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JAIN SOCIETY OF TORONTO INC. TORONTO, CANADA is proud to announce the official undertaking of Our New and Exciting Cultural Centre and Shikharbandhi Temple. This multi-faceted facility is the shining example of North America's most anticipated destination for all Jains. Located in a mega retail zone, over 4 acres of prime land will be home to this envy to all Canadians. Built with a solid flare for contemporary and lasting worship, this edifice promises our youth and generations of tomorrow that a timeless monument and landmark of Jain Heritage is here to stay.
A unique double ghabara Shikarbandhi Temple has been fashioned to be home to both Digambar and Swetambar Jains. Carvings and idols will be carefully custom crafted in India and make their journey to Toronto. Located tastefully below the ghabaras is the pride and treasure of Jain artifacts and history. Chronicling the many stages and various idols, our Jain Museum is a must see destination and we expect tourists from all over the world to come and experience its quiet elegance.
Boasting over 48,000 square feet of spacious area, the magnificent Cultural Centre includes a dining hall fit to serve 500 people at one time, seat over 1200 people in an auditorium that reaches over 24 ft in height and a theatrical stage to enliven
the arts of our culture. Lectures, gatherings and audiences will be entertained and guided with the best of Jainism and communal events.
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Stretching three stories high, a grande floor to ceiling glass atrium welcomes all of our sangh and visitors alike as an invitation to socialize and linger amongst our family and friends with the knowing comfort of our shared beliefs and value Education being a spinal core of Jainism, this site hosts up to 8 classrooms for pathasala, discussion and workshops. Our children have a place to call their own and develop the love and memories for Jainism that they will fondly carry with them through out their entire lifetime. English will also be instructed here as a second language, easing the transition for new immigrants and those wishing to improve their language skills. Native languages like Hindi and Gujarati will also be taught here to preserve the mother tongue.
The Upashreya will host a unique subsect of Jains as they worship and discuss Jain philosophy together and on a regular basis.
This discussion leads to fruitful and deep understanding of the holy scriptures. Our Seniors will enjoy intimate company in a thoughtful Seniors' Lounge. Equipped with special needs, comfort seating and learning tools this Lounge is a
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Jain Society of Toronto Inc Cultural Centre
haven for Senior's to pass their time in
the lap of community. A well appointed and highly regarded Jain Library will protect and share the scriptures, dialogues and writings that promote Jain knowledge, history and philosophy.
The entire building is supported by 24 key pillars, each being named after one of twenty four thirthankars. Our Youth have planted their foundation by naming bricks on the Foundation of Youth Wall. Their lasting commitment will grow from here as they now have a forever link to the heritage that their parents have always wished for them. Building on over 20 years of anticipation and searching for the right location and building, an amazing miracle of giving, generosity and togetherness has arisen throughout the planning and organizing of this project. This of course is the truest Jain jewel that has been discovered in the process. Jains have united, loved and appreciated one another like never before....It is only going up from here! - Arpana Vora, President
TOGETHER, WE ARE DOING THIS!
We gratefully seek your support and donations www.jsotcanada.org
