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

Vol.3      Issue 10

February 2005

Editorial

BHAGAWAN SRI SUPARSHWANATHA

     Sri Suparshwanatha tirthankara is the seventh in the series of 24 prophets of Jainism. He was born in Varanasi (Benaras) and belonged to Ikshvaku genre. His parents were Supratishta Maharaj of Kashi kingdom and the queen Pruthvishenadevi. The king Supratishta hailed from the genre of Rishaba tirthankara. The puranas reveal the matter of fiction that Pruthvishenadevi dreamt of herself lying on the entwined coils of a divine serpent during her pregenancy. and hence the name Suparshwanatha. He pursued penance under the shade of a Sirisa (bage tree). He attained kaivalya in Sammedha Shikarji in Prabhasa kuta (tonk) in kayotsarga.

     Swastik was his symbol. It is interesting to note that symbol swastik also signifies the identity of snake and inclination towards worshipping snake God. The presence of serpent hood above his head and its number has been interpreted in various ways. There exists no tenable and direct relationship between the life of Suparshwa and the serpent hood. The number of Snake heads also has resulted in varied versions in different canonical works. It ranges from one to nine. Suparshwa idols found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu ussually show the serpent hood with five heads. Many more idols of this type are found in northern, western and eastern India. Varanandi and Kali are regarded as the yaksha and yakshi of Suparshwanatha. It is also mentioned that Matanga is the Yaksha of Suparshwanatha having a facet of Varaha (pig).

     Suparshwanatha is fully considered as a mythological figure with the note that his life span was 2 crores 30 lakhs and body height of 200 bows, an astonishing description indeed.

     An abounding literature about Suparshwanatha is available in Prakrit, Sanskrit, Kannada and Tamil literature. Lakshanagani's Suvasanacharya (A.D. 1199) has about 1000 stanzas on Suparshwanatha. Srimad Gunabadhracharya's Uttarapurana vividly depicts the life of Suparshwa. It is surprising to note that Maganandi's Shastrasarasamuchhaya doesn't contain the name of Suparshwa in the list of Tirthankara's belonging to Ikshvaku genre. However it mentions his name in the Ugravamsha. The references about Suparshwa are found in the compositions of Devasuri and Vibudhacharya. Above all Suparshwa is cited in Yajurveda.

     The image of Suparshwanatha resembles that of Parshwanatha tirthankara sculpturally and to some extent regarding the genre and the place of attainment of nirvana.

-Dr. H.A.Parshwanath

TABLEAUX ON MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA AT REPUBLIC DAY PARADE

New Delhi, January 26: The tableaux on the theme  "Mahamasthakabhishekha of Lord Bahubali" was presented by the Government of Karnataka at the Republic day parade held at New Delhi. This was presented with an intension of popularising the Mahamasthakabhishekha of Lord Bahubali scheduled to be held at Shravanabelagola in 2006. Spell bound by the beauty of the presentation the audience gave a rousing welcome all through out its journey from the Rashtrapathi Bhavan to the Red fort through the Rajpath. The president and prime minister of India, senior diplomats, politicians and dignitaries from India and abroad witnessed the colourful parade. Crores of people witnessed the event through the direct telecasts in the television. Impressed by the theme and the way of presentation the juries judged this as the best tableaux and awarded the first prize. This is the first time in the 56 years history of the Republic day parades that a tableau from Karnataka has bagged the first prize.

     This tableaux was made at a cost of Rs.17 Lakhs. The entire tableau and the 11 feet idol of Lord Bahubali was designed and created by artist Sri P.Kalachar from Holalkere in Karnataka. Sri Kalachar is one of the renowned artists and is the recipient of the coveted Jakanachari award and the Karnataka state Rajyotsava awards. Artists Raghu and Selvam assisted Mr.Kalachar in the project. An arrangement for 20 litres of milk, turmeric water and vermilion in different tanks were kept in the trolley on which they were mounted. An arrangement of self operated motor was made so that all the three liquids would be poured one after the other on the idol without interruption. This provided a feeling of joy and happiness of witnessing a live event among the people.

      A team of priests lead by Sri Nandakumar from Shravanabelagola walked in front of the tableau through out its length. They carried the Kalashas with them and chanted the holy hymns of Jainism. This added more life to the presentation. Their presentation wearing the dothis, angavastra and the Mysore trubans in the biting cold of Delhi was applauded.

     The ministry of information and broadcasting of the Government of Karnataka had taken the responsibility of creating this tableau. Sri B.Shivaram the minister for information and broadcasting has said that this tableaux would be kept at Shravanabelagola during the Mahamasthakabhishekha in 2006. 

Dharam Singh Expresses Happiness: Sri N.Dharam Singh the chief minister of Karnataka has expressed his happiness by hearing that the tableaux presented by his Government has bagged the first place. He has commended the work of all the artists and the team members.

CHARUKEERTHIJI FELICITATES TEAM MEMBERS

Bangalore (Karnataka), February 6: A special function was organised at Shravanabelagola to felicitate the efforts of the team members. Swastisri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj the Pontiff of the Shravanabelagola Jain Mutt graced the occasion and felicitated them. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

BIRTH CENTENARY OF Dr. A.N.UPADHYE

Belgaum (Karnataka), January 23: The preparations for celebrating the Birth Centenary of Dr.A.N.Upadhye from February 6th 2005 throughout the year have been under taken in a swift manner. Prof. Chandrashekar Patil the president of Kannada sahitya Parishath announced this at a function organised to confer the Chavundaraya Award on Dr.B.K.Kadabadi at Belgaum. He cited that the celebrations would be conducted by Kannada Sahitya Parishad, Bangalore. The meritorius contribution of Dr.Upadhye to Jainism and Kannada literature was recollected by Sri Patil. He called upon the other Kannada and Jain organisations to involve actively in the celebrations. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service 

CHAVUNDARAYA AWARD

Belgaum (Karnataka), January 23: The coveted Chavundaraya award - 2004 was conferred on Dr.B.K.Kadabadi the research laurate in Jainism. The award is instituted in Kannada Sahitya Parishad by Shravanabelagola Jain Muth to mark the Mahamasthakabhishekha celebration held in 1993. The award carries a cash of 2 lakhs with citation. Dr.B.K.Kadabadi is the retired professor of Jainiology in Karnataka University. The award was present by Sri Shantappanna Mirji the senior cooperative leader of the state. Dr.B.V.Shiroor and S.P.Patil recollected the works of Dr.Kadabadi in English, Kannada, Marathi and Hindi. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

SAHASRAPHANI PARSHWANATHA IDOL CONSECRATED AT KUNTHUGIRI

Alathe (Kunthugiri, Kolhapur District, Maharashtra), February 13: The Panchakalyana pratishta mahotsav of Bhagawan  Sahasraphani Parshwanatha was held from 4th to 13th February, 2005 at Kunthugiri (Alathe) in Kolhapur district at the behest of Sri Ganadhipathi Ganadharacharya 108 Sri Kunthusagarji Maharaj. The idols of Yaksha Dharanendra and Yakshi Padmavathi, Manasthambha, Guru mandir, Agama mandir, Kshetrapala Mandir, Sahasrakuta Chaityalaya, Muni Nivas, Tyagivrati Ashram, Acharya Sri Srui nivas, Acharya Sri Mahaveerakerthi sabha mantap and offices are constructed in this environment. Besides this some more constructions including 24 tonks (kutas), the replica of Kailash Parvat and dharmashala consisting of 100 rooms and also eye clinic will be undertaken. The mahotsav was be held in the presence of about 200 tyagis under the direction of Sri Devasena Maharaj and other acharyas will be present on the occasion. This tirth a unique of its kind and form has been developed under the guidance of Ganadharacharya 108 Sri Kunthusagarji Maharaj. The uniqueness of the idol of Bhagawan Parshwanath that has been consecrated here is its 1008 hoods. These types of idols which have 1008 hoods are popularly called as the Sahasraphani idols. The another idol of Lord Parshwanatha in India that is found with 1008 hoods is the one at Bijapur in Karnataka. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

JAIN DOCTOR'S INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE JAN'-2005
AN AMALGAMATION OF SCIENCE AND SPIRITUALITY FOR QUALITY LIVING

Mumbai (Maharashtra), January 9: More than 2,000 Jain Doctors from 6 countries and 22 states gathered at the Terapanth Bhavan on Saturday and Sunday, January 8 and 9, 2005, at the Second Jain Doctors' International Conference. The two day event, titled, ''Science and spirituality for Global Peace' was a memorable meet of eminent Doctors, erudite Jain scholars and experts who enlightened people with their scientific knowledge interspersed with a touch of spirituality.
     It was a unique event as the four sects of the Jains and Doctors from all over gathered under one umbrella. Acharya Padmasagarsuriji, Acharya Pushpadantsagarji,Pujya Kamalmuniji Kamlesh,Sadhvi Vidyavatiji addressed the audience. Said,Acharya Padmasagarji, to the enthusiastic audience, "A Sadhu is also a Doctor, and  right food is the best medicine. Just as the doctor cures diseases, a Sadhu too helps to guide the aspirant and show the true path to a better living".
     Naya Padmasagarji gave excellent discourses and said that love, brotherhoodness,  benevolence [paropkar] are the highest form of religion, the most essential virtue that every Jain should bear in mind.
On the first day of the Conference, Smt. Indu Jain -Chairperson of Times Foundation inaugurated the function by lighting the lamp and inspired the audience to convert the passion for their profession into compassion for the sick and needy.
     Mr. A. P. Srivastava , Post Master General  released a special cover to commemorate the occasion. The other prominent guests present at the occasion were Shri Prakash Jain, Mr. Khyali Tated,Mr. Vijaybhai Mehta.
Eminent speakers in their respective fields of medicine enlightened  the audience on attaining - physical, mental and  spiritual health. Dr. M. M. Begani and Dr. Sudhir Shah conducted the scientific session on both days very smoothly.
     Renowned physician Dr. Farokh Udwadia spoke in detail about the "ETHICS IN MEDICINE" and emphasized that the Principles of Jainism run Parallel to the Ethics in Medicine, and that it is the duty of every doctor to work for the welfare of mankind with MINIMUM possible Violence. He should abide by truth and be Just to his patient.
Padmabhushan awardee Mr. Muzaffar Hussain spoke on," WORLD PEACE BY JAINISM" and stressed that World peace can be achieved only by following the principles of Jainism Jainism is not only a medical science but the a ladder to obtain World peace . If Science had really progressed, the recent  Tsunami Disaster would never have occurred ?
     Renowned physician,Dr. Nitin Shah from USA spoke on, " ANIMAL CRUELTY IN MEDICAL RESEARCH", and laid stress on having  a humanitarian approach towards mankind and animals ,and use the Ahinsak Padhati in medicine. Innocent animals should not be killed for selfish purposes, he added. The principle of Non-violence must be observed.
     Mrs. Raksha Shah presented a paper on '' PRATIKRAMANA-THE HOLISTIC HEALER'. She said that rituals like Pratikramana is a SPIRITUAL TONIC needing no prescription, having no side-effects, it rather benefits the OBSERVER,and PURIFIES his thoughts ultimately resulting in good deeds to reduce stress that is responsible for diseases like B.P, Cardiac Problems,Cancer and AIDS. She quoted President Jimmy Carter who said, "Forgiving is one of the most difficult things for a human being to do, but putting yourself in the position of the other person, and understanding him would help in wiping away  resentment ''.
     Dr. Sudhir Shah spoke on, " JAINISM -A SUPER SCIENCE ''and said  that all the Jain textbooks are full of science.His message to all Jain doctors was to keep faith and be dedicated to their religion and spread knowledge for global welfare. "Jainism has described the principles of Physics in details and depth. The theory of Relativity, Law of Conservation of Energy, the Structure of Atom, etc has been described in  Scriptures  at length. We have to come forward and unravel the mystery", he added.
Shri  Anoop  Vora President of JAINA, USA spoke on the UNIQUE PRINCIPLES OF JAINISM" and gave an overview on the principles of  Non violence, Anekantwad and non possessiveness which can help live amicably, in harmony with all. Dr. Hemraj Chandalia explained how the serious killer disease, diabetes could be controlled by observing the principles laid down by Lord Mahavira. The  change in lifestyle by way of observing the vows like eating less [ Unodari] , etc and having a self restrained behaviour could go a long way to prevent it.
     The 2nd day of the conference was inaugurated by the Chief Guest , Dr. B. K. Goyal  lit the lamp . Dr. Kewal P. Jain had given an audiovisual presentation on the need of spirituality in scientific endeavors.  He also talked about the need of JDF in present context.
     Dr. Praful Desai who spoke on science, medicine and religion said that true religion is actually the good deeds performed by an individual. Dr. B. Hegde- pointed out that the main cause of  diseases is hatred, hostility and frustration. Shri Chitrabhanuji spoke on the need to heal ourselves and then in turn heal others. Dr . Natubhai Shah who came from UK gave an international perspective of Jainism whereas Dr. Praful Desai who spoke on science, medicine and religion said that true religion is actually the good deeds performed by an individual.
Dr. Ashwin Mehta said  that prevention of heart diseases should begin in childhood and be followed by a vegetarian diet ,and a diet low in salt to prevent  Coronary artery diseases and hypertension.  The various Tapas, like Ayambil, Updhan,Varsitap would help keep a check on diseases.
     Dr. Sharad Shah talked about gastrointestinal diseases and Jain religion and emphasized on the fact that by avoiding Krodh, Man, Maya and Moh we could prevent various ailments like gastric ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome,inflammatory boel diseases. Dr. Dhananjay Gunde from Kolhapur gave a talk on how stress, worries, anger, frustration could destroy  health.
     Dr. Bharat Parmar proposed vote of thanks to all for the success of the conference and declared future projects of JDF Mumbai viz Rs.1,11,111 declared towards research for Ahinsak chikitsa, to start 2 Diagnostic  centres in city of Mumbai for the common people at no profit no loss bases, to honour achievers in the medical field annually students and doctors, to have religious tour of Jain tirth once in a year, to organize seminars for
the member every two month for the knowledge of Jainism by eminent scholars or Maharaj saheb.
     The mission of the two-day Conference, was very well fulfilled. The presence of doctors  from the world over, who promised and joined hands to work together globally for the welfare of the people was a positive gesture. The principles of science, blended with spirituality will go a long way towards the evolution of a value-based society for the welfare of the individual, the society, the nation and the world". - News Courtesy: Raksha Shah

NATIONAL SEMINAR ON SHRAVAKACHAR

Chennai (Tamil Nadu), January 20: A national seminar on 'Shravakachar in Jainism' was organised by the department of Jainology, Madras University. Prof. Tyagarajan the vice chancellor of the Madras University presided over the inaugural function. Sri S.Sripal the president of the Chennai Research Foundation for Jainology inaugurated the seminar. The south zonal branch of the Sri Bharatha Varshiya Digambar Jain Tirth Samrakshini Mahasabha worked towards the success of the seminar. Sri Mahendra K. Jain the president of the mahasabhas south zone was the chief guest. Dr.N.Vasupal the head of the department of Jainology was also present.

     Dr.S.P.Patil from Sangli; Dr.N.Suresh Kumar and Prof. M.A.Shubhachandra from Mysore; Dr.Priya Jain, Prof.K.Ajitdas, Dr.M.Jalendran and Simhachandra Shastry from Chennai; Prof. V.Ashok Kumar Jain from Pondicherry presented their papers on Shravakachar in the seminar. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

Chennai (Tamil Nadu), February 15: South India was indebted to the ideas of Jain preachers on ahimsa and right living and their influence could be found in the South Indian literature, art and architecture, philosophical thought and practices, Tamilnadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala has said. Speaking at the ninth Mahaveer awards day, organised by Bhagwan Mahaveer Foundation (BMF) here, yesterday, he said, 'Lord Mahaveer is Jina, the conqueror. Not that his conquests meant kingdoms but that He conquered obstacles for the realisation of the self.'

     The Mahaveer awards for excellence in Human Endeavour were presented to Siddharaj Dhadda of Rajasthan for non-violence and vegetarianism, Uttarakhand Seva Nidhi Paryavaran Shiksha Sansthan of Uttaranchal for education and medicine, and Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement of Karnataka for community and social service. Praising Jains for their contributions to the fields of education, medicine, trade and industry, the Governor said Jains were philanthropic in nature and very conscious and sensitive to the needs of others.

     Ram Nivas Mirdha, former Union Minister, said many awards were now surrounded by controversies, but here awardees were selected systematically by a jury consisting of prominent personalities in their respective field. N Sugalchand Jain, Managing Trustee, BMF, said these awards had brought into the limelight institutions and individuals that had been bringing about a silent revolution without fanfare and media attention.

        About a special award instituted by the foundation for an outstanding book that perpetuates the philosophy and principles of Jainism and Bhagwan Mahaveer, he said nominations had been called for in both Hindi and English. Though initially a prize money of Rs one Lakh had been announced, the jury decided on Rs 51,000 as the materials received fell short of the standards set by the foundation. Dr Premsuman Jain was chosen for the award for his Hindi book, Jain Dharamki Sanskritik Veerasat. A brochure about the ninth Mahaveer Awards Day was released by Dr L M Singhvi, a jury member. The Mahaveer awards carry a cash component of Rs five lakh each, a commendatory scroll and a statuette. -News Courtesy: Newstoday.net

STUDY OF COPPER PLATES ENVISAGED

Moodabidri (Mangalore District, Karnataka), February 6:  The study of scriptures and inscriptions protected in Ramarani Shoda Bhavan of the Jain Mutt Moodabidri has been undertaken. The Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) has undertaken the project of translating 54 copper plates to begin with. Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Moodabidri aspired that this study showers greater light in the study of history and heritage. He observed that there is an extensive opportunity prevailing to study the scriptures at the Mutt, which bears the reputation of protecting the Prakrit Dhavala Grantha in Kannada letters. Dr.K.V.Ramesh the senior researcher, presiding over the function cited that the foreigners visited coastal lines during the reign of Jaina King Devapandya in 1st century A.D.. He mentioned that a few parts found from the Egyptian sea contained Brahmi inscription and emphasised that more research should be undertaken regarding the matter by studying the inscriptions. Dr.Y.Umanatha Shenoy, the professor in history at Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College, Ujire appealed that one should study the inscriptions of the treatises between  Barkoor Jain kings and the subordinates of Tulunadu by going through the copper plates. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

TAMILNADU CHAPTER OF NATIONAL JAIN DOCTORS FEDERATION INAUGURATED

Chennai (Tamil Nadu), January 31: Now, there are more opportunities for doctors from the Jain community to contribute their mite towards betterment of society and global peace. The Tamilnadu chapter of National Jain Doctors Federation was inaugurated in Chennai yesterday. Dr M J Mehta, president of the federation's Tamilnadu chapter, inaugurating the new chapter, said the federation would offer better scope for Jain doctors to contribute more for the benefit of society.

A presentation on umbilical cord blood stem cell banking and therapy by Dr Saranya Nandakumar, was also arranged on the occasion. Dr Sohan Raj, vice-president of the federation, Dr Prakash Chand Jain, secretary, and Dr Ram, treasurer, were also present on the occasion. - News Courtesy: NewsTodaynet.com

RETIRED LUMINARY BAGS SIX GOLD MEDALS

Mysore (Karnataka), February 1: Age is no bar to reach the goal provided an individual possesses the inherent capacity to preclude the same. Here stands a vivid example where one can be proud of regarding the achievement of a person. Mr.S.P.Vasanthkumar, a graduate in mechanical engineering (1966) has bagged 6 gold medals in M.A. (Jainology and Prakrit), Mysore University. He has also rendered his help in bringing out the technical dictionary in Kannada. The medals were awarded to him by governor Chaturvedi in the recently held convocation at Mysore. He is the father of three daughters and imparts his achievement as gold medalist to his revered teachers. He has set an example to youngsters to follow the foot prints. His achievement after a lapse 40 years from his studentship has stood an example of his determination and dedication to study. His interest in Jainism is amazing and rewarding. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

SEND THIS GIRL BACK

Mumbai (Maharashtra), January 22: The nine-year-old Jain girl, Priyal, ordained as a nun in Mumbai last year, should be sent home to her parents or to a children’s home and allowed to decide if she wants to become a nun only when she turns 18, child psychiatrists have said. Two psychiatrists from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences who examined the girl, now called Preetvarsha Shreeji, living in a Pune convent, said the girl appeared ‘lost and was unsure what diksha meant or the implications it had’. They said while the girl appeared healthy, ‘she performed rituals and recited shlokas, understanding little of what either meant’. “The best place for the child is a nurturing family environment,” said one of the psychiatrists. The psychiatrists met the girl at the behest of the family court on the basis of a plea by lawyer Ravindra Parekh, who wanted to adopt her. They said that after turning 18, the girl could decide if she wanted to be a nun.

“The findings will be studied by the court to decide on the guardianship for the child and the child’s family could be supported financially, if necessary,” said one of the psychiatrists. Priyal’s parents, Santosh Kumar and Seema Bagricha, work as cooks in a town in Madhya Pradesh. The psychiatrists said the mother told them she was happy her daughter had become a nun, but the father cried while speaking to them.

The lawyer representing Chandravadan Jeevanlal Kothari Sangh, the Jain temple trust where Priyal took her vows, declined to comment on the psychiatrists’ findings, saying the matter was sub-judice. “But we have questioned the family court’s authority to interfere in what is essentially a religious matter,” said the lawyer. But Parekh, the lawyer who wants to adopt Priyal, said, “The issue here is not of Bal Diksha but that of the child’s welfare.” - News Courtesy: mid-day.com

ACHARYA PADAROHAN CELEBRATIONS

Kothali (Belgaum District, Karnataka), January 25: The first annual celebration of attaining the status of acharya by Sri Varadatta Maharaj and Sri Devasena Maharaj were held on January 23rd, 2005.  They were conferred with the Acharya title by Late Acharya Sri Subhalasagarji Maharaj who observed Samadhi Maran in Shedabal. Kalpadhruma Aradhana was conducted from January 16th to 25th under the holy guidance of Acharya 108 Sri Varadatta Maharaj. The Gajaratha Mahotsav celebration was also held on the opening day. Besides the regular pooja celebrations held for ten days, there were also the discourses by the Tyagis followed by the cultural programme. Kothali is the place of abode of Acharya 108 Sri Deshabhushana Maharaj. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

QUEEN ABBAKKA’S TRIUMPH OVER WESTERN COLONISERS

- M.K.Dharma Raja

     The renowned Queen Abbakka Devi who ruled over the Ullal region of Dakshina Kannada during the medieval period has over the ages acquired undying fame for her brave defiance of Western invaders.  She belonged to the Jain Dynasty of the Chowtas, who ruled over a wide domain with the temple town of Moodabidri as their headquarters.  Their subsidiary capital was the port town of Ullal on the Arabian Sea Coast.

      Succession in the Chowta dynasty was through the maternal line.  The heir-apparent ruled over the Ullal.  It  was a prosperous port of export of merchandise like pepper, cardamom and other spices grown in the littoral south of the Portuguese colony of Goa.  The Poruguese, the Dutch and the British vied with one another for control of the region. Their aim was colonization through naval supremacy. But the local Chieftains were powerful enough to resist their incursions. They also forged alliances to prevent the foreigners from gaining control over the coastal stretch. The fertile coastal belt thus remained the last bastion of Independence on the West coast during the middle ages. Resistance to alien domination cut across the caste and community lines.

      The Chowta head of the dynasty Thirumala Raya had ensured Abbakka’s proficiency in martial arts and combat strategies through her training before sending her to Ullal, he also taught her the nuances of diplomacy and State-craft.

      As the visitor proceeds to the beach-resort of Ullal to the south of Mangalore, he is attracted to the statue of Abbakka Devi on horseback. The inspiring statue of the Queen with a scimitar in her hand is indeed a reminder of the fearless Queen beckoning her army to fight the hoards of invaders attempting to invade the territory. Her courage in rallying her soldiers to battle against the alien forces had earned her the name of ABHAYA (fearless) Abbakka Devi.

      The Queen’s uncle, Thirumala Raya had forged matrimonial alliance with the powerful head of the Banga dynasty of Mangalore. Abbakka was married to Lakshmappa Arasa, the Mangalore monarch. Mangalore was strategically situated to the north of Ullal across the harbour. The Bangas ruled over a vast area that included Bangawadi at the foot of the Western Ghats and Nandavara on the Netravathi river. The Banga – Chowta alliance was designed as a ploy to deter any aggressors.

      Queen Abbakka Devi also had the foresight to arrive at mutual defence friendship agreement with the Zamorin of Calicut. The Zamorin  was a marked enemy of the Portuguese colonial government in Goa. The Portuguese administration was clearly upset by the Queen’s  tactics. They wanted her to pay them tribute for her alliance with the Zamorin. But paying them tribute would have implied knuckling down to their blandishments. The Queen therefore did not yield to their preposterous threat. That also would have meant conceding their authority over the Arabian Sea-coast. The Queen decided to withstand the threat posed by the foreign depredators. The Portugese administration of Goa sent a formidable naval force down the Arabian Sea to take over Ullal by storming the port. The Queen took up the challenge and met force by force. The battle against the Portuguese invaders took place in 1456 A.D. There was no clear decision in the battle. It ended with an uneasy truce.

      Foiled by Abbakka Devi’s dominance, the Portuguese colonialists sent a much more formidable naval contingent to the Ullal area two years later. The next confrontation with the Queen’s forces followed in 1958. But when the Prouguese fleet led  by Louis DE’ mellow attempted to take over Ullal they were confronted by a strong counter attack by the Queen’s army.  The Portuguese were surprised by the Zamorin’s men who came to the aid of Queen Abbakka. The Arab Moors and the Muslim battallions of Malabar and southern Karnataka were also there to help the Queen’s forces.

      The Portuguese invaders who were rattled then proceeded to go on a spree of sacking and pillaging the Ullal settlement. A number of houses were burnt down in this nefarious venture of indiscriminate plunder. The depredators were, however, stunned with the courageous defiance by the Queen’s soldiers. The Italian chronicler Pietro De’ valle said that the Queen’s astounding feat was on par with that of the British Queen Elizabeth I who defeated the Spanish armada.

      The Portuguese freebooters who were thus beaten back then hit upon the ploy of concluding a trade pact with the Queen. Under the pretext of this arrangement they persisted  with their bullying tactics. The Queen was asked not to strengthen her trade ties with the Zamorin. They also denounced the Queen’s trade agreement with Persia as a hostile act. The Portuguese imperialists sent a demarche to Queen Abbakka asking her to route all trade transactions with other countries through their intermediaries. Portuguese agents should be permitted to set up trade depots at Ullal, they demanded.  But the Queen turned down their plea for any concessions.

      Intrigue and treachery were the other weapons deployed by the Portuguese colonialists. They began resorting to upset Queen Abbakka by plotting discord between her and her husband’s court at Mangalore.

      They also bribed Kama Raya, the ambitious heir-apparent to the throne of Abbakka Devi’s husband, King Lakshmappa Arasa.  The senior counsellors of the Mangalore king’s court were also similarly bought over. The King was served with a stern warning that the Mangalore settlement would be burnt down if he were to help out the Ullal Queen.  The King was thus prevented from sending reinforcements to help his wife Abbakka Devi in the next round of hostilities against the Portuguese invaders.

      Confrontation between Queen Abbakka and the Portuguese continued unabated with the colonial power determined to make inroads into the Indian mainland. They attempted to seize and annex the Ullal territory by overthrowing the Queen. In the year 1481 A.D. the Goa Viceroy Anthony D’ Noronha led the attack against Ullal by an overwhelmingly superior armada. He came to the Ullal sea-front with a large number of battleships and a contingent of 3000 troops.  Launching a pre-dawn surprise attack, the Portuguese mercenaries sneaked into the Ullal settlement. They set upon a rampage of indiscriminate killing, large-scale looting and wanton destruction.

      The Queen who had gone to the Somanatheshwara temple was alerted about the treacherous invasion.   She rushed to the battle-front rallying her forces to fight the enemy in a never-say-die defiance. She sounded the battle-cry of “Save the motherland, fight the invaders on land and the sea and push them back to the waters”.  Abbakka led her men a desperate counter attack in her firm resolve to safeguard the freedom of the motherland to the last breath of her life.

      The indomitable Queen came under a barrage of gunfire and was grievously hurt. Her loyal soldiers carried the Queen away so that the trecherous aliens do not lay their perfidious hands on her. Abbakka Devi was whisked away to the palace. Even as she breathed her last the Queen was heard sighing, “Push them back, throw them into the sea”.  That  was the brave Queen’s swan song. - Article Courtesy: PIB Features

SRI A.N.CHANDRAKEERTHI CONFERRED WITH RATNAKARAVARNI AWARD

Bangalore (Karnataka), January 26: Sri A.N.Chandrakeerthi the well known publishers of Jain literature in Kannada was conferred with the prestigious Mahakavi Ratnakaravarni Award by Dakshina Kannada Jain Federation. Swastisri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Moodabidri, presenting the award, mentioned that that one should read Ratnakaravarni's Bharatesha Vaibhava to gain an insight into the living experiences. He lauded the efforts of Dakshina Kannada Jain Federation in this direction. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

SPECIAL COVER ON SATNA JAIN TEMPLE

Satna (Madhya Pradesh), January 29: A special cover and cancellation related to JAINISM has been issued at Satna on 28th Jan. 2005. India Post organized Satna District level Philatelic Exhibition SATNAPEX-2005 at Satna (M.P.) on 28th & 29th Jan. 005. Central India Philatelic Society was the co-organizer of the exhibition. Each day a special cover and special cancellation was released. The special cover released on 28th Jan. 2005 was to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Satna's Digamber Jain temple established in the year 1880. An image of this Temple and chief idol of 1008 Shri Neminath Bhagwan are printed on the special cover. The special cancellation depicts  a 10th A.D. Ancient sculpture of Patiyandai Jain Temple of Satna District. This sculpture is having image of three Tirthankars and is presently exhibited at Government Museum of Ramvan, District Satna. The special cover and the cancellation have been designed by Sri Sudhir Jain. The special cover and cancellation were released by the chief post master general of Chhattisgarh circle Col. Prathviraj Kumar. Mr. Sudhir Jain, Secretary, Central India Philatelic Society was the Special Guest and Jury member. - News Courtesy: Sudhir Jain, Satna

GOLD WORTH RS 6 LAKH STOLEN FROM TEMPLE

Mumbai (Maharashtra), January 31: THE Jain Temple on Subhash Road, Vile Parle, was robbed of gold ornaments worth Rs 6 lakh on Sunday morning. One of the temple’s priests and both watchmen have been detained on suspicion. The robbery was discovered when Bachhoobhai, a trustee and regular devotee, visited the temple in the wee hours of Sunday.  ‘‘When Bachhoobhai got to the first floor, he found the back door broken and the deity’s gold ornaments missing,’’ said a trustee, on condition of anonymity. Bachhoobhai immediately notified the other trustees and called the police.

     Though the famous, 3,000-sq ft Jain mandir has 27 idols of various deities distributed through its three floors—wearing gold ornaments worth crores—only the idol on the second floor had its rings, necklace and diamond-studded crown stolen. The police have picked up priest Vishwaram Ravan (55) and watchmen Karansingh Bara (66) and Bogama Kamathi (60) of Sun Securities for further questioning. They believe Ravan, who hails from Rajasthan and had worked as a cleaner-cum-serviceman at a petrol pump in the city before joining the temple two years ago, may have been involved.

     ‘‘The job seems to have been an insider’s work. We have questioned about 47 people so far, including the masons, carpenters and artisans carrying out renovation work at the temple, and hope to have concrete leads on the robbery soon,’’ said Investigating Officer B S Sonawane. - News Courtesy: Expressindia.com

BANNED-O-BUST

January 20: Now, Prince Harry's theme party outfit -- a Nazi uniform with a Swastika armband -- has led to German leaders demanding an all-Europe ban on the Sanskrit symbol. Big Question: does any individual/country have the right to ban -- or even call for a ban -- of what is symbolic to another culture?

Whose Swastika is it anyway? Dharmendra Shastri, professor of Sanskrit at Delhi University, asserts that the Swastika, integral to Indian culture, was hijacked by the Germans. "Now they want to ban what is not theirs in the first place." Any attempt to ban the Swastika is ridiculous, says filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. "The Swastika is an auspicious symbol for us, a country of 1.2 billion people. Who gave Europeans the right to ban it?" Adds Urmila Jain, ex-president, Rishabh Vihar Jain Mandir Samiti: "The Swastika is synonymous with auspicious occasions like marriage; for the Germans, the symbol is associated with atrocities -- this is no reason for them to appropriate our symbol and ban it." According to Gaurav Kapoor, VJ: "Religion has been manipulated by power brokers." Illoosh Ahluwalia, painter, says that the Swastika is recognised worldwide. "How then can one even think of an all-Europe ban of the symbol?"

Live and let live : According to historian Mushirul Hassan: "All bans tend to be counter-productive. Ideally, we should be creating an intellectual and cultural ambience where fascist ideas find no place." Designer Jattinn Kochhar asserts that be it the Sikh turban, the Muslim scarf or the Hindu Swastika, no one has the right to deride -- let alone ban -- another culture's symbols. Actress and model Aditi Govitrikar feels that any attempt to ban the Swastika would only trigger widespread hostilities. "It's all about freedom of expression."

Pluralistic world, uniform culture? TV show host Pooja Bedi alludes to "a democratic, liberated" world. "In such an environment, it's not fair to ban any symbol." Says model Shefali Talwar: "We claim to live in a global world, but political powerhouses try to dictate terms to others." Says Pavan Varma, writer and diplomat: "There is no space for a monolithic ideology in a global village. What is auspicious for us may not be so for the West, but this doesn't mean tonal variations can't exist." - Courtesy: Times of India (Times News Network, Allen O'brien, Sunaina Kumar, Ashok Chatterjee)

JAIN TEMPLE CONSECRATED IN PONDICHERRY

Pondicherry, Feb 13: A large number of devotees from different parts of Pondicherry and also a few other states today offered worship on the occasion of the consecration of the Sri Sankeswar Paraswanath Jain temple here today. The temple has been constructed by Sri Paraswanath Swetamber Moorthi Poojak Jain Trust at a cost of Rs 1 crore. Acharyas Srimad Vijay Sushil Sureswarji Maharajs from Rajasthan blessed the consecration. Aerial spraying of flowers from a mini aircraft was the highlight of the celebration. Education Minister K Lakshminaraynan, legislators R Siva and A M Krishnamoorthy were among those who offered prayers to the presiding deity of the shrine. - News Courtesy: Chennnaionline.com

BJS OFFERS TO REHABILITATE 1000 TSUNAMI-HIT KIDS

Pune (Maharashtra), January 17: The Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana (BJS) has offered to set up Tamil Nadu Education and Rehabilitation Centre (TERC) at Chennai to rehabilitate 1000 children who lost their parents and homes in the recent tsunami tragedy.
Addressing a news conference here on Monday, Shantilal Muttha, national president BJS said that 58 Jain educational institutions which have been active in Tamil Nadu swung into relief and rescue operations immediately after the tragedy. "We have so far spent Rs 10 crore to provide relief and rescue material in 64 villages including construction of over 400 temporary homes for the affected families", he said.
All the projects undertaken by the BJS are being done in association with the Times Foundation.
It may be noted that BJS set up similar centres at Wagholi near Pune and in Kutch in Gujarat to rehabilitate children affected by earthquakes. As many as 1200 children were brought from Latur to Pune after the killer earthquake in 1993. BJS also constructed 368 schools in Gujarat which benefited 1.20 lakh children.
Muttha said that a detailed proposal about the TERC has been submitted to TN chief minister Jayalalithaa and her response was expected in four days. "As soon as we get the green signal, we will shift the 1000 orphans from the coastal areas to Chennai where we have a permanent shelter at Dayasadan. They will be kept there for two years during which time construction of TERC will be completed", he explained. For the time being these children will be enrolled in local schools.

He said that TERC shall be a state of the art facility which shall house and run hostels, schools, colleges apart from treating psychological needs with close care and moral support. Gradually when the children complete their education and move out, other children from affected areas/orphans can be brought to the centre. TERC will provide food, shelter, clothing, education, medical and health support for a period of 10 years and will have an annual recurring cost of Rs 1 crore.

Muttha stated that vocational training will be provided to the children so that they can return to their respective villages if desired. As the TERC settled down, BJS will train and educate locals to take care of the centre. BJS has already identified three locations in Chennai to temporarily house the children. "We have made provisions for Rs 75 lakh which will be required immediately to rehabilitate these children", he revealed.

He said that noted actor and psychiatrist Mohan Agashe who counselled the earthquake affected children of Latur in 1993 will be requested to offer similar help for the tsunami-hit children. Agashe and his team of doctors will also train local doctors so that the psychological needs can be taken care of at local level.

Muttha said that he will be shortly visiting Andaman and Nicobar islands to see what kind of relief work can be done by the BJS. "They immediately needed 60,000 chaddars and the BJS made arrangements to provide the same. Union agriculture minister Sharad Pawar himself arranged for 20,000 pieces", he said.

He stated that there were many logistical problems on the islands and it was very difficult to undertake construction activity. "We have been told that if we could arrange to supply construction material the locals can build their own homes", Muttha remarked. -News Courtesy: Times Of India

23RD PRATISHTA MAHOTSAV OF DHARMASTHALA BAHUBALI

Dharmasthala (Karnataka), February 1: The 23rd annual pratishta mahotsav of Bhagawan Bahubali idol at Dharmasthala were held on the 3rd and 4th of February under the guidance of Sri D. Veerendra Heggade. On 4th the Agrodhaka procession, pada pooja of the idol of Lord Bahubali with 216 kalashas and a religious meet were organised. Sri Lalitha Keerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Karkala Jain mutt graced the occasion. Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Narasimharajapura (Simhanagadde) Jain mutt delivered his religios discourse. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

ANNUAL RATHAYATRA AT KAMTHANA

Kamthana (Bidar District, Karnataka), February 15: The annual rathayatra mahotsav of Bhagawan Parshwanatha was held at Kamthana from 13th to 15th of February 2005. The proceedings were held under the guidance of Kshullak 105 Sri Ajitasagarji Maharaj. On the occasion special pooja and abhisheka to Bhagawan Parshwanatha and religious functions were organised. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

JAIN PUBLICATIONS

Jain Publications available at Hindi Grantha Karyalay.

THE SACRED BOOKS OF THE JAINS

For copies of these books please contact:

HINDI GRANTH KARYALAY, Booksellers and Publishers, 9, Hirabaug, C.P. Tank, Mumbai 400004, India
Phone: + 91 - (0) 22 - 23826739, Email: manish.modi@mtnl.net.in, Web: www.hindibooks.8m.com

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.

Agali (Madakashira Taluk, Andhra Pradesh): The 12th annual pooja mahotsav of Bhagawan Sri Adinath Jain temple was organised on the 23rd of January 2005. The pooja was held under the guidance of Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Narasimharajapura (Simhanagadde) Jain Muth. On the occasion the 108 kalash abhishekha had been arranged to Bhagawan Adinath. Dr.M.A.Jayachandra addressed the religious gathering on the occasion.

Gundewadi (Athani Taluk, Belgaum District, Karnataka): The 4th annual pooja mahotsav of Bhagawan Sri Shanthinath Jain temple was organised on the 27th of January 2005. On the occasion the 1008 Kalash Abhisheka, Sri Shanthinath Vidhan, palki (car) procession and cultural programmes were organised on the occasion.

Chickkagonigere (Davangere District, Karnataka): The annual pooja mahotsav of Bhagawan Sri Shanthinath Jain temple was organised on the 28th of January 2005. The pooja was held under the guidance of Swasti Sri Devendra Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Huncha Jain Muth. On the occasion the 108 kalash abhishekha had been arranged to Bhagawan Shanthinath.

Gudageri (Dharwad District, Karnataka): The 29th annual pooja mahotsav of Bhagawan Sri Parshwanath Jain temple was organised on monady the 28th of February 2005. The pooja was held under the guidance of Sri Yashodhar Jain. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

www.pulakjanchetna.com: Website of Pulak Jan Chetna Manch and the magazine Pulak Jan Chetna Pratiyogita.

Thursday 17th February 2005 - Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Ajinatha.

Friday 18th February 2005 - Janma Kalyana of Bhagawan Ajinatha.

Sunday 20th February 2005 - Janma Kalyana and Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Abhinandananatha.

Monday 21st February 2005 - Janma Kalyana and Diksha Kalyana of and Bhagawan Dharmanatha.

Thursday 24th February 2005 - Rathayatra at the Karkala hillock, Karnataka.

Wednesday 2nd March  2005 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Padmaprabha.

Monday 7th March 2005 - Janma Kalyana and Diksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Sheethalanatha.

Tuesday 8th March 2005 - Mahajinarathri.

Wednesday 9th March 2005 - Moksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Rishabhanatha.

Thursday 10th March 2005 - Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Shreyamsanatha.

Sunday 13th March 2005- Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Aranatha.

Tuesday 15th March 2005 - Moksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Mallinatha.

Friday 18th March 2005 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Shambavanatha. Ashtahnika Vrata begins. 

Friday 25th March 2005 - Rathayatra at Venoor (Mangalore District, Karnataka) hillock.

Tuesday 29th March 2005 -Moksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Padmaprabha.

Thursday 31st March 2005 - Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Suparshwanatha. Sarvodaya Dharma Sammelan at Huncha.

Additions as on 1st February 2005:

Calendar Wallpapers

Heritage Of Shravanabelagola: Royal Patronage of Shravanabelagola

Additions as on 15th February 2005:

Heritage Of Shravanabelagola: Chamundaraya and Shravanabelagola