Jain Spirit 2005 06 No22

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

Page 13

NEWS
That's probably because nobody informed us about it! Send us your news and pictures by email to editor@jainspirit.org We can help you
share your excellent work with the world, so get emailing! We are especially looking out for interesting unique events which educate people
about Jain values. Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong and Antwerp, we want to hear from you as our readers are eager to know what you are up to!
“BUT OUR STORY IS NOT HERE!" ANCIENT RITUAL TAKES ON NEW LIFE
very year during Diwali, it is a Jain tradition to worship the godesses Laxmi and Saraswati through Sharada
Poojan to pray for wisdom and prosperity in the coming year. In an age of materialism, this ceremony, using very simple natural ingredients and explained in English, has taken on new energy and vitality in London. Organised jointly by the Oshwal Association UK and Jain Spirit in November, this year's Poojan attracted over two hundred people, many of whom conducted it for the first time in their lives. A number of volunteers (including Babubhai and Varsha Shah) gave their time to cook and serve the food, and ensure everyone had all the right ingredients on their worship table. Mr. Bharat Shah, C.E.O. of Sigma Pharmaceuticals, was very moved by the occasion and said: "I can see
this event growing every year. It is Education International
very special to see businessmen and professionals come and pray together in all humility. We cannot get a better statement of unity than that." Jain Spirit Director, Mr. Manish H. Shah also urged everyone to "ask not what the community can do for them, but what they can do for the community." Ketan Shah of E.D.C. Electricals was so moved that he felt that he wanted to devote time to mentor young entrepreneurs establish their businesses. O.A. UK President, Mr. Ashwin Shah called on everyone to participate in the Temple Project and donate generously to such a worthwhile spiritual goal. Youth Leader Bineet Shah was very impressed with the organisation and punctuality of the whole event.. photo: Emily Hunt
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