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Values
are more valuable than valuables.
- Dr. Deepak
Jain, Dean, Kellogg School
SAINTS
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RELIGIOUS
LEADERS PLAN CAMPAIGN AGAINST GENDER DISCRIMINATION
NEW DELHI: Raising their voice against gender discrimination, several religious luminaries have pledged to lead a movement against sex selection which has resulted in a sharp decline in girl population in many parts of India. Under the banner of United Nations Population Fund, a meeting was organised by the Art of Living Foundation spiritual head Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to send out a message that there can be no greater sin than killing a girl child. "People are forgetting their religious values as they fail to realise that killing one girl child is equivalent to killing 1millionn cows. “We are planning a campaign in all villages across the country to spread the message," Shankar said. A common sentiment expressed by leaders of all religions - Sikh, Jain, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist and sects like Brahma Kumaris, among others, was that misuse of new techniques to have a male child rather than a healthy child amounts to murder and insult to a mother who is revered in Indian tradition as being next only to god.
"We are trying to begin a campaign to educate people, particularly in urban areas to practice non-violence," said Muni Mahendra
Kumar, representing the Terapanth sect of Jains.
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Alarmed at the increasing evidence of how pre-conceptual sex selection, female infanticide and foeticide has contributed to the sex ratio declining in some parts of the country to 800 girls for every 1,000 boys, the UNFPA has reached out to the religious leaders, NGOs and film luminaries like Nandita Das and Hema Malini among others to spread awareness about the adverse impact of this trend. "There is a need to change the mindset of the people and religion has a role to play in this," said Hendrik van der Pol, UNFPA representative for India. "We must join hands to stop this evil practice. It is our religious duty to provide protection to women and girl child," said Giani Joginder Singh Vedanti of Akal Takht, the Sikh religion's primary seat based in Amritsar. He expressed anguish that Punjab and Haryana have emerged as places where the ratio of girls is the lowest in the country.
Decrying the practice of lavish weddings and dowry, the Sikh spiritual leader said it is a shame that the religion that emerged to give equal rights to all people is now discriminating against women. Citing the example of women like the late India-born US astronaut Kalpana Chawla who brought glory not only to their families but also the country, Singh urged Sikhs to give proper education and respect to women and "not treat their wives like slaves and the goose that lays the golden egg." Alahaj Sayed Kiberia of Dargah Ajmer Sharif condemned the "misuse of science to snuff out the life of a girl child in the womb. We need to fight this practice wherein the woman who gives birth to another life is being killed in infancy or shown disrespect."
In powerful presentations on the consequence of sex-selection and declining ratio of girls in states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat, an NGO showed how men in some of these states are after buying women to have a male child. Courtesy: www.gulf-times.com
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RELIGIOUS HEADS CONVERGE TO CELEBRATE 92ND BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF ACHARYA SRI TULSI - It was a gathering of different religious heads, all with a vision to spread valuable thoughts and messages of humanity and love. The religious heads converged at a function to celebrate the 92nd birthday of Acharya Sri Tulsi as Anuvrat Day at Sri Jain Swetamber Terapanthi Sabha , Pallavaram. Speaking on the occasion, Muni Sri Sumathi kumarji, a Jain spiritual leader, said, 'the world is in a gracious circle of materialism, where people have no kindness and compassion for fellow men. They kill each other thereby changing earth into a living hell. There is no peace. The human race would never understand and imbibe qualities of karuna and daya (compassion) or follow the path of ahimsa. Laxmisen Bhatarak Swamiji of Jin Kanchi Jain Math, Mailsitamala, Albert Muthumalai, Principal, Loyola College, Sashan Gaurav Muni Sri Tarachandiji and Muni Sri Devararya Kumarji, Jain religious leaders, also spoke on the occasion. Later, certificates of appreciation were given away by Jeevan Vigyan Academy to teachers, students and others for abstaining from bursting crackers during Deepavali.
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ACHARYA VIDYASAGAR JI DEMANDS MARKING ON DRUGS AND COSMETICS - The Acharya Vidhyasagarji Maharaj desires that the it must be made compulsory for the "Drugs and Cosmetics" manufacturers, using Non-Vegetarian materials to symbolize the package by the mark 'square with a Brown circle inside' and for those using only Vegetarian materials, it must be made compulsory to symbolize the package by the mark 'square with a Green circle inside'. The same decision was also made by Delhi High Court in 2002. This rule has already been implemented for food items. The bill is presently with the Standing Committee of Parliament. The recommendation letters on the subject may be sent to Mr. Amar Singh, Member, Rajya Sabha, Uttar Pradesh, President - Standing Committee, Ministry for Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi or to Shri Mom Raj Singh, Under Secretary (H&F), Rajya Sabha Secretariat, Room No. 539, Parliament Research, New Delhi - 110001, Phone: 011-230343093, Fax: 23018708/23783633, E-Mail: mrsingh@sansad.nic.in News courtesy Mr. Anant Jain, E-Mail: anantkumarjain@yahoo.co.in
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TEMPLES
NEW JAIN TEMPLE TO BE CONSCRATED AT CHENNAI
A new
Jain temple is set for consecration at Chennai with the blessings of
Acharya Shri Maniprabh Sagarji maharaj. An immaculate Jain temple, cut out
of rose stones from Rajasthan is under construction on Sannidhi Street at
Vadapalani will be consecrated on 18th November in a grand manner. Located
close to Sivan Koil, Sri Sambhavnath Jain temple with its elegant
architecture in a foreground complex will be the focal point for the
community to initiate a number of social welfare projects. The main idol
is Bhagwan Sambhavnathji, a 12-inch marble icon sculpted in Jaipur, has
been preserved by the Jains since 1972 when it was shifted from the T.
Nagar mandir to a secured place on Doraiswami Salai, an arterial road at Vadapalani. 'After the idol was shifted in 1987 to the present site, through hundi collections and liberal donations from the community, the Sambhavnath Swethambar Jain Mandir Trust began the construction five years ago with the digging for laying the foundation of the proposed temple,' says P. Virendramal Jain, secretary of the trust. The temple will have as presiding deity, the third Teerthankar of Jainism,
Sambhavanth.
The trust formed exclusively to oversee the construction of this Jain temple has 60 families as members with another 250 Jain families in Vadapalani lending all financial support and coordination. 'There are at present around 500 families who have settled for good at Vadapalani from Rajasthan, mostly Jains. The highlight of the temple is its carved-out feature of rose-coloured bansipatt stones brought from Sirohi district of Rajasthan. Once completed, the temple will occupy a built-up area of 4,800 sq ft on spacious premises in which many Jain festivities will be celebrated by the neighboring community. Also, the temple will house guest house facilities and lecture halls for Jain monks while visiting the city. 'Work has been stepped up to complete the temple on time. Fixed structures, bansipatt stones and craftsmen have come from different parts of Rajasthan for the job,' says a construction supervisor. The consecration and associated rituals, Pratishta Mahotsav (from 11 to 19 November) will be observed with evening bhajans and devotional songs on the temple premises and the idol of Bhagwan Sambhavnath will be sanctified according to Jain custom.
IDOLS
WORTH CRORES STOLEN FROM DIGAMBAR JAIN TEMPLE IN HARYANA
It is reported that fifty-three idols of Jain
Tirthankars, worth several crores of rupees were stolen from a Digambar Jain temple at Hansi village in Hissar district of Haryana in the night of 26th October, 2005. It is said that 39 ashta-dhatu idols, weighing 17 kg 400
gms. each, obtained in 1982 from the historic fort at Hansi believed to be belonging to 8th to 10th century, were kept in two almirahs and another 14 brass idols were installed in the temple and all these were taken away by the
burglers. They broke open the roof of the temple, entered the temple hall and broke all the locks at midnight and took away the 53 idols. The theft was detected in the morning when the temple was opened by the priest. The matter was immediately reported to the police. The news got spread all over the place and near-by villages like wild fire. The entire Jain community has been stirred by the news . The matter has drawn the attention of high officials and an enquiry has been ordered. The Chief Minister of
Haryana, Shri Bhupendra Singh Hudda has also directed the Inspector General of Police, Kunwar Nirmal Singh to look into the matter and trace the culprits.
INSTITUTIONS
GRANT
OF RECOGNITION TO INSTITUTIONS OFFERING COURSES IN ALTERNATIVE SYSTEMS OF
MEDICINE - The matter regarding grant of recognition to the various streams of alternative medicine has been under consideration of the Government. The Government has considered the orders dated 18.11.98 of the Hon'ble High Court of Delhi, which has inter-alia directed the Central/ State Governments to consider making legislation to grant of licenses to the existing and new institutes to control and regulate the 'unrecognized' streams of alternative medicines and also to give adequate publicity through media informing public about the respondents and similar other institutes not being recognized by the Govt. and affiliated with any of the Councils.
The Government constituted a Standing Committee of Experts to consider and recommend to the Govt. on the efficacy / merits of various streams of alternative medicine and also examine feasibility of making legislation as suggested by the Hon'ble Court. The Committee developed essential criteria for grant of recognition and analyzed the different streams of alternative medicine such as, Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homoeopathy, Yoga and Naturopathy, Electropathy / Electro-homoepathy, Acupuncture, Magneto-therapy, Reiki, Reflexology, Urine therapy, Hypno-therapy, Aroma-therapy, Colour therapy, Pranic healing, Gems and stone therapy and music therapy.
The Committee did not recommend recognition to any of these alternative medicines, except the already recognized traditional systems of medicines, namely, Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Homoeopathy, Yoga and Naturopathy, which were found to fulfil the essential and desirable criteria. The committee has, however, recommended certain practices such as Acupuncture and Hypno-therapy, which qualified as modes of therapy, could be allowed to be practiced by registered practitioners or appropriately trained personnel. Other systems should not be allowed to continue full time bachelor or master's degree courses. The term 'doctor' should be used only by practitioners of systems of medicine recognized by the Government of India.
After carefully examining the various recommendations of the committee, the Government accepted the recommendations. Accordingly, it is requested that the State/U.T. Govt. may give wide publicity to the decision of the Govt. and to ensure that institutions under the State/U.T. do not grant any degree/diploma in the stream of medicine, which have not been recommended for recognition and the term 'doctor' is used only by practitioners of recognized system of medicine. This order was issued by the Joint Secretary, Govt. of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on the 25th November, 2005 with the approval of the Secretary, (Health), Ministry of Health.
Presently, there are a large number of persons, practicing different alternative systems of medicine all over the country, such as Homoeopathy, Unani, naturopathy, electropathy and others but few of them are properly qualified and still they call themselves doctors. There are also so many institutes which give diplomas but none of them are recognized. There is no check so far on un-authorizedly running institutes and on the quacks practicing different systems and poor people are often being taken for a ride. The above-mentioned order from the Government should therefore be a step in the right direction to ensure that only authorized and affiliated institutions following approved course curricula are allowed to run and produce qualified doctors.
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HONOURS,
EVENTS & AWARDS
PROFESSOR CROMWELL CRAWFORD HONOURED BY HAWAI UNIVERSITy Honolulu, November 4th, 2005. It is heartening to note that Prof. Cromwell Crawford (Jain Scholar) was recognized by the University of Hawaii with the most prestigious honor " University Distinguished Professor" This is the first time this University is giving this recognition and honor to Prof. Crawford. During his 40+ years, Prof. Cromwell Crawford, is the Professor of Comparative Religions at the University of Hawaii. He is also the Academic Director of the International Summer School for Jain Studies. Prof. Crawford has been a towering personality. His dedication and commitment to starting the "International Summer School in Jain Studies" is very exemplary.
Ahimsa Times offers its hearty congratulations and felicitations to
him. Prof. Crawford can be contacted on his E-Mail : scrawfor@hawaii.edu
Prof. Crawford in his reply to the honour bestowed on him offered his thanks for the collective embrace of the Jain community as the University of Hawaii recognized his 40 years of service, without missing a single day. He added, "You and I understand this level of performance, because our Indian culture has steeped our minds in a work ethic which is grounded in a sense of obligation (rina). There is always the sense of doing one's duty, and not just doing a job. This consciousness is also the secret of why we get along in our work for Jain studies: there is the abiding drive and responsibility to put service above self."
On October 5, 2005, the Jain delegation ( from U.K, India and USA) had honoured Prof. Cromwell Crawford and Mr. Shugan Jain for their dedicated, vision, support, guidance and distinguished contribution to the success of the International Summer School in Jain Studies and were presented with traditional shawls and badge.
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TENTH ANNUAL MAHAVEER AWARD FOR 2004 DECLARED
Eminent ophthalmologist, Dr S S Badrinath (Tamil Nadu), renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Sharadkumar Dicksheet (Maharashtra) and social worker Rajmal S Jain (Rajasthan) have been chosen for this year's Mahaveer Awards for excellence in enterprise. While Dr Badrinath and Dr Dicksheet were chosen for their excellent services in the field of education and medicine, Mr Rajmal Jain from Pali district of Rajasthan was selected in recognition of his services in the field of community and social service. The awards, instituted by the Bhagwan Mahaveer Foundation, each carry a reward of Rs five lakh in cash, a citation and a statuette of Bhagwan Mahaveer. The awardees were selected by a selection jury, headed by former Çhief Justice of India, M N Venkatachaliah at a meeting held in New Delhi on October 8 from among 355 nominations. The awards are normally given in three categories -- non-violence and vegetarianism, education and medicine, and community and social service, but the Foundation did not receive any proper nomination in the first category. Mr Sugal Chand Jain is the Managing & Founder Trustee of Bhagwan Mahaveer Foundation.
NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR JAIN FRIENDS PRERANA AWARDS
In the beginning of the year 2006, Jain Friends is going to announce it's prestigious Prerana awards for active Jains. There are 6 awards in 5 categories namely:
1. Acharya Kundkund Award (2 Awards) - Anybody who is propagating Jain philosophy through lectures, writings or electronic media is eligible for this award.
2. Karmveer Award - This award is for those who are working in the field of education and social upliftment.
3. Jain of the year (For the year 2005) - This award is offered to any Jain who have done a great work in any field of life in the year 2005
4. Ahimsa Award - This award is especially for those who are working for promotion of Ahimsa & Vegetarianism.
5. Jain Asmita Award - Anybody who is working for the pride and honor of Jain community is eligible to get this award.
We are inviting nominations from eligible persons, the world over for above awards. You can suggest a nominee for these awards or the eligible persons themselves can write to us with the full details of their activities and achievements. Full contact details of the nominees including postal address must be given. The last date for the nomination is 31st December 2005. Please contact: Jain Friends,Post Box 58, Chinchwad East, Pune 411019, India or Mr. Mahavir Sanglikar, E-Mail : msanglikar@yahoo.com
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PUNE-BASED BHARATIYA JAIN SANGHATANA TO GET INTERNATIONAL AWARD - Pune-based “Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana” would receive an international award for the 'Best NGO for the year 2005' for its services in the field of education. The annual award, instituted by the World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations (WANGO), is given to NGOs working in the fields of peace and security; education, media and arts; human rights; family and peace, inter-religious cooperation; and universal peace, a release said on Thursday. The 2005 Education Award would be handed over to BJS Founder President, Shantilal Mutha on November 19th at the annual conference of WANGO at Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic, in the presence of eminent leaders and visionaries from over 70 countries, the release added. For more information log on to www.bjsindia.org
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DR. DIPAK C. JAIN FELICITATED BY PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, NEW DELHI - Dr. Dipak Jain, the dean of Kellog School of Management, the world's most admirable and recognized business management institution was invited to deliver 'Shri Ram Memorial Lecture' on 19th November, 2005 by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry at New Delhi. Dr. Jain is a renowned international management expert. His success story starts from a small village, Tezpur in Assam and makes him one of the prominent citizens of United States. The lecture was attended by eminent members from business houses of Delhi, journalists and diplomats.
According to Dr. Jain, what is required is think big, think positive and work hard. It is possible to achieve, what we desire. Starting from his family background and home town to his journey to Kellogg, he discussed the modern management issues and practices. Dr. Dipak Jain can be contacted E-Mail : d-jain@kellogg.northwestern.edu
DR. HARISH JAIN, INTERNATIONAL MAHAVIR JAIN MISSION - CANADA HONOURED WITH " ORDER OF CANADA" AWARD - The Order of Canada was established in 1967 to recognize outstanding achievement and service in various fields of human endeavour. It is Canada's highest honor for lifetime achievement. Three different levels of membership-Companion, Officer and Member-honor people whose accomplishments vary in degree and scope. Appointments are made on the recommendation of an advisory council, chaired by the Chief Justice of Canada. The Governor General is the Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order. Membership in the Advisory Council reflects the diversity and excellence in Canadian society. Certain Advisory Council members are appointed by virtue of their office; others are appointed to the Council for a fixed term to achieve a balanced representation of the various regions of the country.
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SUSHANT
JAIN NOMINATED TO REPRESENT INDIA IN ART CAMP AT SINGAPORE
Mr. Sushant Jain, 22,
from the Institute of Fine Arts, Modinagar has been nominated to represent
India at the forthcoming International Art Camp being organized by
LASALLE-SIA College of Art's, Singapore. The competition is scheduled to
be held from 14th to 27th Nov. 2005 at Singapore. This camp is an
international art event, which is being organised for the first time and
will be attended by artists from all over the Asia. The event will provide
an international forum to participants to exchange and interact. During
the course of the event art competitions will also be organized.
Congratulating Mr. Sushant Jain, the Institute of fine Arts Director Prof.
K. S. Viswambhara expressed his satisfaction on the nomination of their
student and hope that such events will help Indian artists to receive
international stature. Mr. Nirmal Kumar Sethi, the President of Digamber
Jain Mahasabha also congratulated Mr. Sushant Jain for his excellent
performance in promoting Indian art and culture in international arena.
Mr. Sushant Jain is son of renowned Jain photographer and journalist Mr.
Hira Lal Jain. Mr. Hira Lal Jain has participated in several religious
events in professional capacity.
KESHAV
CHANDERIA HONOURED WITH HIND RATTAN AWARD
NRI Welfare Society of India has chosen Mr. Keshav Chandaria from Canada as one of the recipient of their Hind Rattan Award which will be bestowed at the 25th International Congress of NRIs commencing on 24th Jan. 2006. The award will be presented by President of India on 25th Jan. 2006. On 26th Jan. 2006, the recipients will be watching the republic parade with President of India in his enclosure. Courtesy: Keshav Chandaria,
E-Mail:
keshav@comcraft.com
AWARDS BY JAINA EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Jaina education committee has recognized Dr. Pradip and Darshna Shah - Chicago, Mr. Sudhir and Anita Shah - Woodbridge, CT, Mr. Virendra Shah - Los Angeles, Jain Päthashäläs in North America for their outstanding contributions and support to Jaina Education activities. The awards were given by Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji and the President of Jaina Mr. Anop Vora (now past president) during the one-day teachers conference held at the Jaina convention in July 2005.
More than 3500 Jain youth regularly attend Jain Päthashälä in about 30 Jain centers of North America. The Jaina education committee provides support to all the Päthashäläs of North America. The Jain Päthashäläs at Los Angeles, San Jose, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, New Jersey, Toronto, Washington DC, and Boston centers have 100 to 400 students. North American Jains have a great reputation for supporting humanitarian relief activities, Jivdaya activities, and temple construction. Jaina Education Committee also requests financial support to build the Temple of Knowledge (Jain Jnän Mandir) which can benefit every Jain family of North America and worldwide. Pravin K. Shah, Chairperson, JAINA Education Committee, 919-859-4994, E-Mail : education@jaina.org
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SAMANI PRATIBHA PRAGYA AWARDED BY CENTRE OF JAINA STUDIES AT SOAS - The Board of the Centre of Jaina Studies at SOAS awarded Samani Pratibhaprajna, Postgraduate Dissertation Prize in Jaina Studies for her thesis on 'The Concept of the Body as a Means of Liberation in Jain Literature'. The prize money of £500 was sponsored by the Institute of Jainology, a Jain community organisation in London. Samani Pratibha Pragya also delivered a lecture on "Jain Path Of Renunciation" at Cambridge University on Weds 19 October 2005. This event was organised by Cambridge's Jain Society.
ANUVRAT
PURASKAR FOR 2004 AWARDED TO HEM BHAI OF GAUHATI
Shri Hem Bhai, an eminent social worker and member of the executive committee of Anuvrat Mahasamiti, Gauhati has been chosen for the Anuvrat Puraskar for the year 2004 for his contribution to "character building". The award consists of a cash amount of Rupees one lakh and
fifty-one thousand along with a letter of appreciation.
CALENDER OF EVENTS OF MAHAMASTHABHISHEKA TO BE HELD IN FEB.2006
Panchkalyanak
Magh-Sudhi. 7, from February 4, 2006 (Saturday)
Mahamasthakabhisheka
February 8, 2006 (Wednesday): 108 Kalashabhisheka, i.e.108 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
February 9, 2006 (Thursday): 504 Kalashabhisheka, i.e. 504 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
February 10, 2006 (Friday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka, i.e. 1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
Special Programme
February 11, 2006 (Saturday): Sarvatobhadra Mahapujan of 24 Thirthankaras in Bhandara Basadi
Mahamasthakabhisheka
February 12, 2006 (Sunday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
February 13, 2006 (Monday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
Special Programme
February 14, 2006 (Tuesday):Sahastrakoot Jinabimb Abhisheka Mahapujan
Mahamasthakabhisheka
February 15, 2006 (Wednesday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
February 16, 2006 (Thursday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
Special Programme
February 17, 2006 (Friday): Saraswati Jinvani Shastra Mahapujan
Mahamasthakabhisheka
February 18, 2006 (Saturday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
February 19,2006 (Sunday): 1008 Kalashabhisheka i.e.1008 Kalashas will be used for the abhisheka (head anointing)
CONFERENCES & CELEBRATIONS
JAIN MEDICAL STUDENTS CONFERENCE AT AT MUMBAI - REPORT
The first All India Jain Medical Students Conference - JMSCON 2005, was organized by Jain Doctors' Federation, Mumbai on 23rd October 2005 at the Birla Matushri Sabhagraha, Mumbai. The theme of the conference was "AN AMALGAMATION OF YOUNG MEDICAL STUDENTS TO NURTURE THE FUTURE TO FULFILL THE DREAMS". More than 1300 students from 17 states and 45 cities attended this one day conference. The purpose of this unique meeting was to inspire students to achieve personal, professional and spiritual success. Inspiring talks were given by eminent doctors, Jain scholars and Jain gurubhagwants. Dr. Bharat Parmar, President - JDF, Mumbai welcomed the gathering and gave details of why the JMSCON 2005 was being held. Dr Hasmukh Jain, Chairman, JMSCON 2005, gave an insight about the efforts and hard work put in by the Organizing Committee (both students and senior Doctors of JDF, Mumbai) in organizing this Ist ever Conference. After the blessings of Pujya Munishri Ajaysagarji Maharaj and the inaugural function, eminent speakers in their respective field of medicine enlightened the students on career guidance and how to be successful professionals. Renowned Gastro-enterologist, Dr. Chetan Bhatt, spoke in-detail about the communication skills and highlighted the importance of better communication skills with patients, relatives and staff and stressed that a doctor has first to be a good listener. Dr. Bipin Doshi described in detail about the scientific basis of Jain religion and said that all the Noble Prize recipients have worked in their field on the basis of Jain principle described in our literature many years ago. Dr. Farokh Udwadia spoke in detail about the "Ethics in Medicine" and emphasized that the principles of Jainism run parallel to the ethics in medicine and that it is the duty of every doctor to work for the welfare of mankind with minimum possible violence. He requested all the doctors to abide by the truth and be just to his/her patient. Panel discussions were held on career counseling and key to success in professional practice. Meritorious students were given awards for outstanding achievements in academic and extra-curricular activities. A leading role was played by the students-wing of JDF, Mumbai in organizing this conference. Report by, Dr. Hasmukh Jain, Chairman, JMSCON 2005.
ANUVIBHA ORGANISES CONFERENCE ON ECONOMICS OF NON-VIOLENCE AND VISION OF SUSTAINED WORLD - A two-day conference is being organized jointly by Anuvrat Global Organization (Anuvibha), a transnational center for peace and nonviolent action associated with UN DPI and IILM Academy of Higher Learning, Jaipur Campus from 5th December to 7th December, 2005 in New Delhi under the auspices of His Holiness Acharya Mahapragya, a celebrated spiritual thinker and head of a well known movement called Anuvrat Movement. He believes that the commitment of the people to the observance of basic vows propagated by it will go a long way in protecting environment, preserving ecological and social harmony, ending economic exploitation and disparities and in abolishing hunger from the planet. This Convention of concerned citizens of the World, irrespective of their work and profession, will not only probe into the root causes of violence from an economic perspective but will also evolve an achievable action plan for a sustainable world. Several dignitaries including the President, the Vice President and the Prime Minister of India are expected to participate in the Conference. Theme of the conference: "Economics of Non-violence and the vision of a sustainable world". The organizers have decided to extend free local hospitality to the first 100 overseas delegates on the first come first basis including accommodation for three nights i.e. 5th December, 6th December and 7th December, 2005 and their meals and refreshment. No registration fee will be charged.
Venue: The venue of the Conference is: Adhyatma Sadhana Kendra, Chhatarpur Road, Mehrauli, New Delhi.
The contact person in Delhi is Mr. Tej Karan Jain (Surana). Mobile No. is 91-98100-28754. The delegates who want to be received at Indira Gandhi International Airport or at Domestic Airport or at the Railway Station must email their flight numbers and itineraries. Conference Reception Committee will make arrangements for their pick up and transportation. Courtesy: Dr. S.L. Gandhi, International Coordinator and International Secretary General, Anuvrat Global Organization (ANUVIBHA), P.O. Box-1003, Gandhinagar Post Office, Jaipur-302 015.
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INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL FOR JAIN STUDIES MEETS AT UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII - A Report: The organizers of the International Summer School for Jain Studies met at the University of Hawaii, Honolulu on October 5, 2005. The meeting was attended by a delegation of 18 prominent Jains from India, U.K and U.S.A. The meeting was presided over by Dr. Judith Miller, Dean, College of Arts and Humanities and was opened with the welcoming remarks by Prof. Cromwell Crawford, Professor of Comparative Religions at the University of Hawaii. Prof. Crawford is also the Academic Director of the International Summer School for Jain Studies. In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Crawford emphasized the need and importance of this unique program. He mentioned that Jainism is one of the three major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism) that developed in the Indian sub-continent before the Common Era. To read the complete report, please click here.
AHIMSA DAY AT THE HOUSE OF COMMONS - A REPORT
The third annual Ahimsa Day celebration at the House of Commons was hosted jointly by the Institute of Jainology and the three 'Parliamentary Friends of India' societies: Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrats on the 26th October, 2005. This was the first time that the joint hosting was extended to the three societies and moved to the Members Dining Room in the Palace of Westminster from the annexe across the road. The programme commenced with a word of welcome by the Chairman Mr Ratilal Chandaria who set the subject of Ahimsa, Non-violence, as the message of Lord Mahavir, in motion. The Deputy High Commissioner of India, Mr Ranjan Mathai was then invited by Mrs Nisha Sheth, compere for the event, to light the traditional lamps with the Chairman. The next essential act was to invite Samaniji Pratibha Pragya and Samaniji Punya Pragya from the Jain Vishwa Bharati, London Centre to recite the auspicious Jain prayers of Navakar Mantra and Mangalit.
To read full report please click here....
DIKSHA CEREMONY
Babi Bai, aged 82 years, accepted Jain diksha in the holy presence of Aryika 105 Sri Syadvad Mati Mataji ar Madanganj, Ajmer in Rajasthan on the 21st October, 2005. Pundit Dharm Chand Shastri from Delhi was invited to carry out the formalities and recite of mantras. Babi Bai had left the household life on the 16th July and prepared herself for the diksha. She had been living a totally devoted life for the last 40 years. She has been renamed as Bimbodhmati Ji.
MUMBAI DIAMOND MERCHANT MR. UTTAM CHAND KHEEVAMSARA TO ACCEPT RENUNCIATION - Hundreds of followers of Jainism were emotionally touched during the preaching session of Jain muni Gyanchand, when a Mumbai-based diamond baron announced his decision to take renunciation. The multi-millionaire businessman, Mr Uttam Chand Kheevamsara, said he had enough of material prosperity and worldly pleasures and had therefore decided to get initiated as a monk and take 'diksha' at a formal function to be held on April 30 2006. Mr Kheevamsara, who hails from Beawer in Ajmer district of Rajasthan, handed over a letter to muni Gyanchand conveying the collective consent of his family members to his decision on 'sanyas'.
MISCELLANEOUS
FREE PRE-FAB STRUCTURES FOR QUAKE-AFFECTED IN J & K
Bhartiya Jain Sangathana, PUNE has offered free pre-fab structures for quake-affected Jammu and Kashmir State. The Bhartiya Jain Sangathana, a Pune based NGO in collaboration with National Disaster Management Authority and Government of Jammu and Kashmir will erect about 870 pre-fabricated structure of 384 sq. ft. each for the earth quake affected people of Jammu and Kashmir State. This was disclosed in a high level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir . Ghulam Nabi Azad attended by Shanti Lal Muttha, National President of BJS and representatives from NDMA of India and Resident Commissioner J&K Government, New Delhi. The meeting was told that the State has been the worst affected by the recent earth quake Taking into account the difficult topography and logistics in the areas of Tangdhar, Uri and Poonch of the State, the Government is utilizing its resources to address the immediate rescue and shelter needs of the affected people. Consequently considering the gravity of the problem to provide shelter to the affected people before winter the BJS has risen to the occasion to extend its support to the Centre and Jammu and Kashmir Government with a new concept of partnership between government and NGO at this critical juncture.
The meeting was told that the National Disaster Management Authority, New Delhi swing into action forthwith and sought the support of BJS in providing support for the rehabilitation of the quake victims on urgent basis. Considering the request in this regard, an MoU was signed on 9th of this month at NDMA office New Delhi between General (Retd) N C Vig (designation) on behalf of NDMA and . Shanti Lal Muttha founder and National President of BJS, on behalf of BJS.
The meeting was also told that according to memorandum of understanding the BJS shall now make available ready 870 pre-fabricated structures of 384 sq. ft. each measuring to a total of 334000 sq. ft. living space for earth quake affected people of J&K State, along with comprehensive action plan for smooth implementation of this project. As per the action plan 10,000 to 15,000 affected persons shall be provided with accommodation within a month to save them from the freezing temperature of winter season. It was told in the meeting that the structures have been technically verified by Jammu and Kashmir Government and found temperature proof and ideal for winter conditions in J&K State.
The Chief Minister . Ghulam Nabi Azad said that a comprehensive action plan has been prepared to ensure smooth implementation of the project. NDMA in collaboration with J&K. Government will provide all the logistic support to BJS for transportation of material from Gandhidham to Jammu and from Jammu to the affected areas, till completion of the structures. He further said that Jammu and Kashmir Government has appointed a team of engineers and architects for putting the foundation and erecting the structures at the ites under the overall supervision and technical know how from BJS experts. AHIMSA FOUNDATION FELICITATES MR. SHANTI LAL MUTTHA FOR TAKING THE THE LEAD IN ORGANISING RELIEF WORK . Information Courtesy: www.greaterkashmir.com
MOST
POSH AREAS IN MUNBAI TURN VEGETARIAN
It is indeed heartening to learn that the inhabitants of many of the posh areas in Mumbai, from Malabar Hill to Marine Drive have changed over to vegetarian, so much so that it is difficult to find any shops in many localities selling meat or even eggs. Most restaurants have stopped serving non-vegetarian food including the multinational chain of restaurants, such as Pizza Hut and Dominoz Pizza. In some of the residential societies, there is an undeclared rule that only those who are vegetarian can now live in flats there.
JAIN FAMILY FORCED TO APPROACH HIGH COURT FOR JUSTICE AGAINST GURUKUL
Ludhiana, November 17: Neeraj Jain, a 10-year-old child was found dead at Atma Valabha Jain Shramno Upasak Gurukul and hostel at Ambala. As reasons for death raise doubts, the parents sent a memorandum to Haryana Chief Minister, Bhupendra Singh Hooda and Punjab and Haryana High Court, urging them to order registration of a case of negligence and destroying evidence in the case against the authorities of the Gurukul, which had allegedly tried to hush up the mysterious death of the child. Parents after receiving the post-mortem report, which clearly stated that the boy seemed to have been strangulated to death wanted the police to register the case and conduct full enquiry. This was in complete contrast to the claims of the Gurukul authorities that the boy had died a natural death. The family of Neeraj Jain has alleged that the Gurukul authorities tried their best to hush up the matter instead of calling the police for investigating the mysterious death of the child. Neeraj was found dead in the hostel on the night of November 9. Ambala police had later arrested Karan Bahadur, a cook in the hostel on the charges of attempting to sodomise the boy and then strangulating him to death. Meanwhile Shiv Sena has also sent a memorandum to the Haryana chief minister demanding action against hostel authorities in connection with the mysterious death of Neeraj Jain at the hostel.
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DOCUMENTARY
FILM ON HASTINAPUR TEERTH PRODUCED BY SUSHANT JAIN
A short documentary film "Amantran" of 56 minutes is produced by
a Jain artist of 22 years. Mr. Sushant is a student of Institute of Fine
Arts, Modinagar, Uttar Pradesh. The film covers the story of Hastinapur
Teerth. The project is financed by Mr. Anil Kumar Jain, "Saree
Wale", Dariyaganj, New Delhi. To obtain a copy of the film which is
available free, you can contact Mr. Anil Kumar Jain, Sareewale, 74,
Dariyaganj, New Delhi - 110005, Telephone No. +91-98-110-97996. Film is
prepared on the occasion of forthcoming Panchkalyanak Mahotsav, which is
schedule to be held from 30th April to 7th May 2006 under the blessings of
Acharya Shri Bahubali Sagarji M. S. A copy of this film was presented to
the Minister of Culture, Mr. Jaipal Reddy by a Jain delegation consisting
of Shri Nirmal Kumar Sethi, President of Bharatvarshiya Digamber Jain
Mahasabha, Mr. Hira Lal Jain (Co-Producer), Smt. Prabha Jain, Mr. Ravi Sen
Jain, Dr. Akshya Kumar Jain, Subhash Jain, and Rajiv Pavaiya.
COURT UPHOLDS BAN ON SLAUGHTER OF BULLS & BULLOCKS
New Delhi: A seven-Judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court has upheld a Gujarat legislation banning the slaughter of bulls and bullocks (cow and its progeny). The Bench, comprising Chief Justice
R. C. Lahoti, Justice B .N. Agrawal, Justice GT.P. Mathur, Justice C.K. Thakker and Justice P.K. Balasubramanyan, struck down a Gujarat High Court judgment quashing the legislation banning slaughter of bulls and bullocks. However, Justice
A. K. Mathur gave a dissenting judgment.
The High Court had earlier said that there could not be a total ban on the slaughter of bulls and bullocks above the age of 16 years. The Gujarat Government in its appeal had said that the order was passed in public interest keeping in mind the provisions of Article 31C to give effect to the directive principles, which included Article 51(A)(g), providing that all should have compassion for living creatures. The State Government had inserted Section 5 (1)(A) in the Bombay (Animal Prevention) Act 1954 to ban slaughter of bulls and bullocks. Mirzapur Moti Kureshi Kassab challenged this before the High Court and it was allowed. Various State Governments like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh at different points of time had enacted laws to put a total ban on slaughter of cows and bulls and bullocks, heifers and calves.
Three five-judge Benches of the Supreme Court had earlier upheld the total ban on cow slaughter but it was not extended to bulls and bullocks. When the Gujarat Government filed an appeal against the High Court judgment quashing the legislation, it was referred to a seven-Judge Bench. Allowing the appeal, the seven-Judge Bench agreed with the contention that in the guise of permission to kill bulls and bullocks above 16 years, cows and calves were being butchered illegally. It was difficult for authorities to implement and save cows from being slaughtered because the meat of aged bulls and bullocks and cows are indistinguishable after slaughter, the Bench held. Courtesy: www.hindu.com
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PUBLIC SALE OF EGGS IN CHHATISGARH BANNED BY HIGH COURT ORDER - The High Court of Chhatisgarh has directed the State Government to put a stop to the open sale of eggs at public places in the whole state. Such public sale of eggs, meat, mutton etc. affects the sentiments of people of various religious communities, who do not eat these items. A separate place may therefore be provided by the state government for the sale of eggs, from where these items can be purchased. The order was passed in respect of the petition filed by advocate Manohar Jethani before the High Court bench consisting of Chief Justice Anang Kumar Patnaik and Justice Dileep Kumar Deshmukh. The order further added that a period of two months may be allowed for the full implementation of the order.
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JAINA YATRA 2006 - SHRAVANBELGOLA AND TEMPLES OF SOUTH INDIA
JAINA is organising a pilgrimage to Shravanbelgola (Bahubali Tirth) and other Tirths of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. This 15 day Yatra will visit the Temples of Shri Kulpakji (near Hydrabad); Chickpet, Gandhinagar and Devanalli (near Bangalore),Calicut (in Kerala), Moodbidri, Karkal, Dharmasthal and Shravan Belgola (in Karnataka). Yatra is scheduled for January 26 to February 10, 2006.
The Yatra is timed to enable participation on the first day (February 8) Mahamstakabhishek of Shri Bahubaliji. In addition to the Temples, yatra will be spending 2 days in Kerala for sight-seeing. In Hyderabad, it will be participating in the Silver Jubilee Celebration of Jain Social Group International Federation. Yatra will also have a Jain scholar, Dr. Shakher Chand Jain from Ahemdabad to accompany the group. For details please contact Mr. Dilip V Shah, Chairman of JAINA Pilgrimage Committee, (215 561 0581) or write E-Mail : dilipvshah@gmail.com
VIEWS FROM
READERs
BHARAT CHAKRAVARTI - DRAVIDIANS WERE ORIGINALLY JAINS/FOLLOWERS OF SHRAMAN CULTURE
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A report from Mr. Bharat Chakravarti
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Vedic Brahmins arrived in Kerala only in 700-800 AD, along the west coast (Tulu-nadu). Scholars like Guru Prabhakara and Shankaracharya (788-820 AD) reinforced their supremacy. This led to the promotion of Vaishnavism by Kulashekaras Kings of the Second Chera Empire. Aryanization period of Kerala started when Vaishnavism and Saivism were active and aggressive in 700-800AD. Jainism seems to have completely disappeared from Kerala by the sixteenth century; the foreign visitors from Europe do not mention the Jains at all. One lasting contribution of Jainism to Kerala, according to Wi'lliam Logan, is that the architecture of the Hindu temples and the Muslim mosques of North Malabar was influenced by the architecture of the Jain temples--- By Dr. Zacharias Thundy, Northern Michigan University. First Jain Tirthankars ( Rishabhnath/ Adinath ) daughters name was Brahmi . Brahmi script was dedicated To Brahmi Daughter of this Tirthankar which can be confirmed by Acheological Department also. Tamil Language eveloved from Brahmi script universal Known Fact.
Jain monuments in Nasiyanoor, Chinapuram & Thingaloor area. Infact Jaina Puram has become China Puram & Chandra Puri has become Thingal Oor! The practice early was what ever be the religion of the king was the religion of people. Except intellectuals & educated what the ordinary people could have understood about a religion? In fact more that 80% of the people were illiterates in that era. But they folowed Jainism truly & when their kings became the stooges of brahmins, they had no other options other than to return to the meat eating, caste ridden, filthy Hinduism also due to threat of survival & those who didn't compromised where either killed or turned to Dalits. Brahmins were real frauds who converted all the dravids from Jainism to Dalitism. To read full story click here......
DEVLOK
GAMAN
DR.
RAMAN C. SHAH PASSED AWAY AT MUMBAI
Dr. Ramanbhai C. Shah - Editor of 'Prabuddha Jivan' magazine, Professor of Mumbai University, Past President of Jain Yuvak Sangh, Mumbai, author of more than 20 books on Jainism passed away at his residence in Mumbai. Dr. Shah was a great scholar, author, social reformist, and actively supported many charitable organizations. He was the one of the few scholar and author who has published all his books on Jainism with "No Copyright". He took a great interest and actively supported the JAINA Education activity. He inspired to publish all Jaina Education material as "No Copyright". Our deepest Condolences to Dr. Shah's family. - Pravin K. Shah (Raleigh NC),
E-Mail:
education@jaina.org
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