Siddhachalam NJ 1993 06 Acharya Sushil Kumarji

Author(s): Siddhachalam NJ
Publisher: USA International Mahavir Jain Mission Siddhachalam

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declaration contains the following specific references to Jain principles: We believe in the sanctity and integrity of life forms. We also affirm the principles of peace and nonviolence in governing human behaviors towards one another and all life. We view ecological disruption as violent intervention into the web of life.
Impact of speeches
Guruji delivered two important speeches on Jain religion at the Summit at the Riocentro Conference venue on the 7th and 12th of June. He was one of the chairpersons at the meeting of Riocentro when the Sacred Earth Gathering declaration was formally presented to the Earth Summit. At the Parliamentary Earth Summit he was invited to conduct a Jain meditation and prayer prior to the commencement of the conference session. The Brazilian National Assembly Hall, with its high decorative dome, vibrated from the chanting of the Namokar Mantra and Om. Silence penetrated the room until you could hear a pin drop and people were deeply moved.
At the Global Hearts Convention in Flamingo Park, Guruji spoke at length on the need for practicing nonviolence as the only way for humanity.
Dr. N.P. Jain was entrusted with the task of preparing the text of a proposal for Earth Restoration Corps at an international meeting sponsored by the Manitou Foundation. His draft was endorsed at the meeting and forwarded to Earth Summit's Mrs. Hanne Strong, founding chairman of the Manitou Foundation and wife of the Secretary General of the Earth Summit.
Mahamantra. Mr. Benton Mussel White, chairman of the One World Organization personally interviewed Guruji and Dr. N.P. Jain for his world-wide documentary and newsreel. Guruji was interviewed by PBS and CBS, USA TV network of Brazil, Peru TV and many others. His focus and emphasis on non-violence received extensive coverage. International movement
Encouraged by the positive response of individuals, institutions and the media, Guruji announced the launching of a World Movement of Non-Violence for Peace and Environment in Rio. This announcement was made in the presence of Mr. Maurice Strong, Secretary General of the Earth Summit, who described it as a welcome proposal from a renowned spiritual leader of India. Mme Wangari Mathai, Chairperson of the World Green Belts Movement and well known Kenyan environmentalist, supported the proposal whole-heartedly. The proposal received warm applause at the Global Forum of Parliamentarians and the spiritual leaders where Dr. Jain made an announcement while speaking on Jain religion and ecology. The Global Hearts Convention and the One World meeting also echoed positive support for the timely initiative. Rev. Father Kreitler of the United States described Jain religion as the most peaceful religion on earth in a television interview. Reverend Father Paul Meyer, Chairman of the International Coordination committee on Religion and the Earth expressed keen interest and agreed in principle to join a Rally for Peace & NonViolence in New York. The President of Brazil's mother sought a meeting with Guruji and promised to cooperate for propagating principles of Ahimsa particularly among the children and youth.
Rousing reception
Wherever Guruji went in Rio de Janeiro, whether at the Earth Summit, the Global Forum at Flamingo Park or Palace
Attracting world-wide attention
Guruji and Dr. N.P. Jain also participated actively at the Wisdom Keepers Convocation, which drew participation from the world's leading philosophers, social leaders, artists, sculptors, professors, diplomats and religious leaders. One evening of this convocation was devoted to Jain meditation and prayers led by Guruji. The Brazilian community organized special speeches delivered by him at the Aurbindos Society Hall, the Yoga Institute and the Acharya Ashram (Assocido Ao Gnana Mandiram). The audience consisted of Brazilians interested in the Indian philosophy and culture. Each speech was preceded by the chanting of the Namokar Mantra and Om, and the audience joined in with devotion
and enthusiasm. Guruji also explained the meaning of An interview with PBS of the United States
Crusader for Peace and Non-Violence
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