, 5'6", 136 lb, hospital, from professional, vegetarian
MS (comp sc), well employed with females. Call: 734/516-1379. M813: Gujarati parents invite proposals for multinational co., from cultured, educated, very handsome, fair, brilliant, vegetarian, good looking girls. Call: 972/943
AM308: Alliance invited for handsome, US born son, Jan 75,5'7", 155 lb, MS EE, 3358.Email: swastik108@yahoo.com
highly accomplished, vegetarian gentleman, well positioned with reputed co., from
born April 58, 5'11", 150 lb, slender, looks cultured, educated, pretty girls. Call: 281/ M859: Jain Aunt invite proposals for a good younger, MBA (Harvard), was in CA (USA) 955-8224.Email: paras_shah@email.com looking, brilliant, vegetarian, nephew, born for 8 years and now very well settled in his
Dec 75, 6'2", 180 lb, MBA (Australia), own computer, IT venture since last 4 years M838: Jain parents invite proposals for from cultured, educated girls. He is at Bombay, from cultured, graduate girls not handsome, vegetarian, accomplished, US currently in Bangalore, India and willing more 35 years and willing to settle in citizen son, born Oct 76, 5'10", 155 lb, to settle in USA. Call: 847/695-0935. Bombay. He is an issueless divorcee. MD, doing first year residency, from Email: Hmomaya@aol.com
Bombay Phone: 4937934 / 4951906. cultured, strict vegetarian, professional girls,
Email: smehta@foremost-systems.com preferably MD. Call: 219/247-9240. M861: Proposals with biodata / photo,
invited for handsome, talented, AM309: Gujarati parents invite responses M848: Proposals invited for good looking, accomplished, vegetarian, Gujarati boy, for US raised, good looking, intelligent, talented, vegetarian, Gujarati boy, born Nov born Nov 75, 5'6", 138 lb, MS, well vegetarian son, born in Gujarat March 74, 73, 5'8", 170 lb, BE (comp sc), well positioned as Dev. Scientist, from cultured, 5'10", 150 lb, BS Biochemistry, employed with Microsoft, from cultured,
educated girls. Call: 252/215-1108 or wellEmployed in Technology co., from educated match. Call: 425/558-2469. 734/394-1606at pratiksheth@hotmail.com cultured, educated, pretty girls. Call: 408/ Email: nehalr@hotmail.com
733-1328. Email: vcshah1@yahoo.com M864: Gujarati parents invite responses for M853: Correspondence invited for their very handsome, fair, brilliant, AM314: Jain parents invite responses with handsome, smart, intelligent, vegetarian, vegetarian, Vivacious, US born son, Oct 76, biodata / photo for handsome, brilliant, US born / raised Gujarati boy, Dec 75, 5'11", BS (Civil Eng), well employed as vegetarian, US citizen son, born March 75, 510", 158 lb, B.E. (comp eng), well Quality Engineer, from cultured, educated, 5'7", 145 lb, BS (chem engg), well employed employed as e-commerce analyst, from pretty girls. Call: 334/283-5340.Email: as Process Engineer in a reputed co., from pretty, US raised, educated girls. Call: 2017 S raised, educated girls. Call: 2017 jaygosalia@hotmail.com
cultured, pretty, caring, educated, 792-2774.
vegetarian girls. Call: 201/348-4959. Email: AM248: Alliance invited for handsome, pcjain09@hotmail.com M855: Gujarati parents invite proposals intelligent, vegetarian boy, 27 years, 6'00", with biodata / photo for handsome, bright, 145 lb, BS IE, working as Materials vegetarian son, born Feb 77, 5'8", 170 lb, Manager with an electronic co., Call: 972/ MBA (USA), ACCA (UK), from cultured, 473-7417. educated, Jain, pretty girls. Call: 909/7899817. Email: rpmehta@aol.com
Jain Education Interational 2010_02

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/25

Page #28

MATRIMONIALS - FEMALE
F581: Gujarati parents invite responses for F862: Gujarati parents invite to settle in USA. Call: 916/923-9701. beautiful, talented, cultured daughter, born correspondence for their beautiful, slim, Email: kawediya@intel.com Dec 73, 5'1", 110 lb, BS (molecular vegetarian, talented, US born daughter, biology), biotech / software professional in June 75, 5'6", MD, from vegetarian MDI AF312: Alliance invited for pretty, silicon valley, CA, from well educated, Professional boys. Mail photo / biodata to: charming, professional, divorcee, Gujarati Gujarati professionals. Call: 408/272-6833 D. Shah, 3345-E North Chatham female, born March 67, 5'6", 127 lb, MS Rd., Ellicott City, MD 21042.
(biotech / biochem), well employed as F714: Alliance invited for beautiful, fair,
Research Associate in a reputed co., from charming, vegetarian Jain girl, born Aug 74, F863: Gujarati parents invite proposals for educated, caring, simple, open minded 5'6", 125 lb, BA (Comp Sc), MS (Info sys), beautiful, fair, slim, talented, virtuous, match. Call: 818/735-0916/ Email: well employed as consultant in a reputed vegetarian, US born daughter, Oct 75,5'2", kikowani@aol.com co., from professional well educated, 105 lb, BS (Fin/MIS), well employed in a cultured boys. Call: 732/922-6274. Email: reputed co., from well educated, cultured
AF313: Jain parents invite proposals for pearl_jain@yahoo.com boys. Call: 334/283-5340.Email:
their beautiful, slim, vegetarian, US born guni3@yahoo.com
daughter, April 73, 5'2", PhD (June 2001), F797: Gujarati parents invite responses for
from well educated, professional boys.Call: beautiful, fair, attractive, slim, vegetarian, AF298: Alliance invited for pretty, slim, 9731467-5949. US citizen daughter, born Dec 77,5'1", 105 attractive, vegetarian, well rounded, Ib, BA (comp sc), from well educated, castwest balanced, US raised daughter, born
AF315: Gujarati parents invite proposals for professional cultured vegetarian boys. Call: Oct 75, 5'5", 110 lb. MBA (Fin), well beautiful, attractive, intelligent, vegetarian, 70 41 599-6575. Email: employed, from cultured, professional. US citizen daughter, born June 73, 5'1", phool195@hotmail.com
vegetarian, non-smoker boys. Call: 718/ 115 lb, BS (biology), BS (gen studies), well 454-4069.
employed as Research Asst. at Uni. school, F854: Gujarati parents invite
from cultured,well educated, non-smoker correspondence for pretty, talented, AF305: Alliance invited for a Bombay boys. Call: 314/781-6759. Email: vegetarian, US citizen daughter, born Dec raised Occupational Therapist who has been kapadias@slu.edu 70, 5'5", 135 lb, BS (Intl business), well in the USA for the last 4 years, born April employed as administrator in a reputed co., 75, 5'3", 106 lb. She is attractive,
AF316: Gujarati parents invite from cultured, educated boys. Call: 631/ adventurous and vegetarian. Phone: 630/ correspondence for their charming, very 385-0797.Email: bobby@tsiny.com 728-1887. Email: swatig3@yahoo.com
pretty, attractive, slim, intelligent,
vegetarian, US born / raised daughter, July F858: Responses invited for fair, slim, AF307: Responses invited for Gujarati 76, 5'4", MD, beginning residency June pretty, charming, compassionate, vegetarian, fair girl, born Jan 76, 5'5", MBA 2001, from cultured, professional well accomplished, Biological engineer, (Fin), working for Fortune 500 co., in a educated, vegetarian, non-smoker boys. Canadian raised daughter, March 68, 5'3", senior position. Call: 610/317-80270r Fax: Call: 650/326-7188. MD, US MLE, doing residency in Family 610/419-1248. Practice, from well established Jain
AF317: Alliance invited by Jain family for professional family. Call: 416/593-7546. AF310: Alliance invited for pretty, very beautiful, charming, slim, virtuous, Email: jainva@hotmail.com
intelligent, professional, vegetarian, accomplished, vegetarian daughter, born
Gujarati girl, born Oct 68, 5'0", 115 lb, June 77, 5'3", 99 lb, BS (nutrition), F860: Gujarati parents invite proposals with BS (Accounting), well employed as pursuing MS (nutrition), from professional, biodata/photo, for pretty, slim, vegetarian, Manager, from professional, vegetarian, cultured, vegetarian Hindi / Gujarati boys. US citizen daughter, born Sept 73, 5'4", cultured match. Call: 714/985-1465. She is currently in India and willing to settle 100 lb, AAS (Medical lab tech), well Email: ydoshi@informslink.com
in USA. Call: 248/626-1117.Email: employed with reputed bank, from well
asmitajain@hotmail.com
or educated, professional, Gujarati boys. caste
AF311: Well-settled Jain brother in US bhuvanjain@hotmail.com no bar. Call: 847/259-1367. Email: invites responses for beautiful, attractive, koza3@hotmail.com
slim, talented, family oriented sister born Sept 78,5'3", 100 lb, MBA, from educated, cultured boys. She is in India and willing
Mai 26 / JAIN DIGEST. SUMMER 2001

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YOUNG JAIN PROFESSIONALS :
YJP Embraces the New Millennium: Fourth Annual YJP Conference in Everglades National Park
From its inception in 1997, the Young Jain Professionals Organization (YJP) has come a long way. The seed was planted when a group of young Jains envisioned having an organization devoted to the needs of a growing population of North American Jains those just beginning their professional lives seeking to better incorporate Jainism into their professional and personal lives. YJP strives to increase the knowledge and application of Jainism principles Jains between 24 and 39. This is done through creative events that promote our understanding of Jainism as well as encourage professional and social networking.
The 4th Annual Young Jain Professionals Convention was held in Florida from March 2nd to 5th, 2001. Young Jains from the US, Canada and England left their hectic lives retreated to the Everglades National Park to engage in peer-led introspective and educational discussions based on the Jain Vrats, or vows; Asteya, Ahimsa, Aparigraha, Bhramacharya, and Satya. Creative scenarios, role-playing, and smaller group discussions were used to explore the application of the five Vrats in our daily practice of Jainism. We noted differences between how the Vrats apply to householders versus sadhus and sadhvis. We identified those pressures stemming from home, work and social situations that challenge our adherence to the Vrats and ultimately our ability to attain Moksa, and explored "Jain" ways to deal with such pressures.
The weekend began with opening remarks by our keynote speaker, Professor Anne Vallely, from McGill University, who led an inspiring and insightful presentation illustrating the broader perception of Jainism in North America, that is rooted in ecology,
environmental concerns and is an evolving tradition as we are faced with new challenges daily. Dr. Vallely did her doctorate dissertation on Jainism from the University of Toronto. She has written Custodians of the Lokottar: An Ethnography of a Jain Ascetic Community, based on her research among Jain ascetics in Rajasthan. Currently, Dr. Vallely teaches at McGill University and Concordia University in Montreal.
Dr. Vallely, and our five facilitators, Ms. Paulomi Gudka, Mr. Amar Salgia, Mr. Gabriel Figueroa, Ms. Neha Jhaveri and Dr. Rita Kothari are commended for an exceptional job! In order to better understand the application of the Vrats, a Jain Experiment was initiated to encourage each participant to take a vow to practice the five Vrats in thought, word, and deed, to the greatest extent possible, beginning a week prior to the conference; individual experiences were shared in a wrap-up session.
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In addition to nourishment for the soul, our bodies were energized by the gourmet vegetarian cuisine that was served. We were very lucky to have a chef that found the vegetarian/vegan menu a personal challenge. His efforts far surpassed all of our expectations. Participants also took advantage of the many outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking, bicycling, and hiking. Rest assured there were no casualties from alligator encounters. In addition, the participants enjoyed a sunset riverboat cruise with an informative guide who spoke of the history and wildlife of the Everglades.
The Fourth Annual Young Jain Professional Conference proved an invigorating experience for all who participated. All had a wonderful time, as old and new friendships were strengthened and participants had the rare opportunity to discuss applying Jainism to our daily lives in a National Park setting. A special thanks to all the participants for making the event a success!
Upcoming Elections:
Are you interested in being involved with YJP to encourage the practices and principles of Jainism in creative and interactive ways? If you would like to work with a dedicated, fun and energetic group of young Jains and are between the ages of 24 and 39, inclusive consider getting involved with YJP. Learn more about YJP by visiting our website at http://www.homestead.com/ip/ Elections for new officers will be held in July/August...please contact any board member to ask questions or get a perspective of their experience in serving on YJP. The contact information can be found at the bottom of the next page.
YJA Executive Board will have open positions. this summer. To join the board, please visit http://www.yja.org for regular updates or email Birud.Jhaveri@yja.org

JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001./27
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YOUNG JAIN PROFESSIONALS:
YJP EVENTS AT ELEVENTH BIENNIAL JAINA CONFERENCE (JULY 5 - 8, 2001)
Young Jain Professionals has been working very diligently over can phenomena or one that is pervasive throughout Jain comthe past several months to organize a number of sessions for the munities. Eleventh Biennial JAINA Convention. Make sure to check your lain Fishbowl Session - An Intergenerational Discussion About JAINA packets and schedule for dates and times of the following The Evolving Roles Of Jain Women and Men of the 21st session that we plan to hold:
Century: What do we expect from ourselves and each other? Secret of Their Success: Five Successful CEO's Share Their Please join us for an energizing discussion about the dynamic Stories. Join our five CEO panelists, including Ms. Shobhana nature of gender roles. We will share the views of our parents and Kamdar, Ms. Jugna Shah, Dr. Manu Vora, Mr. Nitin Talsania, and those of our own generation as we talk about our hopes, dreams Mr. Ronak Shah, who are accomplished in a variety of fields in- and fears. What are our expectations from each other and how cluding business, telecommunications, medicine and public health do we perceive one another on an individual level and in the Jain and the arts, and hear their stories from when they got started— community at large? their motivations, their successes and disappointments, and how A ccommodations: Watch for impromptu social and networkthey manage to thrive in a competitive market.
ing opportunities at JAINA 2001 in Chicago. YJP has reserved Twilight Light Zone... Jain Style: This session is a spin-off of rooms at the Holiday Inn O'Hare International, which is only a the famous X-Files Session held at the JAINA 1999 Convention. five minute walk from the Rosemont Convention Center to faciliOur peers will propose questions related to Jainism, never before tate easier access to YJP gatherings. Please call 888-642-7344 asked and whose answers are in the realm of the unknown. For or 847-671-6350 and make your reservations as soon as possible, example, what if the world was predominantly Jain? What if there as rooms are limited. was no concept of reincarnation in Jain Philosophy? If such ques- To register for the JAINA Convention, you can visit tions wet your palate, join us to look at Jainism from a www.jaina2001.com. radically different perspective. Let's think outside of the Jain box. Would you like to Volunteer: To volunteer to help out with
Jain Ethics and Social Activism: Traditional Jain teachings YJP at the convention, please contact shilpashah@attglobal.net. advance the ideals of individual restraint, asceticism and ulti- We will need volunteers to sit at the YJP booth during the event mately withdrawal from worldly existence. Can these ideals be and help out at the various sessions. All youths between the ages sustained in the North American context? Should they be re- of 24 and 39 are encouraged and welcome to volunteer- even interpreted? In this session, Professional Anne Vallely will lead a just an hour of your time! Thanks! session to explore the ways in which young Jains are re-envision
Jai Jinendra and hope to see you in Chicago! ing their tradition and the extent to which this is a North Ameri
THE YJP BOARD Avani Doshi (Membership) Manav Jain (Chair-person) Sejal Khandwala(JAINA Rep./Treasurer/Vice-Chair) Sanjay Mehta (Strategic Operations) Mamta Shah (Communications) Shilpa Shah (Activities) Viral Shah (Web Strategy)
(708) 848-6743 (703) 525-2582, Rm 403 (847) 985-6858 (718) 347-308 (201) 558-1684 (404) 321-4637 (212) 825-0488
doshiam@hotmail.com manavj@yahoo.com snk8274@aol.com sanjaym@aol.com mamtashah@netzero.net shilpashah@attglobal.net viral.shah@gs.com
Jain EU38JAIN DIGESTO SUMMER 2001

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YOUNG JAINS OF AMERICA
Ah
Federation of Jain Associations in North America A Non-Profit Tax Exempt Religious Organization. IRS Code Section 501 (c)(3) El #54-1280028
yja-exec@egroups.com http://www.yja.org/
परत्वो अचानम
UNYAREA
CHAIRS Birud Jhaveri
Jai Jinendra! (503) 292-1965 birudjhaveria mail.com
Nirav Shah (215) 361-1544
Fueled by the inspiration of this year's 2600h Mahavir Jayanti, the Young Jains of America Execunirav_shah@mail.com
tive Board has been diligently working for the past six months on a variety of projects. With this year DIRECTORS
being a non-convention year for YJA, we have been able to direct our undivided attention and energy Education
towards projects ranging from upgrading our website to providing coordination for Project Ahimsa, Shetal Sutaria 202-333-1349
our disaster relief project that was undertaken following the Gujurat earthquake. shetal sutariau mail.com Events
Most recently, we have been wrapping up our efforts for the nationwide 2600 Mahavir Jayanti Shama Khandwala 847-985-6858
celebrations, which took place in early April. YJA was pleased to assist many Jain centers with producshamakhandwalalamail.com ing the play, "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir." We are excited to showcase the talents many Finance/Fundraising Mintu Shah
youth and adults from across the continent displayed at their celebrations of the 2600th Mahavir 708-275-1070
Jayanti. To view updates and pictures of the different play productions please visit our website at mintushah@mail.com Information Technology http://www.yja.org.
Beenect Kothari 631-586-1579
January 26, 2000, the Republic Day of India, was also the fateful Friday on which a devastating beencetkotharia mail.com Membership/Records
earthquake rocked the state of Gujurat. That weekend, YJA conceived Project Ahimsa. Thanks to the Rahul Mepani
hard work and effort from our members all across the continent, we were able to send money, medi617-493-7019 rahulmepania mail.com
cine, clothes, food and other supplies to India. YJA is grateful for all your support during this relief Publications
effort. For further information or a detailed update, please visit our website at http://www.yja.org. Bhumika Khona 714-579-3356
YJA's preparations for the 2001 JAINA Convention in Chicago are underway. YJA, along with bhumikakhona u mail.com Public Relations
the Chicago Youth Convention Committee, are developing seminars geared towards the youth that Mansi Shah
will be attending the convention. We are also proud to announce that during the convention, YJA will (313) 598-6754 mansishah amail.com
introduce the site of our next biennial convention to be hosted over the 4th of July weekend in the
summer of 2002. Make sure you join us in Chicago to find out where the 5ch Biennial Young Jains of REGIONAL COORDINATORS Mid Atlantic
America Convention will be! Dhrumil Purohi! 302-832-0361
To learn more about any of our current projects, hear about what is going on in your region, or to dhrumilpurohita mail.com
find out how you can get involved, please visit our website at http://www.yja.org. We are always in Midwest
search of dedicated youth to join our Executive Board. If you are interested in becoming a part of this Chintan Shah (608) 864-4126
exciting youth-led organization or if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions feel free to conchintan shahu mail.com
tact either one of us via phone or email. Northeast Nirav Shah
215-361-1544 nirav_shah w mail.com
Sincerely, South Pavan Zaveri
(713) 797-0217 pavanzaveri@mail.com Southeast
Birud Jhaveri and Nirav Shah Rina Shah (703) 989-4475 rinashah mail.com
West Suken Jain (714) 529-5874 sukenjain@mail.com Young Jains of America (YJA) is the umbrella youth organization of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA). The mission of YJA is to be
recognized nationally and internationally as an umbrella youth organization for establishing a network to share Jain heritage and religion through youth.
Jain Education Interational 2010_02

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THIS IS JAINISM
by Dhrumil Purohit
I was so excited! Just a few months ago I had turned vegan, make sense to devote much of our attention to the avoiding onand I was searching everywhere for a natural foods store that would ions and potatoes when we are still consuming products that supmeet my needs. And there it was, I had finally found one! All port the killing of cows and other higher sensed beings? this time it was right under my nose, only a five minute drive J ains and Non-Jains alike often ask me whether this "Vegan from my house here in Delaware.
thing is a “Jain thing". When I reply I often illustrate this analFirst on my grocery checklist was Vegan Chocolate! ogy for them: Recall a restaurant that you recently visited. See if MMMmmm, so good. I had tried some a few days ago at a veggie you can recall the menu. Did it have any "Fried Human Legs" on market in Philadelphia and enjoyed it very much. The chocolate the appetizers list? What about "Cat Dung"? If they answer yes taste itself was nothing special, but just knowing it was vegan made that is another issue, but if they answer no I ask them why. The me love biting into it all the more.
general answer I get is that it is unheard of. “Who serves cat dung After I had found my chocolate, I walked around a bit more. at a restaurant?" they often ask me. In that same sense, it was My eyes showed my enthusiasm as I roamed the aisles in astonish- previously unheard of for a practitioner of the Jain religion to supment. About fifty percent of the total goods in the Newark Co- port the killing of a five-sense being. The concept of being a Veop Natural Foods store were vegan, and I was loving it! I found gan was never an issue for the Jain community, because animals everything I needed and so much more. Vegan items from marsh- were treated with great care. Previously cows were not injured mallows and cereals, to cheese, recipes and even toothpaste, were while obtaining milk, previously animal products were not used in abundant and ready for my taking.
the cooking and preserving of materials and foods, but they are The toothpaste was something that really made me smile. I today. What we must realize is that usage has caused immense had only recently learned that the majority of brand named tooth amounts of suffering to our surrounding environment. pastes out there were made with cow bones and other similar in- I think it is great that people avoid onions and other undergredients. I could no longer look in the mirror each morning ground vegetables. I think it is great that people are vegetarian. I knowing that my teeth were being cleaned at the expense of a also think it is great that people eat one less meat because they sentient being. Not only that, but sixty-one percent of the cow's have had an encounter with one of you lovely members of society. value is based upon the sales of its by-product (Stepaniak Pg 114). In addition, I realize that veganism, like avoiding underground Meaning, farmers make most of their money by us using products vegetables, is only one small step in the gigantic ladder we are like these toothpastes with animal by-products in them. trying to ascend. I don't consider myself better than someone who Unfortunately, I was faced with a dilemma. The natural tooth
is vegetarian, but I do consider myself fortunate to have had the paste was made with the underground vegetable ginger. Although experiences that led me to it. For those who have not had similar I had only given up some underground vegetables, (reasons were
experience, it is my obligation to present them with it. for strengthening of will power) I had never given much thought We must take some time to sit down and think about our to ginger. So I contemplated whether to buy the product. actions and the reactions that follow. We cannot go by what others
Contemplation took thirty seconds. What is worse. I told have said, rather we must learn to investigate for ourselves and myself, to continue to use a product that supports the killing of
ports the killing of
come to
come to our own conclusions. However, we can only come to sentient being, or to get an underground derived toothpaste for
for conclusions after we have investigated.
conc now, and look for others that are not made with a root later? Al
This is Jainism. though we are deciding from one of two necessary evils, the answer is simple. Why do I raise this if it is so easy to understand? *Bibliography*
Avoidance of underground vegetables originally came about Stepaniak, Joanne The Vegan Source Book by those who began to take karmic principles to the next level. Lincolnwood, Illinois. Lowel House. 1998 Minimization of suffering, one of the great Jain themes, was the basis behind this action. Underground vegetable extraction was associated with the harming of beings in the ground and the de
Vegan Sites struction of the actual soul of the plant (when pulling an apple off
http://www.goveg.com a tree the tree itself is still intact but when pulling a carrot out of
http://vegsource.com the ground, the whole carrot plant dies).
http://vegan.com At that time, the suffering of higher sense beings was unheard
http://www.vegan.org of (someone who was concerned about the suffering of lower sense
http://milksucks.com beings was not causing harm to higher sense beings). Does it Jain 30 JAIN DIGEST: SUMMER 2002

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The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir
The Young Jains of America is excited to display the talents of many youth, adults and Jain centers from across the continent from their celebrations of the 2600th Mahavir Jayanti. This was a momentous occasion for our Jain community. YJA was pleased to assist many Jain centers with the play, "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir." This play chronicled the births of Tirthankar Mahavir from his life as a simple town leader, Naysar, through his next 27 lives to his final birth as Prince Vardhaman.
Many cities have participated in this performance from across the USA and Canada. As they become available, pictures and summaries of the Mahavir Jayanti celebrations and plays from all over North America are being shown on the web. http:/ /www.yja.org/mj2600.htm
Charlotte, North Carolina
Jain Study Group celebrated Mahavir Jayanti on April 8th 2001. Celebration started with a Asthhaprakari Puja, and after the Puja, we had a Discourse on Bhagwan Mahavir's life and Jain principals by Shri Vijaybhai Doshi. Our young girls from 8 years to 13 years presented a beautiful melodious Stavan Dance. But the highlight of the program was a play depicting the twenty-seven lives of Bhagwan Mahavir. The play was divided into four acts for different past lives. We had great props to beautify the stage with mountain scene, trees and King's court. All the children did a superb job to play their own character.
Mr. Surendra Patel, Sanghpati of this year said that this was a very successful program and everybody enjoyed the Swamivatsalya after the program. We like to thank Young Jains of America, and especially Pavan Zaveri for all their help in the play and for supplying all the beautiful props and ornaments.
Chicago, Illinois
On April 8, 2001, the Jain Temple of Chicago celebrated Mahavir Jayanti with the production of the play, "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir" and declamation speeches given by Pathshala students.
Thirty-five Pathshala students, ranging from ages five to twenty-four, took part in our production. Determination and dedication by the participants, their parents, and other assistants helped make the play a big success. This play would not have been possible with out contributions from YJA and especially Pavan Zaveri for writing the play and supplying props for each Jain center.
Pathshala students also participated in the declamation speech contest, which was divided among ages. The topics included: "A message from the life of a historic Jain person of your choice," "Keeping Jain values alive in the Western world," and "Jainism and global peace." In conclusion, it was an auspicious occasion as the Jain youth of Chicago celebrated Bhagwan Mahavir's 2600th birth anniversary.
Dallas, Texas
Jain Society of North Texas celebrated the 2600th Mahavir Jayanti with a full program on April 8th, 2001. Approximately 300 people attended. The morning began with a series of Pujas. Following that, the cultural program was initiated with the youngest Pathshala children, ages 5-8, reciting Namokar Mantra, Icchami Khamasano and a bhajan. Next was the production of the YJA play, "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir." The play brought together 35 students of the remaining two Pathshala groups, ages 9-13 and 14 and up. The production came off without difficulty and was greatly appreciated by the audience. The play was directed by Pathshala teacher Charu Khara and Sushma Shah. Following that was a celebration of the birth of Prince Vardhaman with a colorful dandia dance.
The program concluded with Aarti and lunch. The program was enjoyable for all and a very well-received event.
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Vasudev Tripristha (Nirav Doshi) tells his servant (Ryan Singhi) to have the musician (Jainesh Shah) stop when he falls asleep.

Chicago youth enthusiastically perform the play for the Mahavir Jayanti celebration.
UNAA
The whole Dallas cast poses for a picture
JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001/31
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Houston, Texas
Jain Society of Houston held a three-day event from April 6th - 8th to celebrate the 2600th Mahavir Jayanti. Friday morning began with pujas, and the evening held a pravachan by Samani Sanmati Pragyaji, a Namokar Mantra Jaap and bhavna with Minoo Purshottam.
Saturday was filled with seminars on various aspects of how Jainism has influenced our life over the past two millenia. Following that was the play, "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir." Twenty youth played the various characters with many adults assisting in the background. Over 300 people attended the performance. Several dances accompanied the play celebrating the birth of Bhagwan Mahavir.
On Sunday, April 8th, the program began with a pravachan by Samani Charitra Pragyaji. Then, many of the younger Pathshala children, ages 9-13, performed dances and skits illustrating events from Bhagwan Mahavir's life. Other events included the story of Chandkaushik, Chandanbala and the cowherder puttinh thorns in Mahavir's ears. The Jain Fellowship of Houston, the Pathshala teachers and the Jain Society all came together beautifully for a tremendous weekend of programs celebrating this momentous occasion, the 2600th Birth anniversary of Tirthankar Mahavir
Middle Tennessee
Jain society of Middle Tennessee (JSMT) celebrated 2600th Birth Anniversary of Lord Mahavir, on 7th April 2001. With the sincere and dedicated efforts of the outgoing members and youth the program was a great success!
As usual we had sequence of few cultural programs in the celebration of the occasion. On that auspicious day all the Jains recited Jain prayers and stavans. Like every year this time we had a Jain scholar, Balbhadraji, who came over to enhance our knowledge of Jainism. He laid emphasis on how important the "NavkarMantra" and other sayings are and how they generate powerful vibrations throughout the day.
We than had a swapna darshan ceremony, followed by skit prepared by youth, which had inspiring messages to convey. The future generation is definitely benefited by this exposure. It helps to keep Jain traditions intact, while developing good values among youth. We also had a sequence of dances performed by enthusiastic youth. Finally we had our authentic traditional dinner.
Orlando, Florida
Jain Society of Central Florida celebrated the 2600th Mahavir Jayanti on April 8th, 2001 at the Hindu Temple with about 250 people in attendance The entire program was organized by the youth.
First, several young children recited the Namokar Mantra followed by a play, "Mahavir is My Hero," by several young boys. Next was a dance to Maro avato bhav avo apaje by three girls. And then the play on"The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir," by about twenty youth. The effort was directed by Rajendra Mehta. In celebration of the birth of the Tirthankar, there was another dance by thirteen young children to Mahavir Bhagwan no Helo. The program concluded with a lecture by the Samanijis. The whole event was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Mr. Ramesh Kotadia commented "it was very nice to see the young people so involved in knowing about their religion and presenting it."
San Diego, California
Jain E32 JAIN DIGEST SUMMER 2001
Chakravarti Priyamitra (Palak Parikh) listens to a discourse from the munis (Nitesh Daga and Amit Shah).

Sidey of Nattle Tes CLARKSVILLE, TN
Ishan Parekh and Ishita Parekh display and discuss the dreams Queen Trishala
The cast of the Past Lives of Mahavir play in Orlando.
Jain Society of San Diego held their Mahavir Jayanti program on April 22nd in which they put on a play called "Mahavir's Life: A Journey of the Soul from Ordinary to Divine", in which the 32 youth performed portions of the play "The Past Lives of Tirthankar Mahavir". It was followed by another drama and then followed by dinner.
The play was most definitely the highlight of the evening, with its colors, dance and music. There were also many adul volunteers who worked on this play, from choreography to stage decor. San Diego certainly brought forth the spirit of MJ2600.
Rejoicing in the birth of Bhagwan Mahavir

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Jain Digest
With best compliments to JAINA
Dr. Navin C. Mehta, M.B.B.S., M.D., P.C.
EAR, NOSE & THROAT HEAD & NECK
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ASSISTANT CLINICAL PROFESSOR NEW YORK MEDICAL COLLEGE & AFFILIATED HOSPITALS
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Tirthankar Parsavnath
yooulove नमो अरिहंताणं
नमो सिद्धाणं
नमो आयरियाण
नमो उवज्झायाणं
नमी लए सबसणं
'एसो पंचनमुकारी, सत्रपावप्पणासणी मंगलाणं च गवारी पढमं हवड मंगलं'
Jain temple format

ferat, a Tegrat
Tirthankar Mahavir

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This cover is sponsored by Jaya Travel and Tours Girnar Hills Jain Temples, Gujrat Visit our North American office at: Visit our Indian office at: 26500 Northwestern Highway TELEPHONE Suite 260 248/358-9100 Southfield, MI 48076 FAX USA 248/372-4806 Rizvi House 34 Hill Road Bandra (West), Bombay 400050 INDIA TELEPHONE TELE 6423031 6420402 6425222 FAX 6436421 Also visit us at www.jayatravel.com JAIN DIGEST Circulation Federation of JAINA PO Box 700 Getzville, NY 14068-0700 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID NIAGARA FALLS, NY PERMIT NO. 142 Address Service Requested Lulluuuuuuuuuuuuuuulll **************************AUTO**3-DIGIT 276 PRAVIN K. ARTI SHAH 415 509 CARRIAGE WOODS CIR RALEIGH NC 27607-3969 Moving? Receiving duplicate copies? Send your address corrections to: JAIN DIGEST Circulation Federation of JAINA P.O. Box 700 Getzville, NY 14068-0700 2010_02