Jain Spirit 2003 12 No 17

Author(s): Jain Spirit UK
Publisher: UK Young Jains

Page 18

GLOBAL NEWS
YOUNG OSHWALS SEEK TRUE DHARMA
Preya Ashwin Shah reports on Gurudev Chitrabhanu's September visit to London
THE OSHWAL ASSOCIATION of the UK were honoured and
privileged that Pujya Shri Gurudev Chitrabhanu accepted Young Oshwals' invitation to enlighten them on his knowledge of Jain dharma. The aim of the programme of seminars held in London's Oshwal centres in September 2003 was to increase the understanding of the principles of Jain dharma and how it could be incorporated into modern society, and was aimed specifically at young people.
Hundreds flocked to meet and listen to Gurudev Chitrabhanu, whose main interest lies in inspiring young people to learn, understand and practise Jain dharma. Gurudev's 8day programme provided an excellent
violence and simplicity. He emphasised that rituals should be used like salt - to season, but not create, the dish. He also highlighted the importance of incorporating Jain dharma into modern life: "We live in an age of scientific and technological progress. Our knowledge of the material world continues to grow, but our knowledge of the Self eludes us."
Gurudev Chitrabhanu's inner spiritual glow captivated his audience and generated a buzz amongst the Young Oshwals, who have invited him to return to London in March 2004.
Young Oshwals will be producing a DVD and VHS copy of these lectures; if you would like a copy, please email young_oshwals@yahoo.co.uk
Gurudev Chitrabhanu introduction to that very topic, focusing on themes such as non
WELSH TALA IN INDIA ased
M
ADHVI DALAL, A UK- Incorporating colourful and guest Mrinalini Sarabhai, a worldbased Jain. choreographed elaborate costumes and fusion music renowned bharat natyam dancer.
Land performed an original Welsh Tala' was extremely wellMadhvi was encouraged to continue bharat natyam (a form of Indian received by the audience in performing this unique piece by Jain classical dance) piece entitled "Welsh | Ahmedabad, which included chief monks and nuns in Ahmedabad, and she Tala' on 21 September
hopes to do so in the UK 2003 in Ahmedabad,
in the near future. India. The piece had a
The music for Welsh Jain focus, beginning
Tala' was written and with a recital of the
composed by Sri KA universal prayer Navkar
Ganeshan; Madhvi's Mantra and followed by
Ahmedabad performance a dance relating the story
was sponsored by Wales of Chandanbala, a well
Arts International. For known figure in Jain
further information about scripture. Chandanbala's
Madhvi and to contact tale was followed by a
her, please visit sequence performed in a
www.madhvi.net more modern bharat natyam style, relating the story of a contemporary fictional character called
Madhvi in performance Seren.
PHOTO: MANOHAR GANGAN
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Jain Spirit . December 2003 - February 2004