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IN BRIEF...
NEW DELHI
The fourth International Conference on Peace and Nonviolent Action with the theme Ahimsa (nonviolence), peacemaking and conflict prevention and management being held in New Delhi from November 10 to 14, 1999 under the auspices of His Holiness Acharya Mahapragya. This conference is being organised in association with twelve organisations ten overseas organisations and two Indian organisations. Dr. S. L. Gandhi is its tireless organising secretary. For further details contact: anuvibha@datainfosys.net
INDORE
The eminent Digambara Acharya Vidyasagarji recently announced a major visit to this central Indian city for the rainy season. This announcement generated tremendous interest, and on the day of his arrival, there was a two-mile queue of people who walked with him to welcome him into the city. He was very impressed by the inaugural issue of Jain Spirit magazine.
MUMBAI
The eminent Jain acharya, Shri Devender Muniji Maharaj left this world on 26th April 1999. Thousands of devotees gathered to pay their respects in Ghatkopar Sthanak. He was cremated at Lomia College on 28th April.
MANCHESTER
This major British city is home to a thriving community of over 70 families. In addition, the universities attract over 100 Jain students each year. Recently the Samaj has purchased a major property which they are converting into a temple and community centre. The entire community is fully involved in a democratic manner. As a result, everyone's views and opinions are taken into consideration.
LEEDS
The Yorkshire Jain Foundation has for many years kept alive the light of Jainism. Professor Kanti Mardia recently hosted a special event to promote the launch of Jain Spirit at his home. Over 30 people came to listen to Atul Shah's lecture and everyone present subscribed to the magazine.
Jain Education International 2010_03
PERTH & SYDNEY
Over 150 Jain families live in the Olympic city of Sydney. They meet on the last Sunday of each month to recite Jain prayers and listen to lectures from visiting Jain scholars. In addition there are Jains living in Perth and Brisbane who also meet regularly. In August this year, the Jain communities of Perth and Sydney were shown the inaugural issue of Jain Spirit, with the help of our Australian correspondents, Ramesh and Rama Shah. Mr. Sunil Jain of the Jain Center of Sydney was very impressed by the first issue and is keen to promote the unity of all Jains worldwide. Mr. Amu Vaghji Shah in Perth also encouraged the community to subscribe and found it a unique vehicle for information and knowledge about the modern relevance of Jainism.
October
For Private & Personal Use Only
In brief...
ANTWERP
JABOD
This ancient Belgian city is home to over 50 Jain families actively involved in the international diamond business. A few Jains, like Mr. Kirtilal Manilal and Mr. Vijay Shah, have received special recognition from the Belgian royal family for their contribution to trade and commerce. The construction of a major Jain temple has already begun. All the members got together during Paryushana.
PARIS
Mr Gerard Clot had a major exhibition of Jain photographs in August 1999 entitled 'Les Jains de L'Inde'. This was the first time that such a major portrayal of modern Jainism was held in France. In addition, Mr. Lalit Bhandari hosted Jain Sramanis visiting from India and organised their lecture programme.
MOMBASA
The first Jain temple outside India was built in this beautiful Kenyan coastal town. Today there are 300 families who live here and some young people like Mr. Kirti Shah, Sachen Shah and Rajesh Shah are still actively involved in the management of community institutions like schools, mahajanwadis (community centres) and of-course the temple.
KAMPALA
On Sunday 18th April, the Jain Samaj of Uganda broadcast a special message celebrating the life and philosophy of Lord Mahavir. The Samaj also regularly organises a children's school to promote Jain values among the future generation. The 150 members also actively provide charitable support for the local community by way of medical camps and feeding programmes. Mr. Abhay Shah has launched a Jain newsletter providing information on local events and enabling greater communication.
December 1999 Jain Spirit 7
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