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

Vol.1      Issue 6

October 2002

Editorial

DEEPAVALI

           Deepavali, the festival of lights, occupies a unique place in Jaina practice and percepts. It is endowed with the objective of attainment of self reliance and self purification. It is opined that Bhagawan Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism who attained salvation on this occasion. Thousands of kings, seers and citizens of Pavapuri thronged at the place and celebrated the festival of lights signifying the message of ahimsa as preached by Mahavir. The people consecrated his message spreading it like a beacon of light through out the world. Atma becomes free from the physical stature of an individual and further from the bondage of human life. Indra and his followers come forward and shower flowers from the heavenly abode to celebrate the renunciation or nirvana by Mahavir. The tirthankara attained kevalagnana following long drawn penance. Deepavali signifies the relinquishing of worldly desires, pleasures and passions. The festival enlightens the wisdom of knowledge and throws light on the ways of pursuits for a better mankind. Though the ritualistic celebration of the occasion does not differ much from that of Hinduism, Jainism throws an insight into the comprehensive analysis of atma, the invisible force behind man's action.

Hindus celebrate the festival as a mark of Naraka Chaturdasi. They also ardently believe that this festival aims at earning wealth and prosperity. It is a festival of joy and friendship. During Naraka Chaturdasi Lord Krishna attacked narakasura the daemon king of Assam as he king was detrimental to the welfare of the people. Krishna along with satyabama surrounded him and killed him on the last prahara of Chaturdasi. He also released women under arrest by the king. They celebrate the occasion as a mark of this victory.

The JAINA VOICE wishes all wealth and prosperity for its esteemed readers.

Thanking you,

-Dr. H.A.Parshwanath

BHAGAWAN BAHUBALI COMES ALIVE IN RESPLENDENT GLORY -53RD MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA AT GOMMATAGIRI

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 6,000 devotees gathered  from all over Karnataka. Though the origin and the exact date of installation of the statute are shrouded in mystery, the serene facial expression makes it an outstanding piece of Jain sculptor. The statue also depicts serpents rising from either side of its shoulders. A touch of realism has been provided as anthills are chiseled so as to seemingly make contact with the fingers of Baubali. The approach is by means of nearly 200 steep steps and the hillock provides the devotees with a garbhagriha or an opening from where the entire statute can be viewed. There is also an in-built pradakshinapatha around which devotees perambulate during the worships.

Along with the Masthakabhishekha rituals the Dharmasabha was organized under the presence of His Holiness Swasti Sri Devendrakeerthi Battarakha Maharaj. The swamiji called upon for the spread of message of Gommateshwar in particular and Jainism in general he emphasised the need of religious awareness in the modern era. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

FOR A DETAILED COVERAGE OF THE MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA WITH PHOTOS CLICK HERE

(Also includes the rare photo of the then Maharaja of Mysore viewing the Masthakabhishekha)

12TH BIENNIAL JAINA CONVENTION AT GREATER CINCINATI

The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) in cooperation with the Jain Center of Cincinnati & Dayton has organized the 12^th Biennial Jaina Convention to be held at the Greater Cincinnati Convention Center from July 3-6, 2003. The theme of the convention is Jainism: the Art of Living and celebrates the religious and cultural aspects of our everyday lives. Grand scale preparation for the convention is now underway. More than 6,000 delegated are expected for the convention. In addition to discourses from prominent international Jain scholars, there is a focus on participative events such as Yoga, Meditation, Art and Vegetarian Cooking. During the evening, professional entertainment is planned in conjunction with participative presentations from Jain centers across North America for short drama, songs & dances.

The registration information: rates and forms are available at the website www.jainaconvention.org.  The people who register at the earliest are provided  with the early bird registration savings. Please visit the website, www.jainaconvention.org , for up-to-date information about the convention. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

THE SPLELDID SRI KALPADHRUMA POOJA MAHOTSAV

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), September 22 : It was indeed a unique occasion seen at the world famous Shravanabelagola the seat of Jainism. It is known for a huge number of temples ever glowing with pomp and glory. The 24 tirthnakaras found in Kasyotsarga in the Bhandara basadi enshrined with the simultaneous head anointing celebration. The huge temple was  built in 1159 A.D. by Hullamayya, the treasurer (finance minister) of the hoysala king narasimha the first. The pooja was conducted on the occasion of Dashalakshana Parva under the stewardship of Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Pattacharyavarya Swamiji of the Kshetra. Interestingly enough the 24 priests celebrated the pooja of the 24 prophets simultaneously. The devotees experienced a state of joy and contentment on the occasion. The yaksha yakshis on either side of the each tirthankara were worshiped with unbound devotion. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.         

FORGIVENESS AND BROTHERHOOD DAY CELEBRATED ALL OVER INDIA

The Universal Forgiveness and Brotherhood Day was celebrated as a National festival all over India on 22nd September.

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), September 22 : Chief Justice of Karnataka Sri Nagendra Kumar Jain inaugurated the  Universal Forgiveness and Brotherhood Day celebrations at Shravanabelagola. In his address to the gathering he said that the Dashlakshan Parva which enlightens us about the ten faces of the religion inspires an individual to involve himself in the religious activities.  The proceedings of the function were carried on under the presence of Muni Sri Sumerusagarji Maharaj.  Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj who presided the function in his address called upon the people to follow the teachings of Dashalaksha Parva on the basis of Forgiveness and Brotherhood. Sri Bhanukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Kambadahalli Jain muth was also present on the occasion. After the function the Kshamavani procession was taken with the idols of Bhagawan Parshwanath, Ananthanatha, Bahubali and Brahma Yaksha. 

Bangalore (Karnataka), September 22 : The Universal Forgiveness and Brotherhood Day was celebrated by the Karnataka Jains Association (K.J.A). The function was organised in the premises of the K.J.A. building which under construction. Dr. Sushilchandra Jain of Uttarpradesh and Sri M.A.Shubhachandra spoke on the importance of Forgiveness. Sri S.Jitendrakumar president of the K.J.A. gave his key note address. The "Pratibha Puraskar" awards were given by Pandita Ratna A. Shanthiraja Shastri Trust and Lakshmi Service trust to 19 students for their meritorious achievements in their studies at the S.S.L.C. and P.U.C. "Jaina Samskruthi Matthu Akshata Punja" A book written by Smt Kousalya Daranendraiah was released by Sri D. Surendra Kumar president of the K.J.A. building construction committee. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

Delhi: The Universal Brotherhood and Forgiveness Day, was celebrated at New Delhi by the Jain community as a national function. It was organised by Jain Mahasabha - Delhi and was inaugurated by Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, the Vice President of India. In his address Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat said that immortal virtues of Non-violence, truth and non-possession (aprigraha) should not be observed merely as a routine ritual, rather these should become integral part of one's day to day life. He emphasized that his experience of last more than 50 years in public life speaks of what can be achieved through friendship, which can never be achieved by feeling of enmity. While supporting Jain's demand to ban opening of slaughter houses and export of meat, he said, to commit violence or to tolerate violence are two side of same coin. Jains should launch a countrywide movement against all sorts of violence and should unite all like-minded people in this movement. - News Courtesy, jainsamaj.org.

JAINA - WORLD COMMUNITY SERVICES PRESENTS SHRAMA YATRA

The JAINA world community services has organised the Shram Yatra programmme at Bidada in the Kutch region of Gujarat from Dec.15, 2002 to Jan. 22, 2003. It will be an opportunity for voluntary and humanitarian work in the field of mental, dental, occupational therapy and other areas. The Medical, Dental and occupational therapy works will be held at the Bidada hospital, the educational and teaching works will be held at Veerayatna and the house building works will be held at Vivekananda R&T institute. For further information & Registration please contact: Ramesh Shah 440-442-4596, Dilip Shah 215-567-3025, Vijay Chheda  714-573-1324 or Bachubhai Ajmera 301-431-2525 within October 31. The Ground Package of $121/- Includes: Return Ticket from Bombay to Kutch (Air conditioned), minimum 7 days stay with breakfasts, lunches & dinners, laundry & hot water & lodging, entertainment, visit to temples & sight seeing, voluntary work of ones choice. At the end the participants will be given a Certificate of participation and gifts. - News Courtesy Ramesh & Dr. Jaya Shah, jshah6138@aol.com . - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

NEW CALIFORNIA LAW OVER RESTRICTIVE DEFINITION OF RELIGION

California, September 17: An appeals court has dismissed a lawsuit by a vegetarian who claimed he was denied a job because he refused to take a mumps vaccination made from chicken embryo. Jerry Friedman sued Kaiser Permanente when he was refused a job as a computer technician, contending he was subjected to religious discrimination. But on Friday, a three-judge panel of the 2nd District Court of Appeal agreed with a lower court ruling and Kaiser when it ruled that vegetarianism is a moral and secular philosophy, not a religion. Friedman, 33, said he planned to appeal to the California Supreme Court.

The Court of Appeal has ruled that a religion must meet the first two categories which follow. The third category, says the court, is helpful but not required. First, a religion addresses fundamental and ultimate questions having to do with deep and imponderable matters. Second, a religion is comprehensive in nature; it consists of a belief-system as opposed to an isolated teaching. Third, a religion often can be recognized by the presence of certain formal and external signs." The lawsuit promotes the federal EEOC definition: "...moral or ethical beliefs as to what is right and wrong which are sincerely held with the strength of traditional religious views."

The problems with the appellate court's ruling are that: (1) Generally, the government is not allowed to set any definition of religion which tests the religion's reasonableness. If you do not want the government to treat some religions as favorable and others as not by making a test. (2) Specifically, the 41-page opinion of the court gives a stated preference to "traditional" religions. In context, traditional religions are religions which reflect the Western model of an unknowable supernatural being guiding man. Any religion different to this, subtly or completely, may be ruled not religious enough or at all. If the government later changes the reasonableness test, different religions may be ousted. All religions should oppose state-defined religion. The court actually contradicted itself by explaining that Friedman did assert a "spiritual" foundation (page 3) yet he did not assert a "spiritual" foundation (page 35). The concluding thoughts on page 35 formed the final judgment. For further details of the lawsuit visit http://bestlawyer.com/vegansuit.htm. 

- Courtersy: Jerry Friedman, -Jain Heritage Centres News Service. 

MYSORE JAIN DIRECTORY RELEASE AND THIRD JAIN MATRIMONIAL MEET AT MYSORE

other states introduced themselves to the audience.

Mysore  Jain  Directory: The  Mysore  Jain  Directory  edited  by  Sri.B.S.Prabhakar  Jain  was   released   by Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj on the occassion. This directory gives the address and phone numbers of almost all the Jains  residing  in Mysore. It  also  gives  the   information   of  the   Dharmashalas in India and important Jain pilgrim places of Karnataka. Those who are interested in having the directory can contact Email- info@jainheritagecentres.com  - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

DOCUMENTARY ON REBIRTH BY DR.RAWAT

Indore (Madhya Pradesh), October 15: The belief in rebirth is found in Jainism and other religions since ancient times. There is an plausible information of more that five hundred incidences of rebirth available with Dr. Keerthi Swaroop Rawat of Indore. Who has indulged himself in its quest. Mr. Rawat says that the first ever scientific evidence of rebirth with tenable evidences was available in 1923 was envisaged by Sham Sunderlal the dewan of Kishangad in Rajasthan. However its mention is also found in the earlier epics. Dr. Ian Steweston of America studied extensively about the available evidences of it.  

Dr. Rawat and his wife Vidya have indulged themselves in the exploration of Rebirth since 35 years. They have established "The International Centre for Rebirth and Life" and have found extensive evidences of it. Recently Dr. Rawat has published third work on rebirth named "Rebirth - A Scientific Analysis". At present M.P.R. Films and Television Company of Germany has come forward to produce a "Documentary Film on Rebirth" with the help of Dr. Rawat. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.     

1100TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF PAMPA TO BE CELEBRATED ALL OVER KARNATAKA

Bangalore (Karnataka), October 1: The government of Karnataka has evolved an elaborate scheme to celebrate the 1100th birth Anniversary of Pampa, the first poet in Kannada. Pampa known for his two renowned classic works namely "Adipurana" and "Vikramarjunavijaya", is considered as a great poet by the literary critics and the followers of the religion through the country. His saying "Humanity is one which will cherish for ever" is acknowledged in its supremacy. Adipurana is a credibility to Adinata the first tirthankara of Jainism. It emphasis with the values of sacrifice in the quest of salvation. His other work Vikramarjunavjaya depicts the story of Mahabharata with Karna as its hero. Here he compares Arjuna with King Arikesari who sheltered him.

In this connection the government of Karnataka has constituted the state committee with Smt. Rani Sathish minister of state, Kannada and Culture, Karnataka Government as its president. The other members of the committee include Dr. G.S.Shivarudrappa, Dr.H.J.Lakkappagowda (Vice Chancellor, Kannada University, Hampi), Dr. Chidananda Murthy, Sri Harikrishna Punaruru (President Kannada Sahitya Parishath), Dr.A.M.Kalburgi, Sri C.Somashekar (Director of the Kannada and Culture Department, Karnataka) and Dr. Kamala Ham. Pa. Na. who was mainly responsible for drawing the attention of the public and the government of Karnataka for the cause. With this the celebrations of the birth anniversary has gained the recognition of the Karnataka Government.

Apart from this various Kannada and Jain organisations of Karnataka have taken initiative in celebrating the anniversary. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service. 

Hassan (Karnataka), September 22: The Hassan district Kannada Sahitya Parishath had organised a function to celebrate the birth anniversary of Pampa under the presence of His Holiness Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj. Bhattarakhaji inaugurated the function by lighting the lamp and said the Pampa is not only an asset to Jainism or Karnataka alone instead he is an asset to the entire world. He called upon the people to take active participation in the propagation of the works of Pampa. Prof. A. Kalegowda the chief speaker of the function said that though the works of Pampa were written during the 10th century they find their relevance even to this day.   Many poets read out their poems written on Pampa and Sri Madanagowda said that the Hassan district Kannada Sahitya Parishath  will organize function in each an every taluks of Hassan District to celebrate the event.

Bangalore, October 15: Sri Harikrishna Punaruru , President of Kannada Sahitya Parishath in a news release has said that The Kannada Sahitya Parishath would take initiative to celebrate the event in all the 27 districts of Karnataka and as well in every taluk of Karnataka. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

GOLDEN JUBILEE OF  SRI SHRAMANA SANGH AT SADRI

Sadri (Rajasthan), September 18: The golden Jubilee celebrations of the Sri Shramana Sangh was organised at Sadri in Rajasthan by the Sadri sangh. It can be recalled here that the Shramana Sangh was constituted at Sadri in the year 1952 with a view of providing a common platform for all the Acharyas, Sadhus, Sadhvis and Shravaks and Shravikas of the Sthanakwasi Jain Samaj . Its a matter of pride for the Sadri sangh for hosting the golden Jubliee function says a member of the Sadri sangh. About 10000 members from all over the country gathered in the celebrations and elaborate arrangements were made for the convenience of the delegates. After the Golden  Jubliee celebrations at night a "Kavi Sammellan" was organised, where in Jain poets from all over the country read out their poems. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

RS. 47.87 CRORE GRANTS FROM CENTRAL GOVERNMENT

New Delhi, October 1: In connection with the celebrations of the 2600th Janma Kalyan of Bhagawan Mahavir the Union government of India had approved to released a sum of Rs. 100 crore for the various developmental works in Jainism. Among them a sum of Rs.47.87 has been released for the year 2001-02 and 2002-03. The various projects that would be benefited from this amount are:

 CAUVERY MARCH BY JAIN SAMAJ

5TH INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON SCIENCE IN JAINA SCRIPTURES

Pratapgarh (Rajasthan), October 14: A seminar on Science in Jaina Scriptures was organized from 11-14 October 2002 at Pratapgarh in the state of Rajasthan, India. About fifty research papers and invited lectures were presented by eminent scholars from different parts of India. The papers covered various subjects like Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Medical and Health Science, Doctrine of Karma, Astrology, Astronomy, Architecture, Environmental Science, Axiom of Relativity (Anekantvad & Syadvad),Psychology, etc. as related to Jaina Scriptures.

The seminar began with a talk on Scientific Spiritualism by Dr. Pranav Pandya, Chancellor of Deva Sanskriti Vishwavidhyalaya, International Gayatri Pariwar, Shantikunj, Haridwar, in the opening session. Awards, Prizes and Honours were given by Justice Guman Mal Lodha, Chairman, Animal Welfare Board, Government of India, in the closing session. A total of sixteen sessions was held over four days of seminar duration with each session ll being chaired by eminent scholars. In addition to this Revered Acharya Shri Kanaknandi Gurudev, the moving force behind this seminar, addressed the participants and presented his views on Science and Religion.

-Courtesy laxmizaveri@yahoo.com

THIRD CONVENTION OF MAHARASHTRA JAIN ITIHAS PARISHAD

Mumbai (Maharashtra), October 4: After successful convention at Nasik (2001) and Bhatkuli-Amaravati (2002), Third Convention of Maharashtra Jain Itihas Parishad will be held on 25th and 26th January 2003 at Kankavali in Sindhudurg district in South Konkan (Maharashtra). This region was ruled by Jain Kings (Shilahars) and there are many interesting places including ancient Jain Mandirs to visit in this area. Kankavali is central place for Konkan, South Maharashtra, Goa and Karnatak. You can reach Kankavali by train from Mumbai and Goa or by bus from all major cities of Western Maharashtra and North Karnataka and Goa.

Those who wish to participate in the convention can contact Mahavir Sanglikar at email msanglikar@yahoo.com  or by phone call on 0251-404149 (Shrenik Annadate, Editor: Teerthankar). -News Courtesy: Mahavir Sanglikar

OPENING OF NEW SLAUGHTER HOUSES DISAPPROVED

The Planning Commission of India has announced its disapproval for starting 65,000 new slaughter houses in the country with the objective of increasing meat-exports. The Commission has made it clear that it has no intention to allow any new slaughter-houses during the tenth five year plan period.

Muni Shri ChandraShekhar Vijayji, who was ready to sacrifice his life against this plan, and Gumanmalji played a major role in motivating the Jain community to protest against this. The pressure mounted from Harin Pathak, union minister of India, vice president of India- Bhairosingh Shekhawat and Planning Commission deputy chair person, K.C. Pant compelled the Planning Commission to disapprove the opening of new slaughter houses.

- Jain Heritage Centres News Service. 

SRI NIRMAL KUMAR SETHI RE-ELECTED AS PRESIDENT OF ALL INDIA DIGAMBAR JAIN MAHASABHA

Udaipur (Rajasthan), August 18: Sri Nirmal Kumar Sethi was reelected as the president of the All India Digambar Jain Mahasabha (Dharma Samrakshan). Sri Gajraj Gangwala and Sri Chainroop Bakliwal were elected as vice president and general secretary respectively. Nirmal Kumarji will also continue to work as the president of the All India Digambar Jain Mahasabha (Tirth Samrakshan), All India Digambar Jain Mahasabha Charitable Trust and All India Digambar Jain Educational board. The elections were consucted in the presence of Acharya 108 Sri Vardhman Sagar Ji Maharaj and Head Ganani Aryika 105 Sri Suparshwamati Mataji. Speaking on the occassion Sri Nirmal Kumarji said that he would work hard to increase the corpus fund amount of the All India Digambar Jain Mahasabha (Dharma Samrakshan) to Rs.10 crore. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

SRI NEMICHANDJI CHOUPADA ELECTED AS PRESIDENT OF THE ALL INDIA SHWETAMBAR STHANAKWASI JAIN CONFERENCE

Sadri (Rajasthan), September 19: At a controversial meeting of the Sthanakwasi Jain Conference Sri Nemichandji Choupada of Pali has been elected as the president of the All India Swethambar Sthanakwasi Jain Conference. At the beginning of the elections there were four contenders for the post and when two of them withdrew their nominations finally  Nemichandji Choupada and Sri Neminathji Jain of Indore were left in the fray. The controversy began when either of the two contenders rejected the proposal of the members of the sangh to withdraw from the fray and there by avoide the elections. As the election time neared the controversy took its peak when the supporters of the two contenders started blaming each other. Later the time of voting was postponed from 1 P.M. to 2.30 P.M. but there was no change in the situation with the police entering in the middle to calm down the people. When supporters of both the factions did not calm down the voting time was again postponed to 4 P.M. This controversy went on till 7.15 in the evening and finally Sri Nemichandji Choupada was declared at the President. The other contender for the post Sri Neminathji Jain collected the signatures of the members and said that the elections were not fair and he would go to the court to seek justice. - Courtesy Sri B.A.Kailashchand Jain, - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.          

ARTICLES INVITED FOR JAINA SOUVENIR

The 12th biennial convention of the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) will be held in Cincinnati, Ohio from July 3-6, 2003 with the theme as Jainism: the Art of Living.  On this occasion a Souvenir book, consisting of articles on various aspects of Jainism is scheduled to be published. In connection with this articles not longer than 1500 words, in English, Hindi, or Gujarati from the topics suggested in the enclosed list are invited. 

The articles should be new, encompass the convention theme, and should not have been previously published.  All of the articles will be reviewed and the accepted articles will be edited by an editorial board to maintain uniformity of format and flow of the language.  However, the articles submitted by scholars will also be judged based on their novelty, creativity, the message of the article, and the convention theme.  The author(s) (excluding monks) of the best and second best articles will be given a cash prize of $301.00 and $201.00, respectively, along with a plaque.  The articles selected for publication in the book will become the property of JAINA.  The unpublished articles will not be returned to their authors.

Writers can return the acceptance form, to indicate their willingness to submit an article, by November 7, 2002, in the self addressed envelope attached for your convenience.  Final transcript is due by December 31, 2002. 

Information for Authors

·  Manuscript should be submitted in the final form.

·  The author(s) must include his (their) name(s) and address(es) on the first page of the manuscript just below the article title.

·  The manuscript should be typed in double-space, on one side of the page, using 8.5x11 in. white paper.

·  It is recommended to use MS Word to prepare the manuscript.

·  Please send a 3.5 in. diskette along with the manuscript in MS Word format.

·  The paper and the acceptance form to submit an article can be e-mailed at: vinod.jain@notes.udayton.edu.

·  The recommended length of the text is 1500 words.

Those who are willing to submit their articles for the Souvenir are requested to complete and return this Form to:

Dr. Vinod K. Jain

1045 Hyde Park Dr.

Dayton, OH 45429

Phone:  (937) 435-9950

E-mail:  vinod.jain@notes.udayton.edu

Title:_____________________________________________________

Summary (If possible):

Author (s)___________________________________________________

Affiliation__________________________________________________

ADDRESS__________________________________________________

Phone _____________________Fax______________________________

E-mail_____________________________________________________

NEW TELEVISION CHANNEL JIN AASTHA

To spread the preachings, thoughts and philosophies of Jainism on an enduring, ongoing, concrete basis a new 24 hour satellite television is being planned under the name of 'Jin Aastha'. Initially the channel will be available on ‘C-Band’ throughout Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia.

'Jin Aastha' will be a chaste platform on which all organizations constituent of the universal Jain Sangh can congregate. 'Aastha Trust has stepped in to sponsor programs of 'Jin Aastha' and will actively support the channel. Aastha Trust initially proposes enlisting contributions from 51 financially sound individuals or organizations of an amount of Rs. 10 Lakhs each being contribution and co-sponsorship towards the cause of 'Jin Aastha' . - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

TWO LAKHS PEOPLE CONVERTED TO JAINISM IN TWO YEARS

Chhoteudepur, (Vadodara District), Gujarat: Forget the conversions to Christianity. Forget, also, the re-conversions by the champions of Hindutva. It is Jainism which is fast growing into a major religion among Adivasis of the Vadodara and Panchmahals districts of Gujarat, thanks to vigorous campaign by a number of Jain organisations, all belonging to the Shwetamber sect. Though Christian missionaries and various Hindu religious sects, like the Swaminarayan, Jay Yogeshwar, Pragat Purushottam, Ramanand, and Kabir Panthi sects, and the Swadhyaya Parivar have been active in the area for many decades, lately Jainism has been attracting more and more converts.

According to a rough estimate of the Jain missionaries, more than two lakh Adivasis in Chhotaudepur, Jetpur Pavi, Naswadi, and Sankheda talukas of the Vadodara district, and Halol and Jambughoda talukas of the Panchmahals district have embraced Jainism in the last six years. As many as 60 Jain temples have come up, and religious schools are running in 40villages to teach the neo-converts.

What began as a de-addiction and vegetarian movement 40 years ago, with the efforts of an Adivasi convert to Jainism, Jain Indradin Suri of Salpura village in Jetpur Pavi taluka, has now transformed into  "a Jain missionary movement'', says Purushottam K. Jain, manager of the Parmar Kshatriya Jain Dharma Pracharak Sabha of Bodeli. The Sabha is one of the two local organisations involved in conversion activities. The other is the Parmar Kshatriya Jain Seva Samaj at Pavagadh in the Panchmahals. The Vijay Vallabh Mission Trust of Ludhiana in Punjab is also active here. Its main functionary in the adivasi belt is Yashobhadra Vijayji Maharaj. Jain businessmen from all over the country, especially the Oswals of Ludhiana, regularly visit the area, according to neo-Jains.

What is the attraction of Jainism for the tribals? It is the anti-addiction and non-violent teachings of the faith which have impressed the tribals, replies deputy mamlatdar of Chhotaudepur Parsinh NarsinhRathwa, who has himself converted to Jainism. Rathwa says the tribals regard Jainism as ``a reform movement''. Dharamsheel Rathwa, a neo-Jain of Kavra village, 25 kms away from Chhotaudepur, says that alcoholism and frequent infighting in the clans, combined with ignorance and ancient evil practices, had damaged the social fabric of Adivasi society. This has been checked to a great extent amongst neo-Jains and improved their quality of life, he said.

Thirty-two-year old Varsinh Mandubhai Rathwa of Sajwa village in Jetpur Pavi taluka, who embraced Jainisim three years ago, agreed with Dharamsheel. "There is more peace in life now,'' he said, adding there is no protest from fellow Adivasis against Jainism. According to Ganjbhai Kanbhai Rathwa, the Jain priest in Kavra, as many as 50 families of his village embraced Jainisim two years ago, and an 18-year-old youth and two children of 12 and 10 years, respectively, were ordained into priesthood recently. More than 100 families in Sankad, Asar and Kaidawat villages in Kawant taluka also embraced Jainism recently.

The visible symbols of the fledgling religion are also there. A big temple has come up in Salpura village near Bodeli and another temple and a `upasray' on gram panchayat land in Kavra village at a cost of Rs 20 lakh. Yet another temple is proposed to be built soon in Tejgadh, said a Jain businessman in Chhotaudepur. A colony, named Mahaveer Nagar, too, has come up in the interiors of the tribal belt along Bodeli-Kawant Road. -News Courtesy: Mahavir Sanglikar, Pune, msanglikar@yahoo.com 

SPECIAL POSTAL COVER ON MAHATMA GANDHIJI AND SRIMAD RAJACHANDRA

On the occasion of 133rd Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, a special cover has been issued by the Indian Postal Department on 2-10-2002 at Patna. This special cover is also related to JAINISM. On the special cover, two pictures are printed. In first picture Gandhiji is sitting with renowned Jain spiritual Saint Shrimad Rajchandraji and in second picture Gandhiji is sitting with famous poet Gurudeo Ravindranath Tagore. Significance of these two pictures are - Before going to U.K. for higher studies, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi met with Jain spiritual Saint Shrimad Ramchandraji who taught him about TRUTH & NON-VIOLENCE which led him to be a "MAHATMA". On 18th Feb. 1940 Gandhiji and Baa visited Shantiniketan where Guru Ravindranath Tagore addressed his for the first time as "MAHATMA".

Indian Postal Department also provided a special cancellation on this cover which bears most beloved slogan of Mahatma Gandhi "ISHWAR ALLAH TERO NAAM, SABKO SANMATI DE BHAGWAN".Shri Naresh Kumar Jain and Shri Pradip Jain of Patna were instrumental in issuance of this special cover. -Sudhir Jain, mrsudhirjain@yahoo.com, mrsudhirjain@hotmail.com

CONFERENCE ON SPIRIT MATTERS

Rabbi Lerner has been described as one of America's preeminent Jewish intellectuals, and is one of our most visionary thinkers. He is the author of Spirit Matters – Global Healing and the Wisdom of the Soul and edits Tikkun Magazine (www.tikkun.org). The cost of the seminar (Including catering) is £ 55 / £ 25 unwaged. For further information contact Tel: 0207-624-1123, Fax: 0207-624-1124, WWW.spiritmatters.info . 

- News Courtesy, enquires@youngjains.org.uk

2ND JAIN21 CONVENTION IN FEBRUARY 2003

BHAKTAMARA ARADHANA FOR THE 48TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH

Kambadahalli (Mandya District, Karnataka), September 7: For the 48th consecutive month the Bhaktamara Aradhana Mahotsav was conducted at Kambadahalli under the guidance of His Holiness Swasti Sri Bhanukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj. The aradhana for he record 48th month was conducted on the September 7th in the presence of His Holiness Sri Bhattarakha Maharaj. It can be recalled here that this aradhana Mahotsav has been conducted from the past 48 months (4 years). - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.  

IDOL OF BHAGAWAN PARSHWANATH UNEARTHED

Kambadahalli (Mandya District, Karnataka), September 7:  A five feet high idol of Bhagawan Parshwanath has been unearthed at Government High School Grounds of Kambadahalli. This kayotsarga idol was found during the excavation works of the  ground. Sri Bhanukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Jain Muth, Kambadahalli has taken measures for protection of the idol.  - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

A JAIN JOURNEY INTO THE PAST

Mira Kamdar, the best selling author of "Motiba's Tattoos" will visit U.K. to launch the book "A Jain Journey Into the Past" october 21st at the London School of Economics. The book is 'a fascinating tale of two women separated by personal history, geography and time but bound by family ties and mutual affection', said The Washington Postin its review about the book. It was recently awarded The Washington State Book Award for 2002. Mira Kamdar is a Jain by birth and the book refers to her family's roots in India, Burma and finally America. Young people who have read it have found it tremendously interesting and inspiring, visit  http://www.motibastattoos.com for more information. - sales@hcdonline.co.uk

JCYC WINTER CAMP

JCYC winter camp for the year 2002 will be held from Friday, December 27, to Monday, December 30, 2002; three nights and four days. The campsite has been reserved at Yucaipa Camp site. Children aged 9 and above are eligible to participate in the Camp. The Camp is open to JCYC and all other children of the Jain community. A non-refundable contribution of $125 per child is being requested for the camp. For further details contact: Sailes Jain at 714-529-5874 or e-mail: sailesjain@aol.com. - Courtesy jaincenter@hotmail.com

PRESIDENT OF STHANAKWASI JAIN CONFERENCE - ANDHRA PRADESH

JAIN MILAN PALACE CITY BRANCH INAGURATED

Sadhvi Sri Nirdoshvani: disciple of Shri Kushagranandiji Maharaj left for her heavenly abode at the age of 103 years at Delhi. She had taken 'santhara' prior to her death on the 25th July. The procession carrying her body in a palanquin was attended by thousands of followers from Jain community at Delhi. -jainsamaj.org

Balabhahmacharini Sadhvi Sri Sheetalkumvarji M.S.: Disciple of Sadhvi Sri Sayarkumvarji M.S. of the Anandrishiji Sampraday left for te heavenly abode on the 22nd of September at Raichur in Karnataka. She had been suffering from serious illness from the past several weeks and was not responding properly for any medical aid.  

Sri Madanlalji Vaid: Sri Madanlalji Vaid president of Sri Swethambar Sthanakwsi Jain Sangh and trustee of Sri Adinath Bhavan Mylapore - Chennai, breathed his last breath at the  age of 68 on 31 August at Chennai. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.

Huncha (Karnataka), October 15: The Navarathri Pooja Mahotsav was conducted from the 7th to 15th of October at the Jain Atishayakshetra Huncha under the guidance of Swasti Sri Devendrakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj. A special religous meet was arranged on the 13th of october to celebrate the Jevadayashtami.

Shedabala (Karnataka), October 15th: The Navarathri (or the Dasara) Pooja Mahotsav was organised at Shedabala under the guidance of His Holiness Acharya Sri Subalsagarji Maharaj from the 7th of october to 13th of october. Along with the pooja mahotsav on each day special aradhana's were arranged. On 15th Kshullika Sri Brahmimathi Mataji was confered the Aryika diksha and Balabrahmachari Sri Lakkappa Annappa Nandagao was given the Muni Diksha.

On the 15th october a special function was organised to commemorate the 87th birth day of Acharya Sri Subhala Sagarji Maharaj. On the occassion the guruvandana and the religious functions were arranged. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.    

Saturday 19th October 2002 - Workshop on The Philosophy of Karma in Jainism at New Jersy.

Sunday 20th October 2002 - Workshop on The Essence of World Religions at New Jersy.

Monday 21st October 2002 - Birth day of Acharya Vidyasagarji Maharaj.

Wednesday 23rd October 2002 - Garbha Kalyanak of Bhagawan Neminath Swami.

Tuesday 29th October 2002 - Birth day of Acharya Vimalsagarji Maharaj.

Sunday 3rd November 2002 - Naraka Chaturdasi, Brahma Pooja.

Monday 4th November 2002 - Chaturmas Visarjan, Dhanalakshmi Pooja, Kevalagnana and Janma Kalyanak of Bhagawan Neminath Swami.

Tuesday 5th November 2002 - Deepavali

Wednesday 6th November 2002 - Kevalagnana Kalyanak of Bhagawan Pushpadanth.

Tuesday 12th November 2002 - Beginning of Asthanika Vrata.

Saturday 16th November 2002- Kevalagnana Kalyanak of Bhagawan Aranath.

Tuesday 19th November 2002- Janma Kalyanak of Bhagawan Shambavanath.

Wednesday 20th November 2002 - Garbha Kalyanak of Bhagawan Anantanath Swami.

Sunday 24th November 2002 - Kevalagnana Kalyanak of Bhagawan Shambavanath, Laksha Deepotsav at Karkala.

Tuesday 26th November 2002 - Rathautsav at Dahigao.

Additions as on 15th October 2002

A DETAILED COVERAGE OF THE 53RD MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA OF BHAGAWAN BAHUBALI AT GOMMATAGIRI WITH PHOTOS

(Also includes the rare photo of the then Maharaja of Mysore viewing the Masthakabhishekha)

Photo Gallery:

Photographs of the Jain Temples in Karnataka. (Includes photos of the Kundari hill - The hill where Acharya Kunda Kundaji had meditated)

·  Jain Chaturmas Directory 2002.

·  Updates of many more Jain Pilgrim places in India.

·  Photos of many more ascetics and sadhvis.