AHIMSA TIMES - APRIL 2006 ISSUE

"Don't kill any living beings. Don't try to rule them."
Mahavira (Acaranga, 4/23 )

MAHAVEER JAYANTI 2006 - CELEBRATIONS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY
As in the past, Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated this year also all over the country with full enthusiasm, zeal and devotion on the occasion of 2605th birth anniversy (Janm Kalyanak Mahotsava) of Bhagwan Mahavir. As a normal ritual in every town having sizeable Jain population, the day starts with worship of Bhagwan Mahavir in temples, followed by a procession, consisting of a picture or an idol of Bhagwan Mahavir and a large number of tableau (Jhanki) depicting the incidents from the life of Bhagwan Mahavir as well as those of other Tirthankars. The procession passes through the main market place and streets of the town and ends up in a Jain temple. Refreshments and soft drinks are served to the participants on the way by members of different social and religious organisations and well-wishers. People from different communities come to meet and embrace the participants of the procession as a mark of goodwill, brethren ship and harmonious relations. Seminars and lectures are held in the afternoon on the life and philosophy of Bhagwan Mahavir. Elaborate and impressive processions were taken out in large towns, like Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai, Delhi, Jaipur, Varanasi, Indore, Jodhpur, Bangalore etc. Mahavir Jayanti was enthusiastically celebrated at many places abroad also, such as Washington, New York, Houston, California, London, Nairobi, Singapore etc.

The President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in his message on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti said, "On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all our people. Lord Mahavira renounced the world for the cause of humanity and preached Ahimsa, truth and compassion. May his noble teaching continue to inspire us to strive for love, peace, harmony and amity and work of the unity and progress of our motherland."

In his message, The Vice President Shri Shekhawat said that "Bhagwan Mahavir, through His divinity, showed us the glorious path of right knowledge, right faith and right conduct. Ahimsa or the non-violence, of both thought and action, is the cardinal principle of His philosophy, which has the power to transform our lives and fill us with abiding spiritual strength and purity, he added. Let us imbibe Bhagwan Mahavir’s enlightened teachings to usher in a peaceful and humane society full of compassion and spirit of service for the poor and the deprived"

Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh on the occasion said "Lord Mahavir's life and teachings are a shining beacon, which lead us on the path of truth, sacrifice, on-violence and right conduct. His profound message will remain eternally relevant for all times"

DELHI - Delhi witnessed Mahaveer Jayanti program being organized throughout the day individually by every institution and temple. Programs were attended in large number by the members of Jainsamaj and other guests.

Delhi Jain Samaj headed by Mr. Chakresh Jain organized their program at Red Fort ground after completing the prabhat pheri (morning procession) with large number of tableau depicting the Bhagwan Mahaveer and his preaching.

The other main program was organized by Jain Mahasabha headed by Prof. Ratan Jain at Shah Auditorium. Addressing the program Mandir Marg Maharaj Saheb Ratan Sunder Surishwar Ji said "one should be a Jain by action and not by birth. The modern education system should help in character building of a child." Jain Mahasabha also honoured the Chief Minister, Mrs. Sheila Dixit with Ahimsa Samman (Award) for her efforts to improve the environment of Delhi, women welfare and establishing excellent social equilibrium. Addressing the gathering Mrs. Sheila Dixit accepted the suggestion of M.S. Ratan Sunder Ji for removing obscene and vulgar hoardings and posters from the roads of Delhi. Chief guest Abhishek Manu Singhvi in his address said, "Education should be value based and this will bring moral revolution." Prof. Ratan Jain, Secretary General of Jain Mahasabha declared that year 2006-07 will be celebrated as "SAVE A GIRL & SAVE WATER" year. To create awareness, Jain Mahasabha will organize nationwide programs and seminars. The ladies wing of Jain Mahasabha announced to honour Prof. Ratan Jain for his long tenure of selfless service to the people of Delhi and the Jain community. Mrs. Sheila Dixit honoured Prof. Ratan Jain.

MAHAVIR JAYANTI CELEBRATION AT CM's RESIDENCE - The Jain Samaj of Delhi celebrated the 2607th Mahavir Jayantii on the 11th April 2006 at the residence of Smt Sheila Dikshit. The function was organised at the behest and invitation of Smt Dikshit in a process to highlight the Mahavir's vision of Global Oneness and spread the message of Non Violence. Smt Dikshit in her speech made a mention that she is 50% jain as one of her daughter in law is a Jain. Sh Abhishek Manu Singhvi the newly nominated MP was present and was garlanded and was felicitated by the Jains on his nomination and praised his work with a request to highlight the issue of Jainism at various Government Forums. Naren Bhiku Ram Jain, a politician, social worker and prominent name in Delhi's Jain Samaj organized the entire program. The program was attended by many distinguished Jain Leaders including Chakresh JAin, Naresh Madipuria, Raj Kumar Jain, Salekh C Jain, Bir Chand Jain, Mange Lal Sethia, Sahu R. P. Jain, A. K. Jain. News courtesy: Honey Illa. E-Mail: honeyilla@yahoo.com

Bangalore - City Police Commissioner Ajai Kumar Singh flagged off the World Peace March from Puttannachetty Town Hall. It passed its -way to the Government Arts College grounds, touching the City Market area, where the community has always has a dominant presence. There were 12 tableaux on the theme of the last Jain Thirthankara, Bhagawan Mahaveer, and his teachings. Science and Technology Minister Ramachandra Gowda, who came in place of Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, said he would immediately talk to the latter and ensure that a Government Order was issued so that the change in the name of Infantry Road is officially changed to Mahaveer Road.

Bellary - Inaugurating the celebration at Goshala on Kanekal Road, Member of Parliament G Karunakar Reddy lauded Go Rakshana Sangha office bearers for their selfless service and assured all help for protecting cows. He said it was Bhagavan Mahaveera, who preached ‘ahimsa paramodharma’. In his name Jain community had taken up cow protection. He also promised to provide electricity, fodder and drinking water facility to Goshala. Minister for Tourism B Sriramulu said cow was considered as sacred animal in Indian culture. It was known as ‘Kamadhenu’, in the body of, which all 33 crore Gods and Goddesses reside. He wanted slaughter of cow to be stopped once for all and cows should be protected.

Hubli - While the Constitution has imposed ban on cow-slaughter, the politicians are not interested to implement the same as they are being scared of losing their vote bank said Ramajois, retired chief justice of High Court and former Governer of Bihar. He was speaking at Mahaveer Jayanti celebrations. Reminding the statement of Tarun Sagar Muni, revolutionary saint on cow-slughter issue, he said Instead of exporting beef to foreign countries, politicians opposing the ban on cow-slaughter should be exported’’. Laksmisena Bhattaraka of Kollapur Jain Mutt, who graced the occasion said nobody could achieve anything great in the world without the support of ‘Guru’. All need the guidance and blessings of Guru, he added. Jain Sadhviji Priyakalpana Sriji presided. Mayor G Somasekhar Reddy, Gorakshana Sangha president Parasmal G Botha, Secretary Jagan Katharia, convener Anil Bagrecha were present.

Bhopal - Governor Dr Balram Jakhar has extended his greetings and good wishes to the people of Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. In his message, the Governor said that Bhagwan Mahavir had given the message of non-violence, righteousness, sacrifice, love, tolerance and amity to the world. His teachings are ever relevant for the entire society. The Governor called upon the people to follow the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir to shape an egalitarian society and for spiritual elevation of humanity. He has wished a happy and prosperous life to the people of the state.

Avadi - Sri Vardhaman Jain Navyuvak Mandal of Avadi, a unit of Jain Youths, distributed beds, pillows, bedsheets, gas stoves and essential commodities to various orphanages functioning in the area such as Mahalakshmi Foundation in Avadi, Udhavum Nanbargal in Thiruninravur, Friends for the Needy in Tirumullaivoyal and an orphanage near Kovilpadagai on the occasion of Mahaveer Jayanthi.

Jammu - Mahavir Jayanti, celebrated in Jammu with religious fervor and gaiety in which various Jain scholars highlighted the life of Bagwan Mahavir. Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad also celebrated the day among Jains at Jain Higher Secondary School Jammu. The programme was organized by Jain Sabha Jammu. Congratulating Jain and Muslim community Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said that the day is not only important for Jain but Muslims also. He said that if the day is being celebrated by Jains as birthday of Lord Mahavir; same day is being celebrated as birthday of Prophet Muhammad by Muslims.

Imphal, Governor Dr SS Sidhu and Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh greeted the people of Manipur and especially the Jain brethren on the sacred and auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. In his message, Dr Sidhu called upon the people dedicate to the ideals, principles and eternal values espoused by Lord Mahavira. He said an outstanding apostle of peace and non-violence, Lord Mahavira wished to build a new world order based on equality of mankind cutting across the barriers of caste, creed and religion. In his message, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said the teachings of Lord Mahavir are that of peace, non-violence and forgiveness and based on the principals of love and let live.

Washington - The Jain Society of Metro Washington area is organizing Mahavir Jayanti grand celebration on Saturday, April 22, 2006 starting at 2:30 p.m. the program is expected to attend by 800 people. Senator Frank Pallone, Hilary Clinton, Maryland speaker Kumar Barve and Ambassador of India Ronan Sen are among the invited guest. As in the past, the celebration will include cultural programs (religious dances, prayer songs, religious drama and skit, etc.) by adults and youth. The stage program will be followed by a Swami Vatsalya Bhoj. The program will be held at the nearby Paint Branch High School on 14121 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866. For more information Contact Jay Bhandariat E-Mail jay_bhandari@hotmail.com or phone (301-254-4679).

TENSION & CURFEW DURING FESTIVALS AT KHANDWA
The peaceful small town of Khandwa was taken by storm on the auspicious religious occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti. It is said some anti-social elements threw stones at a procession of the Muslim community being taken out to celebrate the birth anniversary of prophet of Islam Hazrat Mohammad. In no time the situation got out of control and people in the procession became panicky. The tension took a communal colour. An alert administration and the police force swung into action to avoid the situation going out of control. Curfew had to be imposed to avoid the situation going out of hand. It was successful in pursuing the followers of Lord Mahaveer not to take out their procession looking to the volatile situation. Many small groups of both the communities wanted to create more disturbances but the alert police administration foiled their moves. One person suffered serious injuries and others were admitted in the district hospital.

STONE-THROWING ON MAHAVIR JAYANTI PROCESSION AT PALI (RAJ.) - Mahavir Jayanti processions are taken out in all the major towns in the country in a highly peaceful and cordial atmosphere. people of different communities, Hindu, Muslim and Christian meet and embrace the Jains showing complete communal harmony, amity and brethren ship. This time, however, trouble arose at Pali, a town in western Rajasthan, just 70 km. away from Jodhpur. When the procession carrying tall tableau was passing through a thickly populated area on a narrow lane, a flag belonging to another community had to be removed temporarily with due permission of the local authorities, so as to make way for the tableau to pass. This action caused furor amongst persons of another community and the rowdy elements from amongst them started pelting stones on the procession from their roof tops. Police had to be called in immediately to control the situation. However, several people in the procession got injured, one heavily. Eight persons were later arrested. On carrying out a search, police recovered arms and ammunition from their houses. Curfew had to be kept imposed for two days.

NEW MAGNIFICENT JAIN TEMPLE AT MANOR (MUMBAI AHEMADABAD HIGHWAY) - More than 15,000 Jain devotees last week attended the Anjan Shalaka-Pran Prastistha performed by H H Bhadranah Vijayji Maharaj on the biggest single cast idol of Lord Parshwanath at Manor, 100 kms from Mumbai. The ceremony of Lord Parshwanath receiving prana (spiritual energy), which marked the commencement of the Vijaya Pataka Parshwanath Jain Shwetambar Tirth, was one of the several sacred rites performed in celebration of the new temple currently under construction at Manor. The uniqueness of this temple is the idol of Lord Parshwanath, which is the biggest single piece cast item of its kind in the world. Made of five metals - Gold, Silver, Copper, Zinc and Tin, the idol weighs 35 tons and is 14 feet tall. The temple, ideally situated on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway, is being set up on a 45-acre land to serve as a place of worship for people across the globe.

It was about 10 years ago that the temple was visualised at Manor by H.H Bhadranah Vijayji Maharaj. His visualisation is turned into a reality by Dilkush Doshi, a Mumbai-based businessman and the sole sponsor of the temple. The Shri Vijaya Pataka Parshwanath Jain Shwetambar Tirth Trust, set up by him, is overseeing the construction of this religious site. At the celebration H.H Bhadranah Vijayji Maharaj said, “Every individual should attain peace and prosperity. My blessing is for every soul to attain eternity. He also wished the world to progress towards Vishwashanti (World Peace).” Dilkush Doshi, Founder of the Vijaya Pataka Parshwananth Jain Shwetamber Tirth says, “We have spent nearly a decade planning to build the ornate temple, which is designed by artisans from Rajasthan and Gujarat. Once completed within a period of two years, the temple would be one of the many wonders in India to see. Our mission is to promote peace, harmony and prosperity in society at large and the message of Lord i.e. “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” (Non-violence is equal to god). He said that the construction of the 18,500 square-foot temple began in late 2005 and is expected to be completed by early 2008. The mandap, when completed, would be about 5000 sq. ft. in area and at any given time more than 1000 devotees will be able to take darshan. The material used for the construction is the Jodhpur Stone and Makrana marble. The roof of the temple would be half-arched and half-flat and will be without any columns. This style of construction is more than 100 years old, Doshi added. According to Shri Batuk Bhai, Architect (Temple Sompura), “In two years’ time, this would be one of the most beautiful and greatest temples that has been created for the community”. Shri Batuk Bhai has several temple projects to his credit. Once completed, the two interior walls would be home to the Vijay Pataka Yantra of 51 ft x 32 ft that will bring peace in the world, to all individuals across the globe and well being in the neighbourhood.

KUNDALPUR JAIN TEMPLE OWNERSHIP DISPUTED ASI
Jabalpur, April 13, 2006, M. P. High Court has advised the Archeological Survey of India to obtain revenue records from M. P. Government to clear the controversy on the ownership of the Kundalpur Jain temples in Damoh district. The issue has created malice in Jain community. The town recently witnessed protracted agitation over ASI’s claim that the temples were their property. The State Government has been asked to file a reply to the court to check shifting of Bade Baba idol from the old temple to the new structure. The Shri Digamber Jain Atishay Chhetra Kundalpur Public Trust today said in reply to the court notice that the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958 provisions are not applicable on its 58 temples in Kundalpur including the main temple from where Bade Baba (Bhagwan Adinath) sculpture was shifted to the new temple. The old temple was damaged in the process of shifting the tall idol of Bade Baba to the new temple. The Trust filed copies of revenue records to support its claim that temples are private property and the Trust holds the ownership rights. Therefore, the temples were not protected monuments. Also, the Trust claimed that the ASI was not spending a single penny over maintenance and repairing of the temples. In 1976 it was the Trust that built a new dome on the old temple where Bade Bada sculpture was installed previously, the Trust further argued. The construction for new temple started in 1999 where Bade Baba idol was shifted in January last, the Trust said and objected the ASI stand on the temples raised after a lapse of seven years since the construction started. The Jains have filed copies of revenue records to support their claim that temples are private property and their Trust holds the ownership rights. Therefore, the temples were not protected monuments.

PRIME MINISTER RELEASED ABHISHEK SINGHVI'S COMPENDIUM
Mr. Abhishek Singhvi who has just joined as a member of Rajya Sabha representing congress party has published his compendium of Columns written in Hindustand Times. The collection was released by Prime Minister at a function organized at his residence. PM, who has written a forward in the book, called upon professionals like Mr. Abhishek Singhvi to join public life as such a trend reinvigorate parliamentary democracy. Other speakers including Mr. Chidambaram, Mr. Jaipal Reddy and Mr. Lahoti, lauded Singhvi's diverse range from serious issues of law and governance and humorous pieces.

FESTIVAL OF VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN PRIDE IN PARIS, 20TH OF MAY 2006
Festival of vegetarian and vegan pride , will be held at in front of the Beaubourg Centre Paris. The aims of the event are: To declare our pride at refusing to have animals killed for our consumption. To refuse to rob sentient beings of their sole possessions, of their very flesh, of their very lives; to refuse to take part in a concentration camp system which turns their short lives into perpetual torment; to refuse to do all of this for the mere pleasure of the palate, for the satisfaction of a habit, of a tradition: To refuse to do such things should be just plain decency. To denounce vege phobia and to ensure that vegetarianism is not concealed, ignored, mocked, marginalized or even defamed.

JVB LONDON LAUNCHES 'PREKSHA PATH OF PEACE' ALBUM
On Thursday, 2nd March 2006, the launch of 'Preksha Path of Peace' album took place at Jain Vishva Bharati London. The event was honored by the presence of the contemporary doyen of North Indian Classical Vocal Music, 'Padmvibhushan, Sangeet Martand' Pandit Jasraj who graced the occasion to launch this album in the auspicious presence of Samanis Pratibha Pragyaji & Punya Pragyaji.

About 200 people from various faiths & walks of life attended this special event of spiritual cum musical offering : Smita Purushottam - Indian High Commission, Political Minister; Dr. Nand Kumar - Director of Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan; Chunilal Velji Chavda - Liberal Democrat Councillor; Pat Stevens - Secretary Harrow Inter-faith Council; Hare Rama Hare Krishna; Swami Narayan Temple; Brahmakumari; Buddhist Temple; Muslim Faith; Zoroastrian Group; Bahai faith; Mahavir Foundation; Oswal Association; Jain Association UK; Young Jains UK; Navnat Vanik Association; Jain Social Group; Institute of Jainology; Digamber Jain Temple; London Vegetarian Society; London Vegan Society; Veerayatan U.K; Jain Samaj Europe; Navyug Pragati Mandal; Bhakti Mandal; Dr. Peter Flügel - Chairperson of SOAS' Centre of Jaina Studies; Professor Ingrid Schoon - City University, London.

Preksha Dhyan is the combination of knowledge from our ancient scriptures, modern science and experiences. It is the practice of purifying our emotions, consciousness and attaining self-realization. Begun in 1970, Preksha Dhyan is the result of untiring efforts of Gurudev Tulsi and Acharya Mahaprajna. Acharya Mahaprajna researched and experimented for twenty years to rediscover the process of Meditation practiced by Lord Mahavir. Preksha Dhyan is for everyone, irrespective of race, religion, language, colour or belief. JVB centres in India and other countries have been conducting classes on Preksha Meditation for many years. Inspired by these classes it was recognized that there was a need to introduce this practice in a contemporary form, which would appeal to anyone and everyone especially the youth of today, who yearn for secular spiritual guidance. So it was decided to provide an additional meditation kit in form of a CD with English translations of Mantras, sutras, and hymns.

The chairperson of JVB London Women's Wing, Pushpa Banthia seized the opportunity to capitalise on the singing talents of Samani Punya Pragya for making an album. The CD will be available at all JVB centres in India, UK & USA. It contains amongst others, Preksha Sutras, songs by Gurudev Tulsi, Bhavanas and prayer by Acharya Mahaprajna; more details will be available soon. News by: "Arti Jain" E-Mail : arti2000@hotmail.com

Download Demos of all 12 Songs, [Download Center] format: mp3, 128 Kbps (1:30 min each)

YOUTH JAINS OF AMERICA CONVENTION
YJA intends to continue to focus on bringing Jain youth together in a forum where they can meet other young Jains while learning the tenets of Jainism. This summer, Jains from all over the world will be under one roof experiencing Jain Evolution: Making Our Life Our Message.Event: Date: July 1st- July 4th 2006, Place: Stamford, CT .Event programme includes: 3 Nights Accommodation at Westin Stamford Hotel , Shuttle transportation from New York LaGuardia Airport , Sheraton Hotel Vegetarian Jain Food. First Ever YJA Dance Competition, YJA is looking for dancers from all around the country to go head to head in the first ever YJA Dance Competition at the 2006 Convention. This is not just an Indian dance competition. This is an everything dance competition: bhangra, garba, salsa, tango, hip-hop, rave. Interested participants may contact NYU Jain Students Association E-Mail: jain.club@nyu.edu Message sent by: Young Jains of America, 4048 Twyla Lane, Campbell, CA 95008.

ACHARYA TULSI SAMMAN CONFERRED ON BHASKAR NEWS GROUP CHAIRMAN
MUMBAI: Media baron and Bhaskar group of newspapers' Chairman Ramesh Chandra Agarwal will be conferred this year's Acharya Tulsi Samman. Acharya Tulsi-Mahapragya Vichar Manch president Rajkumar Pugalia said Agarwal, who is also co-chairman of the English daily DNA, has been selected for the Rs 51,000 award for his contribution to positive writing and concern for human values. The award function will be held at the Y B Chavan centre here on May 7. Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh will present the award to Mr. Agarwal. The felicitation carries a citation besides cash.

JUSTICE VIJENDER JAIN APPOINTED CHIEF JUSTICE OF DELHI HIGH COURT
NEW DELHI: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam appointed Justice Vijender Jain as Acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. Mr. Justice Jain will replace Chief Justice M. Katju who has been elevated to the Supreme Court. Justice Jain, born on 2nd August 1946 in Delhi started practicing law at Supreme Court. Mr. Justice Jain joined the Bar in 1969 and was appointed a permanent Judge of the Delhi High Court in 1992. Justice Jain has received a lot of public attention due to his judicial initiatives on Yamuna River Cleaning Project, Jama Masjid Decoration, unauthorized occupations and structural improvement of Delhi. Due to his legal orders, MCD had to start demolition drive and sealing of commercial and illegal buildings all over Delhi. This has caused severe hardships to thousands of common persons of Delhi. Even the political establishments are shaken by the actions of local authorities. Whatever may be the implications in the short term, efforts of Justice Vijendra Jain will make Delhi an international city fit for holding 2010 commonwealth games.

INDU JAIN OF BENNETT COLEMAN JOINS THE 23 INDIAN BILLIONAIRES CLUB - Forbes: One in 10 new billionaires is Indian .Stock market boom places 23 Indians in hall of fame. With the unprecedented bull run in its stock market, India has spawned 10 new billionaires in the past year to take its tally in the latest Forbes list of billionaires to 23. “India, whose BSE Sensex was up 54 per cent in the past 12 months, is home to 10 new billionaires, more than any other country besides the US,” Forbes said on its website, adding that booming markets the world over, except the US, had led to the number of billionaires touching a record 793 this year, up 102 from last year. With 23 of its 1.1 billion citizens in the list, India has become the seventh largest contributor to the club, behind only the United States, which has a whopping 371 billionaires, Germany (55), Russia (33), Japan (27), China including Hong Kong (25) and the UK (24). It is ahead of countries like Canada (22), France (14), Switzerland (8), Israel (8), Singapore (7) and Taiwan (5). Notable Indian newcomers to the coveted list included Indu Jain, of Times of India Group (Bennett, Coleman & Company), Tulsi Tanti of Suzlon, liquor baron Vijay Mallya, online gaming mogul Anurag Dikshit, who made his fortune when he and two Americans took their party gaming poker company public in London last June, Naresh Goyal of Jet Airways, who took his company public last year.

Rank	Name	Net worth	Rank	Name	Net worth	Rank	Name	Net worth
5	Lakshmi Mittal	23.5	25	Azim Premji	13.3	56	Mukesh Ambani	8.5
104	Anil Ambani	5.7	114	Kushal Pal Singh	5.0	125	Sunil Mittal	4 .9
140	Kumar Birla	4.4	168	Shiv Nadar	4.0	185	Pallonji Mistry	3.6
207	Anurag Dikshit	3.3	245	Anil Agarwal	2.8	245	Ravi, Shashi Ruia	2.8
278	Adi Godrej & family	2.6	317	Indu Jain	2.4	317	Dilip Shanghvi	2.4
512	Naresh Goyal	1.5	562	Baba Kalyani	1.4	562	Tulsi Tanti	1.4
645	Narayana Murthy	1.2	698	Uday Kotak	1.1	746	Subhash Chandra	1.0
746	Habil Khorakiwala	1.0	746	Vijay Mallya		Amount in $bn

DR. RAJ JAIN RECEIVES ACM SIGCOMM'S TEST OF TIME AWARD
March 28, 2006, California - Nayna Networks, Inc., a provider of next generation network solutions, today announced that Dr. Raj Jain, Nayna Networks' chief technology officer, is a recipient of ACM SIGCOMM's Test of Time Award. The ACM SIGCOMM Test of Time Award recognizes a paper published 10 to 12 years in the past in Computer Communications Review or any SIGCOMM sponsored or co-sponsored conference that is deemed to be an outstanding paper whose contents are still a vibrant and useful contribution today. Dr. Jain received this award for his paper on the DECbit scheme for traffic management published at the 1988 ACM SIGCOMM conference. At the time of publication, the paper was selected as the best paper at the conference. Then in 1995, the paper was selected for reprinting in the 25th anniversary issue of SIGCOMM's Computer Communications Review. Dr. Jain holds several patents on the DECbit scheme, which has been implemented in many networks since its publication in 1988. Variants of the DECbit scheme have been implemented in many networks, including ATM and Frame relay networks used by carriers. The explicit congestion notification (ECN) used in the Internet is also based on the DECbit work. "Traffic management is an important aspect of broadband networks and we are proud to see ACM recognize the importance of the foundational work done by Dr. Jain and his team," said Naveen Bisht, president and CEO of Nayna Networks. Founded in 1947, ACM has 80,000 members and is a major force in advancing the skills of information technology professionals and students worldwide. SIGCOMM is ACM's special interest group on data communications. About Nayna Networks, Inc. - This company delivers next generation network solutions. More information is available at www.nayna.com

DR. P.C. LUNIA HONOURED WITH INDO-AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP AWARD IN NEW YORK - Dr. P. C. Lunia, recepient of Jefferson Book Award in the year 2003 and President of Golden India Foundation, Jaipur was honored recently in New York with Indo-American Friendship award by the World Business Forum. Shri Bhishm K. Agnihotri, past Ambassador of India to the United States handed over the award in the form of a citation and a memento. He mentioned that contribution of non-resident Indians has been immense in strengthening the relations between India and USA. These will be further strengthened by enhanced business and cultural activities, as are being promoted by Dr. Lunia for the last several years. Dr. Lunia had come into prominence from his book, "A Vision of Golden America-An Achievable Plan". In his speech, he said, every Indian living in America is a cultural ambassador of India and we should all take it as our onerous responsibility to promote the moral and ethical values, encompassed in our thousands of years old spiritual background.

KAPIL JAIN FROM JODHPUR EARNS THE HIGHEST EVER PACKAGE FROM AN US COMPANY - The fresh students coming out from engineering colleges and management institutes are being very well received and paid handsome remuneration by US companies. The fresh students, not only from IIT's and IIM's but also from other institutions are finding excellent job opportunities in USA, Canada, Germany, UK, France and Australia and the demand is on the rise. The institutes are therefore planning to increase their in-take capacities. Recently, a boy from Nima College of Engineering and Technology, Ahmedabad was offered a package of Rs. 40 lakhs by Texas Instruments Ltd.

The highest-ever package of Rs. 1.10 crore has been offered recently by Shell Petroleum Development Co. USA for their Soku Gas Development Project in Nigeria to Kapil Jain, hailing from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, holding Master's degree in Computer Applications, Kapil is from a middle-class Jain family, having handicraft business. He has specialised in Microsoft's latest technology, called DotNet. Congratulations, Kapil.

NEW BOOKS :
THE BASIC THOUGHT OF BHAGWAN MAHAVIR : Dr. JaykumarJalaj a literati and recipient of many awards and Saraswat honour, has in a beautiful style and simple narration made Mahavir accessible to a common man. The popularity of this book is evident from the fact that 13 editions of Hindi , 4 of English , 2 of Gujarati ,2 of Urdu and one each of Marathi and Kannad have come out . The author begins his note with Mahavir's perception of the manifoldness of reality as well as the expansive, independent vivid and self sufficient nature of matter - both living and non-living. The author clarifies some misgivings about ahimsa. In that, violence in protecting a country is not violence. The book has occasional references to the canonical scriptures. It also explains in detail the essential Jain ingredients of the art of living. The book has been beautifully edited by Dr.Elinor Velasqueze, California USA The print and get-up is good. The author , editor and publishers have done yeomen service in spreading the message of Mahavir. The reader will come to the delightful conclusion that Mahavir's message- live and let live- is the only remedy for the current problems. E-Mail jaykumarjalaj@yahoo.com

THE SCIENCE AND PHILOSOPHY OF SPIRITUALITY - By R.K. Gupta, Publisher: B.R. Publishing Corp., 425, Nimri Colony, Ashok Vihar, Phase IV, DELHI-110052, Year: 2006; Price: Rs. 295/-

HEALING WITH WATER - By V.M. Kulkarni, Publisher: Crest Publishers, 16, Ansari road, Darya Ganj, New Delhi., Year: 2005 Price: Rs. 60/-

BASIC JAIN CULTURE; NON-POSSESSION (Translation of Hindi edition) - By Padam Chand Shastri, Publisher: Vir Sewa Mansdir, 21, Darya Ganj, New Delhi., Year: 2005 Price: Study.

THE SECRETS BENEFITS OF JUICE THERAPY - By Vijaya Kumar, New Dawn Press. 2006 Price: Rs. 75/-

ILLUSTRATED BHAGAVATI SUTRA Volume 1 (Prakrit-Hindi-English), VYAKHYA PRAJNAPTI, Prakrit Gatha - Hindi exposition - English exposition and a glossary, Ed. by Amar Muni, Shrichand Surana; English. trans. by Surendra Bothra, 14 Oil paintings by Dr. Trilok Sharma reproduced on art plates. 2005 250 x 190 mm 584 pp 14 colour plates, Hardcover Rs. 600,

The above books can be obtained from: Hindi Granth Karyalaya, 9 Hirabaug C.P. Tank, Mumbai 400004 E-Mail: manishymodi@gmail.com.

CHATURMAS DECLARED: Limdi Ajramar sect:
Gadipati Shri Narsingh Ji Swami - Thane (Maharashtra)
Maharaj Shri Labh Chandra Ji Swami - Limdi
Maharaj Shri Bhaskar Swami - Limdi
Maharaj Shri Bhal Chandra Ji Swami - Bhuj (Kachh)
Maharaj Shri Niranjan Chandra Ji Swami - Ramankara (Kachh)
Maharaj Shri Panthak Chandra Ji Swami - Trambo (Kachh)

LETTER TO EDITOR
From: "Dr. C. Devakumar" E-Mail: cdevakumar@yahoo.com -The following news in Ahimsa Times disturbs me. I had a dreadful dream about this coming when Shri Girnar was illegally taken over. I pray with folded hands to all Jains who matter in this issue, please stop the Govt with this move. Modi Govt has ulterior motives. Beware of it. This sacred Shri kshetra would be spoiled for ever.I hope, my fears are belied. Dev

PALITANA TO BE DEVELOPED AS TOURISM SPOT BY GUJARAT GOVT. - To promote religious tourism in Palitana the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat will spend Rs 50 lakh to develop infrastructure facilities for pilgrims. The Jain pilgrimage centre would be projected internationally to attract pilgrims from across the world. A two-day religious festival has also been organised by Gujarat Govt. on March 11 and 12. The mountain town of Palitana is one of the major pilgrimages in India for Jains and is also one of the most difficult to access. To provide better infrastructure facilities like accommodation, roads, drinking water and beautification, the Govt. has taken the initiative. Palitana is visited by lakhs of pilgrims but the infrastructure facilities in the temple town needs a lot of improvement. During the two-day fest, a seminar on astronomy would be organised, in which a team of scientists from Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Jain saints and a team of research students and professors of Bhavnagar University would discuss Jain principles and modern astronomy. Palitana is also known for rosewater and musical instruments industry.

IMPORTANCE OF CAITRI PURNIMA IN JAINISM- By Shri. Chandraprakash Shah
“ Tirthrajam Namaskritya Shree Siddhacalsamgyakam;
Caitrishuklapurnimayah, Vyakhyanam kriyate maya
It means I bow down and salute before the greatest pilgrimage place amongst all the pilgrimage places in the world and describe then, an importance of Caitri purnima, the fifteenth day of bright half of Gujarati month Caitra which falls on Thursday the 13/04/2006 in this year. Click here to read the full article.

JAINA REQUESTS FOR COMMEMORATIVE STAMP ON VIRCHAND RAGHAVJI GANDHI - JAINA, the federating body of Jains in United States has requested Shri Dayanidhi Maran, Minister of Communications to issue a commemorative stamp for Virchand Raghavji Gandhi 1864 - 1901 on either August 7th or August 25th, 2006, his anniversary date . Jains worldwide will be observing "Remembering Virchand Raghavji Gandhi (VRG)" during August 7 to 25, 2006. Celebrations in different manners will be organized by various organizations in India and abroad. JAINA is taking lead-initiative of requesting India Post to issue a stamp in memory of VRG.

VRG was India's great emissary to the west, who changed the belief that India was the land of heathens without any culture or civilization. VRG promoted Indian philosophy and brought awareness of India's rich cultural heritage in America & Europe by establishing three societies and through several hundreds speeches spanning few years and many trips abroad. It is appropriate that this great cultural ambassador be suitably honoured and recognized. VRG represented Jain faith, along with Swami Vivekananda at the first ever Parliament of World Religion in 1893 AD at Chicago, USA, where he was awarded silver medal for his contribution. He was an Asian delegate at the 1899 International Commerce Conference, where he advocated about post-parcel system. VRG, a Barrister-at-law, successfully advanced the causes of animal welfare, vegetarianism and unjust head pool tax levy.

PRIYESH JAIN DIRECTS FILM "ROSHNI" ON WORLD PEACE
Priyesh Jain (33) did not let blindness affect his vision. With the completion of his 45-minute film, Roshni. He has become, the first blind person to direct a film. Roshni, which stars Anant Mahadevan and Reeta Bhaduri, is a plea for global peace and a world free of nuclear bombs.

The film is based on Hindi play, Umeed, which he has scripted and directed. The film was financed by family and has cinematography by National Award-winning director Mahesh Chandra. Priyesh is very passionate about learning. It is touching to know a person who can’t see has created something for the world to see. According to Priyesh, Roshni is a tribute to my parents who never made me feel inferior because of my visual handicap. Priyesh also won a gold medal in 1994 in Economics and Political Science in BA. Jain says Sholay, which he saw 15 times as a two-year-old, has influenced his style of filmmaking. However, Priyesh says Indians don’t care for the disabled. No channel wants to show my film. I have even offered to raise funds for airing the film. Ideally, I’d like to show Roshni on August 6, when Hiroshima was bombed in 1945. Jain has founded a charitable trust with some friends for the visually challenged named Drishti and is also writing a book about his experiences.

MUNI LOKESH TO UNDERTAKE YATRA AGAINST FEMALE FOETICIDE
An ahimsa yatra from Gujarat to Punjab will be undertaken by Muni Lok Prakash 'Lokesh' to create awareness against female foeticide and to highlight the importance of ahimsa in life. According to a press release here, Muni Lokesh will be going on the yatra as he feels that foeticide has caused a imbalance in the male-female birth ratio. This, if not controlled could lead to unrest in society. The release states that after nearly 20 years of intensive study and thought, he has developed a plan for peace, education that would be launched to free society from violence and terror and make man a better individual.

AHIMSA SILK DRAWING YARN WITHOUT KILLING WORMS
Ahimsa Silk yarn drawn out without killing worms will certainly make animal rights activists like Maneka Gandhi and Amala happy. APCO’s Hyderabad-based technical officer Kusuma Rajaiah developed this silk which does not use yarn that is drawn normally by killing cocooned silkworms by putting them in boiling water. Left-over cocoons are treated with detergent-like chemicals to dissolve them into a blob like cotton. Yarn is then spun out either manually or mechanically to make silk fibre. It is a laborious and costlier process and takes about 100 kg of cocoons to produce up to 15 kg of yarn. By boiling a single cocoon at least 500 metres of silk yarn can be produced, whereas yarn obtained by Rajaiah’s method yields just 15 percent. Rajaiah’s innovation has been received with much enthusiasm. Handloom Commissioner was amazed to learn about preparation of silk without killing worms, said APCO Vice-President and Managing Director, YS Prasad.

PANJRAPOLE IN AMERICA - PURPLE COW ANIMAL SHELTER
“Panj-ra-pole” – A Gujarati word describing a shelter for unwanted, crippled or homeless animals. These shelters are prevailing today in several parts of India. In America, what happens to farm animals and even some domesticated animals once they get too old or stop being productive for their owners? While most are sent to slaughter houses, very few lucky ones find themselves in the loving care of Tiffany St. Ives and her organization “the Purple Cow and friends” in Escondido CA, near San Diego. “The Purple Cow and Friends” is a non profit organization that has been recognized and even felicitated by several notable people and institutions for its humane work.

A personal visit to her farm reveals the real efforts and hard work put in by this modern day saint. She rescues old, abused, crippled and neglected animals and gives them loving and nurturing final days to their natural life. Tiffany works 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, foraging for fruits, vegetables and grain from local farmers and grocery stores for her 100+ animals. Her animals include various size pigs, cows, goats, horses and even a mule amongst the larger animals and several other birds and smaller animals. Tiffany, herself a vegan, serves all her animals only vegetarian food. We have personally witnessed her turning down a sizable donation of cat food as it was not vegetarian. Still, one look at the overall health of the animals on her farm proves that “vegetarianism” works on animals too!

The task of collecting and transporting food for these animals is a daunting one. One which has been made possible for the last 14 years due to the caring and support of people like yourself. If you would like to make a one time, or monthly tax deductible contribution, If you would like to receive pictures or copies of articles, coverage on the purple cow in various media. If you would like to visit the purple cow and physically help with the cleaning and upkeep of the animals for a day. For any of the above, please contact one of the persons. Kishor Mehta 1-760-734-6930, E-Mail: Daman2118@yahoo.com , Mala Vora 1-213-623-7390,E-Mail: voragems@aol.com ,Kalpesh Jhaveri 1-909-598-7070 E-Mail: kalherc10@yahoo.com ,Jayshree Shah 1-626-914-9028 E-Mail: juisjayu@hotmail.com . You may also contact Jain Center of Southern California ,8032 Commonwealth Avenue ,Post Office Box 549 ,Buena Park, CA 90621,714-523-5246.

JAINS ASK FOR BAN ON KILLING BIRDS
BELGAUM: The Jains of Belgaum have asked the government to ban killing birds in the name of bird flu. A delegation led by Rajendra Jain of the Bhagawan Mahaveer Jayanti Madhyavarthi Utsav Sangh, forwarded a memorandum in this regard to Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh. The sangh expressed its surprise at the culling of birds and conveyed the embarrassment of the entire Jain community and of people who believed in ‘Ahimsa’. It urged to stop killing birds with immediate effect. The ‘Prani Daya Sangh,’ Belgaum, also upheld the demand of Jains and asked the government to fulfill the same.

RAJASTHAN ASSEMBLY PASSES ANTI-CONVERSION BILL
The Rajasthan State which is presently ruled by BJP has passed an Anti-conversion Bill, even as the entire Opposition stayed away. There were uproarious scenes throughout the discussion on the legislation. The "Rajasthan Dharma Swatantraya Bill, 2006" (Religious Freedom Bill) has a provision for re-conversion to Hinduism. According to the Government, bill was required to check activities of Christian missionaries in certain parts of the State. However, the opposition stayed away in protest, creating furor in assembly during discussion. Opposition said, it was an attack on the freedom of speech and expression, and freedom to profess, practice and propagate religion". The Bill is an attempt to suppress the minorities. It can be used against Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Jains and others. The opposition attempts to get the Bill referred to a select committee were in vain." Chief Minister was absent during the session. The bill was taken up on the concluding day of the Budget session and passed with a voice-vote. Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria, who piloted the Bill, said the bill was necessary to check the activities of Christian missionaries in some parts of the state, especially in Kota. He, however, pointed out that the bill was not against any religion.

SALE OF EGGS AND MEAT BANNED BY GUJARAT GOVT. IN PALITANA
The Government of Gujarat has imposed a total ban on the sale and consumption of eggs, fish and meat at the Jain pilgrimage centre, Palitana, on similar lines as in Hardwar. Palitana is one of the most sacred and prominent centre of pilgrimage for the entire community and hundreds of pilgrims and devotees visit the place from all over the country and abroad.

STHANAKWASI JAIN SHRAMAN-SANGHIYA SHRAWAK SAMITI CONSTITUTED
Keeping in view the urgent need for unity amongst Shraman Sangh, and in the light of recent move to dis-integrate the Shraman Sangh by installing one more Acharya by a dissident group of saints, Dr. Shiv Muni, the fourth Pattadhar Acharya has given his blessings and inspiration for the constitution of a Shraman-sanghiya Shrawak Samiti. This samiti will coordinate with various dissident factions and individual saints and shrawaks and make all possible efforts to bring back the much-desired unity. Shri Sumati Lal Ji Karnawat has been designated as the President of the samiti.

FASHION GRADUATE CHOOSES TO LIVE A JAIN SAINT'S LIFE IN CHENNAI
Chennai: Sharmaila Jain, a graduate who holds a diploma in Fashion technology has now decided to relinquish worldly pursuits. She has joined a Jain Ashram in Chennai. Sharmaila, 25, belongs to Jain community. She made up her mind to lead life in this fashion after meeting and listening to the sermons of Jain spiritual Guru Thatva Darhnathji in Chennai. Belonging to a Marwari Jain family of Rajasthan, Sharmaila holds a diploma in fashion technology besides her Bachelor's degree. After initial resistance the family submitted to her decision. Sharmaila says, "All are inquisitive about my reason of leaving the Samsara and joining Ashram. There are two reasons...one being it is too difficult to live in this Sansar. Secondly, in the present society the happiness is illusory. It is not the real happiness. I am very happy and content,". Sharmaila' has decided to spend the rest of her life fully dedicated to the worship of God while staying in the Ashram. "To become a Sansayi is not any ordinary thing. It is the most difficult. No ordinary person can even dare for it. It is the most difficult thing for a person who is sacrificing her whole life for the community and welfare of the people. She'll be giving everything to others. Taking up "Diksha" involves a vow of celibacy, renunciation of all personal possessions and of all worldly duties, including family ties. Sharmaila will formally join the Ashram situated at Takatghat, Pali district in Rajasthan on May 3, 2006.

DEVLOK GAMAN
Ahmednagar: Pandit Ratna Poojya Shri Nemi Chand JI maharaj belonging to Swetambar Sthanakwasi sect accepted santhara (fast uptill death) on the 27th February, 2006 and left for his heavenly abode after 8 days, on the 6th March, 2006 at the age of 85 years amidst prayers and chanting of shlokas by a large number of devotees who had collected to have his last darshan. Eminent saints and sadhwi from Sthanakwasi sect, including Maharashtra Pravartak, Shri Kundan Rishi Ji, Upadhyay Shri Pravin Rishi Ji and others. During the whole period of his saint life, Shri Nemi Chand Ji maharaj had travelled through every part of the country, particularly through the states of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil nadu, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. He will always be remembered for his simple, affectionate and kind-hearted nature. For the last 15 years, he had been staying at Ahmednagar as 'Thanapati'.

SENIOR PHILATELIST NARESH KUMAR JAIN DIED
Renowned senior Philatelist of Patna Mr. Naresh Kumar Jain died on 9th April 2006 at Patna. He was President of Bihar Philatelic Society and member of National Philatelic Advisory Committee, Ministry of Communication & Information Technology, Govt. of India. He was also associated with Philatelic Congress of India, Philatelic Society of India, Numismatic Society of India, Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies, Bihar Prantiya Marwari Sammelan, Jain Sangh Patna etc. Mr. Naresh Kumar Jain had won many medals in National & International Philatelic Exhibitions. He was instrumental in issue of lot of special covers during various occasions on different themes. Number of special covers and special cancellations were designed by him. Ahimsa Times joins the Central India Philatelic Society in offering its condolences and praying for his soul to rest in peace. Courtesy: Sudhir Jain, Secretary, Central India Philatelic Society, M/s. Universal Cables Ltd., SATNA (M.P.)

JAIN SAMAJ RATAN LALA BASHESHAR NATH JAIN PASSED AWAY
On 27th March 2006, passed away at his residence after a brief illness. Basheshar Nath was one of the prominent and active member of Jain samaj of Delhi, who was associated with several institutions of Jains from all the sects. He was an ardent follower of Muni Vidhyanandji and Muni Sushil Kumar Ji. His contributions in the executive body of Digambar Jain Parishad, Jain Sabha Delhi, Parshwanath Yuvak Mandal - Sadar Bazar will be remembered for a long time. Bashesharnath Ji was also the father of Shri Ishwar Chand and Shri Swadesh Bhushan Jain, director, Punjab Kesari, New Delhi. The cremation and condolence meeting of Bashesharnath Ji were attended by Vice President Mr. Bhairon Singh Shekhawat alongwith large number of Jains and other persons from all over the country.