Jina Poojan

Author(s): Oshwal Associations of The UK
Publisher: Oshwal Associations of The UK

Page 3

PREFACE
Jai Jinendra, Pranam
Many different Poojans and Rituals are scheduled to be performed during the Pratishtha Mahotsav of the new Shikharbandhi Jinalay at Oshwal Centre. The purpose of these is to pay our respects to our Tirthankars for the salvation they have attained.
In this booklet we have attempted to explain, both in English and in Gujarati, the significance of these various Poojans and Rituals and how they are performed. A lot of time and effort has been spent by a number of very dedicated volunteer devotes who carried out extensive research and produced the information that forms the backbone of this booklet. The Executive Committee of the Oshwal Association of the U.K. is eternally grateful to these devotees.
This is perhaps the first time in the history of the Association that such detailed information has been compiled in respect of the Poojans and Rituals and we hope that you will preserve this booklet and respect it in the same way as a book of religious text. Every possible attempt has been made to ensure that the information presented here is authentic and in accordance with Jain principles. and edicts. However, we would like to apologise in advance for any errors that may still be contained within the text.
We are conscious of the fact that whilst making the preparations for the Pratishtha Mahotsav we may have had to take decisions that could be perceived to be at variance with certain basic principles of Jain Dharma. However, all our decisions have been taken after very careful thought and consideration of the local conditions together with health and safety issues. It has pained us considerably in having to take such decisions and we beg forgiveness from our Tirthankars for this. We have also explained the situation to the Pujya Maharajsahebs in India and whilst they may not condone all our actions they do sympathise with our predicaments. They have accepted our assurances that we have not done, or are doing, anything to deliberately deviate from the basic principles of Jain Dharma.