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accepted gradually by the seekers of spirituality. "134 In terms of young American Jains,
the movement could possibly fill the gap for those who flinch from the ritualistic
practices of their parents but would be open to a spiritual movement that gives
importance to ethical living.
However, I am astounded by my findings. The Jain experts in the United States
see great potential for expanding the Anuvrat Movement though few Jains in diaspora are
Anuvratis. On the other hand, the Anuvratis in India are in large numbers, and have seen
a rich historiography of the Anuvrat Movement (beginning with Tulsi and Mahapragya).
Yet, my informants' responses convey uncertainties in the present effectiveness of the
movement. Furthermore, Tulsi's distinct vision for the movement (as understood from
the historical background of the movement) was to cut across the boundaries of religion,
caste and sect. Despite his clear vision, my small sample reveals that the majority viewed
the movement from a religious lens. Those people who view the movement as 'religious'
naturally exclude the 'others.' In summation, I pose a question: Who bridges the gap
between the theory and the practice?
134 Salesh Jain conversation by Shivani Bothra, September 22, 2012.
