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N. P. Jain
Universal Relevance of Jain Religion
Globalisation is the buzz word in contemporary times given the communications revolution and the shrinking of time of space thanks to rapid strides in computer technology. The resultant opening up of knowledge-sharing in economic, political, cultural, philosophical and holistic spheres has brought us closer to becoming global citizens without losing national, ethnic or spiritual affiliations.
Increasing Inter-faith cooperation and understanding has served to highlight that world religion and faiths have many common concepts despite differences in religious rituals, customs or geographical or historical linkages. It is in this context that there is in witness an increasing inquisitiveness to know about Jain religion and philosophy. It is more so because unlike some other religions, Jain religion is not a proselytising religion. Anyone can follow its principal concepts without formally becoming an adherent to Jain religion. The principles have a universal relevance.
AHIMSA - A Supreme religion
Jain religion is one of world's oldest religions dating back in origin to several centuries B.C. It is the only religion which has enshrined Non-violence (AHIMSA) at the highest pedestal of Supreme Religion. The renowned American Cosmologist Carl Sagan has observed that perhaps Jain religion is the