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Jainism in a Global Perspective
3. Effect of Monks and Elders (Bhattārakas)
It was pleasure to see that the monks and nuns of all prominent Jaina sects participated in PWR. However, their different dresses indicated their diversity of practices among the Jainas. Their dresses not only represent the sects but their inner sectarial attitude also. The true religion teaches subduation of these separatist egoes. A common dress should be prescribed for such global interfaith conferences to impress upon the unity and solidarity of Jaina faith and practices. I heard many westerners feeling about so many sects in a very minor but important religion of the world. This is an important point for future concerns. Though the suggestion of a uniform dress may be to the unliking of these people but this is the head of such programs to keep Jainism in impression.
4. Organisational Care and Liberal Attitude
The participants and even casual visitors attending such multidimensional global functions hope homely help and treat from the organisers. However, there are some inadvertant lapses in such programs. For example, it took many hours for a representative Jaina scholarto reach his destination. Similarly, a representative of a noted Jaina organisation from India was not only responded but when he reached the venue, there were large number of questions on him as if he was an 'unexpected worry rather than pleasure'. It was good that he could be accommodated with the help of other participants there, but..... The traveliers are expected to face such difficulties. However, the organisers should sympathise with them and try to minimise their inconveniences and show religious brotherhood. Similarly, the Jaina society of Chicago welcomed the participants in their newly erected Jaina temple there where a consecration ceremony as recently held. The participants were refused for the pamphlets on this occasion. Per chance, the office bearers might not have given instructions about it. Despite many such petty instances, the organising team of Jaina Society of Chicago requires the visitor's commendations.
Conclusion
The PWR, 1993 has been one most extra-ordinary and wonderful global functions of twentieth century. The participants were very fortunate to be part of it in any way. The presence of people of many diverse faiths
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| SR No. | 014010 |
| Book Title | Jainism in a Global Perspective - Collection of Jain papers of 1993 Parliament of World Religions, Chicago |
| Original Sutra Author | N/A |
| Author | Sagarmal Jain, Shreeprakash Pandey |
| Publisher | Parshwanath Vidyapith |
| Publication Year | 1998 |
| Total Pages | 402 |
| Language | English |
| Classification | Seminar & Articles |
| File Size | 23 MB |