Jain Digest 2014 11

Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/527133/1

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JAIN DIGEST
AUG-NOV 2014 ISSUE
VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI
(1864-1901)
A publication by the Federation of Jain Associations of North America

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Jain Digest
Global Impact
Global Impac
A publication of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), 722 South Main Street Milpitas, CA 95035Contact Email: jainahq@jaina.org
Contact Number: 510-730-0204
JAINA is an umbrella organization of local Jain Associations in U.S.A and Canada. The purpose of the organization is to preserve, practice, and promote Jain Dharma and Jain Way of Life.
Prem
Jain
JAIN DIGEST Editorial Team Lata Champsee (Editor) Dr. Deepika Dalal (Co-Editor) Pankaz Hingargh (Associate Editor)
Ashok Domadia
Yogen Jain
Gunwant Shah
Compiled by
IndoUSMedia www.indousmedia.com
Dr. Raj Patil
Dr. Jayesh Shah
Piyush Mehta
Jaina Executive Committee President: premjain1@gmail.com First VP: ashokdomadia2009@gmail.com Secretary: yokjain@yahoo.com Treasurer: profgaryshah@gmail.com VP Canada: drpatil@hotmail.com VP-West: jayesh.shah@jaincenter.net VP-South West: pmehtaphone@gmail.com VP-South East: rajkumud@hotmail.com VP Mid West: hemantil@yahoo.com VP North East: rajeevpandya@ashidiamonds.com VP Mid East: harryshah2000@hotmail.com Past President: skjain99@gmail.com YJA: sheenika.shah@yja.org YJA: sejal.dhruva@yja.org YJP:
List if JAINA Committees For committee activities and contact information of Committee chairs, please log on www.jaina.org
Rajendra Mehta
Hemant Shah
Rajeev Pandya
Haresh Shah
Dr. Sushil Jain
Sheenika Shah
Sejal Dhruva
YJP:
Vaibhav Ajmera Ami Doshi-Shah Parth Savla
Academic Liaison Committee Academic Scholarship Committee Ahimsak Eco-Vegan Committee Award Committee Calendar Committee Constitution Committee Education Committee Election Committee Fund Raising Committee Interfaith Activies_World council of Jains Jain Centre Liaison Committee Jain Diaspora Committee Jivdaya Committee Jain Milan Committee Jain Network Forum Loan Program Committee Long Range Planning Committee Media Communications & Public Relations Media Production committee Membership Committee Patron Program committee Planned Giving Committee Public Affairs Council committee Technology Committee Upliftment Committee World Community Services Committee Yatra99
JAINA Manager: parth.savla@jaina.org
Disclosure The Editorial Team endeavors to publish all the materials that are submitted but reserves the right to reduce, revise, reject or edit any article, letter, or abstract for clarity, space, or policy reasons. The views expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editorial Team. These articles are published with the authors' names. The articles written or compiled by the Editorial Team are published as a joint contribution of the entire Editorial Team, and do not necessarily represent the views of Jaina.

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President's Message
of Jainism, we have created the first children's dedicated to the teachings of Mahavira Swami. "Mahavira: The Hero of Nonviolence" is now available through JAINA's website. The children's book will be available to all patshala groups as well as major libraries across the country.
Jai Jinendra,
As we look back over the past year, we have many successful events, projects and initiatives to celebrate. Last October, in partnership with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) and Claremont Lincoln University (CLU), JAINA hosted the 1st Annual "Ahimsa Day" conference. Leaders from the Jain community met with members of Congress to discuss initiatives to foster nonviolence. During the conference, the "Ahimsa Award" was presented to Shri Chitrabanuji and Pramodaben Chitrabanu by leaders of AJC, CLU, and Shri Lokesh Muni, for their contributions over decades of service in spreading nonviolence across the globe.
"Ahimsa Day" was the first of three days as part our new initiative called "JAINA Days", a nationwide effort to celebrate important dates across Jain Centers. In the spirit of bringing our community together around the key principles of Jainism, we implemented "Ahimsa Day" on Oct 2 to celebrate Jainism's message of nonviolence and explore the application and impact of nonviolence in various sectors of life. Next we organized "Jiv Daya / Compassion Day" to be celebrated on or close to Thanksgiving. This year, we will be organizing a national campaign in conjunction with World Vegan Day on Nov. 1, 2014. Lastly was "Forgiveness Day" during the first Saturday after Paryushan/Das Lakshan, as an opportunity to practice our principle of seeking forgiveness from others and forgiving others with friends even outside of our community.
In our commitment to serve all age ranges of our Jain community, JAINA revived Young Jains Professionals (YJP). I would like to share my congratulations to the new YJP Executive Board for all of their efforts in creating local and regional events across the US for those ages 28 - 42. Their most recent event was a "Jain Scholars Series" retreat, which took place at Siddhachalam, in partnership with the Jain Center of America (JCA - NY).
This past February, JAINA hosted the 3rd Annual Jain Leadership Retreat in Florida, led by JAINA's Long Range Planning (LRP) Committee in conjunction with the Jain Education Research Foundation (JERF) and Florida International University (FIU). Over 80 leaders, including youth and young adults, were in attendance where topics of leadership and the future of the Jain community were discussed.
JAIN DIGEST
I would also like to congratulate the establishment of two new committees. The first of which is the Eco-Vegan Ahimsak Committee led by Dr. Jina Shah who have successfully created events and projects to spread the value of non-violence and conscious consumption. JAINA's Upliftment Committee led by Dr. Sushil Jain is JAINA's very own "Adopt a Child / Adopt a Family Program", which has supported nearly 100 families and young adults with vocational training in India to support them to rise out of poverty.
In an effort to further our commitment to spreading awareness
JAINA's contribution is not only recognized across North America, but also internationally. Earlier this year, several members of JAINA's EC attended the "JAINA India Summit" where we worked with the leaders of the Jain diaspora of Tamilnadu in the spirit of unity. We have partnered with various Jain organizations in India and look forward to continued collaboration to bring Jain solidarity to the practice and expression of Jain values.
I would like to extend a special congratulations to Young Jains of America (YJA) and the local Convention Committee who have spent hundreds of hours to organize the 2014 YJA Convention in Washington, DC. Over 700 youth and young adults were in attendance from across North America with speakers from across the globe. During the past year, YJA orchestrated countless events strengthening connections with local Jain Sanghs to re-invigorated youth participation in Jain activities with a focus on education and activism.
This past year also marked the 150th Anniversary of one of the greatest pioneers of bringing Jainism to the West. Sri Virchand Ragavji Ghandhi's (VRG) representation of Jainism at the Parliament of World Religions Conference in 1893 was a momentous occasion. An American newspaper wrote, "Of all Eastern scholars, it was this youth whose lecture on Jain faith and conduct was listened to with the interest engaging the greatest attention." In honor of VRG, our VRG Committee, led by Nitin Shah has created a number of projects including an official stamp and VRG Scholarship Fund of which 52 scholarships have been provided to students, more than 50% of which have been to non-Jains across 20 Universities and Institutions of higher education.
I am pleased to announce that the planning for the next JAINA Convention in 2015 is in full swings thanks to the JAINA Convention Board and Convention Committee. The theme will be "Jainism: World of Non-Violence". Thank you to all of the countless volunteers who comprise the 15 sub committees organizing what will be the largest JAINA convention in JAINA's history.
Looking ahead, JAINA's main objective is to build on the momentum of this past year and continue to transform JAINA from a volunteer-based organization to a professional institution. With your support, we will take the next steps to achieve our shared vision to Evolve and promote Jain practices, Educate Jains and non-Jains to create a strong North American Jain community. Expand an awareness of Jainism as we create a global impact & Energize our community by evoking social change.
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JAIN DIGEST
* CONTENTS
JAINA will continue to work on its existing projects and programs while creating new and innovative solutions that make an impact for Jains across North America. JAINA is your service organization. Please continue to provide your support by either volunteering or donating today.
To learn more about Virchand Ragavji Gandhi, click here: www.jaina.org/virchandgandhi. Descriptions of JAINA's projects can be seen here: www.jaina.org/projects. To donate to JAINA's many efforts, I invite you to click here: www.jaina.org/donate.
Prem
Jain
Warmest Regards, Prem Jain, JAINA President
President Message Table of Contents An Introduction To Jaina Jaina Financials Upliftment Program Jaina Calendar Committee Jain Center of San Diego & Vegas Jain Milan 2014 Gandhi before Gandhi People In News Gandhi Speech / Guiding Light India Priceless Culture Remembering Guru Ji Acharya Tulsi Shiksha Seva and Sadhana Call For Papers 2014 YJA Convention Social Success at YJA14 18th Biennial Jaina
From the Editor Jai Jinendra !
In this issue of Jain Digest an effort is made to give tribute to Virchand Raghavji Gandhi, a Jain scholar who represented Jainism at the first World Parliament of Religions in 1893 in Chicago. A barrister by trade, he worked to defend the rights of Jains, and wrote and lectured extensively on Jainism. This year we celebrate VRG's
150th birth anniversary and Acharya Tulsi's birth centenary. Acharya Tulsi, a prominent Jain religious leader, founder of the Anuvrata movement and the Jain Vishva Bharti Institute, Ladnun and the author of over one hundred books. We think of Acharya Sushil Muni, he departed from this world twenty years ago. He was the founder of the Jain International Mission, an honorary president of the World Conference of Religions for Peace, founder of the World Fellowship of Religions (1950), and a founding member of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (1964).
JAIN DIGEST
VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI
Jain Centres all over North America is humming with various activities. Our next issue will be published in December 2014. Deadline for submission is November 5th. We like to hear from you. Please keep sending your feedback. Please write to jaindigest@jaina.org Please write to jaindigest@jaina.org
Tat
are
Editor Lata Champsee
Design and concept by Pankaj
Chandmal Hingarh
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AUG- NOV 2014

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An Introduction to JAINA
The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) is comprised of 67 Jain Centers in North America (NA), representing over 160,000 people. We have a long history of success in investing in community efforts in NA and abroad that spans the past 30+ years. Our philanthropists have already invested millions in support of hundreds of programs, benefitting thousands of people.
OUR MISSION
To promote religious and educational activities related to Jainism and to promote the study and understanding of Jain religion on a non-sectarian basis.
To provide and promote academic and cultural interchanges and cooperation among Jains in North America, India and other countries.
To assist and to promote charitable community service in North America, India, and other countries.
To promote tenets of Jain religion.
Together
We have accomplished a great deal
JAINA's vision is to be "the hub"
that provides community support, publishes educational materials about Jain values and practices, launches international aid projects, and establishes the Jain community as a powerful force with global impact.
We are beginning to achieve this in hundreds of exciting ways including disaster relief initiatives, academic scholarships, and leadership summits. In order to increase communication and collaboration between our organizations and projects, nationally and globally, we have embarked on the creation of a robust infrastructure and documented process flows for our operations.
Shared Vision:
Leading Our North American Communities to Live and Share a Jain Way of Life
Representing 67 Jain Centers and over 160,000 Jains!
British Columbia
AK
Alberts
Saskal
Manitoba
OK
MN
Ontario
MO
AR
Quebec
Nova Scotia
JAIN DIGEST
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JAIN DIGEST
Why Donate to JAINA?
As a partner in the shared vision of JAINA, your donation builds tighter Jain communities locally and globally, helps our leadership and service initiatives, and works to make Jainism common knowledge in North America through international projects. Your donation ensures that JAINA adequately equips the next generation with the teachings and values of the Jain Way of Life and provides a vital role in JAINA's continued existence.
We are proud of Young Jains of America (YJA), which serves the youth and young adult generation as well as Young Jain Professionals (YJP) organizations which foster professional development and networking within our Jain community.
Your contribution will have a profound impact on increasing awareness and promoting the values of Jainism with North American - Jains and Non-Jains.
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6 I AUG-NOV 2014
Young Jain Professionals
JAINA Academic Scholarship MAHAVIRA
Program (IASP)
"It is the direction of our progress that matters, NOT where we stand at present."
1981: JAINA initiated in Los Angeles and officialized in 1983 with the blessings of Guruji Chitrabhanuji and Guruji Sushil Kumarji.
THE PAST
JAINA UPUFTMENT PROGRAM
Bringa lainchild or family
out of poverty
Give Life to others &
JALI
20dults 00 ctitleColerimies 15fe Ongoing Projects, supporting youth and young adults to live the "Jain Way of Life"
Vision 2020
50% Jain kids (5-17 yrs. old) are learning about the principles of Jainism
6 million people know about Jainism and the Jain Way of Life
40 universities to include Anekantvad and NonViolence in business management teachings
35% of JAINA directors/ committee leaders will be under 40 years old
JAINA
THE
2020: A JAINA centralized office, with 15 full-time staff members

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Expands JAINA Infrastructure
What does my donation do?
Makes JAINA Projects Happen
Supports JAINA Committees
Your donation is the life line of JAINA. The money you provide helps serve the needs of nearly 160,000 Jains in North America and funds a number of initiatives designed to manifest our shared vision locally and across Northern America, as well as abroad.
Your donation contributes to three major areas of JAINA's operations: creation & expansion of JAINA Infrastructure, supports JAINA committees working to continue and evolve the Jain Way of Life worldwide, and supports global service projects that allows the community to serve the wider world.
How Will I know The Progress?
On-line! Project plan, status, and progress as well as the content will be on-line and at any time you can view committee's progress.
Who Will Manage My Donations?
JAIN DIGEST
The committees are managed by talented and highly accomplished individuals. Not only have these Committee Chairs excelled in their own professions, but they have also been active community leaders at local and national levels.
Your Donation Supports these Initiatives: Evolve the Practice of Jainism
Educate Future Generations
*Expand Awareness of Jainism
Energize the Jain Community
JAINA Fundraising Committee www.jaina.org/donations
0
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JAIN DIGEST
How Do I Donate?
JAINA: The Federation of Jain Associations in North America
"Shared Vision: Leading North American Jains into the Next Century"
MAKE A PLEDGE (Now there are four easy ways to make a pledge)
I am committing to financially support JAINA: The Federation of Jain Associations in North America and entrusting the organization under the leadership of the Board of Trustees to use this donation at their discretion.
BY PHONE
Call JAINA at (510) 730 0204
A one time gift of $ And/or a monthly gift of $_
Name:
Address:
BY EMAIL
Simply send an email with your name and address and pledge amount jainahq@jaina.org
City:
State: _
Zip:
DONATIONS MADE SIMPLE
Email:
Phone:
Date:
All donations are tax deductible and checks can be made payable to: JAINA (501(C)3 Non-Profit] Mail to: 12 Ascot Place North Brunswick, NJ 08902
BY CHECK Checks can be made payable to "JAINA" and mailed to the JAINA Treasurer at:
JAINA Gunvant Shah, Treasurer 12 Ascot Place, North Brunswick, NJ 08902
HELP US REACH
... OUR GOAL TO SHARE OUR VISION!
ONLINE Safe and secure donations can be submitted via credit/debit card by going to: www.jaina.org/donations.
We are currently engaged in taking JAINA to new heights through powerfully leveraging technology as a means to build & expand our community, foster connections, and create alliances with various organizations.
Online payments can be submitted on a one-time basis or auto payments for your convenience.
Your continued moral support as well as financial assistance is critical at this juncture to our community. Your generosity will help take JAINA to the next level and allow us to focus on expanding JAINA's global reach.
Once your donation is processed, you will receive an email message confirming your payment.
Sincerely, Dr. Jayesh Shah Fundraising Committee Chair jayeshshahmd@gmail.com 626 357 9888
Prem Jain JAINA President premjain1@gmail.com 408 981 4645
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JAINA Financial Summary - 2013
102.0
Income
1001 Bookstore Committee and Mahavira Book Revenue
1002 Calendar Committee Revenue
1003 Education Committee Revenue
1006 Long Range Planning Committee Revenue
1007 Media Production Committee Revenue
1008 Jain Networking Forum (JNF) Committee Revenue
1009 Patron Program Committee Revenue
1010 Pilgrimage Committee Revenue
1011 Jiv Daya Committee Revenue
1014 Public Affairs Committee Revenue
1017 V.R. Gandhi Scholarship Committee Revenue
1021 Jain Milan Committee Revenue
1022 Jaina 99 Yatra Committee Revenue
1029 Academic Liaison Committee Revenue
Total Income
Gross Profit (Loss)
[Unaudited]
Presented By: Gunvant Shah, JAINA Treasurer
1030 World Community Service Committee Revenue
1055 Academic Scholarship Fund Revenue
1056 Student Loan Program Revenue
1060 Jain Digest Committee Revenue
1065 Overseas Donation Committee Revenue
1070 JAINA General Fund Revenue
1200 JAINA Convention Revenue
1325 YJA Revenue
1375 YJP Revenue
8010 Interest Income
Other $147,705.97
Total 1030 World Com... $38,091.36
Total 1070 JAINA Gen... $69,516.23
002 Calendar Commit... 78,727.48
1065 Overseas Donati... $108,493.14
17,050.00
78,727.48
8,320.00
280.95
5,087.00
1,901.00
251.00
1,425.00
22,906.00
3,154.85
1,000.00
27,081.04
571.00
6,000.00
38,091.36
16,000.00
100.00
1,380.00
108,493.14
69,516.23
894,766.13
33,664.48
891.00
642.65
$ 1,337,300.31
$ 153,835.92
40.00
Total 12 $894,766
1905
Expenses
2001 Bookstore Committee and Mahavira Book Expense
2002 Calendar Committee Expense
2003 Education Committee Expense
2006 Long Range Planning Committee Expense
2007 Media Production Committee Expense
2008 Jain Networking Forum (JNF) Committee Expense
2009 Patron Program Committee Expense
2010 Pilgrimage Committee Expense
2011 Jiv Daya Committee Expense
2014 Public Affairs Committee Expense
2017 V.R. Gandhi Scholarship Committee Expense
2021 Jain Milan Committee Expense
2022 Jaina 99 Yatra Committee Expense
2029 Academic Liaison Committee Expense
2030 World Community Service Committee Expense
2055 Academic Scholarship Fund Expense
2056 Student Loan Program Expense
2060 Jain Digest Committee Expense
2065 Overseas Donation Committee Expense
2070 JAINA General Fund Expense
2200 JAINA Convention Expense
2325 YJA Expense
2375 YJP Expense
Total Expense
2
Other $249,722.77
Total 2325 YJA Expen... $63,237.21
2002 Calendar Commit... $74,112.05
Total 2070 JAINA Gen... $94,439.42
2065 Overseas Donati... $108,493.14
5
JAIN DIGEST
8
3
12,516.78
74,112.05 13,279.32
6,212.12
8,022.61
151.84
7.53
30,745.00
25,468.06
10,594.65
6,030.00
7,038.57
3,700.93
6,000.00
59,652.46
14,688.37 3.00 45,580.55
108,493.14
94,439.42
901,131.64
63,237.21
30.98
$ 1,491,136.23
Total 2200 $901,131.6.
I AUG-SEP 2014 9
%
Ma

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JAIN DIGEST
JAINA UPLIFTMENT PROGRAM
Federation of Jain Associations in America (JAINA) Non-profit organization Tax ID: IRS code Section 501 © (3) EI # 54 1280028
"I am not educated, my daughter is not educated, which is why we are in poverty. All I want is a good life for my grand daughter - a life better than what we have," says Shreya & vidhi's grandfather.
FLOUR
The JAINA Upliftment organization along with other several partner organizations (in India) helped to grow Jain children from poverty to next generation leaders.
We have helped sponsor under-privileged, under-resourced children and so far 60+ sponsors have helped 107 Jain children in different Indian states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, and other parts of Southern India.
We are thankful for the financial support and volunteer work that many of our sponsors and partners have provided that helps make all of this happen!!!
"Together we are better" Come and join the uplift mission to make a difference via educating one child at a time.
GIVE HOPE,
GIVE EDUCATION,
GIVE LIFE TO JAIN CHILDREN
10 I AUG- NOV 2014
Help a Child
Looking to get involved, connect with many poor and needy Jain children, and make a difference Contact:
Dr. Sushil Jain (Virginia) (240)-277-3039; Mr. Kamlesh Mehta (California) (408)-839-8996; Mr. Bhupesh Mehta (Maryland) (240)-455-4524; Mr. Kamal Shah (Wisconsin) (414)-795-3558 www.jainauplift.org | info@jainauplift.org

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JAINAlendar
JAINA CALENDAR COMMITEE REPORT
JAINA Calendar & Mini Library Committee was formed in
1999 by past JAINA President, Dr. Mahendra K. Pandya. The first JAINA Calendar was introduced in the year 2000. The Goal of the JAINA Calendar & Mini Library Committee was to
produce a well-made Calendar that would be freely distributed to all the JAINA Members throughout North America and other parts of the world.
NESDAY THURSDAY FRI
The first JAINA 2000 Calendar was distributed to over 8,500 Families. Since the Year 2000 to 2014, the JAINA Calendar Committee has distributed over 180,000 Calendars and re
ceived over $895,000 in donations. The JAINA 2014 Calendar
was distributed to over 14,500 Families.
The Purpose of the JAINA Calendar Committee is the following:
To have a Calendar that could be freely distributed to all the JAINA Members throughout North America and be selfsufficient in terms of funding
To Expose the JAINA Members of all age groups to the religious, cultural and historical heritage of the Jains Aid the JAINA Members to view the activities and projects that JAINA, Local Jain Centers, and JAINA Committees are engaged in
.
Brand JAINA in the minds of the recipients as an organization that is working for them and to enhance the image of Jains in North America
The JAINA 2014 Calendar takes us through a journey of 12 Jain Temples across North America. These Jain Centers and places of worship represent the sacrifice and hard work of the Jain Diaspora to preserve, practice, grow, and pass on our rich heritage and traditions to future generations.
We felt it was important for the Jain Diaspora to see what our small community has collectively accomplished in these last few decades. As you browse the JAINA 2014 Calendar, we encourage you to take a look at the progress that many Jain Centers in North America have made in building or expanding their local Jain Centers.
Jainism has contributed significantly to Indian Art and Architecture. The JAINA 2014 Calendar includes a brief description
JAIN DIGEST
of Jain Temple Architecture, in which various types of architectural designs across different regions of the Indian Subcontinent are described.
As per members' request we have created a JAINA Google Calendar for Jain Holidays & Tithis. Just go to Google Calendar and under Other Calendar's - Add a friend's calendar and enter jainacalendar@gmail.com.
The JAINA Calendar Committee is comprised of about 10 volunteers. It takes about 4 months to produce and involves over 15 people and over 1,500 Man-Hours. Volunteers coordinate work in 4 different cities - New York, Ahmedabad, Indore and Bombay - and have their own functions and responsibilities. Some of the functions involved are: design, layout & production; temple photography & write-Up, dates, holidays & tithis, JAINA Write-up & Committees, printing, packaging and distribution and fund raising & donation collections.
To fund the free distribution of the annual JAINA Calendar, we have many Donors who donate anywhere from $21 to $501 dollars, as well as the Calendar Sponsors that donate from $1,001 to $2,001 per year. 100% of your donations are used to fund this non-profit project and activities of JAINA - no funds are used for volunteers' time or travel expenses.
If you received the 2014 JAINA Calendar and enjoyed the presentation of the 12 temples across North America, please take a few minutes to send a small tax deductible donation to fund this JAINA project. If you have already sent in your donation - our sincere gratitude for your contribution. Work on the 2015 JAINA Calendar has already started.
Jai Jinendra,
Rajeev Pandya
Rajeev Pandya Chairperson
JAINA Calendar & Mini Library Committee
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JAIN DIGEST
Jain Center of San Diego
A MileStone Celebration
May 10-11,2014, was a joyous weekend for the Jain Sangh of San Diego. The Sangh celebrated Chal-Pratishtha of Bhagwan Aadinath with joy. Approximately 300 bhaviks joined for the two day celebration, including a bus full of bhaviks from Los Angeles. Vidhikar Shri Shrenikbhai Gala performed the Pujas and Vidhis for the pratishtha.
Saturday started with 18 Abhishek Puja and Sattar Bhedi Puja, followed by Gadi Pujan. Sangh members enjoyed Bhavna on Saturday evening. Sunday started with Laghu Kumbh and Deepak Sthapna, followed by Rath Yatra (Varghodo). Sangh members joyously performed Prabhu Pravesh and Pratishtha and everyone got a chance to perform Pujans. The weekend culminated with Dwar Opening Ceremony and Puja on Monday Morning.
The event was a major milestone in the journey of San Diego Sangh to construct a permanent Jinalay at the facility. The Sangh acquired current facility in 2011 and has been working diligently to update and transform it. Plans are in works to construct permanent Derasar in the near future. The Chal-Pratishtha now will allow the Sangh members to perform Puja in the interim. Please visit www.jssd.org and definitely visit us when you are in San Diego.
Jain Center of Las Vegas
A MileStone Celebration
Under the auspicious of Hindu Temple & Jain Center of Las Vegas, we celebrated the Bhagwan Mahavir Janma Kalyanak on April 6, 2014. On this occasion, a play depicting the life of Chandanbala was presented. This was very first time in the history of the temple since its inception in 2001 that a play to celebrate the birth of Bhagwan Mahavir was enacted. Best of all, it was presented by the young members of the Jain community who put their hearts in it. The play was conceived and choreographed by Chandraben Mehta. This play was well received by the local community of Las Vegas. With the success of this program it is hoped that it will inspire Jains as well as non-Jains to take part in the future events at our Center. The next major events scheduled to take place at the Center are the celebration of Fourteen Dreams of Trishala Mata and Mahavir Janma Kalyanak during the Paryushan Parva in August 2014, and 18 Abhishek on November 9, 2014.
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JAIN DIGEST
Jain Milan 2014
Jain Milan 2014 Annual 3 Day Convention is on September 19, 20, and 21st, 2014 at Jain Center of New Jersey, NJ.
MILANO
As the next generation of Jain Americans begins to assimilate into western culture, it becomes increasingly challenging to meet those that hold similar beliefs and values. Though websites and e-mail communication help to a certain extent, nothing comes close to meeting potential suitors in person. Jain Milan is organized to encourage our Jain youth to meet other Jains for the purpose of matrimony and to facilitate a face-to-face meeting. We have witnessed many other Indian organizations holding similar successful events and we felt it was time to create a forum for the Jain youth. With this in mind, we planned first Jain Milan, a three-day convention, in NJ in August 2006. It was a tremendous success. Over 170 Jain youths participated from many states in America, Canada, India, Europe and Singapore.
Jain Milan was started with a vision "Jain merry Jain" and that vision has turned to reality for many many Jain youths. Jain Milan is instrumental in creating a platform for Jain youths to meet many Jain youths in person and ultimately in finding a life partner. Jain Milan provides an opportunity for Jain youth (age 21 and older) all over the world to meet in person, to make friends, to engage in networking, to develop business contacts and to possibly find a life partner. With events like Jain Milan, we hope to achieve our goal to preserve Jain traditions and values in our next generation and strengthen our community.
MILAN
First Jain Milan organized in August 2006 was a benchmark for
the Jain community in North America. In last eight years hundreds of youths from all over the world have participated. Jain Milan has organized six conventions in NJ, one in Long Island, NY and one in Huston, TX. These conventions are not only beneficial to the area youths but also to the youths from all over world. From last eight years, many success stories are reported year after year since 2006. Since last year, Jain Milan has also started providing the service to an age group of 40 to 70+. For more information: Visit www.jainmilan.org OR www.jaina.org (Under marriage and committees) or send an e-mail to prof.garyshah@yahoo.com for any information.
Gunvant
Shah
GUNVANT SHAH Chairman, JAIN MILAN and JAINA Treasurer
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JAIN DIGEST
Gandhi before gandhi
Dr. Bipin Doshi , Smt. Pritiben Shah & Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh (Co-authors of Book - Gandhi Before Gandhi)
We are dedicating this article to Indian Legend Virchand Raghavji Gandhi who as a friend used to help Mahatma Gandhi in understanding Indian law by telling him stories of Vakils and Stalwarts (Ref: Story of My Experiments with Truth). One who was admired by Swami Vivekanand for his strict code of conduct, vegetarianism and patriotism. Swami Vivekananda had received his recognition primarily for his speech in the first ever World Parliament of Religions in 1893, where he had represented Hinduism. But we hardly know that one more Indian legend at the same event boldly expressed his patriotism by defending Indian culture and Hinduism and represented Jainism - he was the charismatic and captivating Virchand Raghavji Gandhi. His captivating speech had received rounds of applause. A true patriot is someone who feels or voices expressions of patriotism, love, and devotion to one's country. VRG had displayed his patriotism, love and devotion for mother India and its spiritual heritage. His speech echoed the true spirit and culture of India. He received equal attention as did Swami Vivekananda.
Guru's of Two Legends who captivated in 1893's Parliament of World Religions
Ramkrishna Paramhansji
muni Atmaramji
(c) All Rights Reserved
Design & Concept : Pankaz Chandmal Hingarh
Swami Vivekanand
Virchand Raghavji Gandhi Indian Legend Virchand Gandhi Sitting in Front Row on Stage in 1893's Parliament of World Religions
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Historical background: Today in western countries, many are The 1893 World's Parliament of Religions, was held on the shore familiar with Jain religion. But things were different in 1890's, of Lake Michigan, Chicago. For East Indian Delegates a dinner when majority of western people were unaware about existence was arranged by Rev. J. Henry Barrows and William Pipe before of any such religion. Then India was ruled by British Raj and commencement of 1893's parliament which was attended by sailing outside India was a challenge. In 1893 to celebrate the Virchand Gandhi and other Indian delegates 400th anniversary of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus, magnificent World's Columbian Exposition was Exposition's centre of attraction was first Ferris wheel and other organized. In 1880's Chicago, St. Louis, New York and was Congress of World religions. The parliament was held at the Washington, D.C. all had submitted bids to host the 1893 Columbus Hall of the Art Institute of Chicago with more than exposition and finally Chicago had won same. A number of 7000 delegates of different nations and religions participating. congresses were held in conjunction with the exposition. The The conference lasted 17 days. Parliament had commenced on World's Congresses were outlined by Mr. Bonney who was 11th September, 1893. It was dominated by English speaking incharge of working committees.
Christian representatives, who delivered 153 of 194 speeches.
Opportunity for the leaders from other religious traditions was The World's congress of religions was the largest of the congresses limited, although significant. Twelve speakers represented held in conjunction with the Exposition. In 1891, committee of Buddhism, 11 Judaism, 8 Hinduism, 2 Islam, 2 Parsi, 2 Shintoism, The Parliament of religions had globally sent invitation to selected 2 Confucianism, 1 Taoism and 1 Jainism. Christianity dominated. distinguished representatives of all faiths, to bring together in Many Christian leaders declared theirs as the best religion and conference, for the first time in history, the leading representatives that one can't have entry in the kingdom of heaven unless one is of the great historic religions of the world. It was promoted that a Christian. Faith in one God and the sacrifice of Jesus to wash main aim of such conference was to promote human brotherhood the sins of man was highlighted often. To this extent it was fine among religious men of diverse faiths. From Jain community but many speakers in an over-enthusiasm attacked the beliefs and originally well-known and highly respected Munishree Atma traditions of other religions. However, there were many Christian Ramji alias Acharyashree Vijayanandsuriji was invited to speakers like Prof. Robert, Wolivunski, Henry Infield, George represent Jainism and whole Jain community. He was then highly Hood Don Boardman who appreciated the oriental religions and revered as high priest of Jain community worldwide. Muni also the depth to which they have reached. The organizers had Atma Ramji could see centuries ahead of time and was highly even expressed a desire to hold the next parliament at Varanasi in revered by non Jains too. He had written several Jain treatise. India. Rev. Chepin admitted, "We want to learn, sitting at the feet Many eminent western scholars like Dr. A. F. Rudolf Hoernele of those gentlemen, full of wisdom, who come from the East". were impressed by him. Muni Atmaramji was then appointed as a member of Advisory Council of the Parliament of the Religions In Rev. J.H.Barrow's & Richard Seager's book on such to be held in Chicago in 1893. On the 21st page of "The World's parliament, Virchand Gandhi's following speeches are recorded: Parliament of Religions," published in London, there is a photo a.) Welcome speech on Opening Day in afternoon session of the Muniji Maharaj bearing the following eulogy.
(September 11, 1893) (Applause)
b.) Speech on the philosophy and ethics of the Jains. "No man has so peculiarly identified himself with the interests of c.) A patriotic speech in reference to the allegations of the the Jain Community as Muni Atmaramji. He is one of the noble previous day against the morality of the Hindu religions (audience bands sworn from the day of initiation to the end of life to work applauded on his every word) and same was followed by speech day and night for the high mission they have undertaken. He on The History and Tenets of the Jains of India' (September 25, is the High priest of the Jain community and is recognized as 1893) the highest living authority on Jain Religion and literature by d.) a closing speech whereby Virchand Gandhi was greeted with Oriental scholars.
much applause as he came forward to speak on last day.
12 INDIA 500
The principles of right conduct for a Jain monk prevented him from going abroad. On humble request of William Pipe, Rev. John Henry Barrows (Parliament's committee members) & suggestion of his own disciple Acharya Shree Vijayvallabhsuriji , Muni Atmaramji trained and deputed 28 year old Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi as his representative to represent Jain religion and Jain community. By then VRG had successfully resolved important issues for Jain Tirths like Shatrunjay Teerth, Sammet shikharji Teerth and Makshi Teerth and was Secretary of Jain Association of India.
deg
etao TT VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI
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Ghandi before ghandi
From our original researches we learnt that 3 captivating heroes Later VRG had delivered 535 speeches in USA and Europe on had captivated in 1893's this event. An authentic book Old plethora subjects like Indian international trade system, Indian Diary Leaves by Henry S Olcott (Co-Founder of Theosophical economic and industrial outlook, real estate, ancient history Society) mentions"...Besides those who represented our society of Indian civilization, science of eating, yoga, concentration, and religions, especially Vivekananda, VR Gandhi, Dharmapala, hypnotism, astral vision and astral body, occultism, vegetarianism, captivated the public, who had only heard of Indian people world religions and won many medals.. His immense success was through the malicious reports of interested missionaries, and covered by the leading newspapers and periodicals of the USA: were now astounded to see before them and hear men who New York Times, St. Joseph Gazette, The Jamestown New York, represented the ideal of spirituality and human perfectibility Editors Bureau, Chicago Daily Sun, Chicago Herald, Chicago as taught in their respective sacred writings. Said one Chicago Suburban Star, Light of Truth, Cincinnati, Buffalo Times, The editor: 'We have been for years spending millions of dollars in Illustrated Buffalo Express, Morning Star, Buffalo Evening sending missionaries to convert these men, and have had very Times, Buffalo Express, Buffalo Courier, The Evangelist, little success, they have sent over a few men, and have converted Evening Post, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, The Rochester everybody."
Herald, Rev. R. A. White, Chicago, Addison Parker Pastor of
leading Baptist Church. VRG had originally translated a rare Apart making impressive presentation on Jainism, Virchand book 'Unknown life of Jesus Christ' from French to English raghavji Gandhi had vigorously displayed his patriotism by which was appreciated specially for its scholastic translation & defending Indian culture and Hinduism at parliament which had lucid explanation. He had attained Bar at Law at Britain. received huge applause. Many may not be knowing that in absence of Indian delegate Shree Manubhai Dwivedi , Virchand Raghavji Virchand Raghavji Gandhi was a national hero and will remain Gandhi had impressively read his one paper on Hinduism too. source of inspiration for young generation because of his versatile Hence VRG played role of patriot as well as of an able shravak at traits and achievements at young age. We request various smaller parliament. And because of same many western persons became & bigger Sanghs / Organizations to come ahead and celebrate fan of VRG and insisted him to prolong his stay in West, as they 150th Birth anniversary of this legendary personality who wanted to learn from him more about Jainism, Indian Culture & was an Indian patriot, a humanitarian, early Indian economist, various oriental subjects.
early Indian real estate expert, reformer who promoted female
education This year on eve of his 150th Birth Anniversary, Before Virchand Raghavji Gandhi's presentation at parliament we have plans to come out with Gujarati and Hindi version of many were unaware about existence of any religion called our most awaited book "Gandhi before Gandhi". VRG's great Jainism, some thought it was branch of Buddhism or Hinduism. grandson Shree Chandresh Gandhi has been delivering lectures In USA, he was first to introduce Jainism as independent & on his great grandfather Virchand Raghavji Gandhi. And due to ancient religion through his captivating presentation. And hence efforts of Sulekhji C Jain, Dilipji V Jain , Pravinji C Shah, Dr. today he is also addressed as father of American Jainism. Nitinji Shah , Munishree Lokeshji & few others a VRG chair has
been proposed at Claremont Lincoln University at California. In our other important research we had discovered that apart
Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (Time Line) Virchand Gandhi teaching Jain Philosophy to a Lady in America
(Note: Some years could be approximate indications for better understanding)
1863-64: Goddess Padmavati appeared in dream of Mahuva NagarSheth Shree Raghavji Tejpalji Gandhi and conveyed that his wife Manbai will give birth to narkesari son (Virchand) whose fame will spread worldwide and as an auspicious sign an ancient Lord Parswanathji idol will be discovered from his house. It happened accordingly.
August 25, 1864: Virchand Raghavji Gandhi was born.
1879: Gets married to Smt. Jiviben
1880: Passed Matriculation examination from Alfred High School, Bhavnagar. Stood first in Gohilwad district and obtained
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Sir Jashvant Sinhji Scholarship. Same year family shifted to 1893-95: (1) Lectures in various American cities on Jainism, Mumbai, erstwhile Bombay for higher education of VRG.
Hinduism and Buddhism under the aegis of 'School of Oriental Philosophy'. (2) Publication of the book 'An unknown Life of Jesus Christ' in Chicago. (3) Came to London - Lecture on Indian Philosophy in a meeting chaired by Lord Reay. In between attained Bar at Law at Britain but date and year is not known.
1884: Passed B.A. with hons. From Elphinstone College. He mastered 14 languages and had become scholar in all world religions, Indian economics, trade and commerce.
1885-86: Joined as an article clerk in the firm of Govt. solicitors Ms. Little, Smith, Friar and Nicholson. He and Mahatma Gandhi were together for their experiment on dietetics. And then Virchand Gandhi used to help Mahatma Gandhi understand Indian Law (Reference: Mahatma Gandhi's 'Story of My Experiments with Truth, part 2, chapter III, First Case) (Exact year / period of meet of Mahatma Gandhi and Virchand Gandhi is unknown)
1886: He succeeded in getting the tax per head abolished for pilgrims to Shatrunjaya Tirth. Later he also played instrumental role in resolving dispute of Shree Makshi Teerth.
1891: Played instrumental role in winning legal battle against an English man's tallow factory & getting tallow factory closed from Sammet Shikhar Tirth
1893: Originally Muni Atmaramji invited to represent Jainism at the 1893 Parliament of Religions. But as he couldn't visit, he deputed his disciple Virchand Gandhi.
1893: Captivated in 1893's Parliament of world relifions. Same year also acknowledged as interesting speaker from India at the world's first Real Estate Congress.
JAIN DIGEST
1894: From Chicago, Swami Vivekanandji wrote a letter to the diwan of Junagadh, Shree Haridas Desai and praised Virchand Gandhi Same year VRG translated a rare book 'Unknown life of Jesus Christ' from French to English.
1895: Returned to motherland, lectured under the aegis of Arya Samaj, Buddhiwardhak Sabha and other organizations. Founded the Hemchandracharya Class.
1896:
(1)Represented Mumbai province in Indian National Congress's Poona gathering. 2) On January 25th, accompanied Mark Twain on his visit to Mumbai and visited Byculla Jain temples. 3) Established Society for the Education of Women in India (SEWI) under whose banner several Indian women went to the USA for higher studies 4) Second trip to America along with his wife upon an invitation. Later on hearing in America about the drought in India organized a Drought Relief Society and collected Rs. 40,000 and arranged for a shipment of food-grain to India.
1898: Returned to India for short time, was felicitated at a meeting where Justice Mahadev Govind Rande was the president. Till 1901 delivered 535 captivating speeches in USA and Europe on a plethora of subjects.
1901: Mysteriously health deteriorated, resulting lung hemorrhage. In July returned to Mumbai. On August 7 passed away at early age of 37.
The New York Times, 3rd September, 1893 edition under heading 'VISITORS FROM MANY LANDS; EAST INDIAN DELEGATES TO THE CONGRESS OF RELIGIONS'
2 The Sociology of Religious Movements - By William Sims Bainbridge
3 In New essays in religious naturalism, Volume 1990 By Creighton Peden, Larry E. Axel
4 In the gospel of Buddha according to old records - dr. Paul carus, Martin Verhoeven
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DAILY NEWS
People In News EXTRA
Dr. Kumarpal Desai
Well-known gujarati writer, reporter, thinker, trustee of Gujarati Vishvkosh (Gujarati Encyclopedia), international, Scholar of Jain Dharma Padma Shri Kumarpal Desai has written 80 books in Hindi and Gujarati on Jainism. He has lectured on Jainism in many countries and has guided 20 students (including some sadhus and Sadhvis) for their thesis for Ph. D. He was the Dean of Gujarat University for many years.
Recently, Jain Vishva Bharti in Ladnu, Rajasthan has recognized his many achievements and accorded him special honors by naming Dr. Kumarpal Desai as the Professor Emeritus of Jainology Department of Jain Vishva Bharti. He is the first person to receive such recognition by Jain Vishva Bharti. Jain Vishva Bharati is the only institution
Shrenik bhai Kasturbhai
Leading Jain philanthropist and head of Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi Shri Shrenik Kasturbhai, son of Shri Kasturbhai Lalbhai passed away on June 19th, 2014. He suffered diverticulitis rupture a year ago and was operated in emergency. But he was in good health during last year and was working from home.
Gandhian values, simplicity and service to society was his main motive. He worked a lot for Jain community. He is known as prominent leader of Jain community. Shrenikbhai was into social work for last fifteen years. Prior to that he was contributing in the areas of finance and overall strategy. All present companies of Lalbhai Group - Arvind, Atul, Anil Starch were started by his father Kasturbhai Lalbhai, and now they are prospering with fourth generation.
His activities contributing to education, religion, art and museums, charitable institutions will be continued.
Jain Community accorded minority status: On January 27th, 2014 the Jain community was accorded minority status by the central government which will enable them to avail of benefits in government schemes and programmes. The Jains became the sixth community to have minority status after Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis. Once recognised as a minority, Jains would get a share in central funds earmarked for welfare programmes and scholarships for the minorities. They can also manage and administer their own educational institutions. The community is already enjoying minority status in some states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan but the new decision extends that status across the country. Numerically, the Jain community is small, with a population of about 50 lakhs. Eminent Jain Acharya Dr. Lokesh was present on the historical moment in the Indian Parliament House in New Delhi, along with India Cabinet minister for minority affairs Shri K. Rehman Khan, Cabinet minister Shri Shriprakash Jaiswal, MP Shri Jai Prakash Agarwal and other prominent Jain leaders were present. In the program nine Dikshartis inspired by Munishri Namramuni ji were also honored. Honoring nine Diksharthis Acharya Ji said that felicitating Diksharhis in Parliament house is a wonderful event for India and the world this will inspire youth to adopt self controlled life style preched by Jain religion.
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A
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If the present abuses in India have been produced by the Hindu religion, the same religion had the strength of producing a society which made the Greek historian say, "No, Hindu was ever known to tell an untruth, no Hindu woman ever known to be unchaste" And even in the present day, where is the chaster woman or milder man in India?
Patriotic Speech of V. R. Gandhi at the First Parliament of world Religions
In the last place, I am very, very sorry for those who criticize the great ones of India, and my only consolation is that all their information about them comes from third hand, fourth hand sources, percolating through layers of superstition and bigotry. To those who find in the refusal of the Hindu to criticize the character of Jesus a tacit (understood without being stated) acceptation of the superiority of fanatical nil-admirari cult they represent, I am tempted to quote their old fable of Espo and tell them "Not to you I bend the knee but to the image you are caring on your back": and point out to them one page from the life of great Emperor Akbar.
Mr. Gandhi prefaced his paper "with remarks in reference to the allegations of the previous day against the morality of the Hindu religions. He said:
I am glade that no one has dared to attack the religion I represent. It is well they should not. But every attack has been directed to the abuses existed in our society. And I now repeat now, what I repeat every day, that these abuses are not from the religion but in spite of religion, as in every other country. Some men in their ambition think that they are Pauls, (humble) and what they think they believe, and where should these new Pauls go to vent their platitudes but India?
Ascertain ship full of Mohammedian pilgrims was going to mecca. On its way, Portugues vessel captured it. Amongst the booty were some copies of Koran. The Potuguees hanged these copies of Koran round the necks of dogs and paraded these dogs through the streets of Omrmuz. It happened that this very Portuguese ship was captured by the Emperor's men, and in it were found some copies of the Bible.
The love of Akbar for his mother is well known, and his mother was a zealous Mohammedian. It pained her very much to hear of the treatment of the sacred book of the Mohammedian in the hands of the Christians, and she wished that Akbar would do the same with the Bible. But this great man replied:
Yes, sir, they go to India to convert the hearts (Person does not belong to widely held religion) in a mass, but when they find their dreams melting away, as dreams always do, they return back to pass a whole life abusing the Hindus. Abuses are not arguments against any religion, or self-adulation the proof of the true of one's own. For such I have the greatest pity. There are a few Hindu temples in Southern India where women singers are employed to sing on certain occasions. Some of them are of dubious character, and the Hindu society feels it and is trying its best to remove the evil. These women are never allowed to enter the main temple, and as for their being priestesses, there is not one woman priest from the Himalayas to Cape Comorin.
"Mother, these ignorant men do not know the value of the Koran, and they treated it in a manner which is the outcome of Ignorance. But I know the glory of the Koran and the Bible both, and I cannot debase myself in the way, they did." Mr. Gandhi's remarks were followed by expressions of sympathy from among the audience
GUIDING LIGHT
I want to wash the stains, rather than the dirt - Munishri Namramuni
Dirt gets washed everyday. The dirt from the body, of those who have a bath everyday, gets washed off daily. Hence that person appears clean and neat. Similarly, sins that we commit daily is called dirt.
You will have a feeling of hatred only for those with whom you have frequent contact. You will have affection for those who are close to you. Because of affection there will expectations. When these expectations are not satisfied, affection turns into dislike.
This dirt can be cleansed by small repentances and atonements. Then, what are stains? What is the difference between dirt and stains? Stains means which have blended with the cloth... That which can not be removed by ordinary soap and water.
Anger may perhaps, spoil only this birth, but hatred will have adverse effects in many many births. Anger will spoil a few moments but hatred will spoil the relationship. Check yourself.
And find out where is the dirt and where are the stains? It is easy to wash a dirty cloth even if it is full if dirt, however it is very difficlt to remove a stain.
A special technique has to be used to remove the stains. Dirt means anger. It is momentary and quietens down by saying Sorry or Michchami dukkaddam. Stains means Hatred. It is easy to wash the dirt but difficult to remove the stains. You will have a feeling of hatred only for those who are close to you.
Dirt can be removed easily by small aaradhanas and repentances. But, to remove a stain, one must seek Sadguru;s shelter. Hatred can be removed only by seeking refuge and doing sadhana of gaining knowledge. Make efforts to remove the stain....inevitably dirt will be washed off.
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An Exponent of India's Priceless Cultural Heritage
Padmashri Dr. Kumarpal Desai
When the dawn breaks over the eastern horizon, the faint light begins to slowly encompass the earth and the living organisms experience the nourishing effect of the morning sun. Similarly, Virchand Gandhi too soaked the people of America and England into in-depth analysis of Jaina Philosophy and the Indian cultural and spiritual values Apart from being a scholar of Jainism, he was an ardent votary of Buddhism, Sankhya, Vedanta and Nyaya.. Virchand Gandhi also talked about science of Yoga, Botany, nutrition and myriad other subjects.
First World Congress: On 11th September, 1893 the World Religions Conference was inaugurated in the Hall of Columbus
of Chicago's Art Institute. The representatives of dif
ferent religions and sects, attired in their traditional costumes, assembled in the hall. The World Religions Conference comprised ten religions and Jaina religion did not find place in it. But Virchand Gandhi, representing Jaina religion, delivered the 17th lecture. He acknowledged the debt he owed to his Guru Munishri Atmaramji Maharaj and then expostulated on the tenets of Jainism.
Swami Vivekanand began with an invocation to Goddess Saraswati, addressing the congregation saying 'Brothers and Sisters' and then everyone bathed in the cascading flow of his words. The brief but eloquent addressed touched the hearts of one and all.
Gandhi's treatment of Jaina philosophy is authentic and rational. His is the non-sectarian approach. His lectures reflected his close acquaintance with the tenets of Jainism, his keenness of arriving at true conclusions, his constructive ingenuity, his insight into the essentials of religion, his power of comprehension and expression, his knowledge of Western philosophy as well as of other systems of Indian philosophy. Gandhi was a formidable champion of Jaina philosophy.
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Philosophy of Karma:
He said that Jaina religion looked at things from two points of view dravyarthika naya and paryayarthika naya. According to the former, the world is without beginning and end and according to the latter it is born every moment and dies every moment. He talked about nine types of real (tatva), six types of living beings (jiva), and four types of existence (gati). He first explained the Jaina theory of reincarnation and then the parallel philosophy of karma. He analyzed minutely this philosophy and asserted that it was a seminal principle in Indian ethos. Defining 'Jaina' as one who has won over the enemies within, he went on to talk about the importance of Jaina Tirthankars in Jaina Philosophy.
Jain Tirthankara: Virchand Gandhi explains that "Jaina" means a follower of Jina, which is a generic term applied to those persons (men and women) who conquer their lower nature (passion, hatred and the like) and bring into prominence the highest. There lived many such Jinas in the past and many will
doubtless yet are to be born. Of such Jinas those who become spiritual heads and regenerators of the community are called Arhats (the deserving ones), or Tirthankaras.
Regarding dharma he observes: Dharma means the body of rules of conduct. It does two things: it prevents a living being from falling down spiritually and it helps him to go up spiritually. These rules apply to all living beings, not only to man. The basis of these rules is pity, compassion, love, doing good, benevolence, kindness etc. All these qualities are expressed through one word, daya.
Gandhi's following words are noteworthy. "The person in the state of Samyaktva is convinced that only a body of rules which is based on Daya is true dharma or true conduct rules, true religion, or the right law of life and that no other body of rules, such as one that is based on killing animals for sacrifices, can be a right one. And it is a strong conviction about which there is no wavering. Thus Samyaktva amounts to the conviction that ahimsa is the supreme religion."

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Ahimsa: Daya is a positive aspect of ahimsa (non-violence). mere being. In short, being and becoming are complements R. William in his book 'Jaina Yoga' remarks that the central of the full notion of a reality". position and pervading character of ahimsa separates the Jaina ethic sharply from Hinduism as well as from Islam and
He explains the two basic views : The substance Christianity.
view (dravyarthika naya) and the modal view (paryayarthika In his lectures Virchand Gandhi establishes the an- naya). Each view carried to the extreme denies the reality of tiquity of Jainism, describes the nine 'real' which one should the other. Each view then accepts the one at the expense know to attain liberation, enumerates the six substances, of the other. One puts emphasis on the universal and the gives an account of the six kinds of living beings (Jeevas) external aspect to the exclusion of the particular and changand four kinds of existence, treats of transmigration and kar- ing aspect. The Shankara Vedanta represents the extreme ma and also of Jaina ethics.
form of the substance view and Buddhism represents the
absolute modal view. The Jaina system reconciles these two For the Jaina thinkers both the substance and its opposing views by according equal status to the substance modes are real. The one without the other is an impossibil- and it modes. ity. He explains at length the Jaina view of the phenomenal and the noumenal aspects of existence. At this juncture, he
His erudite, spirited and lucid lectures captured the contrasts the Jaina position with that of Kant's.
hearts of the audience. He realized that Americans were ea
ger to know Jaina philosophy. So he stayed in America for He observes: "In brief, the Jaina position is: First, nearly three years. He made it his mission to disseminate that right knowledge is the only test or measure on our part and spread the knowledge of Jaina philosophy. He delivered of the existence of a reality; secondly, that knowledge is al- lectures in important cities like Chicago, Boston, New York, ways the knowledge of relations; thirdly, that reality is never Washington etc. out of relations (a particular reality may not be in physical relation with another reality, it may be in the relationship of
He was cordially received everywhere and his subject and object, knower and known); and fourthly, that the speeches left a very powerful impression upon the minds relations are constantly changing. 'To'be is to be in relation of the American public. Then he left for England. There too
he delivered many lectures at different centres. The credit Virchand Gandhi answers Sankaracharya's criticism of initiating many into the study of Jainism goes to Virchand of Syadvada in the following words : "The inherence of con- Gandhi. He made the American and the English people realtrary aspects in a single idea or object seems impossible to ize the sublimity of Jaina philosophy. the unseen noumenal hectic mind. Sankara, the well-known Vedanta scholar, has fallen into error when he states that the
Gandhi's contribution to Jainism is varied and unJaina doctrine should be accepted, because it is being and forgettable. He interpreted Jainism in its true spirit. He rennon-being should, at the same time, belong to one and the dered yeoman service to Jainism. He died at an early age of same thing, just as observation teaches that a thing cannot 37. Had he lived longer, lovers of Jainism would have gained be hot and cold at the same moment.
even greater benefits from him.
The Jainas do not teach that a thing can be hot and
He also critically evaluates Vedant and Jainism and cold at the same moment, but they do teach that a thing responds to Shankaracharya's criticism of syadvad, and latcannot be hot absolutely, and cannot be cold absolutely; it er enumerates the stages from the theory of Karma to kevis hot under certain definite circumstances, and cold under algyan. While in Chicago for the conference, he met Herbert others. The Jainas do not teach that being and non-being Warren who tried to get acquainted with the Jaina philoso(of itself) should at the same time belong to one and the phy systematically from Virchand Gandhi. After his meeting same thing. What they teach is that in a thing there is being with Virchand Gandhi, Herbert Warren became a votary of of itself and non-being of other things, which means that a Jaina religion and practised its rituals. He also wrote a book thing can be fully known only by knowing what it is and what on Jaina Religion and resolved to gift to the world what he it is not. Shankara, in fact, creates a man of straw, imputes had received from Virchand Gandhi. He had noted down the to him imaginary doctrines and by refuting them, he knocks lectures of Virchand Gandhi in shorthand. He got interested him down. That is his glory."
in the vows (vratas) of a shravak and out of 12 vows (vratas),
he practised 7 vows (vratas) in consonance with his own reVirchand Gandhi observes : "The Jainas, on the ligion. He gave up meat-eating and later brought out a book contrary, consider being and becoming as two different and entitled 'Jainism'. There is a reference to the fact that Jaina complementary ways of our viewing the same thing. Reality sadhus do not have their own abodes and they move from in the Jaina view is a permanent subject of changing states. place to place. Jesus Christ also wandered from one place To be, to stand in relation to, to be active, to act upon other to another and according to Virchand Gandhi, many Christs things, to obey law, to be a cause, to be a permanent subject were born in different countries and that there was not only of states, to be the same to-day as yesterday, to be identical one Christ. in spite of its varying activities - these are the Jaina conceptions of reality. Mere becoming is as much an abstraction as
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He devoted his talk on Jaina philosophy' and 'philosophy Parsee (Zoroastrian) religions but the main focus was on and psychology of the Jainas' and talked about the nature Hindu and Jaina religious symbols which he analyzed in of Jaina Tirthankara and the origin of the universe. He said: great detail. He tried to relate symbols to religious traditions. Jain philosophy, therefore, is not the doctrine of illusion, nor Explaining the significance of the symbols, he enumerates of emanation, nor of creation. It is rather the doctrine that four reasons and then through a diagram explains the meanteaches the inexpugnability of various properties inextricablying of Jaina Swastika. Swastika is not, as is believed by the combined in a thing.
Westerners, a symbol of good luck in the Indian tradition; In his 'The Occult Law of Sacrifice', he has shown but it stands for a free soul'. There are many scholars who five types of 'sacrifices' expected of people. He believes interpret the Vedas but it is he who explains the meaning of that animals are conscious but humans are self-conscious an eight-pettalled lotus with the help of a picture. and this must be reflected in his sense of sacrifice. He puts people into three categories. The lowest are immoral and
There are other symbols of the Jainas: the sacred ignorant. In the middle category are the ones who try to in- thread. Virchand Gandhi illustrates that we Jainas say that dulge their senses and love to enjoy good food and clothes. the three rounds represent the three sets of prophets that Those in the higher class are the ones who spend their time have flourished in all ages. There have been innumerable and energy for spiritual good.
prophets but we take three sets-immediately connected with
our time-the past, the present, and the future. In the immediThe first sacrifice to be made is of the sensual plea- ate past we had 24, in the present 24, and in the near future sures. The second for the ancestors and parents, the third there will be 24. Therefore, the three rounds of the sacred for the needy and the deprived class, the fourth for the wel- thread represent three sets of prophets who have left their fare of the animals and the fifth sacrifice is of time, money sublime teachings as our heritage. It means we carry these and energy for study and spiritual benefit. These five types teachings on our shoulders and practise them every day. It of sacrifices will transform animal man into a true human be- is a symbol of our willingness to practise and obey the teaching, he averred.
ings given us by our prophets.
Virchand Gandhi's address on 'Have Christian Mis
There is another symbol of the Jainas, and that is sions to India been successful before the members of the the picture of the elephant. The picture is symbolic. The great Nineteenth Century Club of New York, established him as forest is the world. The man in the well is the ordinary worldly a powerful exponent of Indian culture. To attack Christian man. The well with its dangers is the life of that man, over beliefs and practices on American soil in the presence of which all men are suspended who care for nothing beyond Christian community was an act of rare courage. It showed the present life. The elephant after him is death. The great that he could be blunt in telling the truth and was an ardent serpent at the bottom of the well is the lowest existence to patriot who castigated the activities of missionaries in India. which those go, who will not make an effort to escape and He pointed out in a forthright manner the glory that is India who waste their forces in a useless or evil life with no effort and asserted most eloquently that India is not a country of or desire to rise to a higher life-who live for the present life tigers, cobras, lions and jugglers but it has a rich culture, only. The four snakes in the walls of the well are the symbols spiritual heritage, literature, science and a vibrant soul. He of Anger, Vanity, Deceit and Greed. vehemently deplored the vicious campaign to defame this ancient country by those influenced by western culture. He
The trunk of the tree represents the short duration also dwelled upon the profound Indian philosophical pre- of our earthly life. The two rats, black and white, represent cepts and tenets and its ancient system of education and time (our month is divided into the light half and the dark thundered: "My brothers and sisters of America, there is not half) which exhausts our earthly duration. The bees in the a shadow of hope of Christianizing India." What an assertion honey-comb are the organs of senses – the honey drops, on American soil and in front of Christian audience!
represent the sensuous pleasures, and the monk represent
the Truth - Religion. So the whole symbol means this that "In one sentence, the method I advocate is that of the ordinary man of the world thinks he will not be cut of from Self-recognition' - the education of all the faculties of body life at once, satisfies himself by enjoying the sensuous pleaand of soul, devoutly recognizing responsibility to the Infinite sures derived from the senses, and does not care to receive or universal good. Such propagandism, whatever it may be the truths offered by true philosophy; he being influenced by supposed to lack, would never want success, would never sentiments of anger, vanity, deceit and greed represented by fail to meet with responsive co-operation in all lands among the four serpents. all people and would from the start and for ever make the world better and better."
Anekantvad: The other symbol is that of seven
blind men and the elephant. The seven blind men wanted Jain Symbols: The talk on 'Symbolism', by Virchand to know what kind of an animal an elephant was. In that Gandhi in Washington D. C., reflected his deep study of the symbol the Jainas show that no one should preach that a subject coupled with his erudition. He interpreted the reli- certain religion is the whole truth. There is a Jaina saying gious symbols of Persian, Greek, Roman, Egyptian and which means that the six schools of philosophy are part and
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parcel of one organic whole, but if one is taken by itself, it mudita (being happy) and these four explain the relationship becomes a false doctrine.
between body and soul. The east and the west both pursue happiness but the east relates the idea of happiness to the soul and which is, therefore, spiritual, while the west relates it to the body and which is material or physical.
The Symbol common to all religions in India is "OM." Instead of dividing this symbol into three letters, we Jainas divide it into five: A. A. A. U. M. Of these five letters, four are vowels, the fifth being a consonant. The whole combination is sounded OM. These five letters are the first letters of five generic names of great personages. The first letter A, is the first letter of Arhut, the highest and perfected prophet, the living human being in the perfected state. While living in this world he acts as the spiritual master of his order. The second letter is the first syllable of another generic word. It signifies bodiless, liberated souls. While the Arhut is living, acting as spiritual master, these are liberated beings after human existence. (Not earth-bound spirits). These are liberated souls. The third is the first letter of a class of religious masters who do not stand on as high a level as the others, but are leaders of an order who may reach a higher state. The fourth is the first letter of the class who are disciples, students under religious masters, who are going to reach that higher state. The fifth is the first letter of the class which means holy men or holy women. It is sounded OM. When we sound that word we bring before our minds these five classes of beings. We attach spiritual meanings to this symbol.
According to Virchand Gandhi, Jaina philosophy is a perfect system and it teaches how to develop memory and sharpen it. He cites the examples of Kalikalsarvajna Hemchandracharya, Shrimad Rajchandra, Pandit Gatulalji and others who possessed phenomenal retentive memory. Hemchandracharya, it is reported, would sit with forty scribes early in the morning and dictate a sentence on grammar to the one, then go to the other scribe dictating a line on prosody and by turn dictate a line or a sentence to each of the forty scribes. Within a short span of time all the forty works would be ready. Virchand Gandhi also mentions Satavadhani - being attentive to 100 people at a time - Shrimad Rajchandra and Pandit Gatulalji, a Vaishnavait, who was blind and could not read, but would remember word by word what he had heard.
JAIN DIGEST
The image of India in those days in western countries was that of a backward country steeped in orthodox customs and its people being uncivilized. At that time, Virchand Gandhi portrayed India differently as an enlightened nation of glorious traditions. Later in his talk, he discusses the basic tenets and principles of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism and explains the principles of atma, karma and reincarnation from the point of view of each of those three faiths. In the introduction to his article 'Essential Philosophy of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism', he draws attention to a 'madhubindu picture' which he had seen in an upashraya when he was eight-year-old and which represents man's quest for desires. Later, he discusses the six systems of Hinduism in a very lucid, easy-to understand style. 'The True Laws of Life' is about the divergence between oriental and occidental ways of life. He dwells upon four basic principles of maitri (friendship), karuna (compassion), upeksha (being ignored) and
Doctrine of Karma: Virchand Gandhi, for the first time, made the western world aware of Jaina doctrine of Karma. According to western scholar of Jainism, and especially of Jaina doctrine of Karma, V. Glasenapp himself had admitted that the lectures of Virchand Gandhi had shed new light on the doctrine, and were an authoritative source of enlightenment. This German Scholar wrote his doctorate dissertation on the theory of karma in Jaina religion. It is very unfortunate that not many knew about Gandhi's scholarship or profound knowledge about principles of Jainism and those interested in Indian ethics too did not seriously study the principles he enunciated and interpreted. He was equally at home in the Vedic, Buddhisth and Jaina philosophy. He knew and understood the finer nuances of karma as they underwent changes during different times and the volume 'Karma Philosophy' is a testimony to his profound study of the subject. In the fourteenth chapter 'Karma', he has discussed the Jaina point of view about karma.
He was an ardent vegetarian and perhaps he was the first vegetarian to set his feet on the American soil. He had obtained special permission from the captain of the ship for a separate kitchen while on his way to England. The magician Nathu Manchha of Mahuva accompanied him as a chef on the ship. Emphasizing on vegetarianism, Virchand Gandhi says that after considering all these things, our philosophers have given us the rule that it is not the best plan to eat animal food. There are minor objections to all these rules; one is that all persons cannot live on cereals; but there are other vegetables and fruits, and in the case of fruits almost all of these are in such a condition that they can be digested at once and do not require such work of the stomach, and fruit would be one of the best foods as it has the first quality of matter passivity, purity and quietness. These qualities are to be found to a large extent in almost all fruits and substantial foods like wheat.
He explains systematically that even among the vegetables we have certain reasons for objecting to certain kind of vegetables. While these rules are not to be found among the Brahmins, the Jainas observe them strictly. With us no vegetable is eaten which is grown underground, because it takes its quality from the minerals, without contact from the sunlight, and so it would belong to the third class, and of course have the third quality. We do not encourage such food on that account.
Live and Let Live: The universe is not for man alone, but is a theatre of evolution for all living beings. 'Live and let live' is their guiding principle. Ahimsa paramo dharma - Noninjury is the highest religion. Their ceremonial worship, institutions, manners and customs (purely Jaina) all rest on this grand fulcrum of Ahimsa. Man, in his desire to continue his
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life forces so that he may do the highest good while living virtue, good will, right conduct, not toward men only, but here, is obliged to destroy life; but the less lower form of toward all living beings', are also parts of our moral code, life he destroys, the less harmful Karmas he generates. which no Hindu can forget or deny without bringing down This is the basis of the strict vegetarianism of the Jainas. upon him corresponding evils and retribution". Acting on that idea, they have built homes for maimed or (p. 312) The sheer ignorance about India and its people old animals in many cities and towns of India, where they is the convenient target of Gandhi's barbs. At times he are fed and taken care of until they die.
speaks as a Jain, at times as a Hindu, but all the while
he is an Indian to the core. India, he tells the Americans. In 'Ancient India', he has discussed the Aryan offers you 'old sweet life', 'old hospitality' and 'dear old race, Vedic literature and social structure of that age. In mother's unbounded, unselfish love.' an article 'Contribution of Jainism to Philosophy, History and Progress', published in Asiatic Quarterly of July 1900,
Virchand Gandhi faced two problems while adhe sheds light on the essential facets of Jaina philosophy dressing the Americans: his audience was ignorant of the and the literary currents.
subject and secondly the subject itself was so abstruse
that it required use of specific terminology. But he sucHis efforts resulted in a compromise between the ceeded eminently and presented his views in a lucid manJainas and the Thakore of Palitana who had levied tax of ner. He emphasized the study of Sanskrit and said it was Rs. 2/- per person. Lord and Lady Reay visited Palitana necessary to understand ancient India. He criticized the and this was the first official public presentation to a Brit- activities of the missionaries and at the same time praised ish representative. Even Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy what was good in England and America. He fondly rein India, had also met him. The note about the Jaina del called some British and American friends whom he held egation reads as follows:
in great esteem.
"Among the various communities which have ad
His command of English was superb and he dressed me since my arrival in India there is none whose made use of works in Sanskrit, Prakrit and Pali translated words of welcome awaken a more responsive echo in my into English by western scholars. Wherever necessary, he breast than the Jainas. I am aware of the high ideas em- presented his own point of view very cogently in consobodied in your religion, of the scrupulous conception of nance with the spirit and essence of the ancient volumes. humanity which you entertain, of your great mercantile In short, he was an ardent advocate of Indian philosophy influence and activity, and of the ample charities that have and a powerful defender of Indian culture. characterized your public and private dispensations. Previous travels in India have also familiarized me with many
It is surprising to know that during his life-time of your temples, in whose architectural features I have only two books were published: 'Saviryadhyan' in Gujaobserved a refinement that reminds me of the great days rati (1889) and 'The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ' (1894), of Asiatic art." (p. 250).
which he had translated from French into English. Shri
Bhagu Karbhari, editor of The Jaina' and 'Patriot' enVirchand Gandhi delivered a talk on 'Man's rela- deavoured to collect his speeches and articles and contion to the Universe' in Washington and he explained the sequently the volume Jaina Philosophy' was brought out different forms of 'soul'. 'India's Message to America' is an by N. M. Tripathi of Mumbai in 1911. It consists of the important article which reflects his anguish at India's slav- lectures he delivered in America and England. Bhagu ery to the British. He told the Americans that if they had Karbhari deserves all the credit for bringing into light the Washington, India had Ashoka and if they boasted about multi-faceted personality of Virchand Gandhi, who died at Lincoln, India had an enlightened king Vikramaditya. He, a very early age of thirty-seven years on August 7, 1901 thus, tried to dispel the misconceptions about India cre- in Mumbai. ated by missionaries and uphold India's glory and pride. In 'Impressions of America' he described his experiences about America, while in 'Some Mistakes Corrected', he has dispelled misconceptions about the Hindus. Some in the west believe that India has no history, but it is a lie, he asserted. There are the Vedas, he said. He also explained the rationale behind the caste-system. He is not defend
Sed ing it, he said, but one must know how it originated. There was no mention of it in the Vedas and hence it is not an integral part of our ancient religion or philosophy. It has, therefore, no religious sanction and is simply a part of the social system.
"Thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not covet, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not lie", are commandments with us as with you, and 'thou shalt practice
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REMEMBERING
AUJI
GU RU
By Jaipat Singh Jain
Twenty years ago, one of Jainism's most revolutionary monks left for devlok. Jains outside India owe him a deep debt of gratitude. Below is his brief story, as narrated by a follower.
THIS is a story of a boy. His name was Sardar Singh. He was born in the year 1926 in a small village in Punjab, the land of five rivers, in undivided India. When he was a child, he began living with his aunt. One day, when Sardar Singh was 8-years-old, a Jain monk visited his home. The monk was Muni Chotelalji Maharaj and the family knew him well. The muni initiated Sardar Singh into meditation. Sardar Singh was so carried away by meditation that he obtained his aunt's permission to accompany the monk.
For the next six years thereafter, Sardar Singh wandered with Maharaj Saheb. During this time, Sardar Singh learned to meditate on the Namokar Mantra. A life-saving incident disclosed that Sardar Singh had learned to use of Namokar Mantra to ward off danger and heal the wounded and ill. His powers were magical. Mindful of their potential, at one point, Chotelalji Maharaj restrained the boy from using his powers. Sardar Singh used the restraint to intensify his study of the Mantra and to immerse himself in meditation.
Soon, Sardar Singh was privately in communication with another Jain monk. He had long conversations with the monk and followed the monk's instructions dutifully. He even began addressing him as his Guru (teacher). That Jain monk, Roop Chandji Maharaj Saheb of Jagraon, Punjab, had in fact left the world several decades before Sardar Singh was born; yet, Sardar Singh regularly met with him in his meditations.
One day, when Sardar Singh was 15 years' old, Roop Chandji Maharaj prompted Sardar Singh to become a Jain monk. Sardar Singh, as was his practice, dutifully reported that to Muni Chotelalji and expressed his desire to become a monk. Muni Chotelalji, however, advised Sardar Singh that he could not be given deeksha (ordination as a monk) without the express consent of Sardar's parents.
At about that time, Sardar Singh's older brother died. Sardar Singh was now the eldest son of the family and his mother wanted Sardar to end his wanderings with Muni Chotelalji and return home. She approached Muni Chotelalji. The Muni asked her to identify her son from two boys of near-equal age that were accompanying him, one of whom was her son. She confidently identified one of the two boys as her son. As
Plaques
JAIN DIGEST
it happens, the boy she identified as her son was not Sardar Singh (that boy later became a Jain monk and came to be
called Pujyashri Sobhag Muni Maharaj Saheb). The incident inspired her to consent to giving Sardar Singh to monkhood. Thus, on April 21, 1942, Sardar Singh took deeksha as a Jain monk of the Sthanakwasi order and came to be called Muni Sushil Kumar. The name Sushil Kumar comes from being an obedient disciple.
Soon, India savagely broke into two parts. A million men, women and children were butchered in Punjab alone. A religious zealot killed Mahatma Gandhi, the symbol of hope, peace and awakening. The country plunged into a decade of faithlessness in ahimsa.
In such a dismal setting, a young Jain muni drew attention. He had the unusual practice of addressing followers of different faiths on the values of ahimsa found in their own scriptures. One day, he approached India's political and religious leaders and invited them and leaders in other parts of the world to an all-faith conference. Thus, in 1957, there was held under this young monk's leadership, the first World Religions' Conference. It was held at Delhi's Red Fort and was attended by more than 100,000 people, including India's prime minister, president, vice-president and education minister. It had a healing effect on a traumatized country.
That young Jain monk was Muni Sushil Kumar and ever since then, he came to be regarded by successive prime ministers, presidents, religious leaders and common men as a perennial source of wisdom and one to whom all communities - Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains and others - could and did turn to time and again in times of personal and national disharmony. He was a much sought monk by Jains and non-Jains and traveled hundreds of thousands of miles barefoot across the length and breath of India.
Amidst all bustle, Muni Sushil Kumar remained intensely engaged in his private practice of meditation. A favorite place for him for meditation was the forest near Dadabari in Mehrauli, New Delhi, where he frequently secluded himself in deep meditation for days at a stretch. Dadabari is the site of the Samadhi of the legendry Jain monk Manidhari Jinchandra Suri Dada Guru (1140-1161 A.D.).
One day during meditation there, he met with Dada Guru. Dada Guru admonished the young monk from engaging in meditation solely for his personal salvation. Your job, said Dada Guru to the monk, was to be a global missionary of
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Lord Mahavira; personal salvation must wait. Thus was born the Shikharji, the most important place of pilgrimage for all Jains. idea of traveling outside India and of organizing missionaries to promote the message of Lord Mahavira (the principal Like Mehrauli in New Delhi, Siddhachalam has large forest organization he founded after coming to North America was areas. In it, Muni Sushil Kumar engaged in deep meditation. unsurprisingly called International Mahavira Mission, later Since 2008, there is a life-size statue of the Muni in one of the renamed as International Mahavira Jain Mission).
forest areas close to where he engaged in meditation. Every
year in the third weekend of April since then, his followers While evidence had begun to emerge that Jain monks at the come together to unveil that statue (the statute is veiled every time of Bhagwaan Parsvanath and Bhagwaan Mahavira likely year after Deepawali). That weekend is significant: on April 21, had traveled outside India, the idea of a Jain monk traveling 1942, Sardar Singh became a Jain monk, on the same date in outside India by use of mechanical means was abhorrent to 1986, he was publicly conferred the title of a Jain Acharya in many in the Jain community: such a step had not been taken an event attended by the President of India. Also, on April 22, in at least two millennium by anyone who vowed to remain 1994, he left for his heavenly abode. a monk. Yet, on June 17, 1975, the dutiful disciple took the unprecedented step of boarding an aircraft to travel outside Muni Sushil Kumar envisioned that in the 21st century, Jains India. Monkhood, after all, is a personal quest in pursuit of in America would rekindle the light lit by Bhagwaan Mahavira one's mission in life. It is not leaving one community to merely and be exemplars to the world of a more enlightened form of join another.
religion. One that is free from the divisions of sects and rooted
in its essential principles of ahimsa (restraint from intentional The decision of Muni Sushil Kumar was so significant and or careless injury to all living and non-living beings) and momentous that members of India's federal legislature anekantvad (recognition that no person has a monopoly on convened at the Parliament House to give the monk a truth). ceremonial send-off, even as thousands lined up near the Palam airport in India's capital to denounce the step. Jain Then, as now, we and our children, and their children, and all religion, as customarily known, was being shaken to its roots. those in search of the soul within will find her or his way to
Siddhachalam to commemorate the colossal life of the Sardar Muni Sushil Kumar traveled, among other places, to America. Singh we lovingly call Guruji. Here, he inspired the founding of many institutions, temples, courses on Jainism in American universities (for example, in Columbia University in New York City), and representation at An earlier version of this article was published by Siddhachalam the United Nations. Many disciples of his from Main Street on April 22, 2014, to mark the 20th anniversary of Guruji's America were not Jains by birth and had never heard of devlok. Guruji also inspired the founding of JAINA. To read Bhagwaan Mahavira. They followed him joyously like a band more about Guruji and Siddhachalam, please visit www. of missionaries when he used his powers of meditation to siddhachalam.org. transform an abandoned, haunted campground in rural, northwestern New Jersey, into the place we now know as Shri Siddhachalam Jain Tirth. Siddhachalam means a mountain in homage to the siddhas. Jains regard it as a place of pilgrimage; for many among the thousands who visit it each year, it continues to be suffused with Muni Sushil Kumar's sacred vibrations and energy. In 2012, in his honor and inspired by his teachings, there was dedicated at Siddhachalam's 121acre hilly terrain, the world's first, to-scale, complete replica of
PICTURES OF SHIKHARJI AT SIDDHACHALAM
Inspired by the teachings of Guruji and in his honor, his devotees recently replicated Teerthadhiraj Shikharji at Siddhachalam in Blairstown, NJ. Shikharji in Jharkhand, India, is the sacred place where 20 of the 24 Tirthankars of the current avasarpni attained moksha. The last Tirthankar to attain moksha there was Bhagwaan Parsvnath, our 23rd Tirthankar.
GURUJI WITH CHILDREN
Guruji and children loved each other's company. His birthday (June 15) is celebrated as Children's Day at Siddhachalam. Picture shows children in a camp held at Siddhachalam, an animal and nature preserve that Guruji founded as an ashram in 1983 in Blairstown, NJ.
Protection of the environment for the benefit of all beings, not just humans, was a cause he dearly held.
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Acharya Tulsi
Birth Centennial of an Engaged Spiritualist
Samani Unnata Pragya
Instructor Professor Florida International University
We celebrate the birth centennial of the harbinger of morality, His Holiness Acharya Tulsi. Legacy of this day dreamer, converting impossible to inevitable, starts in the soil of India, born in small town, Ladnun, Rajasthan in 1914. This gifted child, at a tender age of eleven, committed his entire life to nonviolence, the path of Jain asceticism. Very soon he won over the trust of Acharya Kalugani, his Guru. Tulsi grew up into a brave, brilliant, intellectual and spiritually vigilant monk. At the young age of 22, Tulsi's infringing vitality coroneted him as the 9th Acharya of Terapanth order in 1936. Acharya Tulsi, an epitome of spirituality was an engaged spiritualist. Engaged spirituality means, a spiritual effort which yields not mere self-realization for the person himself or herself but impacts the other in escalating the other into spirituality. Like Gandhi fasted. Gandhi's fasting was far more fetching for the country's peace and nonviolence. Acharya Tulsi's passion for Jain Unity was so high that he resolved to quit
sugar until Jain Unity is fetched to some extent. Our pride, one Jain University, as a deemed University in 1991. flag was a spirited inspiration of Acharya Tulsi.
Se
सम्पन्स सम्पन
फट
Eft
Such was the might of Gurudev Tulsi that his golden jubilee celebration was but a movement of empowerment and cultural destigmatization. The struggle and passion of Gurudev Tulsi was his engaged spirituality which unveiled women, empowered with courage and enlightened for cultural uplift by nayamoda (1960) i.e. movement for social reformation. These women now efficiently and magnificently are enterprising projects like save girl, adopt villages, adopt child education, donate limbs and more. Anuvrat movement: Acharya Tulsi's dynamic leadership exposed the un-trodden path of social progress. In 1948, Anuvrat movement emerged, with the watchword of purifying socio political structure. The audacious endeavor to resonate the voice of "religion beyond religious dogmas, spirituality without religion, propounding universal religion was a paradigm shift in the sectarian frenzy world. He marched to President's residence to farmer's field with the slogan, "Self-restraint is survival". Humanitarian Tulsi breathed Anuvrat, to liven every slumber soul of the immoral world.
Shikshan Sansthan in 1948. He sought to rediscover Jain meditation with Acharya Mahaprajna which led to evolve the scientific technique of Preksha Dhyan or Meditation in 1975 for self-realization. The essence of humanity, unshackled from the sectarian clutches was presented on academic platform as Jeevan Vigyan (1978) i.e. Science of Living. A value based education, with the mission of education for enlightened citizens; an integrated balanced personality.
Samans and Samanijis: Envisaging the need of the future, in 1980, commenced a unique milestone in the entire history of Jain tradition; the Saman order, a modern asceticism to spread the preachings of Jainism worldwide. Saman and Samani's reached far and wide, states and countries, universities and organizations to echo the voice of Mahavir. This group is established in the society rendering its multi-dimensional services in the field of education, administration (as Vice chancellor, Head of Departments, Principal and Director and on other academic and administrative posts with the pursuit of spiritual realization and ascetic rules in the personal life. Jain Vishva Bharati: Jain values and cultural survival was aimed at by a seven point program which includes education, service, penance, Jain values, research, literature, and harmonious living as a mission of Jain Vishva Bharati organization founded in 1970. Jain Agama, the infinite treasure of pristine knowledge was explored by convening a council under the erudite guidance of Acharya Tulsi. An arduous venture of exploring the gem of Jain Agam; unraveled the academic world of research, translation and annotation in oriental studies. This foundational step turned into an edifice as UGC recognized Jain Vishva Bharati
Samans and Samnijis: With the conviction of empowering the verdicts of ahimsa, Acharya Tulsi commenced the training for a spiritual life, an ascetic trained for asceticism by establishing the institute Parmarthik
HASE FOR
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Resistance never stopped him, nor did he walk alone. To carry the crowd with him was his prodigy. Acharya Tulsi travelled 1 lakh kms from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, embarking un-trodden places sowing the seed of Jain values. Acharya Tulsi's detachment soared new heights. Gurudev Tulsi renounced his Acharyaship enthroning Mahaprajna as the successive Acharya. Coronation of the successor by his own Guru, was a splendorous unique history making sight.
Gurudev Tulsi's endeavor crossed the boundaries of self and paved the way for enlightening, empowering and enriching the humans, society, nation, culture and everything. Every Spiritual effort of Tulsi was his engaged spirituality modeling society for a brighter future. The work and contribution to society, religion, literature, art and philosophy made him immortal.
His life, a lamp to light lamps His life, a living message
His life, an edifice of better future Let us enlighten our selves Let us live him, to revere him
As he says, "Seek not my physical autograph but let the message shine in your life as an eternal signature."
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cial attention on nutrition, health, sanitation and environmental conditions has provided demonstrable benefits to the whole village. Education not only promises path out of cycle of poverty for the students, but also creates solid and decent citizens for a brighter future for India and for humanity.
Shiksha, Seva and Sadhana come togetherat Veerayatan International(USA) Global Conference By: Dilip V Shah; Philadelphia
A town with a Tirthdham eventually develops a culture of dependency - dependence on pilgrims for their generosity in absence of major industry or commerce providing job opportunities. Furthermore the pilgrims arrive in high spirits with charity in their heart but they have no attachment to the town or the town's population. The local population views pilgrims only as targets of opportunity to make some money and waits for new pilgrims for the same purpose. To break this deplorable situation at every Tirthdham perhaps for years, a new approach is needed.
All of our Tirthdhams, without exception are a hotbed of supporters, volunteers poverty. Many Jains left the towns for cities and remaintan had gathered at ing Jains slowly converted to other religions. So much ki Shah in NJ to attend so that many of our Tirths have no local jain population. nual General Body Abandonment of these towns by Jains has proven to be a of the mill meeting. Not great loss to the community. Many of the families living in dent Shri Abhay Firodia these areas have Jain ancestors but "Jainism" is forgotmeeting but Acharya ten. In Bihar, you could meet a person named "Jin-das" or Shilapisi, Sadhvi Shri Sarak (Shravak) but does not even know where his name hmitaji were also going comes from. that something great - to take place.
Veeraytan's focus on Jain Tirthdhams is very instructive.
By creating opportunities for their new generation to be pectations in the room educated, prosper, be healthier and becoming a useful to unfold - Acharya member of their society, Veerayatan sees this as our duty to present a vision - to the town hosting our Jain Tirth providing an opportuthe giant leap forward nity to practice Mahavir's message of compassion and
for Veeraytan that will service to the needy. Gradual transformation/ betterment transform for the better, lives of thousands of young and of a town by establishment of an ideal school is not just a poor villagers of India and in the process improve rural theory. Veerayatan has shown again and again that such health and environmental conditions that will also change a school can be an instrument of change. The schools in the face of Jainism in India.
Bihar and Kutch built by Veeraytan over the last 12 years
have proved to be an exemplary laboratory for this social The benevolent and ambitious plan envisioned by Acha- and educational experiment. Now is the time to expand rya Shri Chandanaji called for building 200 model primary our horizon and make every one of our Tirthdhams an and secondary schools each for 500 students at various ideal village, by providing decent education, will help in Jain Tirthdhams. All schools will be named Tirthankar decline of poverty, life expectancies of children will rise Mahavir Vidyalya providing value-based education with- and Jains will be seen as protectors of their town. By folout regard to cast, creed or religion of students. After the lowing Bhagwan Mahavir's message, we can bring these phenomenal success of such schools built and operated towns to their former glory and revive Jainism the places by Veeraytan since 2001 in Lachhwad, Pawapuri and where Jainism was once a dominant presence. Kutch, Veeraytan has seen multitude of benefits of school projects undertaken in small impoverished villages. For the proposal to build schools at our Tirthdhams by Achadetails, go to http://veerayatan-intl.org/projects/complet- rya Shri Chandanaji received overwhelming support from ed/ Value based academic curriculum not only provided those who were present at the meeting - one after anquality education to thousands of poor children but spe- other, 20 individuals stood up - each pledging to sponsor
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one school. The power of the idea, spirit of giving and the opportunity to be an agent of change so appealed to these generous souls that no one asked how much they would have to contribute! After the lunch break, Acharya Shri ChandanaJi proposed a Global conference of Veerayatan family be held in 2014 to work out details of how a massive project of 200 schools will be carried out. Various committees for detailed planning and financial controls will have to be formed and awareness will have to be raised for the dream to become a reality. Dr. Vinod Shah of MD proposed the name of Dr. Kiran Patel of Tampa, FL (Past President of AAPI) to be the Convener of the conference in July of 2014. It is expected that one hundred international delegates and 100 US delegates will gather to brainstorm and propose a plan for implementation at the 2014 Veeraytan Global Conference.
Last speaker of the day was the one everyone was waiting to hear from. Veerayatan President Abhay Firodia, made a detailed presentation on issues ranging from acquisition of land, budget, construction, government permits, corpus funds for sustaining the schools after the construction, hiring of staff and the teachers etc. He said that in each of these components, Veeryatan's vision should be the central philosophy. His presentation was so thorough that it answered all the questions there were on this ambitious and visionary project. Lastly, Abahy Ji proposed that Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji be the overall manager of the entire project with divine guidance from Acharya Shri Chandanaji. Everyone applauded the idea as Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji graciously accepted the responsibility.
JAIN DIGEST
Inspirational presentations by Acharya Shri Chandanaji have prompted one Singhvi family near Solapur to offer their family built school to Veeraytan. The school that is a creation of PradeepJi and Pramilaji Singhvi family in loving
memory of their daughter (Rupali) who had succumbed to a life threatening disease. It was her last wish that the family find a way to help underprivileged children. The family did just that - "SNEHALAYA"A school dedicated to rehabilitating sex workers and their children. Today, Snehalya is a home, family and future for children and women in distress. But after running the school for the past 15 years and seeing the school grow to 700 students it was time to turn school management in capable hands. Once they learned of Veeraytan's new initiative to build 200 schools that will provide value-based education without regard to cast or religion. In Veeraytan, Shinghvi family saw fulfillment of their daughter's last wish and decided to turn over the entire school complex to Veeraytan.
Acharya Shri expressed her vision of Snehalya becoming a training center for providing teachers, administrators and workers for Veeraytans's project of creating 200 new schools. Veeraytan could take over the entire Snehalaya and its activities once the proposal was studied and approved by the Trustees of Veeraytan. If this experiment of family run school becoming part of Veeraytan family does become a reality, it may open door for other family run schools to join Veerayatan project of 200 new Schools.
This project, known, as "Jaha Jinalay Vaha Vidyalay❞ will seek to uplift the lives of thousands of people that surround these sacred yet challenged areas by providing quality education to over 1 lakh (100,000) children.
If you would like to participate in the Veeraytan's school project, write to admin@veerayatan-intl.org And If you wish to get more information on this or other Veerayatan activities on monthly basis, please join our mailing list by signing in at http://www.veerayatan-intl.org/join-vi
In the past 8 months, Acharya Shri Chandanaji has held meetings with educators, community leaders and government officials throughout India to gain their perspectives on such an ambitious project. From the villages of Bihar, to the deserts of Kutch and hundreds of places in between, since 1973, Veerayatan has been applying its motto of Seva, Shiksha and Sadhana and has availed an opportunity to make a positive difference and transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals. She has repeatedly stressed "While one could build temples in town, why not turn the entire town into a temple by building the Vidya Mandirs". The "Vidya Mandir" where along with the best education we teach children the merits of family values and the emphasis is given on the purity of thoughts and actions. Along with Seva and Sadhana, it has always focused on the immense power of education and has contributed to the advancement
of our great nation. She firmly believes that "Gyaan Daan", Veerayatan Institute of Engineering, Management and an educational opportunity is the best mode of benevolent giving.
Research, Kutch, Gujarat
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JAIN DIGEST
Elementary & Secondary Schools at Jakhania, Kutch, Gujarat
At present 800 children are studying in the school to receive elementary and secondary school education The first time experience of formal education for many children and the first time many girls have ever gone on to secondary school
. Started by providing free education for the
children of families migrating from the border areas of Kutch immediately after the earthquake in 2001 • Students are provided uniform, books and stationery
free of charge • This school in Rudrani Village is for the village
children, many of whom are the first in their families
to experience formal education • Free transport, a nutritious breakfast and midday
meal are also provided • The school has become a focal point and place
of hope for the community • Since its inception, there has been a vast increase in
the number of girls at the school as local people are recognizing the importance of education for girls
and women • The Elementary School goes through 7th grade. • The number of students has grown from 250 to 600 (with another 100-150 on the waiting list.). The plan is underway for accommodating up to 1000 students by 2015
Elementary School at Rudrani, Kutch, Gujarat
The commuter Veerayatan Vidyapeeth Elementary School at Rudrani Village is a short distance outside of the city of Bhuj. The individual classroom buildings were architecturally designed, by a local Bhuj architect, in oval shape to be complementary with the round village houses.
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JAIN DIGEST
CALL FOR PAPERS
CLAREMONT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Wisdom at Work: CLAREMONT LINCOLN UNIVERSITY INAUGURAL SUMMIT
The 3rd Annual International Jain Conference: Business Ethics
October 3-4, 2014
Un
25 48 6030 11
PLEASE SUBMIT ABSTRACTS OF 250 WORDS OR LESS FOR ORAL PRESENTATION IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:
• Personal stories/case studies of individuals with a dream
for a business and how they used ethical business practices to achieve their destiny
PLEASE EMAIL SUBMISSIONS TO: summit@claremontlincoln.org
• Infusing/implementing ethics into a business plan
Ethical and sustainable means of financing business endeavors
by August 1, 2014 at midnight. Notification of decisions will be made by
August 15th.
Promoting business in a manner that minimizes exploitation and focuses on veracity in business services.
www.claremontlincoln.org
• The ethical practice of leadership with regard to logistics.
land, resources and location management
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JAIN DIGEST
2014 YJA CONVENTION
Daytime Programming Over 90 inspirational speakers, who keep Jainism and its values alive in the hearts and minds of youth, presented almost 150 sessions at this convention. Included in programming were diverse sessions on Jain education, interfaith cooperation, social justice, environmentalism, lifestyle, college, career development, and much more.
Keynote Speaker: Nimesh "Nimo" Patel
From Wharton Business School to Wall Street, to fame and fortune as a MTV Rap star, at some point Nimo realized he was walking a path of suffering and that the only path to light was through selfless service to others and his own internal purification. He currently works with slum children in India and is the founder of Empty Hands Music.
Keynote Speaker: Sonal Shah
Sonal Shah is Professor of Practice and the founding Executive Director of the Beeck
Center for Social Impact & Innovation, and co-founder of Indicorps. She was the Deputy Assistant to the President and founding Director of the White House Office of
Social Innovation and Civic Participation.
Jain Networking Forum Keynote Speaker: Masum Momaya
Dr. Masum Momaya has been working for social change and social justice for more than twenty years. Currently a Curator at the Smithsonian Museums, her most recent exhibition "Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation" is showing there until March 2015 and will travel around the country for 5 years afterwards.
Jain Academic Bowl
Speakers and Sessions
YJA Gives Back
YJA hosted its first ever Jain Academic Bowl. 16 semifinalists who passed a rigorous preliminary test were randomly placed into four teams to compete at the convention. The winning team was the Jain Jewels: Akhil Ajmera (MD), Parshva Vakharia (ND), Saagar Shah (NJ), and Vishwa Shah (FL).
In addition to fantastic speakers within the Jain community, many speakers came from the local D.C. area, including prominent social activists, interfaith workers, and White House and government affiliates. For a full list of speakers and sessions, please visit convention.yja.org/daytime and convention.yja.org/inf.
In the spirit of the convention theme, "Today's Learners, Tomorrow's Leaders", YJA youth took part in a volunteer activity. During a session, almost 400 hygiene kits were made for the homeless community in Washington, D.C.
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JAIN DIGEST
Social Success at #YJA14
During each convention, YJA hosts nighttime social events to accompany the daytime educational sessions. These social events help attendees relax and have fun after a rigorous day of educational sessions and classes. The 2014 YJA Convention's social committee planned a multitude of events which provided a safe and Jain environment for all of the attendees to enjoy themselves as they made new friends and reconnected with old ones.
After the attendees introduced themselves through ice breakers, they all participated in a traditional garba, entitled Garba in the Gham. The garba featured Washington, D.C.'s very own, Arpan Group. Following the garba, the high school and college attendees transitioned over to the Candyland Mixer where they were able to mix and mingle while enjoying a variety of vegan candy as well as other healthier snacks. The second day of so- cial activities started with the Jain
Factor: Talent Showdown. The Jain Factor included a variety of talents (from group dances to solo special talent performances) who were judged by Manan Jobalia, Purvi Shah, and Saagar Sheth. The three judges chose the first and second place winners of the talent show, whereas, the attendees were able to submit their vote via text message for the Viewer's Choice Award. Following the Jain Factor, the high school and college attendees made their way to the Boardwalk Afterglow. This event included a boardwalk atmosphere full of games and prizes. The boardwalk then transitioned into a dance party that featured many lights, balloons, and glow sticks. Each convention holds a formal on the last night. This year's formal was the Starry Night Gala where attendees were able to dance the night away under the
stars. The attendees were able to make a paparazzi entrance into the ballroom and enjoy the music by DJ Ahimsa. After the formal, all of the attendees spent time together at the slumber party where they were able to play games and exchange contact information while saying their goodbyes.
The social committee played a big role in ensuring that all of the Jain youth enjoyed their time at this year's convention. Although the main objective of convention is to expand the youth's knowledge in Jainism, the social events allowed them to have plenty of fun while creating long lasting memories. It is because of the social events that the youth can come together and create friendships that last a lifetime.
Sneha Parikh Jinen Shah, and Charmi Vakharia
2014 YJA Convention Social
Committee Co-Leads
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JAIN DIGEST
34 I AUG-NOV 2014
18th Biennial JAINA Convention July 2-5, 2015 in Atlanta
The first JAINA convention held in Atlanta representing the South East Region. Atlanta is headquarters for many major corporations including Coke, CNN, Home Depot, UPS, and Delta Air Lines.
• Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) is being considered as Convention venue with state of the art décor. GICC is conveniently located a mile from the airport with free monorail.
⚫ Several hotels in vicinity including Marriott hotel next to GICC.
CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS:
Theme "Jainism: World of Nonviolence"
Religious and Spiritual discourses by prominent Sadhus, Sadhvijis & Scholars to inspire the audience on Nonviolence
Multiple tracks and interactive sessions
Opportunities for professional networking and entrepreneurship
Alumni, Community and Family reunions
Excellent Youth and Kids program
A variety of exciting Bollywood Entertainment and Cultural Programs in the evening
⚫ Delicious Jain and Vegan Food
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Opening ceremonies will include a grand procession and many floats Keynote Speeches on "Jainism: World of Nonviolence"
Distinguished speakers for Plenary Sessions
International Jain Leaders Forum Participate in Yoga and Meditation
Jain Networking Forum and Jain Milan
Exciting Youth Activities
Supervised activities available for children
Browse through interactive Exhibits and Vendor Booths
• Test of your knowledge of Jainism at the Jain Academic Bowl
For more information visit http://convention.jaina.org

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JAIN DIGEST
18th Biennial JAINA Convention
July 2-5, 2015 in Atlanta, GA
Sponsorship Opportunities • Maha-Sanghpati: $55,001, Sanghpati: $31,001 • Corporate Donations
Platinum: $15,001, Gold: $5,001 • Swamivatsalya
Diamond Dinner:$10,001, Platinum Lunch: $7,001
Gold Breakfast: $3,501, Silver Snack: $2,001 • Individual Family Donation
Emerald: $15,001, Ruby: $10,001 • Evening Entertainment: $3,501
Raas-Garba Music Event: $3,001
Welcome Program: $2,001 • Jain Networking Forum: $2,001 • Jain Got Talent: $2,001 • Jain Academic Bowl: $2,001 • Travel Expenses For Speakers: $2,001 For the sponsorships listed above as well as the associated benefits please contact: Deepak Shah @ 770-990-5309 OR Harshad Shah @ 732-333-4625
ADVERTISEMENT OPPORTUNITIES A souvenir book will be published to commemorate the Convention. The advertisement rates are as follows: Full Page (8.25" x 10.5") $ 1,300 Half Page (8.25" x 5.25") $ 700 Quarter Page (4" x 5.25") $ 375 If you are interested, please reserve your place by contacting: marketing2015@jaina.org.THE DEADLINE is APRIL 30, 2015.
Please visit http://convention.jaina.org for more information
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JainDIGEST A publication by the Federation of Jain Associations of North America APPEAL JAINA invites you and your family to actively participate in the Jain Digest, which is a quarterly publication by JAINA. Jain Digest is mailed to over 12000 Jain families all over North America. Digital version is also available on www.Jaina.org The objective of Jain Digest is to keep the community well-informed about the happenings in the Jain world. It also aims to promote unity, bring awareness, and be proactive with political authorities to voice the concerns of the community. It is the united voice of the Jain community, and meant to strengthen the whole Jain community. It will also enhance the Jain way of life by accommodating the progressive changes of the 21st Century. Jain Digest features news, interesting articles, tirths, profiles, events, heritage news, along with information on our culture and history. It contains captive reading material for youth, adults, as well as for ladies. It is thus a complete magazine for the whole family. We request you to support the Jain Digest by: Submitting news Contributing articles on Jain Study Sharing achievements of youth Giving matrimonial advertisements Business advertisements Donations and Sponsorship Be a part of Jaina Convention July 2nd to 5th, 2015 Atlanta, Georgia We are committed to serve the Jain community better with this Digest. Your support, feedback and suggestions are welcome. Please write to jaindigest@jaina.org Thank you, with warm greetings, Editorial Team, Jain Digest jaindigest@jaina.org