Jain Digest 2004 11 Vol 23 No 4

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/527094/1

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LAIN DIGEST
A Publication by the Federation of Jain Associations in North America Winter 2004
Volume 22. No.
IT WAS MA MWANZA LA MALAYA
MAM
WWW
120
Calendar 2004
www.jaina.org POPIVAL FESTEN USE Only
Jam um emanal 2003
www.allery.org

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Cardiology Vinod K. Shah, MD, FACC A. A. Patil, MD, FACC Mahesh P. Shah MD,FACC 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, FCCP
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. Sajja, MD Manoj Panwala, MD Hematology/Oncology Gurdeep Chhabra, MD
Harminder S. Sethi, MD
Gerontology
Anwar T. Munshi, MD, FACP
Rita B. Jhaveri, MD
Pediatrics
Hla V. Shah, MD, FAAP
M.EO. Lafeer, MD, FAAP Dawn Bertram-Stewart, MD
Beena Khetpal, MD
Fahmi H. Fahmi MD
Pediatrics/Internal Medicine
James I. Harring, MD, FAAP FACP
Family Practice
John F. Fenwick, MD
J. Patrick Jarboe, MD
Robert J. Bauer, MD John L. Bennett, MD J. Scon Tidball, MD
Roy H. Bunales, MD
Radiology
Halappa G. Hakkal, MD
Harris E. Orzach, MD
Psychiatry
Aruna A. Patil, MD
Endocrinology
John Tourtelot, MD
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 11.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
2010_03
JAIN TEMPLE, WASHINGTON, DC
000
出展
REP
BEA
तय
ENET
JAI JINENDRA
अहो! अहो ! श्री सदगुरु, करुणासिंधु अपार आ पामर पर प्रभु कर्यो, अहो! अहो! उपकार (१२४)
Thanks! the Holy True Teacher! Unfathomable ocean of compassion; I'm highly obliged; Oh! good Teacher, The Pupil poor has no expression. (124)
शुं प्रभुचरणकने घरं आत्माथी सहु हीन, ते तो प्रभु 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 -
जवाय
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
FALL 2003 VOL.22 NO. 3 CIRCULATION: 11000
In this issue
From the Editor in Chief....3
Historic Moments at..........4
Headquarter News...
Committee News................7
Retirement Home Survey....9
Jaina Patron Programme.....8
Interfaith Activities............13
Wheels of Hoop..................14..
Tapachar
Virayachar.....................
16
Unity in Diversity............19
Regional News.............. .22
18
NRI's in USA.......... ..27
JD Life Members.....28
Role of Senior citizens.......28
MIS Registration Form......29 Matrimonials... .............30
YJA....
YJP....
International News...32
JAIN DIGEST CIRCULATION
Federation of JAINA
P. O. Box 700
Getzville, NY 14068-0700
.33
.36
Moving? Receiving duplicate copies? Send your address corrections to:
2010_03
FROM THE PRESIDENT.....
Jaina is on the move!
Jai Jinendra!
JAINA is on the move! Here is a brief synopsis what transpired over the last 3 months:
1. We started a monthly electronics newsletter called JAINA SPECTRUM in October. It has been very well received. We are thankful to the people who called us or emailed their message of support and appreciation. The real credit for this effort goes to Dilip V. Shah and Dhrumil Purohit for their hard work and dedication.
2. The Patron Program has started with a lot of gusto and enthusiasm.
You will be pleased to know that most of the JAINA Executive Committee members have become either Grand, or Gold, or Silver Patrons. Udai Jain is doing a wonderful in promoting this program. Please support this important program because it is extremely crucial to make JAINA financially healthy on a long-term basis.
3. Our interfaith work has started accelerating. We believe this is an extremely important piece of our mission designed to expose the Western World with our values, ideals and culture. We have decided to send a delegation to the Parliament of World's Religions Conference to be held in July, 2004 in Barcelona, Spain. Naresh Jain and Hema Pokharana are leading this effort.
4. Dr.Bipin Parikh and his Senior Retirement Committee Members have developed a survey for your review and feedback. We need to assess your interest level in this project before we charge ahead. Please study the details in this issue and respond fast.
5. Kirit Daftary has developed the 2005 Convention guidelines and is in the process of sorting out the details for the next convention.
6. We are forming a new committee called "Legal Advisory Committee". We are grateful to Nitin Talsania who was instrumental in getting Mr. Prakash Parekh (NY) and Neel Shah (NJ) on board on a volunteer basis. These attorneys are well experienced and would be quite an asset to JAINA as we expand our reach and need their help on complex legal issues.
7. We are forming another committee called "Media/Public Relations Committee". Nitin Talsania will chair it. It is designed to make the community and the public-at-large aware of the JAINA activities and Jain events uniformly and timely throughout North America. 8. Dilip V Shah is very busy planning the pilgrimage to sacred places in Jaisalmer, Abu, Girnar & Palitana. World Community Service including WOH (Ramesh P Shah) is busy arranging the medical camps in India and shipping medical equipment and supplies.
9. YJP held their convention in San Diego in October very successfully. We are indeed very proud of these young Jains coming forward and preparing themselves for a leadership role in the community.
10. Rajeev Pandya has just printed a beautiful JAINA Calendar for the upcoming year for you all. It is indeed a gem. You will love it.
This is just a brief summary of our progress. Please read this entire issue carefully and make yourself aware of the depth and breadth of activities JAINA volunteers have undertaken to serve you better. Please do your part and support us to the best of your ability.
Cover: JAINA 2004 Calendar Parshwanath Temple, Mirpur, Rajasthan, 10th 11th Century.

With Warmest Personal Regards,
Comp. Vorm
Anop R. Vora, President
JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003/1

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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, Getzville, NY 14068-0700
Phone/Fax: 716/636-5342 Office Hours: 2 pm-5pm Mon-Friday,
... jaina j aina.org
JAINA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
JAINA COMMITTEES
EDITOR IN CHIEF Lata Champsce 21 Swiftdale Place Don Mills, ONT, Canada M3B IM3 Phone: 416/441-2200 fax: 416/441-2211 email: latachampsee@usa.net
President Anop R. Vora Phone: 585/473-9290, Fax: 585/473-9450
Calendar Committee Rajeev Pandya 718-816-0083
Media and Public Relations Committee: Mr. Nitin Talasania
First Vice President Kirit C. Daftary Phone: 254/776-4209, Fax: 254/753-1411
Consticution Review Committee Manibhai Mehta 714-898-3156
Membership Kamlesh Shah 301-838-9778
COVER DESIGN Dhrumil Purohit email: dhrumil@dharmaboost.com
Govt.& Int'll Organizations Relations Dhiraj H. Shah 716-773-1314
Regional Vice Presidents Lata Champsee, Canada Phone: 416/441-2200, Fax: 416/441-2211
Marriage Information Service Hasmukh M. Shah 727-934-6141 N. American Jain Families Assist Program Ila G. Mchta 419-865-2727
Interfaith Activies/World Council of Jains Arvind Vora 631-269-1167
REGIONAL EDITORS
Keerti Shah, Midwest US Phone: 630/837-8716
Jain Digest Membership Keerti Shah 630-837-8716
North American Jains History Jasvant Mehta 780-435-9070
Canada Dr. Mahendra Mehta email: mhmehra@sympatico.ca Phone/Fax 416/241-2044
Dr. Sumati Shah. Northeast, US Phone: 516/625-8617
Patron Program Udai Jain 281-980-0741
Pravin K. shah, Southeast US Phone: 919/859-4994
Midwest, US Manubhai Doshi email: Manudoshi@aol.com Phone: 847/735-0120
Jain Network Forum (INF) Sunil Jain 630-705-1884 Jain Rituals Naresh Shah 516-741-9269
Pilgrimage Dilip V. Shah 215-561-0581
Rohak Vora, West US Phone: 858/676-1150
Jaina Book Stores Rohit H. Doshi 607-754-6010
Scholar Visitation Nirmal Dosi 732-390-0296
Northeast, US Dineshbhai Chheda email: dchheda@pica.army.mil Phone: 973/394-1701
Udai Jain, Southwest US Phone: 281-980-0741, Fax: 281/980-2924
Jaina Charitable Trust Mahendra K. Pandya 718-816-0083
Senior's Housing Bipin Parikh 847-699-1294
Secretary Sushil lain Phonel 301/670-0519 Fax:301/670-3937
Jaina Convention Board Kirit Daftary 254-776-4209
Southeast, US Surendra Shah Phone: 770/422-1483 srshah@bellsouth.net
Technology Committee Girish P. Shah 408-378-8765
Treasurer Jit Turakhia Phone: 315/622-3287, Fax: 315/622-1980
Jaina Education Pravin K. Shah 919-859-4994
Tirthodhdhar Kirit Daftary 254-776-4209
Southwest, US Jadavji Kenia email: jkenianetzero.com Phone: 972/690-3593
Jaina Library Ramesh Doshi 714-995-8914
V. R. Gandhi Scholarship Fund Pravin C. Shah 516-248-8265
Immediate Past President Bipin D. Parikh Phone: 847/699-1294, Fax: 312/726-4274
Jaina Public Affairs Committee Sushil Jain 301-670-0519
Wheel Of Hope Ramesh P. Shah 440-442-4596
West, US Chandrakant Parekh email:cparekh 1@yahoo.com Phone: 562-926-5663 Fax: 562-926-5664
World Community Service Bachubhai S. Ajmera 301-924-8070
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Young Minds Hanul Bhandari 210-842-4825. hamul.bhandart@yja.org
YJA and YJP Coordinator Girish P Shah 408-378-8765
Young Jains of America (YJA) Arpan P. Shah 281-980-6924
Young Jain Professionals (JP) Neha Jhaveri 303-683-1499
Chirag K. Shah 262-880-6918, chirag.shah@yja.org Matrimonial Hasmukh Shah 304 Tall Oak Trail Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-7711 Phone: 727-934-6141 / 3255 hasmukh33@yahoo.com
SPECIAL OFFICE BEARER
Jaina Publication Executive Director of JAINA
Prem Gada 806-794-4777 Kamalesh Amin
Jaina Temple Guidelines BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jagar Jain 716-688-0104 Names of all Board of Directors are listed on herp:// www.jaina.org
Jivdaya
Pramodaben Chitrabhanu 212-534-6090 JAINA CHARITABLE TRUST Names of all Trustees are listed on http://
Long Term Planning www.jaina.org
Yogendra Jain 781-856-0769 JAINA ON THE INTERNET JAINA
Jain BBS http://www.jaina.org/ http://www.jainism.org Young Jains of America
NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST heep://www.yja.org/
Regular
Regular Boston
Atlanta Buffalo
Miami AFFILIATES
Cherry Hill
Associate Essex Fells
Augusta Brahmi Jain Society, US and Canada
Hudson Valley Charlote I. A A. of Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya, Rochester, NY
New York
Ft. Meyers International Mahavir lain Mission, US and Canada
Ocen
Jacksonville Jain Adhytmic Academy of N. America, Plano, TX
Orange
Memphis Philadelphia
Middle Tennessee Jain Meditation International Center, US & Canada
Pictsburgh
Morgantown Jain Social Group, LA and Toronto
Rochester
New Orleans Kutchhi Gurjar Jain Society, Grand Island, NY
Washington
Orlando Kucchhi Oswal Jain Association of North America(KOJAIN) Aste
Panama City Beach Shri Mahavir Jain Foundation, Santa Ana, CA
Albany
Palm Beach Jain Academic Foundation of N. America, Lubbock, TX
Allentown
Raleigh Elmira
Tampa Harrisburgh Hartford
Syracuse LETTERS TO THE EDITOR OF JAIN DIGEST
CANADA Regular
Toronto Associate
Fdmonton Montreal Ottawa Vancouver
SOUTHWEST Ragadlar Dallas Houston
Phoenix Assoria
Tulsa Lubbock Colorado
MANAGING BOARD Lata Champsee, Managing Director Dilip V Shah, Marketing Director Keerti Shah, Circulation Director
The Managing Editorial Board will endeavor to publish all material submitted butteserves the right to edit and/or reformat for clarity and space restrictions. The views expressed in the articles are chose of the authors and do not necessarily represent che views of the Managing Editorial Board of JAIN DIGEST
WEST Reyalar
Los Angles San Francisco Associate
Las Vegas Portland Sacramento San Diego
MIDWEST Regular
Chicago Cincinati/Dayton Cleveland Columbus Detroit Lansing
St. Louis Associate
Kansas City Minneapolis Milwaukee Toledo
PUBLICATION DATES AND DEADLINES Spring (March)
February 15ch Suπιιπιεε (June)
May 15th Fall (September)
August 15th Winter (Decernber) November 15ch
We encourage our readers to send their questions, comments or views on current issues or concerns facing the Jain community of North America to the Editor in Chief, Lata Champsee. We endeavor to publish all letters, sprace permitting. The JAIN DIGEST reserves the right to edit all material for clarity and/or space. All letters must include the sender's naine, address and phone nuitabct to be considered for publication.
2/ JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003
Jain Education Interational 2010_03

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From Editor in Chief
JAINA RECEIVES AN AWARD
Jai Jinendra!
I wish you all a very Prosperous, Peaceful and Spiritual New Year.
World Medical Relief, Inc. has selected JAINA for their OUTSTANDING COMMITMENT TO THE HEALTH CARE NEEDS OF THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY AWARD. Their President wrote: "This award is being conferred to JAINA for your overwhelming support to the medically impoverished in India. You have shown much compassion- and at great sacrifice- to your fellow countrymen, and we admire your good works tremendously."
They will honor JAINA on March 6, 2004 in Michigan. It is a great recognition we should all be proud of Ramesh P. Shah, Rashmi Gardi, and Dhiraj H. Shah whose dedication and hard work has made this award possible.
This issue of JAIN DIGEST is dedicated to Chairpersons of various JAINA Committees. Presently JAINA has thirty five committees and chairperson of each of these committees have worked day in and day out for years to bring JAINA's services to the 100,000 Jains living in North America and India. They devote their time, money and efforts. They are driven by the motive to make a small difference in the world. Without them, JAINA could not be JAINA. We are proud of them and our hats off to them.
JAINA 2004 CALENDAR
JAINA is delighted to present you this beautiful This year's calendar continues it's Yatra of the rich history of Jain Art & Architecture pre-12h Century. These pictures of 12 architecturally and historically important Jain Temples, Jain Tirths (Temple Cities), Cave Temples, Rock Sculptures and Mountain Carvings geographically dispersed throughout India, depict the richness and vastness of Jain culture across the Indian sub-continent, as well as establishing Jainism as one of the world's most ancient religion.
Thanks to an overwhelmingly positive response by the Jain Community, we are again able to freely distribute 12,000 copies of the JAINA 2004 Calendar to Jain families across North America and other parts of the world. Over 3,500 sets of the JAINA Mini - Library have been distributed to all those who responded and requested for these book sets. We hope to continue to make these Book Sets available to selected Colleges & University Libraries and to all the Jain Center's Pathsala Teachers in North America.
As once someone said :
"World is not moved by
one mighty push But by sum total of all tiny pushes.
Lata Champsee
Rajeev Pandya Chairman, JAINA Calendar and Mini Library Committee.
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
Please send your $151.00 Jain Digest life membership dues to Keerti Shah, 842 Lakeside Drive, Bartlett Illinois 60103, Phone: 630-837-8716 email:
I want to be a Trustee of JAINA Charitable Trust and will
Name donate $500 every year
Address 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 $151
Phone ( other amount: $10 $25 $50 __
Email 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.
JAIN DIGEST. Fali 2003/3 Jain Education Interational 2010_03

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Historic Moment for the Hindus and Jains at The White House
Washington, DC: October 23, 2003. Today marked a historic time for Hindus and Jains in the United States as well as around the world. The White House celebrated its first ever Diwali event. Among the 100 honored guests were representatives of various civic organizations and prominent government officials. In a ceremony rich with tradition, a "dipak" (lamp) was lighted by Mr. Karl Rove, Special Advisor to President George W. Bush, in front of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi to invoke their blessings during this ageold Festival of Lights celebration. Addressing the guests in the Indian Treaty room where the original U.N. Charter was signed, Rove said, "I just spoke with the President who called from Pearl Harbor; he sends his Diwali greetings to you and to the Hindu and Jain community worldwide." He added, "The President would have been here today, had it not been for his trip to Asia and Australia." Leading the invocation was Dr. Anant Rambachan, professor of Religion at St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota who highlighted the significance of Diwali and its relevance in today's environment. Mr. Neil Patel, a political appointee serving in the Office of Vice President Dick Cheney was the Master of Ceremony. Speaking next, underscoring the historic importance of the event, Mr. Gopal Khanna, Chief Financial Officer at The Peace Corps, said, "This celebration symbolizes the Bush Administration's recognition of America's rich religious and ethnic diversity. Today's event establishes a tradition that will, for generations to come, strengthen America as a nation that remains committed to, secularism and inclusion in its mainstream, people of all faiths." Mr. Khanna continued, "This historic White House celebration happened because of a conversation Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal, National President of the Association of Indians in America, had with President Bush about six weeks ago. During that meeting Dr. Agrawal urged the President to celebrate the Hindu festival of Diwali at The White House." The President promised Dr. Agrawal that he would look into the matter and, to the delight of the growing Indian American community, we are here celebrating this event together today. When asked about the highlights of the event, Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal responded, "There were at least two very significant items; the event was held at The White House within six weeks of the request to the President and representatives from all major Indian organizations were present at the event including Muslims, Sikhs, Jains and Christians. It was truly an elegant affair." He added "President Bush deserves our sincere 'gratitude' for creating history by opening the door of The White House for a Hindu ceremony. We are sure that the tradition will continue and this is the beauty of America."
The Association of Indians in America (AIA) commissioned a Commemorative Silver Coin struck in honor of the occasion. All those in attendance at the ceremony received the coin as a Diwali Gift. The coin depicts the deities Ganesha and Laxmi on one side with the reverse side bearing the inscription "First Diwali At The White House 2003".
Maheedin
I remember you requested Jain food but I understand Jains do not eat after sunset and it's midnight so we didn't prepare a meal for you!
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HEADQUARTERS NEWS....
JAINA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
AT SIDDHACHALAM
SUMMARY OF JAINA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EC) AND BOARD OF The Siddhachalam Trustees met with DIRECTORS (DIR) MEETING HELD AT JAINA executive committee members to seek SIDDHACHALAM ON 3RD AND 4TH opportunities to assist in promoting OCT 2003
Siddhachalam as Teerth in North America. Many ideas were exchanged for exploration
and implementation. Executive committee members present: Mr. Anop Vora, Mr. Kirit Daftary, Mr. Sushil
Presidents and JAINA 2003 convention
report: Mr. Anop Vora - After a brief Jain, Mrs. Lata Champsee, Mr. Udai Jain, Mr. Rohak Vora, Mr. Sumati Shah, Mr. Keerti
introduction by each member present, Anopji Shah, Mr. Bipin Parikh and Mr. Kamlesh
thanked everyone for coming and making this
meeting a success. He remarked that many Amin (JAINA Executive Director).
people offered compliments to JAINA and Directors and Guests: Mr. Kamlesh Amin, Cincinnati/Dayton Sangh for doing an Mr. Sudhir M. Shah, Mr. Chandrakant M. outstanding job in every aspect of the Shah, Dr. Mamta Shaha, Mr. Rajendra convention. He recognized all people involved Kumar, Mr. Jaysingh Bhandari, Mr. Jashwant and publicly thanked them for their excellent Shah, Mr. Vinay Vakhani, Mr. Naresh Jain, support. He added that, due to the efforts of Mr. Pravin C. Shah, Mrs. Urmila J. Shah, every committee, there was significant Mr. Ashok J. Desai, Mr. Dilip V. Shah, Mr. savings, to benefit JAINA, local Sangh and Dhrumal Purohit, Mr. Gunvant Shah, Mr. future conventions. Nirmal Dosi, Mrs. Anita Shah, Mrs. Kanta P. Shah, Mrs. Vimla V. Vakani, Mrs. Asha
Treasurer's report: Due to unexpected Jain, Mrs. Rekha Parikh, Mrs. Hema Shah,
circumstances, the treasurer's report was not Mr. Rajeev Pandya, Mr. Kamlesh Shah, Mr.
available. However, JAINA is financially Nitin Talsania, Mrs. Urmila Desai.
healthy at this point. A report will be posted on JAINA web site in the near future.
Passing resolution: Sushilji briefly outlined a customized procedure to pass a motion/ resolution as approved by EC (EC03-004). He added that we will use "Robert's Rules of Parliamentary Procedure” as a reference.
Patron program presentation: Udaiji led discussion on JAINA Patron program as approved by EC (EC03-001). He started with a brief historical review and outlined past successes and opportunities to improve. He described the details of patron's program and announced the names of individuals who already pledged to become high level JAINA patrons. A question was raised regarding JAINA having too many varieties of memberships. JAINA EC agreed that none of the existing programs will be withdrawn or compromised. Udaiji noted many positive and supportive comments and questions raised during discussion.
Committee re-structuring presentation: Anopji presented current committee restructure plans as approved by JAINA EC (EC03-002). He announced that the functions of seven committees are being eliminated and two committees are being renamed. He also announced a change in leadership in some committees, as well as formation of six new committees. The remaining committees and their functions remain unchanged. In conclusion, it was decided that we will have a brief description/ statement of each committee. This information will assist in gaining knowledge regarding each committee as well as avoid redundancies among committees. A comment was made regarding the importance of keeping Ahimsa committee active. Similar comment was voiced regarding possible duplication with JAIN network forum and MIS. In addition, a comment was made that each committee be required to send their progress report to the secretary. It was suggested that VP should facilitate the reporting process.
JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003 / 5
Jain Education Intemational 2010_03

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Director-at- large announcement: Anopji regional conferences in Boston, Atlanta and challenged. In addition, we endorsed a request announced names and brief biographical other cities throughout N. America. The next to continue R (religious) visa category. Every details of each appointee as approved by the YJA convention will be in San Francisco, and year this legislation comes up for vote to retain EC (EC03-003). Mrs. Pramodaben plans are underway to host over 1000 youths. or eliminate the law. Every year fundamental Chatrabhanu, Mr. Madhav Jain, Dr. Mahesh In addition, youths are working on a second Christians both on the House and Senate side Shah, Mr. Sanjay K. Pandya , Mr. Samprati trip to Virayatan, as well as continuing to are ready to further restrict R visa guidelines/ Shah, Mr. Vijay Chheda, one more member support projects like Habitat for Humanity. or to eliminate it all together. to be announced.
JAINA Spectrum presentation: Dilipji Senior Housing: Bipinji reported that Convention 2005 presentation: Kiritji explained the need to establish JAINA there is a great need to build senior housing reported that we have interest from several spectrum for the purpose of timely news and near temples. We have offers from developers Jain centers to host JAINA 2005 with the announcements. The spectrum is intended that if we facilitate enrollment/sale of housing strongest interest arising from Jain Sangh of as brief synopses of activities. One may obtain to 40 or more families, the developer will offer Tampa; FL. JAINA EC is still working on details by going to the original source. It will an exclusive Jain facility including facility for guidelines. JAINA's goal is to establish a be published once a month and e-mailed to prayers. There was healthy discussion on pros permanent National Convention Committee. individuals in JAINA e-mail group. All and cons of project(s) of this nature. His team Kiritji & Mamtaji reported that he received material intended to be published in JAINA is exploring feasibilities, opportunities, much input from attendees which included Spectrum may be sent continuously. responsibility, as well as liability. He will both compliments and opportunities to
Membership Committee: Kamlesh Shah
present his findings at the next meeting. improve.
presented the application from Jain Society V.R. Gandhi Scholarship Committee: Technology committee: Girishji made a of Las Vegas for Associate membership of Pravinji reported that they raised nearly detailed presentation on the goals and JAINA. The Board approved the application $4500 and awarded seven scholarships to objective of this committee to build and as associate member(DIRO3-001). In students for their studies in Jainism. In maintain technology needs, as well as provide addition, Kamleshji will forward a draft copy addition, they published and distributed over technology services to JAINA committees and of membership guidelines by e-mail for review. 3,100 copies of a book about V.R. Gandhi. members. They will develop e-mail addresses
Education Committee : Sudhirji made a Scholar visitation Committee: Nirmalji and links to all member organizations. He
slide presentation outlining multi-phased highlighted the importance of spiritual leaders announced the names of Technology
publication of Jain Sutra translated into coming from India. He commented that coordination committee members.
English, Jain storybook publication, and obtaining visas for them is becoming Jain Digest: Lataji informed that Jain sketch book. The committee will insure that increasingly difficult. He outlined JAINA Digest goes to over 11,000 readers. She added material contents will represent all sects of internal processes and procedures for that Jain Digest is unfairly compared with Jainism and edited to insure accuracy. sponsoring and reasons that may have Jain Spirit. There are major differences in
Pilgrim committee: Dilipji briefly
contributed to problem. In addition, he both. In an effort to improve the publication, announced that the next pilgrimage to India
outlined health insurance problem. In she invited comments for improvements. will depart on Jan 18th for a 17 day trip to
cooperation with YJA and YJP, a list of local There were many good comments and Jaisalmer, Palitana, Abu and Girnar. More
scholars was put together to meet the needs suggestions made regarding improvement, details are available on JAINA web site.
until a viable solution can be implemented. including active editorial board to check for
Soon he will send an advisory to all Jain accuracy of materials being published. She Teerthodhar committee: Kiritji reported organizations emphasizing the need to appealed for help with the contents and
that this committee facilitated a health camp purchase visitor health insurance for all timely reports and articles, as well as guidance resulting in over 1200 Sadhu's and Sadhviji Monks, Scholars, etc. on what types of articles to publish. being examined. The pilot project in Lachwad
Calendar committee: Rajeevji presented is progressing better than expected with over JAINA/ Mission/Strategic Goals: Sushilji 350 enrolled students. As a result the
a brief report on the progress of 2004 JAINA presented a slide show emphasizing the
calendar. He stated that calendar is in its final Lachwad management has requested $40,000 importance of developing JAINA vision, to build eight additional class rooms. The
version of editing. The committee's goal is to mission and strategic goals. The purpose
mail Jain calendars by December. Currently residence of Lachwad and surrounding area would be to plot a unified road map for our
the calendars are being mailed to JAIN are very happy and thankful to JAINA. The future. Furthermore, it will serve to allocate JAINA will send $5000. Similar projects are
DIGEST mailing list. For those who wish to and maximize resources to meet the set being replicated at other locations.
be on the mailing list, please contact JAINA objectives. In addition, he presented an initial
HQ by e-mail draft of Plans of Action and milestones to JAINA Public Affairs Council: Sushilji
Constitution and By-laws Committee: address the recommendations received from reported that upon the request of American
Anopji reported that Dr. Manibhai Mehta many directors and past presidents for Jewish Council, we have written a letter to
had sent an electronic copy to directors for improvements. These presentations and plans House Representative Moran protesting his
potential changes. The EC will initiate will be submitted to the Long Range planning comments that Jews were the reason for
compiling comments from various leaderships committee for review and incorporation problems in the middle-east. Several other
of JAINA and forward to the committee for letter of disappointment was written to YJA report: On behalf of YJA, Dhrumil
their research and recommendations. current and former elected officials when we informed, YJA board is working on organizing felt our religious freedom was being
6/JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003 Jain Education Intemational 2010_03

Page #9

JAINA liability/ visa report: Sushilji reported that according to knowledgeable people, JAINA may be liable for all actions by officers in performance/ execution of their duties as well as any mishap that occurs while the officer is executing his/her duties. After a detailed discussion, it was agreed that, Pravin Vakhani, insurance expert, will be requested to look into purchasing a general liability policy. At the same time, it was agreed that there is a great need for pro-bono legal advisory committee to advise JAINA on legal matters. On the visa issue, Sushilji was advised by the authorities that all individuals coming to the U.S. to perform religious duties should apply for visa under R status. It was noted that in the past almost all Sadhu, Sadhviji and scholars come on visitor visa. Due to the confusing nature of this issue, it was agreed that we need formal legal advice before taking any action.
General Topic: Nareshji announced that 4th Parliamentary of World Religion Conference will be held in Barcelona, Spain in July 2004. It is requested that JAINA takes active role and send a delegation. If desired Hema Pokharna from Chicago can be of assistance, since she is one of the conference organizers. He will send more details by e-mail. Girishji announced that JAINA should look into sponsoring Ahinsa Chair at one of the California Universities. He will send details by e-mail.
Wheel of Hope: Ramesh Shah forwarded a written report. During this reporting period several containers were shipped to India. Each container contained medical furniture, supplies for medical camp and medical equipment. He requests that JAINA set aside funds for shipping costs, surgical procedures for children and cardiac patients.
COMMITTEE NEWS:
History of Jainism & Jains in North America
JAINA has decided to compile the "History of Jainism & Jains in North America". During the past century, lots of efforts have gone in bringing Jainism in North America but nothing noteworthy has been recorded. There is a rich history of how Jainism is known over fifty states of America and ten provinces of Canada and how Jains throughout NA have established themselves. Each of the more than seventy-five Jain organizations in more than sixty cities have their own stories as part of their contribution in the growth and development of Jainism. Now, it is necessary to put everything into one huge docu-book for the benefit of the future generation. For this great project of importance, call is given for support and cooperation and thus help in writing the true exhaustive history. Anyone having any information like articles & books written by you and/or others, details about Jain artefacts with you and/or at other places, history of local centres, timeline of milestone of events, etc. which can be used in making this publication complete and comprehensive. Please send only copies and do not part with originals now. Any info-material used will be suitably
acknowledged with credit. You are invited to send such info-materials to Mr. Jaswant Mehta at his email address of jvmehta2000@yahoo.com or mail at: Jsawant Mehta, #203, 2910 - 109 Street, Edmonton, AB, T6J 7H4."
2010_03
Prepared by Dr. Sushil Jain, Secretary, JAINA
JAINA/JCSC NATIONAL LIBRARY
The JAINA/JCSC National Library is managed by the Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC) and is housed in the main hall at the Jain Center in Buena Park near Los Angeles. Thirty custom-designed cabinets have been purchased by JCSC to house a comprehensive library collection of books, audiocassettes, videos, and CDs.
To fulfill the aim of making the library collection available to any interested member in the United States and Canada, an effort is under way to compile a comprehensive list of all the library books and make it available on the Internet. JCSC has purchased
a
printer, a barcode reader, and 'Librarysoftware' to catalog and facilitate the book transactions. Several JCSC volunteers and a part-time paid staff member have already cataloged nearly 90% of the library books and the list will be posted on the Internet shortly. An interested member will be able to search the books by title/ author and send an e-mail request to the librarian to forward the material to him/her. The material will be mailed to the requester within 7 days. The recipient will be responsible for returning the material to the library.
For further information as well as to contribute donations
for this library project, please contact Prakash Gandhi at (562)
926-6798 (pjgandhi4@aol.com) or Ramesh Doshi at (714) 9958914 (rodoshi@yahoo.com).

JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003/7

Page #10

COMMITTEE NEWS:
Are you thinking about Retirement Home? If Yes, Talk to JAINA Senior Housing Committee.
Dear Dharmabandhu
-
Many of us are fast approaching retirement. We have worked very hard all our life and now is the time to relax. At the least, you may want to acquire a 2nd home for retirement. Or you may want to move to a warm climate and company of like-minded Jains.
JAINA leadership has recognized the need for such facilities for our community. JAINA has conducted some initial research and has looked at retirement communities. At the last executive committee meeting, JAINA formed
a Sub-committee (Senior Housing Committee) to study these requirements and to develop detailed demographic information. As their first act, the Senior Housing Committee has developed the attached survey form to get your input for this type of community.
The purpose this form is to learn about your desires and compile a list of facilities that would be desirable by the community. Such information and demographics will be made available to potential developers to interest them to develop such facilities across the country. The information will be of statistical nature and no personal information will be released unless authorized by you on the survey form. JAINA will not have any financial interest in any of these projects.
We request every family to respond to us as soon as possible by mail or e-mail to Bipin Parikh c/o JAINA HQ (see addresses below). To respond by e-mail just save on your computer, fill in the details and attach to the e-mail you send to us.
JAINA Senior Housing Committee Members
ST IL TX
Name Dr. Bipin Parikh Mr. Kirit Daftary Mr. Pankaj Dalal Mr. Bipin Shah Dr. Dhiraj Shah Mr. Gunvant Shah Mr. Kanti Shah Mr. Keerti Shah Mr. Pravin M. Shah
e mail address dmdmrch@core.com netrat@att.net rgmrchnt@earthlink.net bshah 5380@aol.com dhshah1@hotmail.com profgaryshah@yahoo.com ktshah32@hotmail.com knshah@att.net goodroofer@yahoo.com
Tel: 847 699 1294 254 776 4209 713 666 9448 727 786 1976 716 773 1314 732 246 4030 946 459 8299 630 837 8716 815 693 0575
CA
=
=
Mailing address Bipin Parikh C/O JAINA HQ P.O.Box 700 Gatesville NY 14068-0700 jainahq@jaina.org
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Jain Education Interational 2010_03

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Sadharmic Bhawan / Retirement Community Home Survey
Your Name:
Address
Phone No.
E-address
1. When would you like to plan your move to a retirement community?
2 to 4 Years
5 Years
4. How many bedrooms do you need?
Studio
one Bedroom
City
1 to 2 years
2. Which state do you want to retire?
Arizona
California
Florida
3. What type of facility do you need to relocate? Apartment Condo Town Home High Rise Condo Manufactured / Modular Housing
Nevada Texas
10 years up
24 Hr. Nurse
2010_03
Three Bedroom
1800 Sq Ft.
State
_other (Name)
Two Bedroom
5. Approximately how much space would you desire?
1000 Sq. Ft
1200 Sq. Ft.
1500 Sq. Ft.
6. What price can you pay for the house (including Mortgage)?
$60,000
$100,000
$160,000
$200,000
$250,000
$300,000
Other
7. How much monthly assessment fee can you pay? Please note that need for more common amenities will raise the monthly payments.
Approximate initial Monthly Assessment fee: $150. $200 $250 $300 any
Other
Zip
2000 Sq. Ft.
8. As a Jain it is understood that we all need a Jain temple (preferably close-by walkable). Also a good size community hall with kitchen is always desirable. What other facility would you want? What amenities will you like to see? Examples: Community Kitchen & dining hall to eat daily. Yes Health Club with Sports facility. Yes
No
No
Membership fee_
Nearby Shopping
Medical Clinic
ANOTHER JAINA ACTIVITY IS BEING INTRODUCED FOR YOUR BENEFIT.
JAINA has identified a Retirement Community project being planned in Central Florida and is in the process of doing a due diligence on this project. This project plans to build 200 condominiums and 100 homes for the Hindu and Jain community. It may include Jain Temple (if at least 40 Jain families sign up), community hall, dining room, health club, and medical center. Please indicate your interest in such a project by answering question below.
If JAINA identifies such a viable project, would you be willing to put up a good faith deposit of $ 1,000 Yes NO
2500 Sq. Ft.
House

Such a facility may include the following.
At the minimum 40 Jain family condominiums in a four-story building with a Jain Temple on the site is required. This condominium building will have Studio, One bedroom, two bedrooms and Three-bedrooms facility.
Located near Western Florida coast. (One hour drive)
Easy access to Airport/Hospital / Bank / Grocery and Drug store.
Start planning June 2004 and completion is expected to be in two years.
Common full kitchen run by cooks for Indian cuisine.
Access to doctor on the facility will be available (at least 2 hrs. on weekdays). Nearby hospital and emergency medical assistance facility is available. Daytime Nurse is available on the site.
What is your level of interest in above project? - Very Interested Interested
Other
Not Interested
Do we have your permission to provide your contact information and your survey answers to the potential developers?
YES
NO
JAIN DIGEST⚫ Fall 2003/9

Page #12

COMMITTEE NEWS:
Jai Jinendra
Every Jain in North America is the part of the JAINA or JAINA is the part of every Jain family. Jaina is a functional organization and therefore Jaina's obligations are enormous. JAINA is doing works in many fields:
JAINA PATRON PROGRAM
1. National Convention - Gathering of Jain families and friends.
2. Medical - Sending equipments to different hospitals in India.
3. Education Different syllabus for different classes. Publishing books etc.
4. Jive Daya
5. Future Leaders - Y.J.A. and Y.J.P.
6. Human Services - Through world community services like earthquake relief etc
7. Jain Prayers In different government as well as many other places.
8. Housing for Seniors Citizens - Program providing services for elderly Jains. 9. Matrimonial - Bringing young adults together as life partners.
All these activities are done with generous support from Jain individuals, Jain communities and Jain Sanghs.
Attached is the PATRON PROGRAM with a several categories to choose from such as Grand Patron, Gold Patron, Silver Patron, and Patron. The benefits for each category are explained in details. The PATRON ENROLLMENT FORM is also attached for your convenience.
On behalf of Jaina, I am appealing to you, the Jains to become Grand or Gold or Silver Patron. Now as they say charity begins at home, we, the executive committee have contributed dollars and therefore become Patrons as per attached list.
JAINA relies on people like you and I who understand the need to respect, honor and care for our principles. So please fill out the Patron Enrollment From and send it with your Tax-deductible check payable to JAINA to Patron Program Committee Chairman:
Mr. Udai Jain
3902 Senna Place Sugar Land, TX 77479 Phone: 281.980.0741
E-Mail: jainudail @aol.com
With warm regards,
Deland
Udai Jain
Chairman, Patron Program Committee
10/JAIN DIGEST⚫ Fall 2003
2010_03
Patrons as of Nov 30\03
1. Mr. Udai Jain
2. Mr. Anop Vora
3. Mr. Kirit Daftary
4. Dr. Sushil Jain
5. Dr. Sumati Shah
6. Mrs. Lata Champsee
7. Dr. Bipin Parikh
8. Mr. Jit Turakhia
9. Mr. Rohak Vora

Grand Patron Gold Patron
Gold Patron
Gold Patron
Gold Patron
Silver Patron
Silver Patron
Silver Patron Silver Patron

Page #13

Committee News:
JAINA PATRON PROGRAM
OBJECTIVE:
BENEFITS:
PATRON ENROLLMEMT FORM:
Patron (1 yr membership):
I would very much like to support JAINA Patron Program. Enclosed is my taxdeductible check, payable to JAINA for:
$5,000
1. Jain Digest by First Class mail 2. Listing in Jain Digest once a year 3. JAINA Calendar by First Class mail 4. Recognition at JAINA Day when
celebrated at their center 5. Priority reservation for Pilgrimage 6. Preferred allocation for rooms at the
Convention hotels (within set time limits). 7. Priority seating at the Convention
$2,000
Grand Patron Life Time membership Gold Patron 10 Year Membership Silver Patron 5 Year Membership Patron 1 Year Membership
$1,100
$250
Silver Patron (5 yr membership):
Name: Mr./Mrs./Ms./ Dr.
2003 JAINA convention was a great showcase to demonstrate what the Jain community in North America can do. We should all feel proud of this achievement.
nevement. Please remember that JAINA offers a unifying force and we should all support it to the best of our ability so that JAINA can continue holding conventions and help the Jain community in many areas.
JAINA has very limited sources of revenue and therefore must depend upon the generosity of its members for financial support. It has experienced financial difficulties off and on in the past but the time has come to address this ongoing problem once for all and make JAINA a powerful force.
The Patron Program is aimed at making JAINA financially solvent on a continual basis. Please bear in mind that we cannot operate the organization effectively without a strong financial back up from the community.
Please note that we will keep the donations received from the Grand, Gold, and Silver Patrons in a separate "Endowment Fund". We intend to use only the interest from this fund to meet the dayto-day expenses of running JAINA. We strongly urge the community to become either a Grand or a Gold or a Silver Patron and make JAINA financially healthy for years to come.
same as Patron, Plus 8. Extra copy of Calendar upon request 9. Photograph of Silver Patron and
spouse in Jain Digest
Address:
Gold Patron (10 yr membership):
Phone:(Res.)
Same as Silver Patron, Plus 10. Photograph of Gold Patron and
spouse in Jain Digest 11. Three extra copies of JAINA
calendars upon request 12. Copy of Teerth Darshan Book (An
exquisite pictorial book on Jain teerths)
(Off.)
(Fax)
Grand Patron (Life time membership):
(Please mail in forms to JAINA Hq, PO Box 700, Getzville, NY 14068, USA)
Patron Program Committee
Same as Gold patron, Plus 13. Five extra copies of JAINA calendars
upon request 14. Bdges/Ribbons of Grand Patron for
two, so they can wear it at the Convention for preferred seating.
Mr. Udai Jain (Chairman): 281-980-0741
Patron Structure:
What your participation would mean
Membership Term: January 1st - December 31st
1. Sending Jain Digest & Jaina Calendar
free to all Jain families of N. America. 2. Preparing a Jain studies curriculum
for our children, publishing important books and helping every Jain Sangh as much as possible.
Dr. Bharat K. Shah: 314-567-4071 Dr. Dhiraj H. Shah: 716-773-1314 Mr. Dilip V. Shah: 215-561-0581 Mrs. llaben Mehta...419-865-2727 Mr. Kirit Daftary: 254-776-4209 Mr. Kishor C. Shah 630-671-0001 Dr. Mahesh Shah: 937-836-8080 Dr. Mamta Shaha: 516-487-1852 Dr. Manibhai Mehta: 714-898-3156 Ms. Neha Jhaveri: 303-683-1499 Mr. Nirajan Shah ...847-330-1088 Mr. Prem Jain: 408-981-4645 Mr. Sanjay Pandya 212-319-8291 Ms. Shama Khandwala 847-985-6858 Mr. Vijay Chheda: 714-573-1324
Allowing JAINA to take new initiatives such as Electronic Monthly Bulletin (JAINA Spectrum), Senior Housing Projects, Long Range Planning, Increased Interfaith activities, Jain History Project etc.
JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003/11
Jain Education Interational 2010_03

Page #14

COMMITTEE NEWS:
V. R. Gandhi Scholarship Committee
"JAINA Shri V.R. Gandhi Scholarship Committee's India based screening subcommittee under the chairpersonship of Dr. Jitendra Shah has been publishing about award of this scholarship every year since year 2000.Subcommittee invites, scrutinizes and recommends applications for awarding scholarships. It is a matter of great pleasure that the awarding of this scholarship was started in year 2001, VRG's death centenary year and 2600th birth year of Bhagvan Mahavir.. The following donors have contributed $ 100 or more to this scholarship fund since last such information published in Jain Digest.
Patni Narendra J. & Suman Kew Gardens N.Y. $ 100 Jain Center of America, New York (Dec.,02) $ 2,000 Drs. Bharat & Kokila, Jericho, N.Y $ 201
Jain Center of America, New York (July,03) $ 2,000
After review of about 18 applications received from Dr. Jitendra B. Shah, Chairperson of Indiabased subcommittee for academic year 2002-03,7 (seven) nonrefundable scholaships up to Rs. 15,000 were awarded to the students for their advanced studies, Ph.D. and M.Phil.,in Jainism.
Pravin C. Shah, Chairperson
SAMANS TOUR USA
Saman Sthitpragya and Saman Shrutpragya left India on June 28 for a USA tour. At the JAINA convention in Cincinnati (OH) over 900 participants attended a lecture on stress management and anger management presented by Saman. Shrutpragya. Preksha meditation and yoga classes also proved to
be very popular. Samniji Charitrapragyaji and Samniji Sandhpragyaji also attended the convention.
The Samans presented discourses on Mahavira and on three-dimensional programs of Anuvrat, Preksha Meditation and Science of Living during their visits to Ashland (KY), Woodbridge (CT), Clarksville and Memphis (TN), and Long Island (NY). Topics of time management, family management, health management, karma management, Preksha meditation and yoga were addressed in a series of lectures attended by Jain and non-Jain public. The classes in English were held in parallel for the benefit of the youths. The concept of Jain Vishwa Bharati Preksha meditation is taught at Orlando, Houston and New Jersey centers in the USA, and at New Delhi, Ladhun, Rajsamand and Koba (Gujurat) centers in India. The Samans can be contacted at anuvrat7@yahoo.com.
12/ JAIN DIGEST⚫ Fall 2003
2010_03
Jaina Senior Citizen Committee
Jaina Senior Citizen Committee's aim was to collect various
information regarding the different benefits, programs offered by the States and the Federal Government and how our Senior members can take the advantage of these programs, e.g. Social Security benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, Transportation, Housing benefits, advice on Estate planning, preparation of Living wills/ Trust, Long term Care and other social activities etc. We have obtained some information which we intend to make available to all who would require them.
We are also exploring the possibility of forming the Senior Citizen Association at bigger Jain Centers where there are a good number of our Senior members. The Association can organize the various programs at their Centers. We at Los Angeles are organizing various activities for the Seniors, like Bus trips to various Home Temples, other recreation Parks, musical programs, picnics, rangoli competition, religious pooja and other programs. Thus it helps the Seniors to have some entertainment and enjoy the life. We are still exploring to provide the transport to our Seniors to come to our Center regularly to participate in the religious, social activities. We are also exploring if Housing facilities be organized for the Senior members.
We would like to welcome any new ideas from any Jaina members. Please contact us if anyone would like to have any further information regarding Seniors benefits or organizing activities for the Senior members at their Centers.
Kantilal Shah, Chairperson.
JAIN NETWORK FORUM -
Jain meets Jains online Jain Network Forum is internet/web
based program/database accustomed to your needs, your interests
and your future plans. The online database consists of JNF candidates from Jaina 2001 and Jaina 2003 conventions, YJA conventions and many independently registered candidates. The continuously growing JNF database has more than 500 active profiles from USA and other countries. The online profile of each candidate consists of picture and key information about each candidate with easy to search functions to match your criteria.
One time membership fee of only USD $30 provides access to JNF database forever. Please visit www.jaina.org and follow link of Jain network forum for registration form and other details. For more information please contact Sunil Kumar Jain at jnf_mis@hotmail.com

Sunil K. Jain, Chairperson

Page #15

Committee News:
INTERFAITH EVENTS AND INITIATIVES
September 11 Interfaith Service for United Nations The Jain delegates also had a special meeting with the interfaith center
staff to discuss the possibilities of including Jainism oriented visual The annual Interfaith Service of the Commitment to the arts and performing arts programs. Contact Naresh Jain at Work of United Nations to mark the opening of the 58th session of nain52253@aol.com the General assembly was held on September 11, 2003 at St. Bartholomew's Church in New York City. This year's service attended
Thanksgiving Interfaith Service: by 1500 people was in Celebration of the International Year of Freshwater and in remembrance of the UN Victims who died in An Interfaith Thanksgiving Program was held at the Unitarian Iraq. International Jain Sangh (IJS) of New Jersey co-sponsored the Universal Meetinghouse in Lincroft, New Jersey on Sunday, service. HH Amrender Muniji recited Jain Prayer. IJS distributed November 23, 2003. Several religious organizations participated flyers on Nonviolence and Jainism and offered vegetarian snack items including Presbyterian Church, Baha'i faith, Hindu religion, Jainism Contact: Naresh Jain at njain52253@aol.com
and many others. A dance sponsored by the International Jain Sangh
of New Jersey for 'World Unity' was performed by Divya Jain and World Fest 2003 in California
her group Contact Dr. Ari Jain at arijain@hotmail.com.
Conference of Religions for Peace:
Jains from Southern California put up a Jain booth in World Fest 2003 in Los Angeles. The volunteers served as Ambassadors of Jainism explaining its philosophy and message to hundreds of visitors from numerous backgrounds and walks of life. Free copies of Amar Salgia's booklet- Pure Freedom: The Jain Way of Self Reliance was also made available to visitors. The annual World Fest event is a public celebration of vegetarianism and environmentalism. Contact Amar Salgia at asalgia@yahoo.com
Annual program of the Council of Presidents of the United States Conference of Religions for Peace will take place in Dec 03 in Boston. Arvind Vora, Chairman of JAINA Interfaith Committee and Chairman of the Long Island Multi-faith Forum will represent the President of JAINA in the discussions which will focus on the "Role of Religion in International Affairs for the Council of Presidents" and "What are the implications for Religion Given Current US Foreign Policy positions" Artist Nancy Burson is working with the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council to include a large peace-focused artwork in the reconstructed World Trade Center area. Plan is to inscribe peace prayers of member traditions on the inside of this unique translucent public art project. JAINA will coordinate with the council to include Jain Peace Prayers in this WTC site remembered forever. Contact: Arvind Vora (631) 269-1167.
Open House for Jainism
An Open House for Jainism to the Public was hosted by the Jain Center of Southern California in its Buena Park Temple on October 5th. The afternoon Welcome Program to share Jain experience with non-Jains included vegetarian snacks, panel discussion on Philosophy and Practices of Jainism. Contact Amar Salgia at asalgia@yahoo.com
Accommodation of Religious Communities
Season of Nonviolence at the United Nations, NY in Schools and Hospitals:
A program entitled 'Season of Nonviolence will be held in the A two day working retreat organized by the Interfaith Center
United Nations in New York on January 30, 2004 from 1:00 pm of New York was held in November. Naresh Jain coordinated the to 2:30 pm. This pioneer event is being held on the anniversary participation of Jain community in this event attended by 95 delegates day of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi to highlight violence from ten religions representing numerous institutions. Deepal Jhaveri as the cause of his death and to promote the spirit of nonviolence. represented the Jain Center of New Jersey on the school panel. Dr. The program is co-sponsored by several major interfaith Mamta Shaha from the Jain Center of America- New York participated organizations and the International Jain Sangh (IJS) of New Jersey. in the health care area.
Registrations will be accepted up to January 10, 2004. IJS will The issues that surfaced in the session for accommodation arrange for security clearance. If you are in New York area and in schools included diet, dress code, sex segregation, prayers at set wish to attend, contact Naresh Jain at njain52253@aol.com. times, and objections to the contents of the curriculum. Deepal Jhaveri in her panel presentation articulately described the connection
World religion Camp in Florida: between the diet of children and the quality of education and that the religion was in fact a part of the multi-culture.
Asia Cultural Society will hold a World Religion Camp in February The hospitals were more receptive to individual preferences 2004 in Orlando, Florida. Jain Society of Central Florida will and religious accommodations due to customer orientation, profit participate in this event and will also have a booth to display Jain motive, patient's bill of rights, and the right to religious liberty. materials. Contact Rajendra Mehta (407) 260-6459.
JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003 / 13 2010_03

Page #16

COMMITTEE NEWS:
"Wheels of Hope" (Asha Chakra) Program Report
JAINA's Donation of "Pace Makers"
Saves Two (2) lives in India!
... You have not only donated the machine but also donated joy and happiness to my family. For us you are not a man but an angel... The service you are providing is priceless...have no words to express my feelings on behalf of my granny"- Dhiraj Parsi, grandson of Dhanraji Sital 8/29.
Pace makers were donated to JAINA by World Medical Relief, Detroit, MI in July; were flown to India by Mukesh Doshi, Director of BIDADA Rehabilitation Center; patients from Bidada, Kutch were brought to K.E.M. Hospital, Bombay and Pace Makers were installed by Dr. P.G. Kerkar, Head of the Cardiology Department.
Other developments from "Wheels of Hope" Program in last two months are:
Container # 18 left Detroit, MI arriving India end of October; it is loaded with sophisticated, hi-tech state of art rehabilitation equipment for BIDADA's new 15,000 sq.ft. Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy center. Equipment is worth $250.000 all donated by World Medical Relief to JAINA.
Container #19 left Toledo, Oh. Arriving India first week of November. This container has hospital supplies and equipment for eight(8) institutions:
a) Upleta Hospital, Upleta b) Samanya Sadhana Kendra, Ahmedabad c) Bidada Sarvodaya Trust d) SMVA Trust, Bangalore e) Ram Mantra Mandir, Bhavanagar f) Vardhaman Nagar Clinic, Bhuj g) Simandahr Swami Aradhana kendra,
· Gandhinagar h) Gandhi-Lincoln Hospital, Deesa
Some of the items are:Milk Powder Packets for 8,000 children, 3 Dental Chairs, 10 Dental Xray Machines, Digital Dental Xray Machine, Prosthetic & Orthotics for handicapped & Disabled, Xray Machine, Refrigerators for Blood and Urine Specimens These supplies are scheduled to arrive at seven(7) Medical Camps in India that JAINA is supporting in Jan-Feb 2004. With your financial support of $100-$200, this program can do more and more for poor & sick of India. For more information, please contact Dr. Jaya & Ramesh Shah 440-442-4596 (jshah6138@aol.com)
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Page #17

US CONGRESSMAN JOINS DIWALI CELEBRATIONS
BY JAINS IN NEW JERSEY
*****
The attached picture shows the congressman Frank Pallone conversing with Dev Joshi of 88.7 FM radio program 'Bharat Darshan' along with children and guests.
US Congressman Frank Pallone. Jr., joined the children to celebrate Diwali organized by the International Jain Sangh in South River, New Jersey. Fifty-two children performing on stage on Saturday, November 8, 2003, shook hands and took pictures with the congressman. Members of several faiths and ethnic groups joined the festivities dedicated to the needy children of the nearby Asbury Park school. Artist from the Creations Dance Academy gave several performances, and an accomplished singer Shri Ghanshyam Joshi entertained the guests by his melodious voice in the evening program coordinated by Neena Jain (732) 9060103
Mr. Nemubhai Chandaria honoured for his services to the Jain Community
Mr Nemubhai Chandaria was awarded the OBE (Officer of the British Empire) in Her Majesty's June 2003 Birthday Honours List for his services to the Jain Community. Nemubhai is the Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Institute of Jainology and has been the primary driving force behind the lo] activities. From his early formative years, community service always appealed to him. He was appointed Joint Secretary of the Rotary Club of Addis Ababa, in 1964, in 1966 on moving to Asmara, he was appointed as International Director of the Rotary Club of Asmara. The charitable undertakings of the Rotary Club are well-known. Nemubhai provided enthusiasm and support to several of Club activities during his directorship.
He was also involved with the Haile Selassie Foundation whilst living in Ethiopia. The Foundation managed several charitable institutions including the School for the Blind and the Orphanage for Children
In 1988, he read an article in the Herald Tribune announcing the formation of the International Sacred Literature Trust (ISLT) with a mission to undertake translations of scriptures of various faiths into contemporary English. Jainism was not in the list of the translation work. Nemubhai contacted the President of the trust HRH Prince Philip, who responded positively.
Nemubhai's desire was to unite Jain sources and avoid duplication with only limited resources available from the community. The proposed activities of JSLT were merged with those of the Institute of Jainology (IO]) whose objectives were very similar. IOJ represents all Jains sects world-wide and he became its International Co-ordinator. IoJ has undertaken a wide range of activities under the banner of "The Jains'. A quick view of the projects at www.jainology.org will give an idea of the extent to which the cause of Jainism has been promoted. All of these projects bear the imprint of Nemubhai's foresight, meticulous planning and hard work.
Notable, amongst the projects is the publication of the Jain Declaration on Nature. It was for the first time, that all Jain sects worldwide were united and acted jointly when they presented the declaration to HRH Prince Philip at Buckingham Palace. IOJ as a result joined the family of WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) and Jainism thus became the eighth recognised faith of the World.
The first Jain scripture to be translated jointly under the ISLT mission was the Tattvartha Sutra - That Which Is, by Dr Nathmal Tatia, published by Harper Collins and launched by HRH Prince Philip in July, 1995. All the Jain sects participated in the translation of these scriptures. On the occasion of the celebration of the 26th Birth Centenary of Bhagwan Mahavir, the Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Behari Vajpayee, conferred Jain Rama award on Nemubhai appreciation of his services to the Jain community
2010_03
This award in the Queen's Birthday Honours List is absolutely well deserved and the loJ can take justifiable pride in having him as the Deputy Chairman of its Board of Trustees.

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Bärasavihammi Vi Tave Sabbhintar-Bähire Kusal-Ditthe Agila Anjivi Nayavvo So Tavdyre Panchächär Sutra
TAPÄCHÄR
The Code Of Austerities
External and internal austerities laid down by the omniscient Lords are of twelve types; earnest observance thereof, without expecting any return, is known as the code of austerities.
In the first three chapters we have discussed knowledge, perception and conduct. In this chapter we intend to consider austerity, which is popularly known as Tap. Jain tradition lays considerable emphasis on observance of Tap. Really speaking, Tap is a part of Charitra. However, in view of its special importance in spiritual pursuit it is treated as a separate part of spiritual code and is termed as Tapächär. Let us now examine its significance in spiritual pursuit.
Since the time immemorial, the worldly soul has been found under the impact of Karma. Consequently, it has been entangled in an apparently unending cycle of births and deaths. It can be liberated from that cycle by eradicating the impact of Karma. That is known as Nirjarä. It is of two types. One is Akäm Nirjarä, which automatically takes place by bearing the consequences of old Karma. During such Nirjarä, however, the person happens to react to the given situation with craving or aversion. That Nirjara therefore leads to acquisition of new Karma and as such cannot lead to liberation. The other one is Sakäm Nirjaraä, which can be achieved with the purpose of gaining liberation. That does not lead to new Karma. One of the ways to achieve such Nirjarä is to resort to austerities. Upväs is the most well known mode of the austerities. Since it is significantly helpful in achieving Nirjarä, Jainism exhorts its followers to observe Upväs to the utmost extent.
The true meaning of Upväs has, however, been forgotten and it happens to be equated with fasting, which simply amounts to going without food. All the benefits accruing from undertaking true Upväs are wrongly supposed to come forth from fasting. Jains are therefore known for fasting on a scale inconceivable to others. During Paryusana days, in particular, we come across many Jains observing fasts for all the eight days. There are also some, who observe longer fasts extending to months.
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Manubhai Doshi, Chicago, Il
It is hardly remembered that observance of austerities is a means, not the end. In order to avoid misconception of the term, Jainism has laid down the concept of Tap or the austerity in great details. Austerities have been actually conceived of the physical and mental exercises that can be helpful in achieving Nirjarä. The physical exercises are termed as external or Brähya Tap and mental ones as internal or Abhyantar Tap. Since internal austerities are concerned with inner aspects, it would be evident that they are meant for spiritual development. External austerities, on the other hand, are useful to the extent they are helpful in undertaking the internal ones. Both these categories of Tap are divided into six sub-categories each. There are thus twelve types of Tap in all. Let
us examine them under two broad headings.
A: External or Brähya Tap
Panchächär Sutra lays down external austerities as under.
Anasan-Moonoariyä Vitti-Sankhevanam Rasachchäo Kay-Kilero Sanlinaya Ya Bajzo Tave Hoi
It means that fasting, eating less, curtailing the desires, avoiding the tastes, facing physical hardships and occupying restricted space constitute the external austerities. Let us consider them one after another.
1) Anashan: This is the first category of Tap. Ashan means to eat and Anashan means not to eat which is known as fasting. Such fasting is usually termed as Upvas. As mentioned above, that is misleading, because Upväs has a totally different connotation. Upväs means staying close to the soul. When a person stays so tuned to the nature of soul, he does not care for the body or other physical aspects like appetite etc. So refraining from food can be a consequence of Upwas, not an essential part of it. Instead of using the term Upväs, the seers have therefore specifically used the term Anashan for this category of external restraint. Fasting is of course useful, because the spiritual pursuit may entail going without food. The practice of fasting would therefore be helpful in retaining the peace of mind under such adverse circumstances.
2) Unoariä or Unodari: This means eating less than what is needed for satisfying the appetite. Normally, people tend to fill the belly, when they eat. It is, however, possible that a spiritual aspirant may sometime not get enough to eat. Practicing this austerity would

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enable him to be prepared to face such eventuality. He can thus 1 ) Päyachchhittam or Präyashchit: This means atonement or stay without being perturbed when he does not get enough food. repentance. During our life, we happen to indulge in wrong and This austerity has a hygienic consideration too. A recent research undesirable physical activities and evil tendencies. This may be has shown that eating less than the appetite is conducive to health due to addiction, weakness of mind, pitfalls or shortsightedness. A and can even increase the longevity.
spiritual aspirant has to stay constantly aware of such indulgences. 3) Vitrisankhevanam or Vrittisankshep: This means curtailing
Whenever he notices any thing wrong on his part, he should repent the tendency to expand one's requirements. Human beings have
and atone for the same. His sense of remorse should be strong the tendency to acquire as many things as possible, so that they
enough to avert the recurrence of such indulgence. If this is
undertaken with sincerity, one can surely reach the state of can be used to satisfy the current or future needs. Gaining too many things, however, does not necessarily make one happy. perte
perfection sooner or later. Happiness is a function of mind and can be attained by 2 ) Vinay: This means modesty on one's own part and respect contentment. By observing this austerity, one can learn to stay for others. Respect has to be appropriate and may even take the contented with the minimum requirements.
form of worship for the deserving entities. This would help the 4) Rasachchäo or Rastyäg. This means giving up attachment aspirant to proceed towards spiritual development. For instance, if for tastes. The tongue always looks for tastes. Our attention one has regard for his preceptor, he would not undertake any activity therefore stays towards different types of tasty foods and drinks, without seeking the guidance from him. That would automatically This turns out to be more or less an insatiable craze. Such hankering
keep him away from indulging in wrong or undesirable activity. for tastes does not allow the peace of mind. Some brake has to be He would also feel inclined to develop the attributes of the deserving applied to it. This austerity is laid down with that end in view entities and that can lead him towards the state of perfection. Äyambil Vrat is specially devised for that purpose.
3) Veyävachcham or Vaiyavrutya: This means selfless service. 5) Käyakileso or Käyäklesh: This literally means bearing A spiritual aspirant should realize that all the living beings have physical affliction. In practice, it amounts to courting physical the same type of soul. He should therefore feel a sense of amity hardships. During spiritual pursuit, one comes across many and fraternity for everyone. He would then be willing to serve hardships. If he is not accustomed to bear the same, he cannot others without expecting anything in return. This sense of selfless maintain peace and no spiritual benefit can come forth in absence service would not arise, unless one has developed a sense of of the peace of mind. It is therefore necessary that the aspirant is dedication to the cause of serving. Such servicing can result in used to bearing reasonable level of hardships and physical elimination of arrogance and lead towards modesty. The utter discomforts.
degree of such modesty can bring forth the faultlessness. 6) Sanlinayä or Sanlinatä: This is also referred to as 4) Sajzäo or Swadhyay: Literally, this means study of oneself. Viviktashayyäsan. It means staying in a forlorn place and occupying It takes two forms. One is to get conscious of one's own faults and the minimum space. Normal human tendency is to gain more and limitations with a view to avoid the same. The other is to understand more space to lead a comfortable life. The purpose of this austerity the nature of true Self. The aspirant learns that the soul is inherently is to curtail that tendency and to feel comfortable within a restricted pure, enlightened, flawless and is imbibed with infinite knowledge, area. The term can also mean staying tuned. Maintaining alertness perception and bliss. He would therefore strive to manifest those can thus come within the purview of this restraint.
attributes and the total manifestation amounts to the liberation. It would be evident that the purpose of external austerities is 5) Jhänam or Dhyan: This normally means meditation. Jain to equip the aspirants to face hardships that they may come across tradition, however, treats it as attentiveness and specifies four types during spiritual pursuit. That can enable them to observe peace of Dhyan known as Ärtadhyän, Raudradhyan, Dharmadhyan and and tranquillity of mind even in adverse circumstances. Now let Shukladhyän. The first two categories are unwholesome and do us turn to the internal austerities, each of which is devised to lead not form part of this austerity. The remaining two are wholesome to liberation.
and are akin to meditation. Dharmadhyän means contemplating B: Internal or Abyantar Tap
about the spiritual aspects so as to get rid of the defilement.
Shukladhyån denotes absorption within the nature of soul. When Panchächär Sutra lays down internal austerities as under.
one attains that state, he is not far away from liberation. Päyachchhittam Vinao Veyavachcham Tahev Sajzão
6) Ussaggo or Käyotsarga: Literally this means giving up the Jhanam Ussaggo Vi A Abbhintarao Tavo Hoi
body. It actually denotes giving up all the physical as well as mental It means that repentance, modesty, selfless service, study of Self, activities and staying absorbed in the true nature of soul. When meditation and staying beyond the physical aspects are the internal such absorption is complete and remains uninterrupted, it is called austerities. Let us consider them one by one.
liberation.
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VIRYÄCHÄR
The Code Of Exercising Vigor
Anigoohia-Bal-Virio Parakkamai Jo Jahuttamäutto that type of motivation is helpful in correctly undertaking and Junjai A Jahäthämam Näyavvo Viriäyäro
successfully finishing any work. Doing anything efficiently and Panchächär Sutra appropriately amounts to Yog. Geeta therefore states: Yogah
Karmasu Kaushalam. It means that efficiency in doing anything is When one applies his unrestricted capacity and vigor for practicing Yog. People in the West are attracted towards the physical exercises the laid down spiritual code, it is known as Viryächär or the code of that are known as Yoga exercises. Such exercises are really meant to exercising vigor.
equip an aspirant to undertake the required activity efficiently. If It was mentioned earlier that Jain spiritual code consists of
one does not gain the efficiency or fails to exercise it, he misses the five aspects. Of these five, we have discussed Jnänächär,
real purpose of undertaking Yoga. Darshanächär, Chariträchär and Tapächär. After properly If a high degree of self-motivation is required for worldly understanding these four aspects, one needs to exercise his energy success, a far higher degree is necessitated for spiritual purposes. for putting them into practice. This has to be done vigorously and The scriptures mention that Mithyätva (the wrong perception), enthusiastically without any way restricting the energy. Such Avirati (absence of restraints), Kashäy (defilement), Pramad practicing is known as Viryächär, the code of exercising vigor. As a (indolence) and Yog (unduly exercising of physical, verbal and matter of fact, Viryachär also is a part of Chäriträchär. In view of mental capabilities) are the main factors that inhibit the spiritual its importance, however, Jain tradition trears it as a separate part growth. Detailed analysis of these factors would indicate that laxity, of the code.
laziness and lethargy, which are the principal constituents of For undertaking any activity, one has to exercise vigor. That
indolence, are inherent in those factors. Religion therefore applies to the worldly aspects as well as to spiritual ones. This is
emphasizes that the spiritual aspirant should undertake every obvious and well known to every one. The question would therefore
activity efficiently and without any way indulging in indolence. arise why do we need a code for something that is so obvious? The Jainism lays down the following five major types of indolence, reply is simple. All of us are aware that exercising vigor is necessary viz. i) Vishay, which means indulgence in sensuous objects like for gaining anything. How many people, however, actually exercise sound, sight, smell, taste and touch, ii) Kashäy, meaning the it appropriately? While undertaking any activity, most of the people defilement pertaining to anger, arrogance, deception and greed, are overcome by indolence. They are frequently led by the tendency ii) Vikathä meaning unnecessary talks pertaining to politics, nation, to indulge in lethargy, sluggishness etc. For instance, a student food and sex, iv) Nidrä, meaning excessive sleep and v) Pranay might be aware that for securing admission to the course that he meaning too much attachment. These aspects tend the people to aspires, he needs to gain a high score. He would also be aware that remain indolent and thereby lead them away from seeking the if he properly exerts, he can gain the required score. But somehow, well being of soul. Every aspirant is therefore required to avoid he may be led away by lethargy and would not put in the required these types of indolence and to practice the spiritual code with amount of work. Thereby, he may miss the chance of getting vigor and enthusiasm. The verse from the Panchächär Sutra, quoted admission to the course.
at the top of this chapter, therefore states that the spiritual aspirant
needs to practice the code vigorously and without limiting or Incidents of losing opportunities on account of lethargy occur in all walks of life. Such lethargy usually arises out of indolence,
restraining his energy and capability. laziness, overindulgence etc. Suppose a person might have to appear This leads us to a controversial aspect. It is contended that for an interview for getting a job. He may, however, not do enough Jainism being Karma-oriented, it believes in the inexorable law of home work and may therefore fail to get the job; one may ignore Karma. If the living beings get different types of situations as the the maintenance of his car and may undertake a journey during result of their Karma, there would be no escape for them but to which the car may get stuck and he fails to go to the destination; bear the consequences of their Karma. Jainism is thus viewed as one may stay lustful and thereby ignore the work which he is endorsing inactivity and discouraging the energetic effort. How supposed to do; one may not remain careful enough about his can we reconcile that view with the description of Viryachär? This income and expenditure, whereby he may fail to pay the mortgage question is closely associated with the controversy between dues and may consequently face a foreclosure.
Prärabdha and Purushärtha or destiny vs. endeavor, let us therefore
consider it here. Doing anything on time needs vigilance and motivation. But there is no motivation comparable to the self-motivation. Only
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Unity in Diversity
Kalpin Shah,
Human Rights, just as everything else, is a doubled edged 218) Further, the United Nations General Assembly, a uniquely sword. On one edge lies greater access to democracy and on the representative body, is authorized to address and advance the other lies oppressive tyranny. Along with this, there is a greater protection and promotion of Human Rights. As such, it's an long-standing dilemma of Universal Human Rights versus cultural excellent indicator of international consensus on Human Rights. relativity. It can be noted that this dilemma can essentially be All Member States of the UN have a legal obligation to promote reduced to the basic question of whether human behavior is based and protect Human Rights, regardless of particular cultural views. on nature or nurture- universally homogeneous or culturally
hy The Vienna Declaration states the obligation of all Member heterogeneous. Yet globally speaking, Human Rights (not human
States in its very first paragraph. The Universal Nature of Human privileges) are the natural-born rights of all humans, universally
Rights is beyond question and the universal respect (neither selective regardless of cultural diversity. Nevertheless, the diversity among
nor respective and protection of all Human Rights and all humans in their ideology, philosophy, culture, lifestyle and
fundamental freedoms is applicable to all humans. Warren functional religion is an involuntary variation among us. Chooseing
Christopher, U.S. Department of State Dispatch, agrees to the one over the other has its own consequences. While extreme
Vienna Declaration as the first responsibility of all Governments. universal Human Rights result in universal rigid hierarchical
He further states, the condition of Human Rights in a country is tyranny, radical relativism allows unchecked violations of our basic
a good measure of the quality of its government, and the free Human Rights. Yet it is this universal diversity that allows us to
exercise of Human Rights is the best safeguard against the abuse of unite while simultaneously remain true to our identity. Thus, the
national power." (Sane, 19) Thus, universally, individuals are long-standing dilemma can actually be channeled as a solution by
capable of holding their human rights and exercising them against accepting Universal Human Rights yet applying them relatively.
their state in cases of Human Rights violations.
UNIVERSALITY
DIVERSITY
Human rights (not Human privileges) are the naturalborn rights of all humans, regardless of cultural diversity. Human Rights, the very basic fundamental minimal rights, are essentially yours simply because we are human beings. One (every Human Right) for all [humans) and all (Human Rights) for one (human). The Human Rights are based on an understanding of human dignity that sees each person as an equal and a valuable human being. For example, every human is inherited with the Human Right to marry and found a family. (Donnelly, 49-50) Pollis and Schwab argue all societies have had and continue to human rights motions and that all societies cross-culturally and historically manifest conceptions of Human Rights. Others have contested that the concept of Human Rights can be traced back to the origin of human race. (Donnelly, 49)
The universal nature of Human Rights is literally written into the title of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. From June 1993, the Vienna Declaration reconfirms, "All human rights are universal, indivisible and interdependent and interrelated.” (Sane, 17) They are accepted in the International Covenant of Economic, Social Cultural Rights, and the Article 27 of International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights addressing
8 ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities. (Murray and Wheatley,
Nevertheless, every human being has the right to culture, including the right to enjoy and develop cultural life and identity. The diversity in culture, ideology, philosophy and functional religion is an involuntary variation. This is actually constituted and protected by universal human rights institutions, for example, the International Bill fo Rights, the International Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Declaration of Race and Racial Prejudice, the Declarations on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religions or Belief, the Right of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic Religious and Linguistic Minorities, and the list is endless. The Universal Declaration on the Right to Development states, in Article 18 and 19, the right to recognition before the law and to nationality, in Article 27, it states the right to participate in the cultural life of the community. (Donnelly, 71) In Article 27 of International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights protects rights of ethnic, religious, or linguistic minorities. (Murray and Wheatley, 20)
As all just laws-international or domestic-universal Human Rights neither harbor nor harm, neither represent nor orient, towards on particular culture. Universal Human Rights, under
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any circumstances, do not impose one cultural standard yet rather one legal standard of minimum protection. This standard, necessary of human dignity, was adopted through the UN and represents the hard-won community and not he cultural imperialism of the mightiest region or tradition. It protects the basic fundamental minimum standards of human dignity allowing maximum room of cultural identity and variations without violating others same rights. This way everyone wins.
The Vienna Declaration provided explicit consideration of culture in Human Rights promotion and protection by stating, "the significance of national and regional particularities and various historical, cultural and religious backgrounds must be borne in mind." As Jack Donnelly points out, "The [universal] Declaration does list some rights that are best viewed as an "interpretation," subject to much grater cultural relativity. For example, the right of free and full consent of spouses reflects a specific cultural interpretation of marriage that is of relatively recent origin and by no means universal today." (Donnelly, 123) The flexibility of Human Rights, to be relevant to divers cultures, are facilitated by the stabled minimum standards and the incorporated cultural rights in universal Human Rights. In other words, the actual interpretation and application on a cultural level of these fundamental universal rights is most required taking in consideration the culturally diverse factors and life style of its nationals. For instance, although all humans have a right to marry and found a family, restricting couple to only one child in China is a legitimate legislation. Not allowing a culturally relative application of Human Rights endangers public safety in an extremely high population density environment constrained with dangerously limited resource most minimum to human survival.
Universality while Diversity
Is there not room, ethical moral, and adjustment for alliance among universal Human Rights and traditional cultures? Or do we lack the intellectual rational to incorporate both? Drawing on compatible practices and common values form diverse cultures would actually enhance and promote Human Rights protection on a larger level. Particular Human Rights are, as Gallie notes, "essentially contested concepts," in which there's a large general consensus of meaning, simultaneous to complex irresolvable conflict f interpretations. Here, culture provided a bow-worthy plausible and defensible mechanism for determining
interpretations.
Donnelly offers this example; "There are significant direct costs, as well as indirect costs, such as operation a legal system in accord with principles of due process, and protecting citizens against arbitrary or inhumane and degrading treatment by officials of the state." (Donnelly, 117) Further he analyzes the righ to work which is almost universally accepted yet might be interpreted as right to seek employment, right or be compensated for employment or
20/JAIN DIGEST⚫ Fall 2003 2010_03
even unemployment or right to work with one's interest. This specificity will be absent from Human Rights lists or even those that do list it. Also, specifying the length and the amount of unemployment benefits, or the extent of vocational training results in large scales variations an can't possibly be universally applicable. Thus, traditional cultures should be approached and recognized as partners to promote greater respect for and observance of Human Rights.
Drawing on compatible practices and common values from traditional culture would enhance and advance Human Rights promotion and protection. This approach not only encourages greater tolerance, mutual respect and understanding, but also fosters more effective international cooperation for Human Rights. Rather than limit Human Rights to suit a given culture, why not draw on traditional cultural values to reinforce the application and relevance of universal Human Rights? Thus indigenous pluralism or universal Human Rights in culturally divers context is not an obstacle yet a fortification of Human Rights.
The defense for cultural relativism frequently includes or leads of the assertion that traditional cultures are sufficient to protect human dignity, and therefore universal Human Rights are unnecessary. Furthermore, the refute continues, universal Human Rights can be intrusive and disruptive to traditional protection of human life, liberty and security. (Kausikan, 122) In response, when traditional cultures do effectively provide such protection, then human rights by definition would be compatible, posing no threat to the traditional culture. As such, the traditional culture can better absorb and apply Human Rights, and the governing state should be in a better position not only to ratify, but also to effectively and fully implement the international standards. To refute the second objection that Human Rights can be substituted by traditions, it is hardly the case. "No government has yet shown how the distinct values f its culture justify torture, discrimination or so called disappearances," neither do they reply to the crises of nationals demanding the respect of their rights. (Sane, 19)
Traditional culture is a cultural context in which Human
Rights must be established, integrated, promoted, ad protected. Human Rights must be approached in a way that is meaningful and relevant in diverse cultural contexts since the supportive membership of global nations is its most generous strength. Thus it is not only feasible yet a necessity to view the universal Human Rights in the light of cultural diversity. Radical relativism views
human values, fro from being universal, vary a great deal according
to different cultural perspectives. Some would apply this relativity to the promotion, protection, interpretation and application of Human Rights that could be interpreted differently within different cultural, ethnic and religious traditions. If cultural traditions alone govern state compliances to international standards, then widespread disregard, abuse and violations of Human Rights would be given legitimacy. ON the other edge, extreme universality of (continued on Page 21)

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(continued from Page 20 )
human rights and their complete global application in a diverse setting man sit is the ultimate law not the land but of all the lands. This raises less representation and further distances from humans, the very foundations of Human Rights. This would be the leading step toward a global tyranny.
The right path is smack in the middle. Vulnerability to suffrage, pain, harm shared by all humans unites us to the requirement of universal Human Rights. Yet the diversity among us in race, sex, culture, ideology, philosophy, religion, needs a relative aid from protecting. It is this universal diversity which allows us to unite, while simultaneously remain true to our identity. We are not faced with a choice between relativism and universal Human Rights. We don't have to choose berween having the cake and eating the pie. As Donnelly best puts it, “Rather we need to combine the universality of Human Rights and their particularity, and relativity," for unity among diversity. Reference: Donnelly, Jack. “Cultural Relativism and Human Rights," Universla Human Rights in Theory and Practice (Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 1989) Murray and Wheatley, "Grougps and the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights" Sane, Pierre. “Human Rights are Universal" in Human Rights: Opposing Viewpoints (San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1988) Kausikan, Bilahari. "Asian versus "Universal" Human Rights"
(continued from Page 18)
Prärabdha or destiny is usually seen as resulting from Karma, while Purushärtha is viewed as the endeavor to overcome such destiny. Thus, Prärabdha and Purushärtha apparently seem to be contradicting each other. Really speaking, both of them are only different facets of operative part of Karma. Prärabdha denotes the consequence of Poorva or earlier Karma, while Purushärtha represents the Vartamän or present Karma. While describing the nature of Karma, Jainism does emphasize that if the bondage of an earlier Karma is not very strong, its impact can be modified by undertaking the opposite type of Karma. Thus Vartamän Karma can have an edge over Poorva Karma.
Viryächär asks us to undertake intensive Vartamän Karma for overcoming the impact of Jnänävaraniya, Darshanävaraniya, Mohaniya and Antaräy Karmas, acquired earlier. One would be successful in overcoming the same to the extent the bondage of earlier Karma is not too strong. There is therefore no scope to contend that we are helpless victims of the earlier Karma. Viryächär lays down that one should try his best to gain right knowledge, right conviction and right conduct. That applies to observance of austerities as well. Thus all the aspects of spiritual code need to be observed with the utmost vigor. And, exercising of vigor is itself Purushärtha.
(continued from Page 17)
These twelve austerities need to be taken in the ascending order. It means that each of them should be considered as superior to the earlier one. In other words, fasting stands at the lowest level and Käyotsarga at the highest level. Prima facie this may seem intriguing, because how can eating less be considered higher than fasting? The reply is that the austerities are conceived of in the form of restraining the mind. When one decides to observe fast, he makes up in his mind not to eat. Unodari, however, requires to refrain from taking additional food while eating. It is easy to decide not to eat, but it is really tough to stop eating before the appetite is satisfied. Since Unodari thus requires a greater level of mental restraint, it is considered higher than fasting.
It would be clear from the above description that undertaking internal austerities amounts to observing Upväs. As stated earlier, the concept of Upväs is grossly misunderstood. The term denotes remaining tuned to the true nature of the soul. If a person can stay so tuned, he would have no time to care for the physical and other worldly aspects. Akäm Nirjarä сan thus be easily achieved by such Upvas. Karma cannot withstand the impact of the force inherent in staying so tuned and would give way. Lord Umäswäti has therefore rightly stated: Tapasä Nirjara Cha. It means that Nirjarä can be achieved by Tap. This conveys observance of internal restraints and to resort to external ones as means for effectively observing the internal austerities.
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REGIONAL NEWS....
SOUTHEAST Surendra Shah, Regional Editor
Soon after paryusana, the sangh was blessed by Munishri Roopchandji who gave discourses in Hindi on Das Laxana. Then Pandit Dhirubhai Mehta explained, with his practical illustrations, the variety of karmas.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA:
Jain Society of Central Florida, Orlando, FL observed Paryushan Parva, Das Laxna, Samniji's lectures and Sapna Darshan took MIDWEST place on Aug. 30th. Over 150 people par- Manu Doshi,, Regional Editor ticipated in it. About 30,000 dollars were collected for the temple project. The temple project is almost finished and it should be
CHICAGO,IL ready for prathista by June next year. Samvatsari Pratikramans were held. During Parsuyan there was one member with
The religious classes for children as well 21 Upvas, 2 - 12 Upvas, 15 Atthais and
as adults are held on the third Sunday of other tapsyas among adults and children.
every month. The attendance is maintained Parnas were held in Orlando, Merritt Is
at a very high level. Gujarati language and land, Daytona Beach and Tallahassee.
medication classes are held every 2nd Sunday
and Yoga classes are held every Monday and Tapasvis bahuman was hosted in Orlando
Wednesday. Ärati is performed everyday in and Tallahassee.
the evening at 8.00 P.M. During the year we had Shri Dhirajlal
On the occasion of Paryushan Parva Pandit, Smt. Sunandaben Vora and Smt.
Shraman Shrutprajnaji gave discourses in Tarlaben Doshi, Jain Scholars from India
Gujarati. His discourses were very and continued bi-weekly swadhayay by
interesting and the people thronged to listen Samnijis.
to him. His colleague Shraman
Sthitaprajnaji gave talks to the children in ATLANTA, GA
English. Dr. Shantibhai Patel also gave
discourses on subjects pertaining to Paryushan Parva was celebrated with one
Shrimad Rajchandra. Evening Bhavanäs of the largest participations from the were performed by Khelaiya group of community. The parva was celebrated in
Mumbai. The people enjoyed them as well. presence of Sunandaben Vora. Sunandaben The Swapna Darshan was organized in has written several easy to follow and lucid the presence of about 2000 people. They books on Jain philosophy. Sunandaben gave participated in Gheeboli. The society discourses on Kalpasutra. With her collected about $ 60,000. inspiration, Samuh Aarati (Group Aarati). Many people observed austerities on that was performed for the first time by Atlanta occasion. Two persons observed Varshi Tap Jain Sangh. During Mahavir Jayanti, over and one of them also observed fasts during $300,000 was pledged for the Derasar. A all the Paryushan days. One person observed large number of members, young and adult fast for 13 days, three for 11 days, one for performed Tapashcharya ranging from 15 10 days and one for 9 days. In addition, 63 day fasts, Atthais, four and three day fasts people observed for 8 days and 10 of them to Eksanas. At the end of parva over 200 were youngsters. Moreover, 65 youngsters, members participated in sangh parnas. including of some very young children,
observed different types of austerities like Attham (fasting for three days) etc. Paramätma Prakash Bharrill gave discourses on all the 10 days on Dashlaxanä Parva.
Ätmasiddhi anniversary and Laghurajswami's birth day were organized on October 12. More than 100 people enthusiastically participated therein.
On the occasion of Lord Mahavir's Nirvan day, Nirvän Ladu was offered in the early morning on October 25.
On the occasion of Gujarati new year, Snätra Pooja was organized in the morning, group Ashtaprakäri Poojän in the afternoon and Bhävanä in the evening on October 26. During Ashtapakäri Poojan the meaning of each stanza was explained to the participants in English as well as in Gujarati.
50h anniversary of Brahmachärijee and Shrimad Rajchandra's 135th birth day were celebrated in November.
The biennial election for the office bearers of the Society was held on Nov 23. The names of the office bearers for the years 2004 and 2005 are as under.
Board of Trustees: Jyotindra Doshi, Narendra Khandwala, Dr. Devendra (D.U). Shah, Samprati Shah and Urmila Talsania
Executive Committee members President: Arvind Shah Vice president: Bhanu Shah Secretary: Atul Shah Treasurer: Girish Shah Joint Treasurer: Nilesh Shah Education Secretary: Dr. Mukesh Doshi Membership Secretary: Kushalraj Singavi Youth Secretary: Nirav Shah Food Secretary: Hitesh Shah
22 / JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003
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REGIONAL NEWS....
DALLAS, TX
DETROIT
SOUTHWEST
Jadavji Kenia, Regional Editor Paryushan Parva was celebrated in the presence of Shri Chitrabhanuji. Supan ceremony was organized on August 30h. A HOUSTON, TX practicing Sämäyik in English for youth was scheduled and about 60 persons Jain Society of Houston honoured the participated therein. During the Parva 32 Tapasvis who had done significant Tapasya people observed Archäi, of which 7 were during the Paryushan days and this year youths.
Mrs. Rupaben Mehta was recognized and During Oli, 20 people observed appreciated for 45 days of Upvas. We Ayambils on all the days and 70 people believe this may be the first time anybody observed it on Oct 5th, which was followed has undertaken such a gigantic Tapasya in by Navpad Poojan. The day was also North America. She also accomplished a celebrated as Ahinsä day.
feat of a Mas-khaman last year. We also Swadhyay of Taraläben Doshi was
honored our volunteers without whose conducted from October 5th to 9th during
tireless hard work and devotion our Center which she gave talks regarding importance
really could not function. of Ägams.
Our Diwali program started with
Ghantakaran Jaap on Oct. 24 and Diwali Diwali was celebrated with Snätra
Jaap on Oct. 25. We celebrated Diwali with Poojan, Gautamswämi Jäp (Chanting) and
a grand function on Oct. 26. The program Räs Garabä. New year was celebrated with
started with a discourse from Samaniji ceremonial door opening, collective Chairya
followed by an excellent religious cultural Vandan, and Snätra Poojan.
program by the Pathshala students Dev Vandan was performed on October
culminating with the Sangh Jaman. We are 29th on the occasion of Jnän Panchami,
very fortunate to have the presence of Chaumäsi Pratikraman on November 7th,
Samani Madhurpragyaji and Samani Pardarshan on November 8th and annual Parimalpragyaji in Houston and we avail find raising dinner on November 15th
of their presence with discourses every Names of new Executive Committee and Sunday morning. Board of Trustees are as under.
We also celebrated the 8th Anniversary President: Niranjan Humbad
of our Temple with Snatra Pooja, Adhar
Abhishek of the idols and the flag hoisting Vice president: Shashiben Bapna
ceremony. Shri Mulchandbhai from Secretary: Kekin Sheth
Philadelphia performed the Adhar Abhishek Financial Officers: Manish Zaveri and did an excellent job of explaining the Publication Officer: Vijay Shah meaning behind all the rituals.
One of the shining stars of our programs
is our Pathshala Program with over 150 Trustees: Pradeep Modi (Chair person),
students attending six different classes for Shailesh Trivedi (Vice chair person),
different age groups. Ashaben Jain, Kalpanaben Shah, and Suresh
For more information about our Shah
activities please contact JSH President Shanti Gala at 281-398-7402 or Navin Shah, JAINA Director at 281-565-9780 or by e-mail at navinrshah@yahoo.com.
Jain Society of North Texas celebrated Diwali with Mahavir Nirvan Pooja followed by children's program. Young children performed two dances and a skit on vegetarianism. Children ages 9-13 presented a program titled "401K Plan for This Life and Beyond" contrasting between a traditional investment club and people doing Swadhyay and doing something for their soul's uplift. The older group presented a Jainpardy or a jeopardy game around Jain topics. The meeting was concluded with Aartis and Sangh Jaman.
YJA Southwest Regional Conference scheduled in Dallas during the Thanksgiving weekend was postponed and will be rescheduled during a long weekend in January
JSNT contact is our current president Bhal Daulat at 214-824-1953, email: thewhiterocker@yahoo.com. JSNT website is www.dfwjains.org.
PHOENIX. AZ
During the last quarter Jain Center of Greater Phoenix celebrated Diwali Puja and Guru Jayanti. Diwali Puja function was introduced last year and all members liked it and requested its continuation. EightDravya pooja was performed by approximately 40 families. A few members did first time at our center, Bhagwan's Abhisek. About 175 people attended the celebration.
Guru Jayanti program started with Stavans, short messages from Pathshala children, speech on the importance of Guru, and recitation of Atma-Siddhi. Program ended with Aarti and Mangal divo. Pathshala children dressed up and gave short messages as some well-known people. For example, Sunny Shah dressed up as Mahatma Gandhi and Priti Shah as Mother Teresa among many other children.
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REGIONAL NEWS....
Attendance at our Sunday Pathshala is where over 1,150 members attended the Mrs. Lata Champsee is appointed to the growing with the increase in Jain population celebration. One of the highlight of this Governing Council of the World Jain Conin the Metro Phoenix area. For information, year's Diwali Celebration was Pathshala federation. WJC is an international Jain please contact Mahendra Shah (President, students' presentation of a play based on organization for the propagation of Jainism JCGP) at 602-493-9745 or email: the tenth lecture from Utterdhyayana Sutra. worldwide. Mrs. Champsee is the Vicejain phoenix@hotmail.com.
The Leaf of Tree' covered the time period President of JAINA, Editor-in-Chief of Jain just before and after Bhagwan Mahavir's Digest and Trustee of Jain Society of Moksha.
Toronto. Congratulations are in order. TULSA, OK
Level I students participated as Lotus and The Atmasiddhi Day and Shrimad
Deepaks. Level II and III students took the Rajchandra Janma Jayanti were observed. We are coming closer and closer to fulfill role of king and queen, sadhu and sadhvi, Shabnam Jabrani, a facilitator from our long awaited dream of a new Derashar/ shravak and shravika and merchants and Diabetes Awareness Education and Jain center. We have received our Ghabhara scholars who came to listen to Bhagwan Prevention Program conducted a workshop shipment from India. Assembly work is in Mahavir's discourses.
at the Jain Centre and brought awareness progress and we are hoping to have a Level III and IV students participated as amongst our members on high incidence Pratishtha within 6-8 months. We, of actors and narrators. As usual, the last words of Diabetes Mellitus in people of Indian course, need support from everyone. of Bhagwan Mahavir to Gandhar Gautam subcontinent. She touched on dietary
We were blessed by Shree Tarlaben always bring a surge of emotions in everyone regiment advice with Jain food restrictions Doshi with her Jinvani in September 2003. present, amply evidenced by absence of a in mind. It was well received by all present. During the Diwali celebration we had well single dry eye in the audience. The play Shree Shrenikbhai Shah, in his discourses attended Ghantrakaran Mahavir puja on highlighted why we celebrate Diwali. inspired all of us to raise over $9,000 Kali Chaudash and the Diwali Snatra puja The Daslaxana Parva was celebrated for towards Jiv Daya Fund. Our members are the next day. On New Year's Day we had
ten days with Dhoop Dasmi, Anant ten
to be congratulated for their generosity. Manglik and Bhaktamar sutra. Chaturdasi and concluding with Shree Hira Ratan Manek gave two talks For more information about The Tulsa
Kshamavani, a day of Universal Forgiveness on Solar healing. He has survived on water, Jain Sangh, please contact Kanti Shah at
Ms. Indu Jain gave discourses at the Jain tea, coffee and butter milk since 1992 and (918) 369-3163 or email kanaru@aol.com.
Centre. Similarly daily puja, abhishek, arti, maintained perfect health and body weight. bhajan & lectures by Dr. Vastupal Parikh Dr. Vastupal Parikh was honored with a and Panditji Anantram took place at Sri Jain "JAINA Recognition Award" at 12th
Mandir, 247 Parklawn Avenue, Etobicoke. Biennial JAINA Convention in Cincinnati. CANADA
Shree 108 Pragat Prabhavi Shree This award was for Dr. Parikh's book Dr. Mahendra Mehta, Regional Editor
Parshvnath Abhishek Poojan: The Poojan "Jainism and the New Spirituality". was performed by New Jersey Jain Sangh Gurudev Chitrabhanuji, while giving him
members numbering around 100 + at the the award, waved the book to an audience TORONTO, ONTARIO
Jain Centre, It was well attended and many of about 2000 and said, "Here is the author
members participated with great of a great book on Jainism. I suggest that Diwali was celebrated at Jain Centre with enthusiasm.
everyone must read it." lighting of 'Diva' or 'Deep' in a "Light it Aaymbil Ori was conducted at Jain Up" program attended by large number of Centre on Oct.4th after Snatra Pooja and MONTREAL, PQ: our members. The entertainment program over 50 'tapasvis' participated in the lunch. was put together by Ms.Puja Shah, who put 18th Chaitya Paripathi-Dadawadi Tirth Two days sibir was organized during Shree in lot of hours to train the young performers Yatra was conducted on September 20, at
Shrenikbhai's visit to Montreal. First day to give their best.
three home-temples of Minesh & Anisha of sibir was on the Jainism and related topThe evening program of dinner and Shah, Raju & Rekha Shah and Moti & Lata ics. Question and answer period was very entertainment was organized at newly built Champsee. More than one hundred
ed at newly built Champsee. More than one hundred enlightening. Our small but vibrant comimpressive Pearson Convention Centre devoted members participated.
munity turned our in large number.
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REGIONAL NEWS....
$1000+ was collected to help needy in In- Khandhar presented a series of lectures in Pratikraman sessions, including one in dia as per Shrenikbhai's request. English for the benefits of the youths. English, were organized to address the needs
Our Samaj had organized Jain Picnic in The construction of the new lain of various groups. Sri Hira Ratan Manek Month of August. To find out more about Bhavan is progressing at a significant pace. and Vijaya Diedi graced the lapasvi Jain Samaj of Montreal and its activity, First two containers of carved marble recognition program. Pandit Shri please log on to http://groups.yahoo.com/ pieces are ready to be shipped from India.
Dhirubhai Mehta led the Snatra pooja. Shri group/JainsofMontreal
A charity 5K walkathon on Nov 2. raised Pareshbhai Maniar led the Shrimad more than $52,000 for the expansion
Rajchandra Bhakti Swadhyay, which was WINNIPEG, MAN project. Additional fund raising activities
well attended by Mumukshu Jains. Also, the include monthly donation commitments, web cast of the Swadhyay provided sale of supermarket scripts etc. Opportu
Dharmalaabh to devotees in Australia, India Winnipeg, Manitoba has only 6-7 Jain families, what we like to call the "Jain
nities to donate for major takhtis are still and England. Dr.Shekharchandra Jain Samaj Of Manitoba". On a monthly basis
available. For a successful and timely guided the Digambar Dashalakshana Maha completion of the new Jain Bhavan, com
Parva. He also elucidated the essence of we all meet at someone's house and talk about the Jain philosophy. In addition to
munity members have pledged to observe Tatvarth Sutra. Daily poojas were offered this we chant several stavans, which we have
an Aymbil in rotation each and everyday, every morning for Dash Dharma and
beginning Oct 26 till the project is comcompiled and edited into a small booklet.
Shodush Karan Bhavanas. Surbhi Sethi, a Annually since last two years, on Mahavir
pleted. Project details, building plans, and young scholar, presented a discussion on Jayanti day we book the temple and have a
progress photos are available at the "Scientific Approach to Jainism" every pooja which is followed by the chanting of
www.jaincenterexpansion .com website. evening. the Jain stavans and finally bhojan to end JCSC will now be managed by two
Recent visitors to JCNC included the day. This event has gone tremendously entities - an Executive Committee and a Robert Arnett, a highly acclaimed author well and has been quite educative. Board of Directors. The newly elected of India Unveiled; Smita Turakhia, a noted
officers will assume office beginning Jan 1, illustrator of the book Finder's Keepers; Dr 2004. Jain volunteers participated in the Atul Shah, editor of Jain Spirit; Sri Hira
annual "World Fest" event celebrating Ratan Manek, a practitioner of sun gazing; WEST
vegetarianism and environmentalism held and Sadhvi Shilapiji and Sadhvi Shubhamji Chandrakant Parekh,, Regional Editor
in Los Angeles Sept 28. Jain Center Youth who conducted workshops on how Council (ICYC) winter camp is scheduled spirituality is related to daily lives. Sri Piyush for Dec 27-30.
Nagar together with Darshana Bhutta and Information about forthcoming pro
a team of musicians led the popular LOS ANGELES, CA
celebrations of Navaratri and Dasara. grams and regular activities are posted on JCSC's website at www.jaincenter.net. For
Mahavir Nirvan and Diwali were celebrated Jain Center of Southern California additional information, please contact Dr.
on Oct 26th with a Mangalik pooja; a (CSC) celebrated the Paryushan under the Nitin Shah, JCSC President, at 714/506
cultural program; a lecture on Agams by direction of Shri Kumarpal Desai and the 6699 or nitin.shah@med.va.gov.
Tarlaben Doshi; and an aarti. The new Dasha Lakshana Mahaparva under the
Executive Committee and Board of direction of Shri Girishbhai Shah. Large
Directors were also sworn-in that day. audiences attended daily discourses on SAN FRANCISCO, CA
JCNC's outreach efforts to promote an various aspects of Jainism, and the daily
understanding of Jainism to the Bay Area Ekasana at the temple attracted many
community were featured in the San Jose participants. Tapasvis included a large
Jain Center of Northern California Mercury News. Dr. Wendy Abraham of number of children and adults, and 41 of (JCNC) celebrated Paryushan and Dash Stanford University and several participants them observed 8 or more fasts. The culture
Lakshana in various Jain traditions. The from UC Santa Cruz visited the temple program included a touching drama diverse rituals of different sects and the during Paryushan. Stanford University presented by the Jain Seniors. Kokilaben discourses of visiting scholars were also medical students provided free health Doshi, Taraben Sethia, and Mahendrabhai made available by web cast. Four different screening for all the Paryushan attendees.
JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003 / 25
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REGIONAL NEWS....
Information about the forthcoming pro- WASHINGTON, DC
in Charlotte, NC, Hindu-Jain temples in grams and regular activities are posted on
Raleigh, NC and Richmond, VA. All JCNC's website at www.jcnc.org.
Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington visited centers gave a very warm welcome organized Uvassagaharam Maha Poojan and and offered excellent hospitality 18-Abhishek under the guidance of
Samuha Ayambil program was held on SACRAMENTO, CA
Narendrabhai Nandu and his group. Alle
All Oct 5 and on Thanksgiving Day. About participants thoroughly enjoyed the
40 persons performed Ayambil each day. excellent performance of the Poojan,
Nav Smaran and Diwali/New Year Jain Center of Greater Sacramento
Abhishek and the music. Navkar Mantra (JCGS) organizes a monthly Swadhyay,
celebration held on Oct 26 was attended which is hosted by different families.
Poojan in English was performed by by over Newsletter is published quarterly. For
Diptiben Shah in July. additional information, please contact
Pravachan programs by Pandit Mohini Jain, JCGS President, at 530/756
Abhaykumarji Jain, Sunandaben Vohra, CLEVELAND,OH 4655 or e-mail: mohini jain@msn.com.
Diptiben Shah, Nautambhai Vakil and Tarlaben Doshi were held in June-October.
The Jain Society of Greater Cleveland SAN DIEGO, CA Panch Kalyanak Pooja, Antaray Karma
(JSGC) had a very successful year full of Nivaran Pooja, and Vastuk Poojas were
activities during 2003. The year began with performed at the residence of members as Jain Society of San Diego (SSD)
the celebration of the Mahavir Jayanti well as at the Jain Center in June-August. celebrated Paryushan Parva with great joy
s program in April with a Snatra Pooja. The in the presence of Shree Manek Muniji.
Paryushan Parva celebration was graced Sangh approved an updated constitution to Many adults and youths observed the tap
by Chandrakantbhai Mehta, a well-known keep up with the current needs of the and saiyam aradhana. Paryushan activities
Jain scholar from New Jersey. Each day, Society on the same day. This was followed included daily Swadhyay, pratikraman, a
he delivered excellent Pravachan in the by a very successful Bhajan Sandhya swapna ceremony and Samvatsary morning and evening, and held discussion morning and evening, and held discussion prog
program with the renowned singer and pratikraman which was also performed in
and Q/A sessions in the afternoon. 15 music director Shri Ravindra Jain and his English. Other visitors to JSSD included
persons stayed at the Jain Center. Atthai troupe. Over 150 people attended the Samanji and Shree Tarlaben Doshi. JSSD was performed by 9 persons. Also, a program. The Jain Sangh organized a organizes regular activities - a monthly number of very young children did fasting number of very young children did fasting
suc
successful picnic in August. Jainshala for children, adult classes, Swapna Darshan Ceremony was held on JSGC had a strong presence at the swadhyay, and a weekly pooja every August 30. The program was attended by JAINA Convention in Cincinnati with over Saturday at Shri Mandir. For additional 550 people. Samvatsari Pratikraman was 30 families participating. Cleveland Jain information, please contact Trusha Shah, attended by over 400 persons. Pratikraman Sangh members contributed the Shatrunjay JSSD President, at 760/943-1241 or e-mail: in English was held in parallel at he Jain (Palitana) Temple Rachna and the shaht64@hotmail.com.
Center was attended by over 150 children Samavsaran replica for display at the and adults
• convention. These were highly appreciated SEATTLE, WA
Das Lakshan Parva program included a by the convention attendees. brief explanation of each of the ten dharma, The Satsang and Swadhyay activities
Siddha Poojan and its explanation, and Jain Society of Seattle (JSS) organizes
continued throughout the year with listening to tapes on Pravachans by Gurudev weeklong visits of renowned scholars, monthly gatherings at the Hindu Temple
Chitrabhanu, Dr. Bharill, and Pandit Sunandaben Vora, Dhirajbhai Pandit and and Cultural Center, Bothell. Activities inSumatprakashji.
Nautambhai Vakil. The lectures held clude a Navkar Jaap followed by puja,
Panch Teerth Yatra was held during the during weekday evenings and all day events Bhaktambar Stotra, bhajans and lectures.
weekend of September 20-21, 2003. 85 For additional information, please contact
on weekends were very well attended. The persons traveled by 2 buses and visited 5 Devkumar Gandhi, JSS President, at 4251
Sangh's own Swadhyay group, which meets 235-4848 or email: dg@nexagc.com. Infor
temples. They visited Rajdhani Mandir on the second Sunday of every month, mation is also available at http://
(Virginia); Multi-Faith Lotus Temple near continued for its ninth consecutive year.
Lynchburg, VA; and the Hindu-Jain Temple groups.yahoo.com/group/jainsocietyscattle/
They are now covering the Tattvarth Sutra. Lynchburg, VA; 26 / JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003 Jain Education Interational 2010_03

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ASIAN INDIANS (NRIs) IN U.S.A:
ROLE OF 'LEADERSHIP
FJ. Dalal, Lanham, MD
A QUARTER CENTURY REVIEW:
4. AAPI: American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin
founded by Dr. Ujam Kothari. It pains a lot to read and hear about futile and persistent feud 5. AAHOA: The powerful and well funded organization of Asian among Leadership Cliques of Indian Community Organizations. American Hotel Owners Association predominantly led by During last twenty-five years, the population of Indian Immigrants the ingenious Patel Community. to U.S.A. has been gradually increasing at a faster pace. Now, it has reached over 1.8 million. With this, the need for Community
On the top of National organizations, there are two Special Organizations grew by leaps and bounds. The growing need for Organizations: Community Organizations has now been more than fulfilled. The time is just ripe for consolidating and re-phasing them.
1. IANF: Indian American National Foundation was formed in The unwieldy and mushrooming growth of religious, Washington, D.C. for lobbying purposes by four (# 2 thru 5 linguistic, cultural, professional, business, social, and political above). I understand that it has turned dis-functional due to organizations have led to considerable overlapping. A vehement un-resolvable dispute for Leadership. unhealthy destructive rivalry has obviously resulted among the leadership. The ugly face of squabbles have resulted due to
2. GOPIO: Global Organization of People of Indian immaturity, lack of proper perspective and Futuristic Vision. Many Origin founded to bring together the entire prosperous and thriving good intentioned leaders who pioneered the national organizations Indian Community (NRIs) around the world. It was, once again, could not cope, guide, or direct. Before bickerings among a few led by Dr. Thomas Abraham's vision of unifying the Indian Diaspora ambitious leaders(?) and misguided cliques explode to negate the of all Indians outside India to enhance the pre-eminence of India high achievements of the entire Indian Community, it is high time and Indians in the emerging and realigning Global Village. Last we take right course of action.
year, it had a grand inauguration in New Delhi where eminent
personalities from the world over participated. This organization TYPICAL ORGANIZATIONS:
needs full nourishment. The great Report of Government of India's We have umpteen Religious organizations of Hindus, Muslims, Dr. Singhvi's Commission on Historical Indian Diaspora has been Sikhs, Christians, Jains, and others with their sects and sub-sects. a valuable document to carry forward the stature of India and We have organizations of almost all conceiveable Languages. We Indians all over the world in the 21" Century. have many organizations of Professionals and Businesses such as Hotel/Motels, Doctors, Lawyers, Pharmacists, Engineers, and THE PROBLEM: others. Many have their regional/national and sub-specialists Many organizations have been stuffed with a few ambitious and organizations. We have many regular National Conventions, except resourceful leaders who are able to manipulate them for power, of Gujaratis. I am told and have noticed that the initial euphoria prestige, position, and control. Lately, we hear and read about the of massive Tamashas(?) with movie and political persona have infighting between cliques at the expense of smooth working for recently receded slightly.
the noble goals and purposes. I personally do not doubt about the
sincerity and sacrifices of some of them with whom I came in PREEMINENT NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: contact during the crucial foundation-laying initial formative On the top of all the above, we have National Organizations and period of early seventies. their Chapters, such as - 1. AIA: Association of Indians in America founded by Dr. THE WAY OUT: HUMBLE SUGGESTIONS: Manoranjan Dutta.
Let us not fritter away the wealth of Grace and Experience. 2. FIA-NFIA: (National) Federation of Indian American The First Generation is fast aging. This is the Right Time to Associations founded by Dr. Thomas Abraham.
Rethink and Re-organize the entire (Cob) Web of Organizations. 3. IAFPE: Indian American Forum for Political Education 1. To start with, let us not formulate any more organizations, founded by Dr. Joy Cherian.
including Temple Building, etc.
JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003 / 27
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2. Induct the successful and emerging Second Generation by sharing Positions and Power.
3. Senior Leaders should voluntarily make room for responsible others and turn themselves into Honorable Advisors. 4. Our organizations should recast themselves into one overall organization in 435 U.S. Political Constituencies among 50 States and Protectorates doing various activities starting from PTAS, City Councils, Multi-Faith Community/Cultural Centers, etc. 100 elected representatives, 2 per state, will form the National Council and there will be only one elected Spokes-person for all Indians at City/Local, County, State, and National/Federal level.
5. This will conserve and efficiently use the Community Resources.
All these could be achieved by the brain storming sessions among the few thinking and visionary leaders at all the constituency levels. There will be no dearth of leadership positions and every one aspiring to lead will have ample opportunities to prove. We have to place Round Pegs In Round Holes. Our responsibility will be to fulfil our Sacred Duties for our Motherland India and the Adopted Fatherland of U.S.A., Canada, U.K., etc.
Let us be Humble, but Proud at the same time for our achievements so far. We have yet to achieve higher heights/Peaks, of which we are more than capable and resourceful. Partisan Politics should be played, not for personal selfish ego trips and ulterior motives. Well-formulated Uniform Demands for India to grow into the World Leadership and Indians/NRIs the Respected Community around the world. We, Indians and India, can and will learn and out bit the Jews and Israel. For this Lofty Goals, let us all Work Together with all our Might.
JAIN DIGEST LIFE MEMBERS:
712U
713U
714U
715U
716U
717U
26 F
Kirti & Barbara Shah Sharad & Bina Gandhi
Parash & Rina Shah
Gaurav Jain
Mahesh & Sudha Shah Dinbandhu & Kumudini Shah Daksha Sanghvi
North Manchester, IN Voorhees, NJ Great Falls, VA
Rye Brook, NY
Fort Collins, CO
Ardsley Quates (Geneva)Switzerland
28/ JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003
2010_03
NY
This is a list of new Jain Digest life members whose dues were received upto Nov 15,03. Please send your $151.00 Jain Digest life membership dues to Keerti Shah, 842 Lakeside Drive, Bartlett, IL 60103 Phone: 630-837-8716.
ROLE OF SENIOR CITIZENS Sunshine and Dimension of Seniors
-Gurudev Chitrabhanuji
The world still has to recognize the true meaning and worth of 'Senior Citizens.' They are generally thought to be a spent lifeforce, graying, ageing and tottering persons who are a burden to their families and society! What the society does not recognize is that Senior Citizens are a vibrant storehouse of knowledge, experience and wisdom. They can be the nation's richest resource. Professional expertise and acumen accumulated over decades can now be made available for the betterment of the needier sections of the society, and for guidance of the youngsters who are seeking direction in their lives.
Only after a tree has seen all the seasons, particularly the heat of summer, is it able to produce its most luscious and ripe fruits. So it is also with human beings. After years of a tumultuous and eventful life, man also matures into his ripeness, when he transits to being a Senior Citizen. His truly meaningful and selfless contribution to society can be made only at this stage, when he has no other bindings, except to share his 'worth' with the needy.
As Buddha sat in silence, a gardener brought him a basket of ripe mangoes, in tribute. Buddha picked a mango and offered it to the gardener, in total silence. The gardener said, "Thank you, but please show me how to live life.” Buddha again picked another mango and gave it to him, in total silence. The gardener was perplexed. He asked again, "Lord, show me how to live life." As Buddha continued his silence, his disciple said to the gardener, "Don't you understand what he is saying? He is saying that you must live life in such a way that one day you are as ripe and delicious to the world as your own mangoes!"
Similarly, I am sure that the members of the Powai Senior Citizens Association will, through their various activities and projects, bring succor to the needy and the dispossessed. Thereby, they will bring sunshine and a new dimension into the lives of others and in the process discover the richness of their own inner Self.

Page #31

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, 304 Tall Oak Trail Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-7711 Phone: 727-934-6141 / 3255
hasmukh33@yahoo.com
Name (please print):
LAST FIRST
MIDDLE Address: STREET
CITY STATE
ZIP Phone: ()
Fax: 0
Email: Date of Birth:
-
Height: ne
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?
_MONTH/YEAR 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):
Cildi -
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 responsibility 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 DIGEST. Fall 2003 / 29
Jain Education Interational 2010_03

Page #32

MIS REGISTRATION FORM - PAGE 2
1. Two references who are members of the Jain Community or other Indian organizations.
A. Name:
Address:
Phone:
Member of:
B. Name:
Address:
Phone:
Member of:
ORGANIZATION'S NAME
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. Weight: Between the weight of Education: Bachelor
Major.
Vegetarian: YES NO
Residence: (state)
and
and.
Masters Degree
Visa Status:
Length of time in North America: Language. English: YES NO Other (specify):
30/JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003
2010_03
Work experience: YES NO
or open. or open. Other
years.
Congratulations!
Female: 155, Male: 142 (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.
Guideline to all perspective participants
Be positive, constructive, creative and friendly! No match is going to be "perfect." Complement and support each other practicing re-spect,sharing, acquire knowledge and maintaining your uniqueness while keeping an open mind. These are the qualities that make for human perfection.
MIS INFORMATION: THIS IS HOW IT WORKS
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
Anyone wishing to place an ad and register with the MIS must follow these instructions care-fully:
1. Fill out the attached Registration FormPage 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
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).
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.
Please notify the MIS
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.

Page #33

MATRIMONIALS - FEMALE
F581: Gujarati parents invite responses for beautiful professional cultured daughter, born Dec 73, 5'1", 110 lb, BS (molecular biology), biotech / software professional in Silicon Valley CA, from well educated professional vegetarian boys. Call: 408/2726833. Email: ph_matrimonial@yahoo.com
F623: Parents invite proposals with photo / biodata for attractive fair slim caring vegetarian Canadian born daughter, Sept 78, 5'5", 112 lb, working as Regd. Cardiology Technologist, from cultured educated outgoing vegetarian Jain or Agarwal boys. Call: 905/459-4357. Email: mbmatri78@hotmail.com
F751: Responses invited for beautiful slim talented cultured strictly vegetarian wellrounded fun loving compassionate US born Gujarati girl, March 74, 5'6", MD, working as Pediatrician. Recently ended a very short marriage (never lived together). Seeking similar valued professional vegetarian from a well-settled family. Call: 248/926-0863.
F908: Correspondence invited for Gujarati Jain vegetarian beautiful fair, values both cultures, talented, US born girl, July 77, 5' 8", BS (IOE) & MBA (MIS), well positioned with reputed company, from well educated vegetarian cultured boysEmail: shah_amp@yahoo.com
F951: Jain parents invite proposals for attractive intelligent outgoing US citizen daughter, born Jan 76, 5'1", well employed as Regd Nurse, from well-educated professional cultured boys. Email: dshah4567@msn.com
F952: Gujarati parents invite proposals with photo/biodata for pretty charming slim vegetarian cultured accomplished US born / raised daughter, Nov 72, 5'4", MD / MPH, from cultured, vegetarian nonsmoker US raised professional/ MD boys. or email
Call:617-739-1319. sjdoshi72@yahoo.com
2010_03
F967: Alliance invited for beautiful charming slim brilliant accomplished vegetarian US raised daughter, born Sept 78, 5'7", MMS (Master of Medical Science), well employed as Physician Assistant, from US raised well educated vegetarian professionals. Call: 602/9710149. Email: latim100@yahoo.com
F1021: Alliance invited for pretty slim vegetarian cultured divorcee Gujarati girl, born Dec 74, 5'5", 108 lb, BS (comp.), well employed, from well educated, cultured suitable match. Call: 631/254-8050. Email: sejalnjhaveri@hotmail.com
F1024: Alliance invited for pretty attractive talented vegetarian Gujarati girl, born Oct 79, 5'2", 95 lb, MBA, from cultured well educated vegetarian boys. Call: 314/4341780.Email: sunandaghelani@hotmail.com
F1025: Gujarati parents invite responses for beautiful slim vegetarian US citizen dtr, March 79, 5'6", BSN RN, well employed as RN, from cultured well educated professional (MS Engineers preferred) boys. email: nurse4life03@ hotmail.com
F1026: Alliance invited for pretty charming intelligent vegetarian Gujarati girl, born Jan 75, 5'4", MD, from well educated professional boys. Call: 732/283-0755. Email: devulmehta@hotmail.com
F1027: Proposals invited for beautiful attractive talented vegetarian Gujarati girl, born Sept 77, 5'4", 130 lb, MA, well employed with World Bank, from well educated cultured boys. Call: 202/3321682. Email: ekta_kothari@yahoo.com
AF236: Gujarati parents invite alliance for beautiful fair slim talented caring US born daughter, May 74, 5'5", 125 lb, BS, RD, well employed as Regd Dietitian, pursuing master's degree (anticipates graduation by spring 04), from suitable cultured educated match. Call: 908/757-7424. Email: JaiVais@hotmail.com

AF398: Gujarati parents invite proposals for attractive slim cultured vegetarian dtr, born July 76, 5'0", 95 lb, MBA, employed in IT, from India born cultured vegetarian nonsmoker professional boys. Call: 412/5215164. Email: gujarat_garvi@ hotmail.com
AF399: Gujarati parents invite proposals for beautiful slim accomplished vegetarian Canadian Citizen daughter, born Dec 79, 5'3", 105 lb, BE (Comp Engg), employed as IT analyst, from cultured professional boys. Call: 416/494-3702. Email: snap2151@yahoo.com
AF400: Gujarati parents invite responses for slim charming vegetarian US born daughter, April 76, 5'2", MD, doing residency, from cultured well educated boys. Email: SPJ112@yahoo.com
AF401: Alliance invited from vegetarian cultured well educated / settled boys for beautiful slim caring Gujarati (widowed No-issue) girl, Cost Accountant, born Feb 76, 5'5", pursuing CPA on H-1 visa. Call: 562/947-4551. kotharih53@yahoo.com
MALE:
AM403: Proposals invited for handsome brilliant vegetarian Gujarati boy, born Dec 79, 5'8", 140 lb, MS (comp sc), research professional, from cultured educated vegetarian girls. Call: 630/971-8015. Email: chhayu_sanju@hotmail.com
M1031: Gujarati parents invite proposals with photo/bio-data for amiable, intelligent,vegetarian U.S. citizen son 25, 5'6", B.S. (computer science), pursing
M.B.A, employed with large global co, from educated, cultured girls. Call:609/7993470.Email:vshahnj@yahoo.com
JAIN DIGEST⚫ Fall 2003/31

Page #34

MATRIMONIALS - MALE
INTERNATIONAL NEWS:
M1020: Jain parents invite proposals with biodata / photo, from cultured educated
INSTITUTE OF JAINOLOGY girls for handsome fair intelligent vegetarian US born son, June 78,5'7", BS (Fin. NYU
Ahimsa Day Celebrations Stern), well positioned Investment Banker.
In House of Commons Call:73 2/887-5904. Email: prs_matrimonial@ yahoo.com
Ahimsa or Non-violence in all its modes is the first and foremost precept of
the Jain philosophy. To commemorate this principle, most relevant in this day M1022: Gujarati boy 27 yrs, 6', 170 lb,
and age, the Institute of Jainology organised a celebration at the House of US citizen, completing PhD (EE), non
Commons, England which was hosted by Mr Stephen Pound, MP, and Chairman of smoking, vegetarian, very compassionate, the Labour Friends of India. with strong family values & Indian/western
After an auspicious prayer, Mr Pound welcomed the audience to this first culture, seeking responses with photo / Ahimsa Day Celebration. Mr Pound having learnt about Jain philosophy only in biodata from educated cultured attractive last few weeks talked at length about it and expressed a desire that London one outgoing girls with strong family values. day would become a centre of world peace. Email: shaolin11@hotmail.com
A short video film 'Quest for World without Violence was then screened
showing several Nobel Peace Laureates recounting their experiences of having M1023: Gujarati parents invite responses
used non violence to support their for handsome successful professional US
cause. This included, Simon Peres, citizen son, born Feb 75, 6'0", 180 lb,
Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama. Finally MBA, well positioned, from well-educated
the excerpts from Mahatma Gandhi's cultured girls. Call: 4127521-7012. Email:
life were shown followed by Indian ghkothari@netzero.com
national anthem sung and played by
the major artists in India. M1028: Gujarati parents invite responses
Mr Peter Luff, MP, and Chairman for handsome talented vegetarian US citizen
of the Conservative Friends of India. son, born Aug 77, 5'6", 140 lb, MD, from
related personal experience of his cultured educated girls. Call: 850/234
recent visit to India. 6247. Email: medsshah@aol.com
Other prominent speakers included DrLM Singhvi, Former High Commissioner for India in UK, Prof. Richard M1029: Alliance invited for handsome Gombrich, Boden Professor of Sanskrit at the Balliol College, Oxford, and Mr brilliant vegetarian US citizen Gujarati Ronen Sen. High Commissioner of India for UK. boy, born Aug 75, 5'11", 138 lb, BA, well Teachings of two of the world's greatest spiritual leaders in the fifth century employed in IT. will start MBA from 2004, before the Christian era: Mahavira and the Buddha had left this legacy in India from cultured educated girls. Call: 5161 and then went to express the Bhuddhist concept of Ahimsa. 731-3469darshan.sanghvi@footlocker.com Mr Mahesh K Shah, and Mr Harshad N Sanghrajka, both Trustees of the
Institute of Jainology gave informative talks on the activities of the Institute M1030: Alliance invited fro very handsome and the Jain Diaspora, respectively. intelligent vegetarian US raised Gujarati Opportunity was taken by some office bearers of the World Jain Confederation boy, born Dec 74, 6'0", 160 lb, MS, to attend the event. Mr Pratap Bhogilal, Chairman of the World Jain Confederation, divorced (never lived together), successful Mr Chetanya Kasyap, Vice President, and Mr Mahesh Gandhi a member of the software engineer for multinational co., Ph; Governing Council were present. Dr L M Singhvi, of course, is the President of 203/798-0596 nbs_37@hotmail.com 37@hormail.com the WJC.
Goodwill messages were received from the Home Minister, Rt Hon David AM402: Jain parents seek responses from Blunkett, Minister for culture, Sports & Media Ms Tessa Jowell, Secretary of beautiful educated girls age between 23 - State for Trade & Industry Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt and Lord Dholakia the Chairman 25, Ht at least 5'6", for their physician son, of Liberal Democratic Party. born in 78, 6'3", fair skinned and The Institute of Jainology expect to make this an annual event with a variety exceptionally handsome. Email: of prominent speakers expressing their views on the relevance of non-violence in Drguj@aol.com
contemporary times
32 / JAIN DIGEST. Fall 2003 Jain Education Interational 2010_03

Page #35

23.
YOUNG JAINS OF ANDRICK
CHAIRS
Arpan Shah
281-804-7964
arpan.shah@yja.org Chirag Shah 262-573-5603
chirag shah@yjang DIRECTORS
Education Nikita Shah 310-980-5907 nikita.shah@yja.org Events Hima Batavia 416-494-1302
hima.batavia@yja.org Finance/Fundraising
Nisha Jain 571-239-3783 nisha jain@yja.org Information Technology
Deepen Shah 973-941-5714 deepen.shah@yja.org Project Development Dipa Talati
917-371-1476 dipa talati @yja.org Public Relations Puneet Shah 713-392-2833 puneet.shah@yja.org
Publications Hanul Bhandari 210-842-4825 hanul.bhandari @yja.org REGIONAL COORDINATORS
Mid Atlantic
Purvi Shah
732-742-6535 purvi.shah@yja.org
Midwest Shibani Shah 847-275-7689 shibani shah@yja.org Northeast Vinay Shah
914-805-0315
vinay.shahyja.org
South Monique Shah 281-989-6627
monique.shah@yja.orgy
Southeast Mona Shah 678-357-1463 mona.shah@yja.org West Nikhil Vasa 562-400-1984
nikhil.vasa@yja.org
Board of Trustees
Prem Jain
Sachi Jain Naishadh Shah Nirav Shah
bor@vja.org
2010_03
YOUNG JAINS OF AMERICA
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/
Jai Jinendra,
Young Jains of America is proud to announce that this year has been a one of our best ever. With the continued support we receive from hard-working parents, dedicated volunteers, Jain sanghs across the nation, and our board members, we continue to grow. Each day, we are working to find ways to serve our members.
YJA kick started its regional conferences. This year, the conferences are designed to be smaller and provide a personal touch for each participant. YJA's first regional conference took place this November over the Thanksgiving weekend. We hope to have six regional conferences successfully completed by January 2004.
YJA teamed up with Veerayatan last year to encourage young dedicated Jains from North America to donate their time and work in India. The youth that worked last year made a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. We encourage anyone that would like to learn more about Veerayatan email us at veerayatan@yja.org. Also this winter, YJA is cosponsoring the Know Kachchh trip with YJP and KOJAIN. This opportunity allows participants to volunteer at Bidada Medical Camp and the ability to explore palaces, beaches and local attractions and to make new friends.
We are excited to announce that preparations for the sixth biennial convention are well under way. YJA is working hard to present to the Jain community the best convention to date. This year's convention will take place from July 14, 2004 in Santa Clara, CA. This auspicious event will unite 1000 youth, distinguished speakers, spiritual leaders, and dedicated volunteers under one roof for an amazing, spiritually enlivening weekend. We present Y Jain? To See, To Know, To Realize as the theme for the convention YJA and the Bay Area Convention Committee with the blessings of the Jain Center of Northern California, promise to present a memorable convention. Registration begins in January 2004 so register soon!
We are having a great year so far and hope to build on these successes in 2004. We hope that with your help we can continue to reach higher benchmarks and look forward to seeing you at many of our events. We would like to thank everyone for their continued support and are looking forward to a strong finish in 2003 and a grand start to 2004!
Many thanks,
Arpan Shah and Chirag Shah
Co-Chairs, 2003-2004 Young Jains of America chairs@yja.org
www.yja.org
Young Jains of America (YJA) is the umbrella youth organization of the Federation of Jain Associations in Nor th 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 DIGEST- Fall 2003/33

Page #36

ТОА Солуслion
N
TO SEE, TO KNOW, TO REALIZE
IV JAin? Hoe
Why should we practice Jainism? This convention will provide the youth
the ability to answer this question for themselves. The convention will take the participant one step further in the direction of incorporating the philosophical
tenets of Jainism into our everyday lives. The theme helps break down this process: To See - introduce events that occur in our daily lives; To Know - learn what Jainism says about these events; To Realize - apply what we see with what we learned into our daily reality.
Learn About Your Interests
Geared to stimulate your interests, select from a variety of sessions that fall under a newly designed track system focused on a general topic and specific to your age group. Each attendee can choose from several tracks that underlie the goal: To See, To Know, To Realize.
Sample track themes will include: College Lifestyles, Anekant vaad - Let's keep it Real, To Be or Not to Be - Jainism and Ethics, and Being Jain Tomorrow.
Sample topics within these tracks will include: college organization's impact on Jainism, current event discussions, practicing Jain ideals in the 21st century, and interactive Jain cooking and music classes.
Cc
Try Something New
First-Ever Hawaiian Luau: Meld eastern and western flavors at the Hawaiian Lua u...learn how to hula dance and make new friends from around the globe.
J2J - 21+ Networking Forum: Make new contacts and lifelong friends through specialized activities geared to the 21 and above.
International Focus: Meet international Jain Center de legates and enjoy special sessions organized by international Jain Sanghs.
State of the Art Technology: Enjoy interactive sessions and advanced Silicon Valley technology to improve your convention experience.
Bay Area, California
For more information, visit www.yja.org/convention
2010_03

Page #37

YJA Convention 2001
Residing in the heart of Silicon Valley, the Westin Santa Clara embodies the elements of a true luxury hotel. As the exclusive guests of the hotel, you will have full access to the gracious staff and numerous hotel facilities. As a convention attendee, you will enjoy unprecedented small classes and comfort with the expansive meeting space and lounge areas unique to this hotel. Experience sunny Bay Area weather during planned outdoor recreational activities throughout the convention. Come to the convention to learn more about Jainism, in the unsurpassed comfort of the Westin.
What You Need To Do
January 12, 2004 February 15, 2004 February 16, 2004 April 4, 2004 April 5, 2004
April 5, 2004 May 15, 2004
July 1, 2004
Name: Address:
Convention Registration Begins January 12, 2004! Register Online at www.yja.org/convention! Important Dates
-
-
June 30, 2004
2010_03
Experience Sunny Calfamia
Amount wish to donate:
For those who would like to attend but are in need of financial assistance, arrangements may be made by contacting our Jain Center President Bipin Shah at president@jcnc.org.
Help Make This a Success
Significance 1st Registration Pricing Block 2nd Registration Pricing Block Class Registration Begins
For more information, visit www.yja.org/convention
3rd Registration Pricing Block Last Day to Cancel Registration First Day of Convention
YJA Convention 2004 Donation Form
Email:
Phone No.:
$101 $251 $501 $1,001 $2,501 $5,001 $10,001 Please make all checks payable to YJA Convention and send to: YJA Convention, 1476 Petal Way, San Jose, CA 95129
For further information, please contact Samir Ajmera or Rina Shah at baccchairs@yja.org
Price
$250
$275
$300
Bay Area, Califomia

T

Page #38

YOUNG JAIN PROFESSIONALS (YJP)
Sixth Annual Young Jain Professionals Convention
The 6th Annual Young Jain Professionals convention specializing in infectious diseases, called "What's 'in' for was held in San Diego from October 10 to 13, 2003. Jains the 21st Century? Jainism?!". This session challenged the from the US, Canada and England convened at the Shel- Cartesian mind/body model and posited the existence of ter Pointe Hotel and Marina and participated in scholarly the soul and the existence of vibrations that bring topresentations and team building activities for the week- gether the mind, body, and soul. end.
Next came a follow-up to the session "Re-branded The convention began Friday evening with icebreaker and Re-packaged: Jainism's Role in Reshaping Future Huactivities. The activities facilitated getting to know each man Thoughts", where the each of the groups presented other while challenging our minds. Saturday morning then their ideas on the topics they had been assigned to. Each began with a yoga session, where participants had the group had apparently put a lot of thought into their ideas chance to warm up for the day, led by Dinesh Shah of and recommendations. At the end, Yogendra Jain indiSan Diego
cated that these ideas will all be presented to JAINA in
hopes of actually implementing them. Thus the activity This was followed by a presentation by Yogendra Jain
was not only a thought provoking exercise for the paron "Re-branded and Re-packaged: Jainism's Role in Re- ticipants, but was also shown to have practical imporshaping Future Human Thoughts". This presentation chal- tance. lenged the notion that Jainism must be taught using traditional methodology and addressed the idea that Jain After lunch, the group headed off to Balboa Park, teachings could be made more appealing and more acces- where we met up with Team Building USA again for ansible to a Western population by implementing creative other afternoon of bonding activities. At the park, atideas such as a Jain theme park. Although some of the tendees participated in a scavenger hunt. After returnconcepts presented might not become reality in the im- ing from the park, Amar Salgia, presented a session on mediate future, discussing such ideas encouraged the "Balance in Anekantavada". This session explained the audience to think about these issues.
proper meaning of Anekantavada, helped dispel some of
the misconceptions about Anekantavada's meaning and Next was a presentation by Prem Jain, senior vice
purpose, and clarified ways of actually applying it in our president of Cisco, called "If Ken Lay were Jain... Would day-to-day lives we have had an Enron?" This presentation addressed the contradictions many of us face about maintaining Jain That night, many of the participants stayed up most values while working and excelling in the business world, of the night, enjoying their last hours together before such as promoting strengths and hiding weaknesses of having to go off in separate directions. A few even reproducts and creating stress in the family when working mained awake long enough to watch the sun rise. Monlong hours.
day, as everyone parted, many looked forward to seeing
each other at next year's YJP Convention. After a break for lunch was a session titled "Creating Inner Balance... Can it really be achieved?" presented
Another successful conference came to a close, with by Erik Sowder of Kaiser Permanente. This presentation
many strong bounds being formed and connections being
made. Thanks to the hard work of this year's Y JP Board: emphasized the importance of balancing physical, mental, and emotional energies. In this session, Mr. Sowder
Suchita Gala, Rajesh Shah, Dhaval Shah, Mruna Shah helped the audience understand the mind/body connec
and Paulomi Gudka. tion through biofeedback technology.
For more information about YJP please visit Sunday morning again started with yoga. This was www.ysponline.org. You will also be able to view some of followed by a presentation by Dr. Manoj Jain, a physician the presentation made at this year's conference.
36/JAIN DIGEST-Fall 2003
Jain Education Interational 2010_03

Page #39

HOSPITALITY IS ALWAYS OUR MAIN COURSE TO LONDON AND INDIA.
FRASISI
Air-India's non-stop flights from North America to London, and same-plane continuing service to India, exemplify India's centuries-old tradition of hospitality. They also reflect our professionalism and technological advances.
NEW YORK You'll be delighted by the way our courteous and efficient flight
CHICAGO attendants see to your needs. And whether you are enjoying our
LONDON superb Indian or continental cuisine, sipping an after-dinner brandy, or
DELHI
CALICUT watching a hit movie, you'll find flying with us a relaxing and
MUMBAI CHENNAI refreshing experience.
AHMEDABAD COCHIN For more information and reservations, see your travel agent
AMRITSAR GOA
BANGALORE HYDERABAD or call Air-India.
CALCUTTA TRIVANDRUM
43145EA AIR-INDIA
Air India Offices: NEW YORK (212) 751-6200
CHICAGO (312) 782-6263 • LOS ANGELES (310) 338-8484. WASHINGTON, DC (202) 785-8989
http://www.airindia.com
2010_03
Jain Education Interational 2010_03
For Private & Persona

Page #40
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 USA FAX: 248/372/4806 Rizvi House TELEPHONE 34 Hill Road 6423031 Bandra (West), Bombay 400050 6420402 INDIA 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 ااااااااااااااااااااا 5935***************AUTO**3-DIGIT 276 317 Pravin K. & Arti Shah 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_03