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A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UK OSHWAL JAIN COMMUNITY
BY PRITI SHAH
THE JAIN COMMUNITY IS now scattered all over
I the world. However we all have common roots in India, a homeland which we only started to leave in the twentieth century. At the turn of this century many Jains emigrated to East Africa from India, in search of a better life. They travelled by dhow across the Indian Ocean, facing the hardships of such a sea voyage, to find themselves in an alien country not speaking the language. Although there was some initial nervousness, East Africa was viewed as a potentially prosperous new opportunity
OSHWAL MAHILA MANDAL - NAIROBI
Trustees & Managing Committee - 1983
The early years were marked by a remarkable degree of co-operation and trust. It was relatively common to hear of businesses starting up with a very small capital base, but having 50,000 shillings worth of stock on an extended credit of 120 days. Usually, monies were repaid in 60 days as goods were purchased for cash. Thus another new business was formed and flourished due to the assistance of business associates or connections within the community.
As roots were established in East Africa, entrepreneurs were in a position to invite their families across the Ocean. More and more people began emigrating to Africa, invited by relatives who required greater manpower in their expanding businesses. Accompanied with this growth there was also a desire not to loose the traditions and
Photos: Atul Shah
From top: 1) Early pioneers (c. 1950)
2) Mombasa Jain Temple committee (c. 1970)
3) Women were the heart of the community (1983)
4) Nairobi Jain Temple Oshwal committee (1983)
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Jain Spirit. July - September 1999
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