JAINA VOICE
A publication of www.jainheritagecentres.com

Editor-in-Chief: Dr. H.A.Parshwanath

Vol.3      Issue 7

November 2004

   

Editorial

BHAGAWAN ADINATHA

     Sri Adinatha, the founder of Jainism was born as the last and 14th Kulakarmanu. Sri Nabhiraja and Marudevi the parents of Adinatha, imbibed religious incarnation on him. He was a legendary personality. The mother Marudevi observed 16 dreams on the eve of birth of Sri Adinatha. He was born at the dawn in the Chaitra masa Krishnapaksha navami Tithi Uttarashada Nakshatra. He married Nanda and Sunanda the sisters of Kutch and Mahakutch kings respectively. Bharatha was born as the son of Nanda and Bahubali as the son of Suananda. Brahmi and Sundari were the daughters of Nanda and Sunanda respectively. Adinatha played the role of revered guru to his children. Brahmi is considered as the mother of 18 scripts. Adinatha taught his children literature, grammar and prosody, arithmetic and also worshiping.

     Adinatha is also called in the classics by other names such as Adideva, Adijineshwara, Adibrahma, Adiraja, Adimuni, Adishilpi, Rishabadeva, Shiva, Suvarnagarbha, Pajapitha, Vidatha, Swayambu, Arahantha, Parameshti & Sidda Parameshti. Ox is the symbol of Adinatha and hence called Rishabadeva.

Adinatha in Hinduism: Adinatha is considered as the 8th avathara of Lord Vishnu of Dashavatharas. He is also mentioned in Rigveda, Yajurveda & Vedic puranas such as Srimad Bhagavathapurana, Nagapurana, Brahmapurana, Vayupurana, Karnapurana & Markandeyapurana. Rishabanatha is also regarded as the 28th avathara of Lord Shiva as mentioned in Shivapurava. Rishabanatha is cited in the Buddhist works as the ancient king of India.

Adinatha in Jaina Literature: Nemichandracharya's 'Trilokasara' in Sanskrit has scribe his inheritance. Above all Mahapurana, the great classic work in Jainism & belonging to 7th century is the story of Bhagawan Adinatha as written by Jinasenacharya & Gunabadracharya. Adipampa the first poet in Kannada had written Adipurana in champu style. Hastimalla's 'Adipurana' a rare classic prosaic style has also mentioned Adinatha. Sri Adinatha is also mentioned in Harivanshapurana & Swamy Samantha Badhracharya's Swayambu Sthothra and also other Jaina works. Adinatha is also mentioned in the Hathigumpha inscription (200 B.C.) of Kharavela. 

Adinatha's Reign: Adinatha's reign of the kingdom flourished with prosperity and gaiety. He was called Rajayogi of Ayodhya and was an embodiment of virtues. He established ahimsa in his walks of life. He preached six ways of observing Karma in one's life. He contended that one should strive hard to lead a life of work. He distinctly assigned specific nature of work to the people in their day to day life. These include 'worship', 'scribing', 'agriculture', 'sculpture & Architecture', 'economics' and 'education' and thus converted his kingdom into a Karmabhoomi.

     He streamlined the social system of life by establishing three divisions, implying service, business and protection. He was a saviour of religion & society together. However he strongly opposed untouchability. Geographically he divided the land into city and village in order to serve the cause of service.

Adinatha's Disnest: The court and celestial dancer Neelanjana turned the turtle of his life. He realised that the world is transitory in existence and one should venture for attaining moksha by relinquishing the pleasures of life. Neelanjana's episode opened the inner eyes of Adinatha and also further strengthened his future career. Adikavi Pampa has given a vivid picture of Neelanjana Nrutya Prasanga which led Adinatha to leave his kingdom and proceed for penance. This was the point of self realisation and warding off illusion of the worldly pleasures. This paved the path towards reconciliation.                           

                    

                

-Dr. H.A.Parshwanath

 

DETERMINED TO TAKE SALLEKHANA FOR GIRINAR
Hubli (Dharwad District, Karnataka), November 15: Muni 108 Sri Merubhushan Maharaj has said that he would observe sallekhana in indications given to Gujarat and Central Governments are not taken to cognisance regarding the maintanance of status quo of Siddakshetra Girinar as it was on August 15, 1947. He has strongly appealed to the Governments to resolve the impediments faced by the Jains for the Girinar issue. He has also appealed to withdraw the Government order favouring aggression by non Jains. He has called for starting a special court for early clearance of the cases pending.
He told that sallekhana would be observed from the martyrs day i.e. 30th January 2005. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service

PRAKRIT GNANABHARATHI AWARD CONFERRED TO PADMANABHA JAINI
Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), October 20: The prestigious Prakrit Gnanabharathi Award sponsored by Srutakevali Education Trust - Antargata Rashtriya Prakrit Studies and Research Organisation was conferred on Padmanabha Sriverma Jaini on 20th October in a colourful function held at Shravanabelagola. The international fame Prakrit and Pali languages scholar was honoured with the award carrying a cash of rupees one lakh was handed over to him with the plaque. Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattaraka Swamiji the Pontiff of Shravanabelgola Jain Muth graced the unique occasion. Sri N.K.Jain the former chief justice of Karnataka and Sri M.Verappa Moily the ex-chief minister of Karnataka honoured the scholar. Sri N.K.Jain mentioned that the Jains of South India are proud of the Acharyas who scripted the voice of Tirthankaras hailing from North India. He also mentioned that it is a previlage of Shravanabelagola where is Dhavala works are translated to Kannada here. He laid the importance of non-violence propounded by Jainism and which has marked the religion in the forefront in the history of the religions of the world. Sri Verappa Moily called for the thirst of knowledge which makes one a human being in true sense to adopt and follow human values in one's day to day life. Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji said that the translation of Jainagamas in the form of Dhavala works which are an embodiment of perfection and core of the religion will help in dispersing the knowledge to the world at large. He also stressed that the treasure of Indian philosophy has found its foot hold and attained supremacy in the world. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service

ENGLISH VERSION OF THE DHAVALA  BOOKS RELEASED

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), October 20: The English version of Dhavala, Jaya Dhavala and Maha Dhavala were released on 20th October by Dr.N.L.Jain at Shravalabelagola. These works were composed about 1300 years ago on Shatkandagama which was composed about 2000 years ago. The Hindi translation of these works had already appeared about a century ago.
The present translation was released to mark the birth centenary celebration of Sri Phoolchand Shastri by Rourkeya Pandit Phoolchand Shastri Foundation. The Jainagamas emphasise that one should strive hard to follow the path of moksha and attain it. Prof. Jaini expected that the tradition of study and analysis (swadhyaya) will cause resurrection of the religion in practice and percepts. He mentioned that atma is free of all bondages it will make an individual divine in perception. He gave a vivid description of the importance of Dhavala works in the study of philosophical antiquity.
Dr.Hampa Nagarajaiah, the renowned research scholar who presided over the function opined that Kannadanadu is credited with preserving the only manuscript of Dhavala work available. He called for exercising care in recognising and preserving the talents of the land with due concern. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service

DHAVALATHRAYA WEBSITE LAUNCHED
Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), October 19: Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji has paved the way translation of 39 chapters of Dhavala, Jaya Dhavala and Maha Dhavala triology into Kannada at Shravalabelagola. The website in this connection www.dhavalathraya.com was inaugurated by Sri A.R.Nirmal Kumar, organising secretary of the National Committee of Mahamasthakabhiskeha celebration on 19th October 2004. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service

5TH VOLUME OF DHAVALA WORKS IN KANNADA RELEASED
Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), November 7: Dhavala comprising of the indications for Sanskrit manuscripts available in the National Prakrit Study and Research Centre Shravanabelagola was released by Sri Bhanukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of The Kambadahalli Jain Muth. Further the 5th volume of Dhavala prepared under the translation of 40 divisions of Dhavala, Jayadhavala and Mahadhavala was released by His Holiness Sri Lalithakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Dhanashala Muth, Karkala. Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Swamiji of Simhanagadde (Narasimharajapura) Jain Muth presided over the function and lauded the efforts of bringing Dhavala in Kannada. Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Shravanabelagola said that efforts were being made to publish other Prakrit works in Kannada and thus leading to the purification of innerself. The Dhavala work was taken in a procession with all muth honours. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service      

BASTHIHALLI'S BAHUBALI FINDS MASTHAKABHISHEKHA AFTER 20 YEARS

Sri Krishna (Speaker Karnataka Assembly), Swastisri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji, Kshullak Sri Nirvan Sagarji Maharaj and others seen participating the religious gathering.- JHC Photo  

Basthihalli, (Mandya District, Karnataka), October 24: Recently the Masthakabhishekha of Lord Bahubali was celebrated with great devotion and reverence by the devotees after a period of about 20 years under the spiritual guidance of Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Kanakagiri Jain Muth. Sri Bhanukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Kambadahalli Jain Muth and Kshullak 105 Sri Nirvansagarji Maharaj graced the occasion. Sri Krishna, the speaker of the Karnataka legislative assembly presided over the function. The president of the Bastihalli Kshetra Seva Samiti Dr.H.S.Lalitanga Kumar submitted the memorandum to the speaker appealing for the liberal help and contribution towards the rejuvenation of this historical place and thus maintaining the great heritage of Karnataka. The speaker assured the Jaina faculty that he would take active measures for the growth and development of the place by convening a meeting of the organsations and people concerned and approaching the Government in this connection. Sri H.A.Niranjan, Asst. Executive Engineer, KRS and Sri Shubhaveer, judge, Hunsur court were the chief guests on the occasion.

Idol of Lord Bahubali being anointed during the Masthakabhishekha. -JHC Photo

Antiquity of Basthihalli: Basthihalli situated at the north bank of the world famous Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) reservoir belonging to Mandya district and is about 20 kms from Krishnarajapeth and 30 kilometers from Padavapura. It is known for its relics of the past and appeared deserted, But it has found its new race of hope and scope in the early part of this 21st century. The place houses the statue of Lord Bahubali about 14 feet high and bears its significance and sanctity. This sculpture has drawn the attention of the Jains and others from time to time but only to be found invain. It has remained as the vestige of the past waiting for the new vista in the modern world. The pages of the history mention that the statue was installed by Punisimmayya the commander in chief of Vishnuvardhana, the Hoysala king. The inscription belonging to 1147 A.D. of Hoysala period throw much light on the statue and its surroundings. The statue is carved out of soap stone and is seen slightly slanting to its right side and is sheltered by a construction arround. One can see the beautifully carved branches, petals at the feet and legs of the statue. The examination of the surrounding area reveals the mutilated pieces of sculpture and architecture. The damaged sculptures of Parshwanatha and other Tirthankaras in sitting (padmasana) and standing (kayotsarga) postures, the bodyguards, the ruined mantaps and their roofs, the pillars, the parapets and other portions of the Jain temple existing are seen leading the pilgrims and tourists into a state of grief and sorrow. The remains at the place vouchify the existance of PanchaJinalayas. One of the stones reveals the inscription of Punisimmaiah was a grear warroir, donor and loyal person. His father was Chamaraja and grandfather Chamachamupa. An inscription found in Vijaya Parshwanatha Temple in Chamarajanagar temple also mentions his name. He also conquered some of the places of Kerala. He defeated the Kalaraja and Todas of Nilgiri Hills.
Punasimaiah endowed Basthihalli with Manikyadodaluru and Mavinakere Villages to provide the source of income for the celebration of pooja of Tirthankaras and Bahubali. He can be compared to Sri Chavundaraya of Shravanabelagola.
Another officer Somaiah also endowed the place for serving the food to Munis and to observe the deliberations in the Hoysala temple.
The river Kaveri has rendered a beautiful landscape for the place. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA UPBEAT

2006 MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA - PROGRESS REVIEW MEETING HELD

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), November 4: The review committee meeting of Mahamasthakabhishekha was held in the presence of Srilukasvallatrai, state revenue secretary. It reviewed the works for providing the facilities for the pilgrims and tourists attending Mahamasthakabhishekha. It is expected that nearly 30 lakhs of people visiting the place. The state and the central governments have evinced keen interest to take measures in order to make the celebration a grand and memorable one. The developmental works include constructing the national highway of a distance of about 465 Kms linking Shravanabelagola, improvement of roads and development of VIPs and VVIPs, yatri nivas, upgrading the bus shelter, providing adequate drinking water and medical facilities as well as security measures.     

The heads of all the departments briefened the measures taken by them hither to. Smt. Gowri Trivedi, Sri Shankar Narayan, Secretary of Karnataka State Mahamasthakabhishekha celebration committee and Sri Ramamurthy of Mujrai depatment were also present on the occasion. The meeting was held in the divine presence of Swastisri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji. He expressed his immense happiness over the progress made. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service     

MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA MEDIA INFORMATION CENTRE INAUGURATED
Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), November 4: Sri N.Arjundev, the chairman of Karnataka Madhyama Academy inaugurated the Media Information Centre as part of the celebration of the Mahamasthakabhishekha 2006. He emphasised the need of knowing the principles of Jainism and need to cater the same to the people. He opined that tranquility should prevail amongst the people. He appealed to the press that media should subserve the cause of peace and the concern for humanity. The media has taken the lead in conveying the objective of Mahamasthakabhiskeha and catering it to the nook and corner of the world. His Holiness Swastisri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji graced the occasion. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service     

PLANS A FOOT TO PROMOTE JAIN TOURISM
Bangalore (Karnataka), October 24: Religious tourism in Karnataka is attempting to tread new grounds with an elaborate action plan on Jain tourism in the run-up to the Mahamastakabhisheka of Gomateshwara in Shravanabelagola in February 2006. As a distinctive segment, religious tourism has been gaining a lot of ground, so much so that Karnataka tourism has focussed some attention in promoting religious or pilgrimage circuits. It is now using the Mahamastakabhisheka to spruce up the Jain circuit.
The Mahamastakabhisheka is performed once in 12 years, where the 57-foot idol is anointed with milk, curd, honey, coconut water, vermilion, turmeric paste, sandalwood paste, gold coins and even jewellery. "We have prepared a master plan to improve facilities in many of the other places with Jain temples. We have asked the central government for Rs 8 crore in grants to set up wayside facilities, rest houses and other basic amenities. We want to start well before the event, to tap the segment in the run-up," tourism commissioner Mahendra Jain said.
Shravanabelagola itself is quite a popular spot throughout the year with non-Jain tourists climbing the hill to gaze on the monolithic statues. And so the place has comparatively good facilities. However, the department plans to establish facilities in certain other places, considered equally important by Jains. The department's action plan is also based on the increasing number of Jain tourists coming to Karnataka because this is the only state with so many places of religious importance for them.
While Shravanabelagola, Dharmasthala and Karkala are among the noted ones, many small towns in north Karnataka have little known Jain 'basadis' and other destinations which are popular with Jains, including the troika of Badami-Aihole-Pattadkal. The department is also keen on developing specific circuits. "We want to evolve circuits, which can cater to this community with focus on just one or two main destinations, or a bouquet of destinations, which will include the lesser known ones, depending on the time that such devotees can spend and their budget. And this is not just during the Mahamastakabhisheka, but even before and after since the event will provide a platform for us to promote these circuits," sources said. The last time the Mahamastakabhisheka was held, an estimated five lakh Jain pilgrims participated in the religious event. This time around, the department estimates at least a 25 per cent increase, if not more. - News Courtesy: Times of India

GIRINAR SHRINE DISPUTE: JAINS FILE COMPLAINT

Junagadh (Gujarat), October 29: THE shrine on the fifth peak of Girnar mountain in Junagadh is once again in the eye of the storm as Jains and Hindus fight for control over the disputed site. On Thursday, a group of Jain pilgrims from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh were prevented from offering prayers here, allegedly, by two Hindu priests, who control the shrine. A police complaint has been lodged with Junagadh taluka police under Sections 323, 504, 506(2), 114 of the IPC and Section 135 of the BP Act and police have been deployed at the disputed site.

     According to available details, Phulchand Jain, 55, a resident of Varanasi, lodged a complaint against two Hindu priests — Abhijit sadhu and Sitaram sadhu — for preventing him and 10 other pilgrims from offering puja. Phulchand stated that he was allegedly abused, physically assaulted and threatened of dire consequences by the sadhus when he tried to offer prayers on Thursday.

     Meanwhile, Junagadh taluka PSI and investigating officer A K Devra rushed to the spot at Girnar mountain and deployed additional police force. When Devra reached the spot, the two sadhus against whom the complaint was filed were not available. Devra said, ‘‘Barring this, no untoward incident has been reported so far. This is a sensitive issue between the two communities and police will maintain law and order at the peak.’’

     It was also learnt that a group of around 1,000 Jain pilgrims had come to Junagadh under the leadership of Phulchand Jain. They came in 13 buses from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and surrounding places. They camped at Bhavnath Taleti at the foot of Girnar mountain. The presence of many Jain devotees gave birth to rumours that they had come to town to stage a protest against Hindus occupying the disputed shrine.

     Clarifying the presence of Jains, Junagadh-based leader of Jain Ekta Committee Anil Doshi said, ‘‘Jain pilgrims usually come here, there’s nothing abnormal about their presence in the town. And, we have no plan to stage a protest, but it is shocking that Jains were stopped from offering prayers.’’ He added, ‘‘We will approach Junagadh SP for adequate police protection.’’ Meanwhile, Mahant Tansukhgiri of the Junagadh Hindu Samaj said that he and other Hindu sadhus would submit a memorandum to the Collector in protest against Thursday’s incident.

     The controversy involves the shrine on the fifth peak of Girnar mountain, on which both Hindus and Jain have staked their claim. According to Hindus, it is Lord Dattatreya’s temple, while Jain claims it is Neminath shrine. - News Courtesy: Expressindia.com

SHRINE DISPUTES: JAINS READY TO TAKE TO STREETS

Ahmedabad (Gujarat), October 27: Unable to take the disputes with Hindus over shrines in Gujarat any longer, the Jains—who profess non-violence—are talking of talking to the streets. The issue has so vexed the community, that the Shwetambar and Digambar sects have put aside their doctrinal differences to put up a united fight.

Not to be outdone, some Hindu sants have threatened to retaliate. The exacerbation of the dispute is surprising. For in Gujarat, Hindus and Jains have lived together peacefully, visiting shrines of both communities, and maintaining close business and social ties. Some of the major pilgrim spots have shrines of both communities. There have been minor disputes, but no confrontation.

No longer. Topping the list of disputes are the ones concerning Palitana and Girnar. Atop a hill in Palitana are hundreds of Shwetambar Jain shrines, but along the steps leading up, several small Hindu temples have come up. The Jains say these are out-and-out encroachments, for Jain temples are always built on land donated by Jains or purchased by their temple trusts.

They also say that stones are being consecrated with vermilion to create new shrines, over which Hindus could lay claim later.

In Girnar, with its pilgrim circuit covering some peaks, the controversy is over the foot imprints atop the fifth peaks. Digambar Jains claim the imprints are of Neminath, the 22nd tirthankar; the Hindus claim they are of Lord Dattatreya. The matter is in court.

Speaking on the controversies, an office-bearer of the Sheth Anandji Kalyanji Trust, which controls most of the Shwetambar shrines in the country, said, ‘‘We are neither Mahavir nor Mahatma Gandhi. There’s a limit to everything. If we don’t act now, things will go out of hand.’’

Hindu sants don’t seem in the mood to resolve the issue quietly. On Monday, some 400 preachers gathered to discuss the dispute at Viramgam, near Ahmedabad. They adopted a resolution expressing displeasure over the stand the Jains have taken.

‘‘They should stop issuing threats, or we will have no choice but to retaliate. We will use all our might,’’ said Sadhu Samaj secretary Meghanandji. ‘‘This is not an empty threat. We will involve all seven akhadas.’’

About the Girnar controversy, Mahant Gopalanand and Tansukh Giri said that Jains did not allow Hindus to use the Bhimkund and Surajkund ponds located atop the first peak, where Shwetambars Jains have several shrines. ‘‘The Jains simply lock up the shrines and don’t let anyone in,’’ they said.

The other side of the story? Jains say they have to seek permission from Hindu sants to worship at their own shrine. Also that some anti-socials prevent them from chanting ‘Jai Neminath.’

Countering this, a Junagadh-based Mahant said, ‘‘The Hindu way of worship is different. We can’t allow them to bathe the deity after the morning abhishek is over. This ceremony can be performed only by Mahants.’’ Jains allege Hindus installed an idol of Dattatreya which was never there before.

Though the disputed shrine at Girnar involves Digambars, Shwetambars have supported them. This, despite the two sects differing over Sammet Shikhar, considered the most sacred Jain pilgrim centre in the country.

Police have now been posted at the Girnar shrine.

At a little over 5.25 lakh, Jains are a miniscule minority in Gujarat, where Hindus number 4.51 crore. Jains claim their number is more but census numerators often record Jains as Hindus, ‘‘thinking we are same.’’

They are taking up the shrine dispute and other issues with the chief minister.

‘‘Most Jains in government services are Digambars and having tasted power, they are not ready to take things lying down. But even Shwetambars are losing their cool,’’ said a Jain leader, explaining why the community is uniting in anger. - News Courtesy: Expressindia.com

'HERITAGE OF SHRAVANABELAGOLA'

On the occasion of the Mahamasthakabhishekha of Bhagawan Bahubali at Shravanabelagola in 2006 WWW.JAINHERITAGECENTRES.COM is bringing out an exclusive fortnightly article series on Shravanabelagola focusing on the  vast richness of the place in terms of its great history, temples, inscriptions, the Jain Mutt, the Bhattarakha tradition, the rituals observed during mahamasthakabhishekha and lot more beginning from 1st  January, 2005. Please watch out for the article series. 

BAHUBALI'S 55TH MASTHAKABHISHEKHA AT GOMMATAGIRI

The priest performing the religious rituals prior to the Masthakabhishekha of Bhagawan Bahubali. - JHC Photo
Gommatagiri (Mysore District, Karnataka), October 31: Thousands of devotees thronged and performed the annual Mastakabhisheka to Bhagawan Bahubali with traditional fervour and splendour on Sunday the 31st October to mark the 55th annual Masthakabhishekha of the unique monolithic statue of Bhagawan Bahubali situated atop the rocky hill glittering in the backdrop of a brilliant and serene blue sky. Bahubali seemed to change colours when ghee, milk, vermilion, turmeric, tender coconut, sandalwood paste and other precious and fragrant materials were poured and cascaded down the five-metre tall statue. The statue glistened and turned yellow and red as the devotees continued to pour coloured water on it. The idol of Bahubali is situated a top the hillock on a diversion road located at a distance of 12 Kms from Yelawal road on the Mysore - Mercara or Hunsur main road. The masthakabhishekha celebrated at Gommatagiri is an annual feature that draws thousands of devotees from all over Karnataka. Unlike other places of Karnataka including Shravanabelagola, Venur, Karkala and Dharmasthala where the ritual is performed once in 12 years. Gommatagiri is a unique place where the abhishekha is performed every year.
 The ritual commenced at noon and rejoicing of "Ahimsa PAramodharma ki jai", "Gommateshwara ki jai'', "Bhagavan Bahubali ki jai'' and songs on Bhagawan Bahubali rent the air when the priests poured water from "kalash" sanctified with prayers and rituals. The first round of Mastakabhisheka was followed by offerings of flowers and the statute was smeared with vermilion and turmeric. Swasti Sri Devendrakeerthi Bhataraka Swamiji of Hombuja Jain Math supervised and gudied the rituals Mastakabhisheka and the priests performed the poojas from a specially erected platform behind the statute. Chants of sacred hymns and shlokas echoed atop the 50-metre tall hillock and the priests awaited the advent of the auspicious time to pour milk followed by tender coconut, water mixed with vermilion, turmeric and ashtagandha or sandal paste. The traditional rites continued as water mixed with vermilion was offered next and the deep grey statute turned red for a while only to gleam in golden yellow when water admixed with turmeric and sandal paste flew down and covered the granite statute. This holy event was witnessed by more than 10,000 devotees gathered from all over Karnataka.
Though historians ascribe the history of this monument to the Vijaynagar era (early 14th Century), the local Jains believe it to be more ancient and a contemporary of the celebrated statue at Shravanabelagola as the facial expressions of the two statues carved out are similar. It is also believed that it was founded by Chengalvas of the first order, the mini Kings who ruled the area.
Religious Assembly: On the occasion a religious gathering was organised under the guidance of Sri Devandrakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Huncha Jain Muth. Sri K.C.Balaram the president of Mysore Jilla Parishath, Sri G.T.Devegowda the MLA from Hunsur was also present on the occasion.
It is worth to note that stone quarying with in the radius of arround one kilometer arround the Gommatagiri hillock is forbidden by the authorities in view of protecting the monument from any of the artificial impediments. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR BHAGAWAN MAHAVIR PAINTING
Guntur (Andhra Pradesh), October 17: Santi Arts a company managed by Jain family from Guntur has bagged 6 international awards for their Excellence in Screen Printing. The awards are given by SGIA (U.S.A) ('Specialty Graphic Imaging Association') In a single category of Glass Painting, 4 awards namely gold, silver, bronze and a honorable merit have been bagged by them. One of the highlights of these awards is the 'Silver Award' for the Heavenly Glass Painting of Bhagavan Mahavir. -News Courtesy: Nilesh Jain, www.jaindharm.net

YOUNG JAINA AWARDS - MORAL EDUCATION CAMP

Ashoknagar (Madhya Pradesh), October 24: As part of its effort to establish a dialogue with the youth, the Jain Maitri Samooh had organised an annual camp in Madhya Pradesh from October 23. During this camp the Young Jaina award honouring talented students were presented. The award ceremony was organised to mark the 2600th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.

The aim of the camp, was to inculcate moral values in students so that they can prove to be better members of the society. This is the third Young Jain Award which was given during the camp. In the past two years the Samooh had honoured around 2350 students including those selected for the administrative services. This year there were 1427 entries in all which included the students of Jain community who got >85% in std X OR >75 % in std XII or achievers in the competative exams. The awardees also included the national/state/district level achievers in sports.-News Courtesy: Webindia123.com Saurabh Jain

SHREYANSH DAKLIA JAIN BAGS NATIONAL CHILD AWARD
New Delhi, Nov 14: Shreyansh Daklia Jain of Chattisgarh has bagged the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement for the year 2002-03. He is one among the 71 recipients of the award announced by the Government of India on the occasion of the Universal children's Day. All the 71 winners of the award were honoured by the Human Resource Development Minister Arjun Singh at New Delhi. Minister of State for Human Resource Development Kanti Singh also attended the function. -News Courtesy: Webindia123.com

JAIN FREEDOM FIGHTERS: WHO IS WHO

Khatouli (Uttar Pradesh), October 31: A compendum, titled 'Jains In Freedom Struggle - Part 1' is published by Dr.Kapoorchand Jain and Dr. Smt. Jyothi Jain. It is estimated that there are more than 5,000 Jains who actively took part in the freedom struggle against the British regime. The present work includes the details and contribution of 650 freedom fighters from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. It also includes the details of the Jain members in the constituent assembly and the work runs to about 250 pages assuming a referral place in the library.

     It is also decided to publish another volume on the Jain freedom fighters of South India. The authors are envisaging all the efforts to collect the details of these people and also have particularly appealed to furnish details and can be sent to Dr.Kapoorchand Jain, Shikshak Awas, N0.6, Sri Kundakunda Jain College Premises, Khatouli - 251201 (Uttar Pradesh). The information to be furnished is as follows: name of the freedom fighter, fathers name, birth place and date of birth, time spent in Jail, address, dairy of spending time in the prison, any publications in the form of articles and books may be sent by interested people in Hindi/English. It is also requested that photo of the fighter and the certificates obtained from the concerned authorities be enclosed along with the details sent. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

SO SAID ABOUT JAINISM...

This column spells out the sayings and derivations of the scholars of both India and abroad alike. These will stand as testimony to comprehensively understand the interreligious relations and the views about Jainism.

Jainism in Germany

     “I am particularly glad to see how in this great country (Germany) so distant from the native place of Jainism, the scholars and others show a great interest for the dogmas and the philosophy of the Jain religion. The number of the Jains amounts only a 12 and a half millions, but inspite of it, the teachings of this great religion ought to be remembered and followed more than ever in past.

– Hon’ble S.Dutt, Former Indian Ambassador in Germany

(Ref. – Voice of Ahinsa, Aliganj, Vol II. P. 250)

PLANE CRASHES AT THE PROCESSION

Kota (Rajasthan), October 31: Seven persons, including two women and a girl, were injured when a six-seat Cessna aircraft hit power lines and crashed near Shivpura colony in Rajasthan's Kota town today. The police and witnesses said the aircraft, owned by Rajputana Aviation, was being used in showering rose petals on a religious procession at the conclusion of the eight-day-long "Teerthankar Samvatsaran Mahamandal Vidhan," of the Jain community.

The pilot, Kesri Singh, the technician Vijay Gupta, Pradeep Jain, Meenakshi Jain, Rajendra Jain, Asha Jain and seven-year-old Ayurshi Jain, who were aboard the plane, were injured and admitted to private hospitals here. There were no casualties as the plane crashed on the police parade ground, nearly 200 feet away from a residential area. The plane lost its wing when it hit the power lines, and broke on hitting the ground. Luckily, it did not catch fire. Hospital sources said the injured were out of danger. - News Courtesy: The Hindu

IDOLS STOLEN FROM JAIN TEMPLE
Dehradun (Uttaranchal), Oct 19: At least five idols worth crores of rupees in the international market were stolen from a Jain temple in Kashipur area of Udham Singh Nagar district, about 150 kms from here, police said today. The theft of the 'asthadhatu' (combination of eight metals) idols from Sri Parshvanath Digambar Jain temple came to light yesterday when devotees went to offer prayers. The ornaments and canopies of the idols made of gold and silver were also found missing, police said. A case against unidentified persons has been registered and police have picked up some persons for interrogation. - News Courtesy: PTI

INVITED TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON ADDITIVE NUMBER THEORY

Mysore (Karnataka), November 15: Prof. Padmavathamma, head of the department of mathematics, Mysore University has been invited to present a paper at the International Conference On Additive Number Theory to be held at Florida (USA). It could be recalled here that Smt.Padmavathamma has translated the Part-3 of the Dhavala works to English. The Part-3 of the Dhavala works is been written based on the Jain mathematics. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service      

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MATRIMONIAL
Bangalore (Karnataka), October 1:Sri Mahavira Associates has started the Matrimonial column in its Employment Guide Centre. The interested people can send their biodata (hand written), photo and a copy of horoscope to J.C.Nagaraj Jain, Sri Mahavira Associates, Vidya Peetha Road, Banashankari 3rd Stage, Opposite Kamakya Chitramandir, Bangalore-80, Phone: (O)080-57652352, (R) 080-26754378. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

'BHARATESHA VARTA' RELEASED

Belgaum (Karnataka), September 5: Dr.Shivananda Gali, The chairman of Jaina Studies, Karnataka University, released 'Bharatesha Varta' a quarterly. The issue is sponsored by Bharatesh Education Trust to impart value based education in North Karnataka. It is intended to publish the various activities of its educational institutions to the people. The institution is well known in Karnataka for its unstinted contribution to the cause of education. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

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JAIN PUBLICATIONS
Jain Publications available at Hindi Grantha Karyalay.
MAHAVIRA'S WORDS (English)
By Walther Schubring
Eng. tr. of the orignal German work 'Worte Mahaviras. Kritische
Ubersetzungen'with much added material by W. Bollée &  J. Soni
2004 270 x 270 mm   310 pp
81 85857 21 0    Hardcover     Rs. 600		 Pt. Sukhlalji's Commentary on TATTVARTHASUTRA of Vacaka Umasvati
(English)
English tr. by Dr. K.K. Dixit
L.D. Series 44
General Editor Dr. Jitendra B. Shah
Eng. tr. first published in 1974
2000    245 x 170 mm    420 pp
81 85857 04 0    Hardcover    Rs. 300

JAINA DHARMA (Hindi)
By Pt. Kailashchandra Siddhantashastri
Preface by Dr. Sampurnananda
First published in 1947 at Varanasi
Pracya Sramana Bharati Series
Distributed by Hindi Granth Karyalay
10th edition, 2003    216 x 140 mm    304 pp
Hardcover    Rs. 80

ASHTASAHASRITATPARYAVIVARANAM (Sanskrit)
In 2 volumes
By Upadhyaya Yashovijaya
Ed. by Muni Vairagyarativijaya with 11 Appendices
Vijayamahodayasuri Granthamala 15
Distributed by Hindi Granth Karyalay
2004    250 x 188 mm    903 pp in 2 volumes
Hardback    Rs. 400 for the set

PRASAMAMURTI ACARYA SHANTISAGAR CHHANI
SMRTIGRANTHA (Hindi)
A festschrift on Acarya Shantisagar of Chhani
Pracya Sramana Bharati Series
Distributed by Hindi Granth Karyalay
1998    246 x 162 mm    550 pp
Hardcover    Rs. 100

  

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 POOJA MAHOTSAV

The main intention of this column is to provide a platform to the news of even the small villages spread all over India. We here by request our readers to kindly send the news of the pooja mahotsav's in the Jain temples taking place at the nooks and corners of the world.

Madlageri (Davangere District, Karnataka): The annual pooja of Sri Brahma yaksha, Sri Nagadeva & Goddess Padmavati has been organised on December 5, 2004. Madlageri is an ancient pilgrim centre and the idol of Brahma Yaksha here is very famous.   

Bangalore (Karnataka): The annual pooja mahotsav of the Bhagawan Sri Suvarna Parshwanath Jain temple at Magadi road, Bangalore, has been organised on the 5th of December 2004. The pooja will be held under the guidance of Swasti Sri Lalithakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Karkala Jain Muth. On the occasion the 108 Kalashabhishekha, special pooja and a religious gathering has been organised.

JAIN WEB WATCH

www.dhavalathraya.com: The website giving information about the Dhavala triology works, viz. Dhavala, Jaya Dhavala and Maha Dhavala. This website gives the details of the progress of the Dhavala works in English and the activities of "The National Institute for Prakrit Studies and Research". 
 

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Thursday 18th November 2004 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Neminatha.

Tuesday 23rd November 2004 - Gnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Aranatha.

Friday 26th November 2004 - Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawn Shambavanatha.

Saturday 27th November 2004 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Ananthanatha.

Tuesday 30th November 2004 - Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Shambavanatha.

Wednesday 1st December 2004 - Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Shambavanatha.

Saturday 4th December 2004 - Rathayatra at Dahigao.

Sunday 12th December 2004 - Janma Kalyana and Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Pushpadantha.

Tuesday 21st December 2004 - Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Aranatha.

Wednesday 22nd December 2004 - Diksha Kalyana and Janma Kalyana of Bhagawan Mallinatha, Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Naminatha.

Friday 25th December 2004 - Janma Kalyana of Bhagawan Aranatha.

Sunday 26th December 2004 - Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Shambavanatha.

WEB POLL

JHC Web poll question for the month of November 2004
On the attainment of Kevalajnana (omniscience):

  • a. there is no place for mati or srutajnana

  • b. mati or srutajnana are not obliterated

  • c. None of the above

Click here to cast your vote.
 

UPDATES AT JAINHERITAGECENTRES.COM

Additions as on 1st November 2004:

Calendar Wallpapers

Additions as on 15th November 2004:

Photo Gallery:

Photos of the Lord Suparshwanatha Jain Temple at Heggere, Hosadurga Taluk, Chitradurga district, Karnataka, India.

 

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