JAINA VOICE

A publication of www.jainheritagecentres.com

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

Vol.3      Issue 5

September 2004

   

Editorial

JAINISM AND SOCIALISM

     India is a vast country with composite culture and varying in practice and percepts. It adopted the socialistic pattern of society in its constitution. It has widened its concept in the recent times with the advent of awareness among the country men. The great patriots of the country who fought for the freedom continued to lay down firm foundation for the social values that should pervade in the day to day life of individuals. Jainism has provided infrastructure to this concept. Socialism leads to systematisation of economical status of the country. Jainism provides a principled highway in this regard. Jainism is an index of lifestyle and culture of the people it includes adhyatma, political pursuance and social morale this concept is more practicable than mere principle. Jainism doesn't divide the social living and also doesn't distinguish individual life style and that of society. These two aspects become blended together. Jaina followers do not distinguish the poor from the affluent every living creature intends to lead a free style of life and thus attaining gratification. Jainism pays a unique importance for the thinking abilities and also attain salvation. Jainism adopts any change in the economical status and also supports the change. Many people fail to recognise this moot point cited in Jainism. Imperialism relies upon stable socialism. Jainism forbids any matter of violence in achieving this goal. It believes more in its practice than propaganda. It believes in the opinion that one should purify oneself first before teaching the society to follow it. It firmly believes in reformation of the society. This concept of the religion is more adoptable to the Indian attitude. It is interested in the welfare of the country without countering any force which is contributory for the welfare of the people. Jainism stands more supreme in its revolutionary methods than mere socialism. It vehemently counters ill effects of capitalism and tries to quench the adhyathmic thirst of the people. It has immensely contributed for the better living condition and social status of Indians.               

    

               

                

-Dr. H.A.Parshwanath

 

GRAND BHATTARAKHA SAMMELAN AT AURANGABAD - CONTRIBUTION OF BHATTARAKHAS HAILED

The Galaxy of Bhattarakhas, Acharya Sri 108 Devananda Maharaj and other Nigranth Munis are seen attending the conference. - JHC Photo

The dignitaries are seen attending the delebrations of the conference. -JHC Photo

Aurangabad (Maharashtra), August 16: Bhattarakhas of Jaina religion have immensely contributed to its prosperity and values. They exhibited social commitment with their continuous zeal and interest to the growth adn development of religion. They inspired the devotees to involve themselves in the propagation of the message of Jina. They also stood as saviours of the pilgrim centres and agamas. They blended life and atma together which has been cherished long. The pages of history have revealed their capabilities in laying down and stabilizing the path of dharma. It has explored the inner core of life and the magnitude of Jivatma. Acharya Sri Devanandi Maharaj appealed the assemblage with religious enchantment in the conference held by Marathawada Digambar Jain Sangh on the occasion of the celebrating of his 41st birth day.

     The celebrations were held from 14, 15 & 16th August at Aurangabad. The Bhattarakha conference was also held on the occasion. Devanandi Acharya called for sinking the differences in the religion and reducing the impact of sects and bring about unison in the community. He emphasised the fact that Jainism has sustained the ritualistic fervour and stood firmly against the onslaughts from time to time. He also advocated Pinchi (cluster of leaves of peacock) should be part of Bhattarakha's procession. He called fro nullifying the destabilising acts in this regard. He also stressed upon the need for worshipping yaksha yakshis and abhishekhas to be performed to Tirthankaras in the traditional way. The religious status of Yaksha Yakshis be maintained and followed as has been practiced hitherto. The celebrations were well attended by devotees tuning to about 20,000. Many dignitaries of various Jaina organisations also were present on the occasion.

     The Bhattarakha who participated in the conference included Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Kolhapur Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Jinasena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Nandani Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Narasimharajapur (simhanagadde) Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Lalithakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Karkala Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Kanakagiri Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Dhavalakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Tirumalai (Arihanthagiri) Jain Muth,  Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Moodabidri Jain Muth, Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Jinakanchi Jain Muth and Swasti Sri Dharmasena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Amminabhavi Jain Muth.

Titles conferred on the Bhattarakhas: Various titles were conferred on Bhattarakhas signifying their religious status attained and veritable contribution to it. These include 'Samskruthi Divakar' to Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Kolhapur Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Bhaskar' to Swasti Sri Jinasena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Nandani Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Prabhavak' Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Narasimharajapur (simhanagadde) Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Prathipalak' Swasti Sri Lalithakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Karkala Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Bhushan' to Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Kanakagiri Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Samrat' Swasti Sri Dhavalakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Tirumalai (Arihanthagiri) Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Marthand' Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Moodabidri Jain Muth, 'Samskruthi Samvardhak' Swasti Sri Lakshmisena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Jinakanchi Jain Muth and 'Samskruthi Palak' Swasti Sri Dharmasena Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Amminabhavi Jain Muth. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service               

3000TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF BHAGAWAN PARSHWANATHA

Kundalpur (Bihar): Paramapujya Her Holiness 105 Ganani Sri Gnanamathimathaji called for celebration of 3000th birth anniversary of Bhagawan Parshwanatha in the year 2005. She called upon that the celebration should be observed by conducting the rational, regional & social leveled religious and academic activities. This event will be inaugurated on the 6th of January, 2005 at Bhelpur - Varanasi, the birth place of Parshwanatha.

     The readers are requested to send the details of the historical aspects of the places related to Lord Parshwanatha along with the details of the place, documents & illustrations, etc. to the below mentioned address. Karmayogi Sri Ravindrakumar Jain, President, Bhagawan Mahavir Birth Place, Kundalpur, Nandhyavartha Mahal, Kundalpur Post (Nalanda) - 803101, Bihar State. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service                

SAMMEDHASHIKARJI IN GOVERNMENT HANDS

The Sammedhashikarji Hills. - JHC Photo

Ranchi (Jharkhand), Aug. 24: A century-old dispute over the ownership of Sammedhashikarji (Parasnath Hills, Giridih) was settled today when Jharkhand High Court set aside the claims of Shwetambar and Digambar sects of Jainism. A full bench headed by Chief Justice P.K.I. Balasubramanyan instead vested all rights in the state. In its 83-page order, the high court vested the ownership of 16,000 acres of land comprising the hill and adjacent areas in the state and gave its permission to cancel the agreement between the Bihar Government and the Kalyanji Anandji Trust sealed in 1965. The bench directed the state to appoint an administrator and form a committee, with the deputy commissioner of Giridih as chairman, to supervise the transition and ensure that religious ceremonies are conducted smoothly.

The three sects of Jainism — Murti Pujaks, Shwetambars and Digambars — have been allowed to nominate one representative each to the committee while the state government will nominate the fourth member from the Jain community, the order said. It is not clear if the order will now be challenged before the Supreme Court by one or both sects. The Kalyanji Anandji Trust, which controls the hill and has a valid and ongoing agreement with the then Bihar Government, has the option of handing over the control to the state or seeking a stay order from the apex court. The Digambars have fought a protracted legal battle to ensure that they, too, get the right to manage Sammedhashikarji Hills described as the holiest place for Jains. It is believed that as many as 20 out of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras attained salvation at Sammedhashikarji .

Over the years, the high court has grappled over the Digambars’ plea for equal rights or rotational rights with the Shwetambars. While the former is believed to be numerically stronger, the latter is acknowledged as the more affluent. The court order mentions that in 1933 the Privy Council had accepted the ownership and control of the temple and the tonks by the Shwetambar sect. While the Digambar sect had full and unrestricted rights of worship, they were required to seek the permission of the controlling Shwetambars. It has also directed the state to ensure that no pilgrim is discriminated against. - News Courtesy: The Telegraph

MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA UPBEAT

This is an exclusive section started from September 2004  giving our readers a constant update of the developments in connection with the Mahamasthakabhishekha of Bhagawan Bahubali to be held at Shravanabelagola in February 2006.

ENCHANTING CELEBRATION OF MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), August 25: The historic celebration of the head anointing ceremony of lord Gommateshwara at Shravanabelagola has taken its pace this time with adequate preparations and is drawing the attention of the pilgrims at large. The pooja will be celebrated for all ten days to facilitate the devotees to observe the rituals pouring sacred water collected in Kalashas. Jagadguru Swasti Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of the Shravanabelagola Jain Muth briefened and blessed the endeavour. The celebration will be telecasted live all over the globe. The programmes relating to the heritage of Jainism will be held in propagating the message of Jinas. He mentioned that all the days of pooja celebration will be given equal attention and priority. He opined that Jainism has immensely contributed for the development of Indian culture. The Jain religion, its culture and rich literary treasure will be made known to the public and the pilgrims on the occasion. The preachings of 24 Tirthankaras will be taught to the present generation of people propagating about the posterity. He called upon youngsters to take an active part in this historical event with great joy and commitment. Adequate facilities will be provided to the pilgrims and visitors fulfilling their basic needs. Sri Charukeerthiji is spear heading the celebrations with his suitable guidance and suggestions. The exhibits of the ancient Jaina culture, literature and art will be displayed and thus fastening the core of the religion. 

     The pooja will be celebrated by pouring holy water on the lord. The first and second days pooja includes anointing the lord with 108 and 216 Kalashas (pots) respectively. The third day pooja includes the use of 504 and from fourth to 10th 1008 Kalashas along with panchamruta abhishekha.

     The Swamiji disclosed the deliberations of the Mahamasthakabhishekha at its first meeting of the national committee. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA DRAWS THE ATTENTION OF THE GLOBE

Shravanabelagola, August 25: Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala inaugurated the first meeting of the Mahamasthakabhishekha of the national committee and opined that this religious event at Shravanabelagola has drawn the attention of the world towards India and compared it to that of Olympic games taking place in Athens (Greece). He felt that Bahubali's sacrifice and meditation have modified the lives of individuals towards spirituality and considered that it has lit the light for world peace. He complimented the committee and declared it as representing the parliament of the followers of religion. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service       

LIFETIMES FORTUNE OF THE CENTURY

Shravanabelagola, August 25: The esteemed members of the Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee felt that it is a lifetime fortune and achievement to participate in the services to lord Bahubali and propagating his message to mankind. This celebration is not confined to Karnataka and India but is an international event. They called upon for the whole time participation actively and make the celebration a grand success with unity and amity. More than 10,000 volunteers of Veerasevadala will take part in this event. National Youth Conference, National Women Conference exhibition of Jaina literature in Kannada, Jaina Munis conference will held on the ocasion. Besides the establishment of Internation Jain study centre, Publication of Bahubali literature in Indian languages. Details of the Jain centres of Karnataka and felicitation of Jaina talents and cultural events will be held. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service         

CHANT 'JAI GOMMATESHA'

Shravanabelagola, August 25: The Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee has given a clarion call to pronounce the slogan Jai Gommatesha the symbol of sacrifice and non violence on hearing any telephonic or telegraphic call from their neighbours. It is opined that this will help in propagating the message of Bhagawan Sri Bahubali to linger in the hearts and minds of the people. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service

MEETING BEGINS WITH BAHUBALIS HYMN

Shravanabelagola, August 25: The first meeting of Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee  started with renouncing the line 'Visatta Kandatta Dalanuyaram' Gommata Hymn written by Nemichandracharya on Bhagawan Sri Bahubali when the first Masthakabhishekha celebration was held in A.D. (981). It enthralled the hundreds of members assembled on the occasion. The main priest Sri V.Shanthiraja Shastry and Sri M.G.Ratnarajayya conducted the religious proceedings. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

CENTRAL AND STATE GOVERNMENTS APPEALED FOR MASTHAKABHISHEKHA SUCCESS

Shravanabelagola, August 25: Sri A.R.Nirmal Kumar the executive president of the Sri Bahubali Swami Mahamasthakabhishekha Committee informed that central and state governments are requested to extend the cooperation and assistance for the overall and successful celebration of Mahamasthakabhishekha the first of its event of this century. He also informed that Acharya Sri Vidyananda Maharaj, New Delhi, has been well appraised of the preparations for the celebration. The district and state administrative machineries, the philanthropists and the devotees are requested to render service in this regard. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service 

MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA AS NADAHABBA

Shravanabelagola, August 25: His Holiness Sri Charukeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji of Shravanabelagola declared that Mahamasthakabhishekha is conducted in full swing and spirit of 'Nadahabba' (State Festival). Cultural and social welfare programmes will be held parallely with the celebrations. Emphasis will be laid on adopting human values in day to day life. The publications pertaining to the life and message of Bhagawan Sri Bahubali will be undertaken and seminars and symposia are held in universities and thus creating awareness amongst the youngsters. In addition state and national conferences will be held on Prakrit, Sanskrit and Kannada languages. He also mentioned that the endowment amount of 'Chavundaraya Award' established in Kannada Sahitya Parishath will be enhanced. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

COMMITTEES CONSTITUTED FOR MAHAMASTHAKABHISHEKHA   

Shravanabelagola, August 25: The first meeting of Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee has constituted various committees for the smooth celebrations of the Mahamasthakabhishekha event, they include: Mahamasthakabhishekha Pooja Committee (Convener: Sri B.H.Mahabalaiah , Bellur), Mahamasthakabhishekha Accommodation Committee (President: Sri Anil Sethi, Bangalore; Convener: Sri S.Suresh Kumar, Mysore), Volunteers Committee (President: D.A.Patil, Kolhapur), Kalasha Distribution committee (Convener: Sri D.R.Shah, Indi), People Welfare Committee (President: Sri H.N.Rajendrakumar, Bangalore; Convener: Sri S.A.Sudarshan), Panchakalyana Committee (Convener: Sri G.C.Ajitkumar, Shravanabelagola). The other committees would be constituted shortly. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service           

PROTECTION OF INDRAGIRI AND CHANDRAGIRI MONUMENTS

Shravanabelagola, September 2: The central archeological department of South Karnataka has under taken the yoeman task of rendering protection to the old monuments of Vindyagiri & Chandragiri hills Shravanabelagola. Shravanabelagola the historical place bears a very rich ancient testimony of more than 2000 yearsold. The measures have been taken to protect the temples inscriptions, idols, etc. by erecting the fortified walls around the top of the. The serene atmosphere of the places will be maintained. Shravanabelagola is observing the historic event of Mahamasthakabhishekha of Lord Gommateshwara in the ensuing 2006. The idols of Tirthankaras placed around Lord Bahubali are resuscitated and kept tidy. The other measures intended to be taken include paving the proper paths leading to Badrabahu cave anf other monuments. A wide publicity will be given to enlighten the pilgrims about the historical importance of this place. This venture helps the scholars and others to study the place with vehemence. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service         

SECOND MEETING IN NOVEMBER

Shravanabelagola, August 25: The second meeting of the Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee will be held on the 2nd of November 2004. This was decided at the end of the  first meeting of the Mahamasthakabhishekha National Committee. The second meeting will review the progress made in connection with the decisions made during the first meeting and would take up other matters that would be put forth in the meeting. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service              

UNIQUE ATTAINMENT OF SUPREMACY OF SAINTHOOD

Dayodaya Tirth (Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh), August 20: It was on August 20th this year that Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh witnessed an astonishing but factual event where 25 youths stepped ahead with a saga of determination to relinquish the worldly pleasures and proceed forward in the path of assuming Digambar Muni Diksha. It was a longing desire of these youths to step into this august event at the behest of Acharya Shiromani and His Holiness Sri Vidyasagar Maharaj. This event took place at the bank of Narmada river near Jabalpur. The people thronging there shed tears of sublimation and were dumb founded to see their family branches coveted to this endeavour. Many prominent people and stalwarts witnessed this unique procession accompanied with dance and music. The slogans, 'Jain Dharma Ki Jai' and 'Acharya Sri Ki Jai' vibrated in the atmosphere quelling dense clouds in the sky. The saints took oath to observe all the arduous rituals in their voyage of Digambarism. They were bestowed with new names with the suffix 'Sagar'. The entire Jabalpur city observed the occasion by giving a short break for their routine business affairs. The people hailed their immortal sacrifice observed in the early part of the 21st century. The difficult cults of Jainism to be followed were brifened vividly by Acharya Sri Vidyasagar Maharaj. The religious luminaries who observed the myth of sacrifice included: Shailesh (B.Tec, M.B.A.), Vishal (M.E.), Rajkumar (M.E.), Amith (B.Com), Bhupendra (M.Com), Vinod (M.A.), Amith (B.Sc), Nitish (M.Com, L.L.B.), Milan Shah (D.M.T.C.), Balasaheb (B.A.), Pradeep (B.Com), Atul (B.E.), Raju (B.Com), Rakesh (M.A.), Rajeev (B.Sc), Nitesh (M.Com), Ravi (B.Com), Ranu (M.A.), Manish (B.A.), Amol (Intermediate), Sudhir (Intermediate), Dhaval (Charted Accountant), Abhishekh (B.E.), Sonu (B.E.) and Pavan (B.A.). - Jain heritage Centres News Service              

JAINS MINORITY STATUS ONLINE PETITION

News Delhi, September 15: In view of the recent directions given by the Supreme Court to the Government of India to come out with a decision on the Jain minority status, the Government is left with only a few days to come out with a firm decision in this connection. In order to impress upon the government of India to come out with a positive decision an online petition has been started at the website petitiononline.com. The readers of Jaina Voice are here by requested to kindly sign this petition and there by help the Jain community in building up the pressure on the Government. To have a look at the petition and to sign the petition please visit the link:  http://www.PetitionOnline.com/jm7i2004/petition.html. For further details on the Jain minority petition please click here. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service

'MOOKMAATI' SPREADS ITS TENTACLES

Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh), September 15: 'Mookmati' the Hindi poetic work written by Acharya 108 Sri Vidyasagar Maharaj has drawn the attention of many research workers. It has contributed immensely the spear of ancient vision and nearly 30 postgraduate students have selected   their topic for research based on this work. It describes the Jaina darshan in its vivid and simple way. It stands as an index of the perpetual and visionary thinking about Jainism. -Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE GIRINAR ISSUE

GUJARAT CHIEF MINISTER AND GOVERNOR PROMISE ON GIRINAR

The foot impression of Bhagawan Neminatha at the 4th Koota (Tonk) in Girinar being named after Gurudatta by the non Jain community people. - JHC Photo

Gandhinagar (Gujarat): Sri Naval Kishore Sharma the governor and Sri Narendra Modi, chief minister of Gujarat assured the representatives of the Jain Samaj Mandali that no injustice will be done to the Jain community regarding the aggression and trespass in reply to the protests by the Jain community from different parts of India. The members of the Jaina organisations meet and appraised the government about the importance of Girnar mountain to Jains since 1000's of years. They also mentioned the unauthorised construction and installation of statue by non Jain community people. They expressed their resentment and agony caused and appealed to resoter the place according to the places of worship (Special PRovision) Act, 1991. In other words they appealed for restoration of the position as on 15th August 1945. Sri Naresh Kumar Sethi, Vice President of Tirthakshetra Committee; Sri Nirmal Kumar Sethi, the president of Bharatha Varshya Digambar Jain Mahasabha; Amrutha Bai Mehta, the president of Digambar Jain Mahasamithi, Gujarat; Arvind Doshi of Tirthakshetra Committee; Ratanlal Nrupathya of Bharatavarshiya Digambar Jain Parishath; Sri Suresh Jain of Bandilal Jain factory Trust and the representatives of different Jain organisations of Gujarat meet Sri Narendra the chief minister. The chief minister assured affirmatively.

     The measures have been taken to protect the place for the free worship by Jain pilgrims. The Jain community has determined to safeguard this great monument with peace and nonviolence. The government of Gujarat has provided special police protection to the fourth and fifth Kootas (Tonks) at the Girinar hill. The persons who had been troubling the Jain pilgrims at Girinar have been arrested and are kept in police custody there by making way for easy darshan to the pilgrims. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service      

JAIN LEADERS PROTEST AGAINST HARASSMENT

Surat (Gujarat), August 19: The Sakal Digambar Jain Samaj in a rally on Thursday protested against the alleged harassment of Jain devotees by sadhus and some anti-socials at Shree Neminath Jain Temple on Mount Girnar in Junagadh. Over 5,000 members of the community participated in the rally taken out from Athwalines area. Later, leaders of the community submitted a memorandum to the District Collector.

     The memorandum stated that anti-social elements had encroached upon the pilgrimage spot and that Jain devotees were demanded money for darshan in the temple. Religious leaders also demanded that State Government look into the matter and deploy policemen near the temple. President of the Sakal Digambar Jain Samaj, Omprakash Jain said, “A legal tussle is going on in the Gujarat High Court between Hindus and Jains over the pilgrimage spot. We demand that the government should appoint a senior officer at the temple and all the funds collected should be deposited in the government exchequer.”

     He added, “It is the State Government’s responsibility to protect the religious rights of Jain devotees. If the harassment continues, the entire community will be forced to launch an agitation against the government.”  Ashwin Shah, another Jain leader, said, “There are many sadhus who demand money from Jain devotees for darshan at the temple. They abuse the devotees when refused.” - News Courtesy: Expressindia.com

GIRINAR IMPRINTS: HINDUS AND JAINS PUT THEIR FOOT DOWN

The Bhagawan Neminatha Koota (tonk) at Girinar being named after Gurudatta by the non Jain community people. - JHC Photo

Junagadh (Gujarat), September 11: Atop the highest peak of Girnar mountain, Hindus and Digambar Jains are engaged in an intense religious controversy over foot imprints, which both claim belong to their respective gods. While Hindus trace the imprints to Guru Dattatreya, a form which represents the combination of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, Digambar Jains attribute them to Lord Neminath, the 22nd tirthankar. This long-standing dispute even reached the court of law.

     The latest controversy has been triggered off by the State Archaeological Department’s permission to a Hindu trust to rebuild a chhatri covering the imprints. The chhatri was damaged in the 2001 earthquake. Hindus have formed the Girnar Defence Committee and took out a rally in Junagadh on Wednesday under the banner of Sadhu Samaj and submitted a memorandum to the District Collector staking their claim for the imprints. Jains on their part have taken out rallies in Vadodara and Surat, demanding that the place be declared as Neminath Derasar and they be given exclusive right to worship there. Both sides accuse each other of wrong appropriation of the imprints that exist since hundreds of years. Jains allege they are not allowed to offer prayers and have demanded police protection. Surat-based Jain leader Nirav Shah, who organised the rally there last week, alleges that a priest was beaten up recently which forced the community to become aggressive.

     Mahant Gopalaanand of Girnar Defence Committee says Jain derasars exist only on the first tunk (peak), about 3,500 steps from the base, while the remaining four peaks are home to only Hindu religious places, managed and controlled by Hindu saints and priests. Devotees have to climb more than 10,000 steps to reach the peak. ‘‘We have no problems with Jains visiting Dattatrey temple, but they will not be allowed to offer pooja as per Jain rituals because it’s a temple and not a derasar. They are using their money power which the Hindu Samaj will not tolerate,’’ he says. 

     Jain leader Dinesh Sheth said devotees had been offering prayers according to Jain rituals for hundreds of years for it’s the place where Lord Neminath died. ‘‘Jains are unanimous that it’s a Neminath temple and we won’t let go off its possession,’’ said Atul Shah, a devotee. Ambaji Mahant Dhansukh Giri Bapu said the controversy started three to four months ago when a trust was permitted to undertake construction of a chhatri near the footsteps. Jains say despite their opposition, the trust built a temple with six pillars covering the imprints of Lord Neminath. ‘‘The imprints area is a protected monument. Much before Gujarat state came into being, Jains were bestowed worship rights. But now they are not allowed to perform Jain rituals,’’ says Anil Jain, a local Jain leader.

     Superintendent (Rajkot) of the State Archaeological Department Hitesh Shah said, ‘‘Four months ago, Junagadh-based SVM Trust was given permission to rebuild the chhatri at the Dattatrey tunk. The new structure has been built covering a larger area keeping in mind the safety and security of pilgrims.’’ SP Junagadh B D Vaghela said he was yet to receive any complaint, but he had deployed police personnel as a precautionary measure. - News Courtesy: Expressindia.com

55TH MASTHAKABHISHEKHA OF BHAGAWAN BAHUBALI AT GOMMATAGIRI ON 31ST OCTOBER

Mysore, (Karnataka) September 15: The 54rd Masthakabhishekha (Head anointing ceremony) of the 18 feet high idol of Bhagawan Bahubali has been organised at Gommatagiri on the 31st of October 2004 under the Guidance of His Holiness Sri Devendrakirthi Bhattaraka Swamiji of the Jain Muth Huncha. Dr.Prabha Mandal convener of the Masthakabhishekha committee said this while addressing a press conference at Mysore.             Gommatagiri is a place near Mysore (20 Kms from Mysore) famous for its monolithic statue of Sri Bhagawan Bahubali situated at the top of a hill called Shravana Gudda. The standing snakes with their hoods on either side of the statue are very attractive and unique of the Gommata sculptors seen in India. Though no any inscription is available throwing light on the space it is said that Chengalvas and Kongalvas enshrined the place. An annual mahamastakabhisheka cermony is celebrated every year during the September or October months. A row of the foot prints of the 24 tirthankaras are seen carved and installed near by the hill in the recent decades. The model of Samavasarana can be found in the place. It can be recalled here that the idol of Bhagawan Bahubali was discovered about 55 years back by Late Sri C.B.M.Chandriah when he was on his way to some other place. Its only due to the efforts of Sri C.B.M.Chandaraiah that this place was improved. Special busses have been arranged from Mysore for the convenience of the visitors and pilgrims.

     Gommatagiri had been in news in the recent days because of the illegal stone quarrying work that had been taking place around the Shravana Gudda. Bowing to pressoures from the Jain community the government of Karnataka had taken adequate steps to stop quarrying work.  - Jain Heritage Centres News Service.  

MUKUTA SAPTHAMI AT KANAKAGIRI

'KANAKAGIRI.ORG' WEBSITE LAUNCH - 'PUJYAPADA' BOOK RELEASE - KEERTHI SAMMAN

The picture shows Sri Anil Sethi inaugurating the website www.kanakagiri.org. Sri H.P.Nitin who designed the website is also seen. - JHC Photo

Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji, Kshullaka 105 Sri Nirvansagar Maharaj and Dr.H.S.Lalitanga  Kumar seen releasing the paintings related to the life of Acharya Pujyapada. - JHC Photo

Kanakagiri (Chamarajanagar District, Karnataka), August 22: The Mukuta Sapthami was observed with religious pomp and glory at Kanakagiri, the abode of Jain heritage. It found its lime light in the recent time through the electronic media. The devotees thronging at the place find their solace in its complacent religious atmosphere. Sri Anil Sethi the well known professionalist inaugurated the new website of the place, www.kanakagiri.org on 22nd August 2004. The new electronic vista is designed and launched by Nitin H.P., who has already drawn the global viewers by his earlier jainheritagecentres.com launched about two years ago. It is note worthy that it is the first ever Kannada website on Jainism. Kanakagiri Jain Mutt is the first monastery to sponsor the same in the realm of Jain centres. Mr. Sethi who also presided over the function stressed upon the need for faithful follow up of the preachings without any subvents. Sri. Nitin briefened the devotees about the internet and the Kanakagiri website.

     'Acharya Sri Pujyapadaru Mattu Ayurveda', the book scripted by Dr. H.S.Lalitanga Kumar was released on the occasion by His Holiness Swstisri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji the pontiff of the Kanakagiri Jain Muth. Smt Indumathi Prabhu's 'Sri Sammedha Shikarji Aradhane' was also released on the same occasion.

     The young talents identified and honoured on the occasion included Kumari S.Sahana (Mysore), Kumari Sanjana S. Babu (Tumkur) and Kumari S. Padmasri (Bangalore) underlining their educational acumen achieved in the S.S.L.C. They were lauded for their attempt of achieving the highest scoring in the academic examinations. The mutt is conducting the talent search and conferring blessings for the young every year.

           Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji blessed the devotees and emphasised the need of worshipping Lord Sri Parshwanatha Swami with great devotion. He emphasised that one should develop tolerance to combat the trails and tribulations in day to day life.   

     Kshullak 105 Sri Nirvanasagar Maharaj were present on the occasion and blessed the galaxy of devotees assembled. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service          

SALUTE TO LORD PARSHWANATHA

Shravanabelagola (Karnataka), August 22: Mukutasapthami was observed at the Jain pilgrim center Shravanabelagola by conducting poojas of Bhagawan Sri Parshwanatha the 23rd prophet. In addition to this religious discourses and conferences were also held on the occasion. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service             

JAIN CHATURMAS DIRECTORY 2004

WE HERE BY WOULD LIKE TO INFORM YOU THAT THE JAIN CHATURMAS DIRECTORY 2004 IS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT OUR WEBSITE WWW.JAINHERITAGECENTRES.COM

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FIRST EVER RELIGION BASED CENSUS RELEASED

New Delhi, September 6: The first ever religion based census of India was released by the government of India on the 6th of September 2004. These figures are based on the all India census conducted by the government of India during the months of February and March 2001. The Commissioner for census released these figures at a press conference held at New Delhi. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

JAINS BEWARE! A SOCIAL TURMOIL AHEAD

New Delhi, Sept 7: It’s a demographic time bomb ticking for the Jain community. The child sex ratio, a pointer to the future demographic profile of a community, has declined to alarming levels among Jain to a figure much lower than the national average. Whatever may be the reason — divine intervention or sacrilegious practice of foeticide — the fact is that adverse child sex ratio is a cause for serious concern as it will translate into social tension in the days ahead.

     As far as Jains are concerned, the problem of low child sex ratio appears to be calamitous. The figures on child sex ratio revealed by census 2001 are chilling when compared with the sex ratio (children and adults included) of the Jain community. The sex ratio among Jains is 940. This is better than the national average of 933. In urban area, where majority of Jains live, the sex ratio is much better at 941 as compared with the all-India average of 900. There is nothing wrong.

     However, the bizarre trend becomes manifest the moment one looks at the child sex ratio for the Jain community. The ratio is 870 as against the national average of 927. The situation is equally bad in urban as well as rural areas. The census data also reveal low child sex ratio among states and Union Territories having large Jain population. It is 832 in Gujarat, 878 in Rajasthan and 906 in Madhya Pradesh. What is happening to female Jain children? It’s a dreadful and a loaded question which the Jain munis can avoid only to the peril of the pious community.

     National Commission for Minorities chairman S Tarlochan Singh has already expressed his intention to call a meeting of leaders of different religious groups to sensitise them with the alarming demographic trends. - News Courtesy: The Financial Express

JAINS CONTEST CENSUS FIGURES

New Delhi, Sep 16: the Jains have contested their number in the first-ever religion-based census report released by the government of India. According to Digamber Jain Mahasabha, the Jain population in the country should be around 12.5-15 million and not 4.2 million as recorded in the First Report on Religion: Census of India 2001.

     Pointing to the state-wise figures, the Mahasabha says the Jain population in Delhi has been recorded at 155,122, though it should not be less than 400,000.Similarly, Lalitpur and Jhansi alone account for more than 200,000 Jains which the census report records as the entire Jain population of Uttar Pradesh. ''There are sizeable number of Jains in Meerut, Sardhana, Moradabad, Rampur, Lucknow, Bijnore, Sharanpur and Baraut. Hence their population in UP should be around one million,'' Mahasabha President Nirmal Kumar Jain Sethi said in a statement here today. ''In West Bengal, the Jain population is double the census figure. Same is true for Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Karnataka,'' he claimed. He, however, expressed great satisfaction over the high literacy rate among the Jains- 90.6 per cent for female and 94.1 per cent for the entire population. - News Courtesy: UNI

JAIN CENSUS 2001

THE FIRST EVER RELIGION BASED CENSUS WAS RELEASED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ON SEPTEMBER 6TH 2004. THESE FIGURES ARE BASED ON THE ALL INDIA CENSUS CONDUCTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA IN THE MONTHS OF FEBRUARY-MARCH 2001. WWW.JAINHERITAGECENTRES.COM HAS COMPILED AND PUBLISHED THESE RESULTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE JAIN COMMUNITY ACCORDING TO THE INDIVIDUAL STATES AND UNION TERRITORIES.

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO BROWSE THROUGH THESE FIGURES AND MANY MORE ANALYSIS ON THE

JAIN CENSUS 2001

JAINS SPEAK THEIR PEACE

Buena Park (California), September 15: And on a recent Sunday, Ramesh Doshi tastes it as he proudly points out to guests the unexpected wonders of the ornately carved, 42,000-square-foot Jain temple and cultural center going up on Commonwealth Avenue - including the spot where a long-lost, two-story teak temple will soon be reconstructed.

Jains like Doshi, an Orange County, Calif., engineer, believe the world needs their faith more than ever. Their elaborate project - the largest Jain center outside the Indian subcontinent - speaks to the daunting task of getting that word out.

The generously conceived building of yellow Jesalmar stone imported from India will help them try to popularize their faith's ideals.

Beyond India, few people have heard much of Jainism. Many Americans might only have heard of the faith's nude monks, who carry feather whisks to brush their paths rather than step on any tiny creature.

Local Jains are not monks, but doctors and engineers and business owners who aim to advance tenets of nonviolence, generosity and, inextricably, vegetarianism.

Jainism applies nonviolence even to plants.

"Because plants also have life," said Doshi, 55, president of the Southern California Jain Center. "Of course, you have to draw the line somewhere to survive. If you put water under a microscope there are lots of living organisms. But you drink water.

"Still, where most people draw the line is right below human beings, dogs and cats ... our line is drawn as low as possible. It's all about the degree of violence.

"If I hit you, that is violence. Almost everyone would agree with that. But we could be sitting here and you don't know, I could be thinking bad about you. That is violence also."

Jains believe that when a soul conquers its material, earthbound desires and acts only for the good of others, it will go to live in a place of peace and delight above the universe. That is the goal of all Jains.

Over the centuries Jainism lived alongside Buddhism and Hinduism in India, but never grew in the same way, possibly because it can involve a lot of self-sacrifice.

Today, fewer than 5 million adherents make up less than 1 percent of the Indian population. Yet the tenacious faith exerts influence over morals and values far beyond its numbers. Mahatma Gandhi was greatly influenced by Jainism.

Here and in India, Jains tend to be members of the upper middle class. And, as accumulation of unnecessary wealth is among the faith's prohibitions, they are known to be extremely generous philanthropists.

The 800 member-families of the local Jain center raised the $10 million for the building project. Volunteers on the building committee have spent every Sunday since October 2001 planning, strategizing and making decisions.

Designers from India chose the interior colors and carvings. The walls will be painted with scenes from the history of the faith, and the main cultural hall will feature a large stage equipped with the latest in broadcast technology.

The building's centerpiece will be a two-story, teak Jain temple to be reconstructed inside the main building.

The British built the temple in 1904 as a contribution to the World's Fair in St. Louis. It was supposed to go back to India, but somehow ended up in Howard Hughes' hands. He put it on display in the parking lot of the Castaways Casino in Las Vegas.

After the eccentric billionaire's death, local Jains, particularly former center president Dr. Manibhai Mehta, persuaded Hughes' corporation to donate the temple.

"We have the bits and pieces," Doshi said. "It will take time, maybe a year or two to get up, but eventually, when you first walk in to the building, it is what you will see."

Neighbors tell them they can't wait to see the finished project, he said.

"I think we're all looking forward to it," Buena Park City Councilwoman Patsy Marshall said Friday. "People are interested to see what it's going to look like."

The center, scheduled to open this winter, will not only offer an opportunity to become familiar with the Jain philosophy, but a close-up look at Indian art and architecture.

"We want to blend in with our community but at the same time educate people about nonviolence, so that everyone will live in peace and light," Doshi said. "If we can uplift the community around that ... I think this whole building, all this effort, will be worthwhile." - News Courtesy: Fortwayne.com

PRESIDENT HONOURS SHIKHA JAIN

Imphal (Manipur), September 7: In recognition of her academic excellence and appreciation of her will power, President of India APJ Abdul Kalam has given a sum of Rs 25,000 to Miss Shikha Jain of Paona Bazar, Imphal, who despite being physically handicapped outshone her peers in the Higher Secondary Examination, 2004.The amount was sent to Miss Shikha, as assistance towards her higher studies in the form of a cheque on August 19 last.
A student of Shree Digambar Jain Mahavir Higher Secondary School, Paona Bazar, Miss Shikha Jain stood first in the Commerce stream in the Higher Secondary Examination, 2004 conducted by the Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur. - News Courtsy: e-pao.net

TOWARDS A SATYAGRAHA ON NON-VIOLENT DEFENCE

New Delhi, August 23: A roomful of concerned peaceniks, a spiritual head and one determined lady. This was the setting of an evening organised under the aegis of Times Foundation, in order to spread the message of peace and harmony among the masses, on Sunday. But what perhaps distinguished it from yet another peace meeting, was the sheer determination of the gathering to bring about a change. Discussion on ahimsa was therefore, only natural. However, that was not the only thing on the august gathering's agenda.

     "Let all of us come together to initiate a satyagraha on non-violent defence. If we mobilise the masses towards this goal, I'm sure the government too will see reason," said Mrs Indu Jain, chairman of Times Foundation, while speaking at the gathering. Mrs Jain was advocating the cause of non-violent defence as opposed to violent defence, which she said, was only begetting further violence in the world. Said well-known peace activist M S Bitta, "Let us carry the message of peaceful co-existence preached by Lord Mahavira, to the people of the country. Let us celebrate Mahavir Jayanti in a big way in order to propagate his message."
     While Bitta evoked patriotic sentiments among the audiences through his speech, Mrs Jain maintained that Lord Mahavira's message should be spread in collaboration with non-Jain's for greater good of the society. She also insisted on the importance of taking the message of ahimsa and non-violent defence to people who had no faith in such concepts. "It is only when we disseminate the message of ahimsa among the non-believers, that we will be able to achieve our aim," said Mrs Jain. She also released a book on the life of Lord Mahavira, on the occasion.
     The session was the second and the concluding day of a two-day seminar on the concept of Tao and its importance in today's life. Earlier, a team of people from China, Taiwan and Brunei, in the leadership of Tao master Peng, introduced the concept of Tao , meaning truth in Chinese to the Indian audiences. Terming the concept as 'terrific awareness observation', Mrs Jain hoped that people imbibed the message well in order to better their lives. - News Courtesy: Times News Network

CALL FOR SIMPLE MARRIAGES

Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj seen inaugurating the 5th Anniversary meet of Jain Vivaha Vedike, Mysore. - JHC Photo

Mysore (Karnataka), September 12: Swasti Sri Bhuvakaneerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji the pontiff of the Kanakagiri Jain Muth felt that the marriages conducted at very high costs have led to many unwanted and untoward incidents in the Jain community and hence he called upon the Jain community to adhere to simple marriages. He was speaking after inaugurating the 5th Anniversary meet and the Parichaya Sammelan of the Jain Vivaha Vedika, Mysore. Yogacharya Sri K.Keshavabhatt was the chief guest of the function. Sri S.N.Devandraiah president of Sri Shanthinatha Seva Samiti, Mysore, presided over the function.

Dr.P.D.Padmakumar the convener of the Mysore Jain Vivaha Vedike read out a detailed report highlighting its activities. He said that till date of the total 584 Jain brides and grooms registered with the Vedike, 356 marriages have taken and there by registering a success rate of 62%. More than 700 Jains from allover Karnataka, Maharashtra and Kerala attended the sammelan. A book containing the details of the Jain brides and bridegrooms was released on the occasion. For copies of the book and further details of the Jain Vivaha Vedike, please contact: Dr.P.D.Padmakumar, Convener, Mysore Jain Vivaha Vedike, "Theerathankara", 1476, C&D Block, Poornadrishti Road, Kuvempu Nagar, Mysore - 570023, Phone: 0821-2541673, Email: pdkumar@indiatimes.com - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

FIVE KG GOLD TO BE USED FOR 31 - INCH IDOL

Mumbai, September 14: A 31-inch idol of Lord Mahavir made with an alloy of five elements will be unveiled at the Lord Parshvanath’s Godiji Jain temple in Pydhonie soon. The idol will be coated with 5 kgs of gold. At present the temple has eight shikhars (pinnacles). The saints however felt that it would be good to  have a nine-shikhar Jain temple.  Sagarchandra Sagarji Maharaj, who has taken shelter at the temple for the months of Chaturmas said, “There are eight shikhars in Godiji. To fulfil the wishes of the saints to have nine shikhars, the devotees have decided to build a 31-inch idol of Lord Mahavir. They have started donating gold. So far the temple has received about three kgs of the metal.” The idol will be made in Palitana in Gujarat.First silver, copper, brass and bronze will be used for the moulding of the idol. The idol will then be coated  with gold. - News Courtesy: mid-day.com

ANIMAL RIGHTS CHAMPIONED BY JAIN COMMUNITY

Bangalore (Karnataka), August 17: Championing the cause of animal rights and trying to spread the message of non-violence, members of the Jain community took out an ‘Ahimsa Yatra’ in the City on Sunday morning.The yatra, taken out under the aegis of the Animal Rights Fund (ARF), was marked with display of placards containing appeals to the public to be compassionate towards fellow humans and animals. The yatra was not only a visual treat for motorists, but also educated them on the advantages of simple living. Later, an ‘Ahimsa Sabha’ was organised near the ARF animal shelter near Girinagar. Jain seer Soorishwarji Maharaj blessed the gathering and said that every person should try and be more tolerant. The seer also urged people to be compassionate towards animals as it develops peace of mind and decreases hatred. 
     The yatra started at Sambhavnath Jain temple in Vijaynagar and culminated at the ARF animal shelter near Girinagar. The programme was organised in association with Sri Swavalambhi Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Sangh and Shri Sthoolbhandhrasuri Ahimsa Seva Sangh. Speaking on the occasion, ARF Trustee Dilip Bafna said the organisation was planning to construct a world class animal care centre near Kengeri. - News Courtesy: Deccan Herald

SO SAID ABOUT JAINISM...

A new column is started which 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. His Holiness Swasti Sri Bhuvanakeerthi Bhattarakha Swamiji is the guideline incorporating the column in this news magazine.   

Lord Mahavira’s Message of Salvation

“Mahavira proclaimed in India, the message of salvation that religion is a reality and not a mere social convention, that salvation comes from taking refuge in that true religion and not from observing the external ceremonies of the community, that religion cannot regard any barrier between man and man as an eternal verity. Wonderous to relate, this teaching rapidly overtopped the barriers of the races’ abiding instinct and conquered the whole country. For a long period now the influence of Kashatriya teachers completely suppressed the Brahmin power.”                                       

– Dr. Ravindranath Tagore

(Ref. – Jain Gazette, Delhi, (28th October, 1943) P.161)

PHILATELIC EXHIBITION ON JAINISM ORGANIZED AT LADNUN

A view of the Philatelic exhibits at Jain Vishva Bharathi.

 Ladnu (Rajasthan), August 25: Jain Vishva Bharti Institute ( Deemed University), Ladnun (Rajsthan) organized an exhibition of Stamps and Covers on Jainism collected by Mr. Sudhir Jain of Satna (M.P.).  This exhibition was organized at University Hall of Jain Vishva Bharti Institute at Ladnun on 25th August 2004. It was inaugurated by Dr. Jagatram Bhattacharya, Registrar of the Jain Vishva Bharti Institute.In this exhibition Mr. Sudhir Jain exhibited his 150 sheets Philatelic Collection on Jainism in the following sequence through Stamps and covers: Essence of Jainism, Principles of Jainism, Conceptions of Jainism, Admirers of Jainism, Symbols of Jainism, Siddha, Panch Kalyanak, Dreams of Mother, Identification signs of Tirthankars, Some Tirthankars, Other Pious Souls, Jain Pilgrimage Centres, Jain architecture, Jain Personalities, Jain Celebrations, Jain Institutions, Message to the World. Large number of Scholars, teachers, students and citizens visited this exhibition. Dr. Ashok Jain, Head, Jain Vidhya & Tulnatmak Dharmdarshan Department gave the vote of thanks.-News Courtesy: Sudhir Jain, Satna

MUKUTASAPTHAMI CELEBRATIONS AT PENUGONDE

Mukutasapthami was celebrated in a unique way in Penugonde at the abode of Sri Pachhe Parshwanatha Swamy. Dr. Hampa Nagarajaiah's 'Penugonde - Jaina Kendra' book was released on the occasion. The religious heads from Kolhapura and Simhanagadde (Narasimharajapura) blessed the occasion by their great presence. The renovation of the basadi and installation of Kalasha were also undertaken. Dr. Hampana stressed the need for research and its publication. Dr. Kamala Hampana the resident of 71st all India Kannada Conference, Sri Ajit C. Kabbina the judge of Karnataka High court and S. Jintendra Kumar the president of Karnataka Jaina association were present. Sri A.N.Chandrakeerthi compeered the function. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

RESURRECTION OF JAIN TEMPLE AT SARGUR

The Ananthanatha Basadi at Sargur under renovation. - JHC Photo

Sargur, situated near Kapila river in Mysore district is known for its religious fragrance. The old Jain temple of the place is finding its renovation in the recent years. This is a century old Basadi constructed by the religious couple from Saligrama. It holds in its adobe the metallic idol of Bhagawan 1008 Ananthanatha Tirthankara in the Kayotsarga. Sargur has also given birth to man Jaina munis. Ailak Chandrasagar hails from this place and was a great devotee of Sri Jwalamalini Devi. At present the Jain residents of Sargur have undertaken the reconstruction of the temple and thus intending to fulfill the needs of the devotees. Further Muni Nivas and also the sanctum Sanctorum for Brahmadeva will be built adjacent to the temple. A cost of Rs. 40 lakhs is estimated for this endeavour. Dr.D.Veerendra Heggade of Dharmasthala has performed the 'Bhoomipuja' of the temple on 5-6-2003. The religious heads of Shravanabelagola, Hombuja & Kanakagiri have encouraged the task by their guidlines. Acharya Sri 108 Vidyananda Muni Maharaj, Upadhyaya Sri 108 Nijananda Muni Maharaj & Mathru Sri Ratnamma Heggade Dharmasthala have blessed the venture. The philanthropists are requested to contribute immensely towards the reconstruction of the temple by extending liberal donation to the below mentioned address: Secratary Sri 1008 Anantanatha  Swami Jina Chaityalaya Jirnoddhara Seva Samiti, Sargur, H.D.Kote Taluk, Mysore. The cheques & demand drafts have to be drawn/sent in favour of- Sri 1008 Ananthanatha Swami Jina Chaityalaya Jirnoddhara Seva Samithi, State bank of Mysore, Sargur Branch, A/c No. C& I 435.       

DR. R.G.DESAI ATTENDING CONFERENCE IN CHINA

Bangalore: Dr.R.G.Desai professor and head, department of economics, Bangalore University, is invited to present the scientific papers in the International Conference being held in Beijing city. The conference is organised by Chinese academy of Science. The topic of his presentation includes 'Egovernance in Karnataka - A Study'. 

INDIAN JAIN ARTIST'S EXHIBITION ORGANIZED IN FRANCE

Gorbio (France): Paintings of an young Indian Jain artist Manish Jain Phuskele ( manishphuskele@rediffmail.com) are exhibited at Gorbio city of France. An exhibition titled as "Exhibition of five contemporary Indian Artists" is running there from 25th June to 19th September 2004. Paintings of five Indian Artists Mr. Raza, Mr. Manish, Sujata Bajaj, Seema Ghuraiya and Akhilesh on the subject "Roop Adhyatma" are exhibited in this exhibition. Gorbio is 850 years old historical city of France known as Classic Museum Village.

Originally from Bhopal and now shifted to Delhi, Mr. Manish is now well known artist of Spiritual Paintings. Previously he was invited by the France Govt. from 1st Sept. to 31st Dec. 2003 for visiting various Museums of France and delivering lectures on Indian Paintings. Australia Govt. had also invited him along with some other Indian Artists from 2nd May to 17th May 2004. External affairs Ministry of Govt. of India had sent him to Thailand from 22nd may to 27th May 2004.A special book "SAPTAK" has been published from Singapore containing paintings of seven renowned Indian Artists including Manish. This book has been written by Mr. Ashok Bajpai, Costing Rs. 7000/- per copy. - News Courtesy: Sudhir Jain

YAKSHAGANA ARTIST BAGS AWARD

Bangalore, September 15: Sri S.B.Narendra Kumar the physical education instructor (Rtd.) in honoured with the prestigious Yakshagana Award by the Vittala Shastri Foundation, Kuli. Sri Narendra Kumar is the son of late Sri S.Jinaraja Shastri of Siddavana Gurukula, Ujire. He has served as an amateur artist of Yakshagana for more than 40 years. He is also participated as a co artist in Yakshagana Kala Vedike, Bangalore. He has also participated in this troupe on the occasion of International Asia Pacific Art Festival held at Berlin city (Germany). - Jain Heritage Centres News Service  

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SRI K.AJJAPPA PASSES AWAY

Sri K.Ajjappa (86) the renowned freedom fighter and religious thinker passed away on August 18th in Bellary. He actively took part in Quit India Movement - 1942 and imprisoned. He was a staunch Gandhian and also fought for the unification movement of Karnataka. He was always in the forefront in all the religious and social activities of Jaina Community and exercised deep concern in the renovation of Bellary Jain temple. - Jain Heritage Centres News Service   

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JAIN PUBLICATIONS

Jain Publications available at Hindi Grantha Karyalay.
THE KEY TO THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE (English)
By Hermann Kuhn
A practicable translation of Tattvarthasutra, Chapter I
First published in Wunstorf, 2001
Distributed by HGRK
2003    200 x 140 mm    204 pp
3 9806211 8 9    Paperback    Rs. 120

ILLUSTRATED ARDHAMAGADHI DICTIONARY in 5 volumes
Ardhamagadhi x Gujarati - Hindi - English
With Sanskrit, Gujarati, Hindi & English equivalents,
References to the texts and Copious Quotations
Compiled by Muni Ratnachandra
Inroduction by A.C. Woolner
First published in Ahmedabad, 1928
1988    250 x 160 mm    4300pp (in 5 vols.)
Hardcover Rs. 2500 for the set

 

HARIVANSHA GATHA (Hindi)
The essence of Jinasena's "Harivansha Purana"
By Amrita Bharati
2004 220 x 142 mm   289 pp
81 263 1080 4    Hardcover Rs. 170

JAINISM IN INDIA (English)
Travel notes and photographs by Nicole Tiffen
Introduction by Collette Caillat
Published and Printed in Switzerland
1987 300 x 242 mm     116 pp all colour art plates
2 88301 000 5    Hardcover    Rs. 995

 

NAMOKAR MANTRA : EK ANUCINTAN (Hindi)
By Dr. Nemichandra Shastri
First published 1956 in Varanasi
13th edition 2002 182 x 124 mm    219 pp
81 263 0726 9     Hardcover      Rs. 60
 

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

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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.

Nellikaru (Mangalore District, Karnataka): The special pooja to Bhagawan Sri Ananthanatha swamy and to Brahma Yaksha had been organised on every Thursday on August 19th, 26th, September 2nd, 9th and 16th during the Simha Masa.  

Huncha (Shimoga District, Karnataka): The special pooja to Goddess Padmavathi Devi during the month of Shravana had been organised on August 20th & 27th and September 3rd & 10th under the guidance of Sri Devendrakeerthi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Huncha Jain Muth.  

Markuli (Hassan District, Karnataka): The special pooja to Tirthankara Adinatha of the Panchakuta Basadi during the month of Shravana had been organised on August 20th & 27th and September 3rd & 10th under the guidance of Sri Charukeetrhi Bhattarakha Maharaj of the Shravanabelagola Jain Muth.  

JAIN WEB WATCH

www.kanakagiri.org: The website of the only Jain Siddakhsetra Kanakagiri in South India. This website gives information about the history and antiquity of Kanakagiri. It also gives information about the activities and events at Kanakagiri and many attractive photos of the place. 
www.preksha.com: The website on Preksha meditation, an innovative technique of meditation founded by His Holiness Acharya Sri Mahapragyaji. This website gives information about Preksha meditation, Preksha camps and health and therapy measures by Preksha meditation.  

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Sunday 19th September 2004 - Dashalakshana Parva begins.

Monday 20th September 2004 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Suparshwanatha.

Wednesday 22nd September 2004 - Moksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Pushpdantha.

Saturday 25th September 2004 - Ratnatraya Vrata begins.

Monday 27th September 2004 - Maksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Vasupujya, Anantha Chaturdashi Vratha begins.

Tuesday 5th October 2004 - Garbha Kalyana Bhagawan Shanthintha.

Thursday 14th October 2004 - Mahalaya Amavasya.

Friday 15th October 2004 - Kevalagnana Kalyana of Bhagawan Neminatha.

Thursday 21st October 2004 - Moksha Kalyana of Bhagawan Sheethalanatha.

Saturday 23rd October 2004 - Digvijaya Pooja of Bharatha Chakravarthy.

Saturday 30th October 2004 - Garbha Kalyana of Bhagawan Naminatha.

WEB POLL

JHC Web poll question for the month of September 2004
Soul and Body are:
  • a. Identical

  • b. Different

  • c. identical as well as different

Click here to cast your vote.

 

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Additions as on 1st September 2004:

Calendar Wallpapers

Additions as on 15th September 2004:

JAIN CENSUS 2001

 

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