wishing  a very prosperous and happy new year 2006 to all its viewer and respectable members of the group. May all be blessed with all the riches of good health, fame and prosperity.

                                  " love your life more than wealth"

***

30-4-08

Mahavir Jayanti Celebration in India

PRESIDENT -“On the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my countrymen. Bhagwan Mahavira preached ahimsa, truth and compassion, which is the need of the hour. Let us on this day resolve to foster the values of Ahimsa in society”. The President has sent her greetings from Mexico City.

MINORITY STATUS to Jains:-

WEST BENGAL GOVERNMENT ACCORDS MINORITY STATUS TO JAIN SAMAJ
The Government of West Bengal has finally accorded the minority status to Jain community vide its gazette notification dated, the 18h February, 2008. Seven other states in the country have already granted this status to Jain community earlier, namely, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Chhatisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. West Bengal, thus becomes eighth state in the country to accept Jain community as minority. Jain community in Delhi demands minority status. The Jain community in the capital is raising the pitch for minority status on par with the Buddhists, Christians, Sikhs, Muslims and Parsis, listed as notified minority groups under the Delhi Minorities. “We do not believe in Jagatguru Shankaracharya, we have our own spiritual identity”.

JAIN COMMUNITY IN DELHI DEMANDS MINORITY STATUS FROM CM
The Jain community in the capital is raising the pitch for minority status on par with the Buddhists, Christians, Sikhs, Muslims and Parsis, listed as notified minority groups under the Delhi Minorities Commission Act, 1999. Members of the community want to incorporate Jainism, the religion of the community, as a subject in Jain schools. The capital and its adjoining areas have eight Jain schools. They are not being able teach Jainism to their children because most of the Jain schools in Delhi are partially funded by the government, which doesn't allow the teaching of any particular religion at schools unless it is a minority community. 'The government is ignoring the community. We want minority status as enshrined (under Article 25) in the Indian Constitution, which empowers the government to accord minority status to six marginal ethno-religious groups, so that we can teach Jainism to our children in schools run by us. We don't want reservations in jobs or in education,' Chakresh Jain, head of the Delhi Jain Samaj.

Members of the Jain Samaj had assembled at Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's home to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira. Chakresh Jain said children of the community here were losing touch with their traditional culture because they were not being taught Jainism in schools. Underscoring the need for minority status, Chakresh Jain said Jains were included in the list of minorities in seven states across the country - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal  According to 2001 Census, the Jain community forms .45 percent of the population.

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS DECISION OF AHMEDABAD CORPORATION TO CLOSE SLAUGHTER HOUSES FOR NINE DAYS DURING PARYUSHAN PARVA - New Delhi, March 15, 2008: The Supreme Court has deprecated the growing intolerance of exhibition of certain films or paintings and said such dangerous tendencies must be put down with an iron hand. The court made these observations while upholding the action of the Ahmedabad Corporation in closing down slaughter houses in the city for nine days during the period of the Jain festival Paryushan. The Bench, consisting of Justices H. K. Sema and Markandey Katju, said the closure was a reasonable restriction and would not violate Article 19 1 (g) of the Constitution. The Bench said: “Since India is a country of great diversity, it is absolutely essential, if we wish to keep our country united, to have tolerance and respect for all communities and sects. It was due to the wisdom of our founding fathers that we have a Constitution which is secular in character and which caters to the tremendous diversity in our country.” In the instant case, the Bench said: “One should not be touchy about a short restriction when it is being done out of respect for the sentiments of a particular section of society. The great Emperor Akbar himself used to remain a vegetarian for a few days every week out of respect for the vegetarian section of Indian society and out of respect for his Hindu wife. We too should have a similar respect for the sentiments for others, even if they are a minority sect.”  The Bench allowed

Source:- http://www.jainsamaj.org/magazines/april-2008.htm

Dated-25th January'2008

MAHAMASTAKABHISHEK CEREMONY AT BAWANGAJA IN M. P. FROM 27TH JAN. TO 4TH FEB. 08 - The first Mahamastakabhishek ceremony of Bhagwan Shri Adinath, first in this century, is being held after 7 years, The ceremony is being held in the holy presence of Acharya Shri Vidyanandji maharaj and Upadhyay Shri Guptisagar ji maharaj at Bawangaja, Dist. Badwani, in Madhya Pradesh from 27th January to 4th February, 2008. The idol of Bhagwan Adinath is 84 feet tall, one of the tallest in the world. The 'abhishek' will be held on 27th, 29th, 31st January and 2nd and 4th February with 1008 'kalash' on each of these days. It is expected that more than five lakh devotees from all over the country and abraod will participate in these celebrations.Discourses, religious and cultural programmes will be held on all the days.

Dated-5th January'2008

8th Annual Jain Pratibha Sammaan Samaroh

On the 30th Dec,2007, 8th Annual Jain Pratibha Samman Samaroh was organized in Digamber Jain Kshetra Madiyaji, Jabalpur,M.P. ,under the auspicious presence of His Holy 108 Upadhyaya Shree Gyansagarji Maharajji.

Former Vice-President of India Shri Bhairo Singh Shekhawatji was present in the program as chief guest.

The program was presided by Shree Ishwar Das Rohaniji, President of M.P. legislative assembly. Nearly 150 students of the Jain Community from all over the Country, who secured more than 90 percent, marks in the 10th & 12th board exams.

Thousands of crowd was present in this program. The students were rewarded by the Honorable Chief Guest & were blessed by His Holy Upadhyayshree.

Honorable minister of state of home ministry, MP Govt.,Shree Himmat Kothari,MLA Shree Sarad Jain &MLA Shree Harendrajit Singh were present as special guests in the program.

Upadhyay Shree addressed the students & blessed them for their future.

Next day, there was a counseling program held for these students.

Source: "AMIT PRAKASH JAIN" ameetpjain@yahoo.com  

Dated 4-Jan'08

Jain Doctors conference at Jabalpur

On the 23rd of Dec, 2007, Jain Doctors conference was organized at D.N.Jain Boarding College, Jabalpur in the holy presence of 108 Upaadhyay shree Gyansagarji maharaj.

The host of this program were Dr. Chhatrashal Jain, Bombay hospital, Jabalpur & Shree Chaturmaas seva samiti, Jabalpur.

The chief aim of this conference was to throw light on the various practices in Jainism & their scientific significance.

The conference begins with the manglacharan & aarti of Upadhyayshree, followed by the introductory speech by the chief host Shree Dr. Chhatrashal Jain.

The research papers on various topics Like: jain-kitchen’, 'jainism & environment’, 'jainism & female infanticide’,'vegetarianism is scientific' &'sanlekhna: scientif i.e. views' etc.

Dr. Smt. Sadhna Jain, Dr.Sanjay jain, Dr.Nalini Jain, Dr.Rajbali Jain, Dr.Rajiv Jain, Dr.Chhatrashal Jain & Dr. Amit Prakash Jain presented their research papers on the above topics.

After this Upadhyay Shree addressed the conference & highlighted the scientific aspects of Jainism.

In the program some 200 hundred doctors of the city were present.

Source: Dr. Amit Prakash Jain

Dated: -27^th December’07

"Tanav se mukti"

- addressed by Upadhyay Shree 108 Gyansagarji Maharaj ji.

There was a program organized by Dr Sharad Jain, Assistant. Professor, Department of Pathology, Medical College Jabalpur on the 20th Dec, 07. This program was addressed by Upadhyay Shree 108 Gyansagarji Maharaj ji. The main topic of his sermon was "Tanav se mukti" that is how to relieve stress.

This subject was very relevant for the doctors & the medical students who experience a lot of stress in their daily lives due to their routine monotonous work.

This program which took place at the college's auditorium was inaugurated by the Dr. K.D. Baghel, Dean of the medical college. Many doctors & medical students were present in the program. Muni shree said, that until we consider anything as 'problem', it is not a problem. It is our angle of view to look into the matter which makes the situation good or bad.He also asked doctors to help the patients especially who are poor.The Digamber Jain mahila mandal & the Chaturmas samiti cooperated in the program. Before that the guests were Welcomed by Dr. Sharad Jain, Dr Amit Prakash Jain, Followed by Mangalacharan by Dr. Amit Prakash Jain. Dr. Meeta Shrivastava (HOD, Ophthalmology department), Dr. Lokwani (HOD, Pathology department), Dr. Ajay Sharma (vice superintendent of medical hospital) presented Shreephal to the Upadhyay shree & received his blessings. The program was anchored by Advocate Ajit Jain & Dr. Amit Prakash Jain. Vote of thanks was given by Dr. Sharad Jain who was the chief convener of this event.

Source: - Dr. Amit Prakash Jain. Jabalpur (MP)

Dated:-30-11-07

Please pass on this email, it might be of help to those parents whose children are having heart problem & couldn't afford the operation.

For any kind of heart surgery free of cost

Contact: Sri Sathya Sai Institute Higher Medical Sciences, E.P.I.P . Area, WhiteField, Bangalore

Write to us  Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences EPIP Area, Whitefield, Blore 560 066,
          ;           Karnataka , INDIA.
Call us   Telephone: +91- 080- 28411500  Fax +91 - 080- 28411502
Employment related +91- 080- 28411500 Ext. 415
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Source:- Ankur Jain

"Ankur Jain" <anks.jain@gmail.com>

      NILESHKUMAR  KOTHARI

 Source:    jinatma@yahoo. com

Dated New Delhi, October 25th , 2007

press News
20th ALL INDIA SUMMER SCHOOL ON
PRAKRIT LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE 2008
will be held in Delhi
B. L. Institute of Indology, Delhi is organizing the 20th All India Summer School on Prakrit Language & Literature (Both Elementary and Advanced Courses) from Sunday, 11th May to Sunday, 1st June 2008.
The minimum qualification for the entrance in Elementary Course is Post Graduate Degree in Prakrit/Sanskrit/ Pali Language. Preference will be given to the scholars and teachers on the basis of Merit. The participants who have passed Elementary Course conducted by this Institute could be admitted in Advanced Course on the basis of their past performance.
Interested participants may contact:
Dr. Balaji Ganorkar
E-mail: director@blinstitut e.org
Website: www.blinstitute. org
 

Dated New Delhi, October 06, 2007

Jurist LM Singhvi passes away

Indo-Asian News Service

New Delhi, October 06, 2007

First Published: 18:20 IST(6/10/2007)

Eminent jurist, constitutional expert and former parliamentarian LM Singhvi, who was one of India's longest-serving envoys to Britain, died in New Delhi on Saturday. He was 76.

A noted scholar in Jain history and culture, Singhvi was ailing for the past two weeks and died of a heart attack at the Max Devki Hospital around 1.45 pm, family members said.

Cremation has been fixed for Sunday morning at the Lodhi Crematorium.

His wife Kamala, son Abhishek, who is a senior advocate and a spokesman for the Congress party, and daughter Abhilasha survive him.

Singhvi was among the longest-serving high commissioners to Britain (early 1991 to end 1997). He was also a linguist, prolific author, litterateur and a patron of arts. He served the Lok Sabha in 1962-67 and the Rajya Sabha in 1998-2004.

The Padma Bhusan was conferred on him in 1998.

He headed the High-Level Committee on Indian diaspora appointed by the previous National Democratic Alliance government and had been studying India's ties with its diaspora since his days as a law student at Harvard in 1951.

Singhvi also conceived the idea of an annual Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the event organised by the Indian government each January to engage with its 25 million-diaspora spread across 130 countries.

Apart from his work on the diaspora, he was noted for his championship of human rights and led the Indian delegation to the UN Conference on Human Rights in Vienna in 1993.

Singhvi was born in 1931 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was advocate general of Rajasthan from 1972 to 1977.

His works include "Towards Global Togetherness", "Democracy and the Rule of the Law", "Freedom on trial", "Jurisprudence of Non-Violence" and a volume of poems in Hindi, "Sandhya ka Suraj".

Singhvi was also president of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts and a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague as well as the Commission of Inquiry into Administration of Justice in Trinidad and Tobago.

Regards

Vidyabhushan Upadhye

      Dated-1 Oct, 2007,

PM announces Sunita Williams Scholarships
Source:-The Economics Times.

1 Oct, 2007, 1925 hrs IST, IANS

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh told Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams that she was a "source of inspiration" for youngsters in India, as he announced special scholarships, named after her, for space studies.

Accompanied by her father Deepak Pandya, Williams called on the prime minister and his wife in the afternoon.

Manmohan Singh told Williams that India was "truly proud of her achievements" and that she was a "source of inspiration for all our young people".

Expressing her gratitude, she said she was overwhelmed by the love and affection she received in India and by the interest of young Indians in aeronautics and space exploration.

According to a Prime Minister's Office (PMO) statement, Manmohan Singh announced that the "Government of India will finance 10 scholarships, five for girls and five for boys, to promote the study of outer space. These scholarships will be called the Sunita Williams Scholarships for Higher Education in Space (SWISHES)."

He said Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal would announce the details of the scholarships.

Williams, who undertook a record-making space journey earlier this year, arrived in India Saturday on a six-day visit.

    Dated:- 16-8-07

CHATURMAS 2007
Shwetambar Terapanth sect: 1.Acharya Shri Mahapragyaji, Yuvacharya Shri Maha Shramanji, Sadhvi Pramukha Shri Kanakprabhaji will be having their chaturmas stay at Acharya Shri Chaturmas Vyavastha Samiti, Mahapragya Vihar, Bhuvana, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
2. Muni Shri Sumermalji, Muni Shri Udit Kumarji and Sadhwi Shri Kanak Shriji  to stay at  Oswal Samaj, B- 69 Vivek Vihar II Delhi.
3. Sadhwi Shri Kanak Shriji will be staying at Khiloni Devi Dharmshala, Behind MP Market, Pitampura, Delhi.

Shwetambar Sthanakwasi sect:
1. Shri Ram Muni Ji maharaj (Nirbhay maharaj), Up-Pravartak in Shraman Sangh, the major part of Shwetambar Sthanakwasi sect is going to hold his chaturmas at Agra (Moti Katla).
2. Acharya Shri Umesh Muni Ji maharaj, belonging to Shwetambar Sthanakwasi sect is going to have his chaturmas stay at Indore.

Shwetambar Moorti-Pujak sect:
1. Acharya Shri Vijay Arihant Surishwar Ji maharaj would be holding chaturmas (alongwith a group of 400 saints) at Palitana
2. Muni Shri Shanti Bhadra Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Jodhpur (Ratnaprabha Kriya bhawan)
3. Acharya Shri Hemendra Surishwar Ji maharaj will be holding chaturmas at Bhinmal, Dist. Jalore (Rajasthan)
4. Acharya Shri Maniprabh sagar Ji maharaj may be holding his chaturmas at Indore.
5. Acharya Shri Vijay Ratna Prabh Suri Ji maharaj alongwith his sangh has announced his chaturmas this year at Malad (East) in Mumbai.

Digambar sect:
1. Acharya Shri Pushpadant Sagar Ji maharaj is going to hold his chaturmas along with his sangh at Gauhati (Assam).
2. Acharya Shri Vardhman sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas alongwith his sangh at Shrawanbelgola (Karnataka)
3. Acharya Shri Sukumalnandi ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Ahmedabad.
4. Acharya Shri Abhinandan Sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Udaipur.
5. Muni Shri Tarun Sagar JI maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Kolhapur.
6 Muni shri Punya Sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Kanpur.
7. Muni Shri Sudha Sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Banswada (Raj.)
8. Muni Shri Saurabh Sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturmas at Hissar.
9. Muni Shri Prasanna Sagar Ji maharaj will be holding his chaturma at Calcutta.
10. Balacharya Shri Yogendra Sagar Ji maharaj to hold is chaturmas at Jaipur.
11. Ganini Pramukha Aryika Shri Gyan Mati Mata Ji to hold her chaturmas at Hastinapur.

source:- http://www.jainsamaj.org/magazines/july2007.htm

Dated 6-8-07

श्रवणबेलगोला में बाहुबली की मूर्ति भारत के 7 अजूबों में से एक है। टाइम्स ऑफ इंडिया ने रीडर्स सर्वे के जरिए देश के 7 अजूबों को चुना है।

source: http://navbharattim es.indiatimes. com/articleshow/ 2256521.cms

49 फीसदी या करीब आधे लोगों ने कर्नाटक के हासन जिले में धार्मिक नगरी श्रवणबेलगोला को अपनी पहली पसंद बताया है। दो पहाड़ियों के बीच , झील के किनारे बसा श्रवणबेलगोला जैनियों का प्रमुख तीर्थस्थल है। यहां का प्रमुख आकर्षण है 17.38 मीटर ऊंची बाहुबली की मूर्ति , जो दुनिया में एक पत्थर से बनी सबसे बड़ी प्रतिमा है।

 Source: E-mail dated 4-8-07

This is to inform you that Jain International Trade  Organization (JITO),  Mumbai are into doing service to mankind. Their main purpose is to work for the  uplift-ment of the jain community in India and abroad. As part of their project they  are going to sponsor the aspiring and eligible Jain students to prepare for the courses to be conducted for UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) in India. This is a very important and huge project taken by them for the benefit of all jain. Thus they would like to have the list of all the aspiring and eligible jain students who would be interested in making their career in Indian Administrative Services in different fields.

Kindly go through the same and do the needful. For any information you can contact  Mr. Shridhar Jamadagni, Sr.Business Devlopment Manager, JITO, Phone: 022- 6610 2003 / 6610 2004, email : contact@jito.org  / shrilib@yahoo.com

Kindly forward this mail to all your Jain Friend.

Regards,

Rajan Parekh

Dated :-15-6-07

MAHATMA GANDHI'S BIRTHDAY DECLARED AS INTERNATIONAL NON-VIOLENCE DAY

"Mahatma Gandhi's Birthday has been declared as the International Day for Non-violence. In a tribute to Gandhi's philosophy of brotherhood and peace, the UN General Assembly declared October 2, his birth anniversary, as the International Day of Non-Violence. The resolution, which urged member States to observe the day each year in appropriate manner to disseminate the message of non-violence, was co-sponsored by 137 of the 191 members and was adopted without a vote." In the recent avatar of Munnabhai, the very well informed Circuit tells Munnabhai that October 2nd is 'dry day' and it is a holiday, when bhai first enquires what is the significance of that day. Circuit could be forgiven as many Indians would perhaps live with similar sentiments. October 2nd doesn't touch our lives, just like Independence Day or any other National Holiday. Apart from the 'government' celebrations and compulsory celebrations in education institutions, there is nothing to provide meaning and significance to the national day. So, if you are not a government employee or associated with an educational institution, you may as well take it easy or plan your outings on those days because the traffic in the roads will be less. In this backdrop comes the UN resolution on celebrating Gandhiji's Birthday as the global Non-Violence Day. It is an honor for India and Indians.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has welcomed the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of an Indian resolution declaring October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence. In a statement, Dr Singh described it as "a great tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and a proud moment for India."

 

3-6-07

Book Released:-

In Quest of the Self – An Extraordinary Life Story of an Extraordinary Saint

Acharya Vidyasagar, revered saint, scholar and poet, acceded to the high spiritual office of Acharya at the tender age of twenty-six. He was chosen by his guru, Acharya Jnanasagar, in his own lifetime to succeed him and uphold the Digamabar ascetic tradition restored by Acharya Shantisagar to its pristine glory in the first half of the twentieth century. Acharya Vidyasagar’s is a many splendoured personality. While his erudition and unwavering adherence to the discipline prescribed in the scriptures evoke awe and admiration, his childlike simplicity, sensitivity and empathy enable him to strike an instant rapport with the common man. No wonder, his following has spread far and wide, transcending the boundaries of class, creed and language.

There has been many an attempt to record his life story, but Muni Kshamasagar’s “Atmanveshi” stands out as an authentic chronicle of rare beauty that traces the spiritual voyage of Acharya Vidyasagar. Lovingly penned by his devoted disciple over the years, “Atmanveshi” has intoduced a new genre of biography in Hindi literature. Known for its unique style of narration and the musicality of its lyrical prose, this biography provides rare insights into the process of Acharyashree’s spiritual evolution. The following passage in Muni Kshamasagar’s Foreword eloquently describes his approach to the subject:

“I have tried to capture the myriad moods of the ocean on the small canvas of my imagination. I have sought to depict each hue, each wave of the ocean in the soft light of dawn, in the brightness of noon , in the twilight hours and in the deepening darkness of night. This ocean is an ocean of learning, equally vast and deep. If the brush strokes of my perception have failed to portray its limitless and fathomless expanse, then it is on account of my own limitations, which deserve your sympathy.”

First published in 1997, “Atmanveshi” is already into its eleventh edition. Happily, this widely acclaimed work is now available in English translation under the title “In Quest of the Self”, published by Bharatiya Jnanpith. It has been a labour of love for the translator, Kamal Kant Jaswal, who retired recently as Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Information Technology, after thirty-six years of service in the IAS. In his own words,

“…this assignment has greatly enriched and uplifted me. I do hope that the reader will be able to perceive the nobility of the subject and the rare beauty of the original narration despite the inadequacies of the translation.”

The reader will, of course, form his own assessment of the quality of the translation.

In Quest Of The Self”, ISBN 81-263-1166-5 is available through retail counters of Bhartiya Jnanpith, 18, Institutional Area, Lodhi Road , New Delhi 110003. Alternatively, you can contact Maitree Samooh, 1/205/4, Professor’s Colony, Hari Parvat Agra, or call 094251 32090. You can email us at maitreesamooh@hotmail.com and mail@creativelipi.com and we will be more than happy to assist you with more information about this book, Acharya Shree Vidhya Sagarji Maharaj, Muni Shree Kshamasagar ji Maharaj, activities and other publications of Maitree Samooh.

 1-6-2007

JAINA: Federation of Jain Associations in North America.

The federation of Jain Associations in North America IJAINA) is the umbrella organization of local Jain Associations (Sanghs in USA) and Canada. The purpose of the organization is to preserve, practice and promote Jain Dmarma.

Jaina 2007 - Peace Through Dialouge

Registration for the14^th Biennial Jaina Convention, Peace through Dialogue is open!

Come join us July 5-8, 2007 in New Jersey at the Convention & Expo Center located in Edison, NJ.

Register today by clicking here: https://convention2007.jaina.org/

Click here for a programming update.... https://convention2007.jaina.org/programming-update-may.html

May 17, 2007

          Moral Education Camp at Vasundhra Jain Mandir

Shree Digamber Jain Mandir Samiti, Vasundhra Ghaziabad in association with Natik Shiksha Samiti, Darya Ganj New Delhi is organizing a Moral Education Camp which would include Preaching’s of Lord Mahavira and History of Jainism as per details given below:-

Start Date : May 27, 2007
End date : June 02, 2007
Timings : 7 am to 9 am
Age Group : 5 to 18 years

Venue : Vanasthali Public School ,
Bhagwan Mahavir Marg, Near Jain Mandir, Sector – 10
Vasundhra, Ghaziabad

Limited seats available on first come first serve basis please enroll and reserve your seat today. Books, stationary, refreshment & Transportation (within 5 km from the venue) is provided free of cost by the Mandir Samiti.

For registration and further information please contact Shree Digamber Jain Mandir Samiti, 10/1 Bhagwan Mahavir Marg, Sector - 10, Vasundhra Ghaziabad – 201012 Phone: +91-120-3243797 or log on to http://jainmandir.net/. You may also send us mail at info@jainmandir.net or call up any of the following:-


M.P. Jain Coordinator +91 9810172743
K.C. Jain President +91 9810291600
Naveen Kumar Jain General Secretary +91 9910339268
Regards,
Naveen Kumar Jain
General Secretary
Email: - info@jainmandir.net
# +91 9910339268

End

Dated: 10^th May'07

On behalf of Shree Digamber Jain Mandir Samiti, Vasundhra, Ghaziabad I have the pleasure to invite you all on occasion of

“SHILANYS ”

 of Vasundhra Jain Mandir, Ghaziabad , Uttar Pradesh,

 Scheduled for May 13, 2007 at 10 am

Under guidance & blessings of Elacharya 108 Shree Shrut Sagar Ji Maharaj.

Vidhanacharya Pt. Tikam Chand Ji Jain,                                Delhi

All are cordially invited to attend the function with family and friends, please be there to grace the occasion.

For further details of the event pls visit http://jainpushp.org/Newsandviews.htm

 In case of any information/clarification, please feel free to contact the undersigned or any of the following:-

 President                       Vice President             General Secretary                    Secretary

K.C.Jain                   N.K.Jain                      Navin Kr Jain                    Arun Jain

9810291600                  9868495428       9910339268                  9350110009

 Thanks & Regards,

Mayank Jain

# 9818445970

mayankj@in.startv.com

Dated: 2nd May'07

TEMPLE
CONTROVERSY OVER SUPREME COURT DECISION FOR CONTROL OF RISHABH DEV TEMPLE AT KESARIA JI CONTINUES. - A REPORT - The decision of the Supreme Court about the management and control of Shri Rishabh Dev temple at Kesaria Ji near Udaipur in Rajasthan (reported in the February issue of Ahimsa Times) to the effect that the temple belongs to Jain community only and the question of its control amongst Swetambar and Digambar sects should be decided by the State Government still remains to be implemented. There are three parties involved in the controversy, (i) Jains, (ii) Hindus living in the town and near-by including the priests and pandas who have been performing worship of some Hindu idols installed in the temple premises and (iii) the local adivasi population, who claim that Rishabh Dev is their God and they have been worshipping the same since long with all the reverence. The Supreme Court decision should have put put the whole controversy at rest, giving the right of management and control to the Trust owned by Jain community). However, the Hindu population there did not relish the decision of the Supreme Court, thinking that their authority would be lost and therefore the Adivasi community was misled and told by the vested interest that they would no more be able to enter the temple and perform worship of their beloved God, once the control goes into the hands of Jains. The mis-understanding so caused, led to clashes between the two communities, which resulted in death of one Adivasi and injury to many persons on both sides. The ugly situation was, of course, soon controlled by the local authorities and tight security was placed over the temple premises and near-by areas. Repeated assurances were also given to Adivasi people that they would always be free to enter and perform worship as and when they wanted. Still, the differences were not fully resolved. In the mean time, the two main sects of Jain community, Swetambar and Digambar, came out openly, each of them claiming their right over the management of the temple.

Looking at the growing dissention amongst the two sects as well as the continued demand of other communities over the control of the temple, the State Government felt that it was not possible to hand over the charge of the temple to the Jain community, and so it has expressed its inability to the Supreme Court to implement its decision, as announced in Vidhan Sabha by the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Rajendra Singh Rathore. The State Government has filed a petition for the review of the decision, keeping in view the prevailing situation. In the mean time, the Adivasi community as well as the Hindu population have found it as opportune time to submit a review petition from their sides. It is worth-mentioning that there is no justification for Hindus or Adivasis to claim the control over the temple as the right to manage the temple had been decided as far back as in the year 1922 by the then courts and the same had been confirmed and re-confirmed many times in the past, observing that the pilgrims from all over the country come in large numbers to pray their first Tirthankar, Rishabh dev Ji and the large majority of devotees coming to the temple are Jains, both Swetambar and Digambar.

It is however unfortunate that at this critical juncture, that Jains can not settle their differences on this common issue and to bring it in open, thereby weakening their own claim over the temple. It is high time that both the sects realise the serious damage that is being caused to the entire Jain community by their egoistic stands and frivolous claims. it can not be explained why both parties can not sit together and arrive at a just and fair solution, suiting to both sides, may it be control over the trust revenue, differences in the mode of woeship or rituals or the management of the temple. Why a common trust, owned by both the sects, having members fom both sides can be not created? It can be possible if both sides have a will to do so, with a sense of mutual respect, understanding and sacrifice. If the people concerned can not come to an understanding and go on singing their own tunes, they have no business to talk of aparigraha, anekantwad and ahimsa and call themselves as Jains.
Source-http://www.jainsamaj.org/magazines/march2007.htm

JAIN TIRTHANKAR IDOL TURNS GOLDEN AT SURAT

Surat, March 10: A silver-colour idol of the 8th Jain Tirthankar Chandra Prabhu has allegedly turned into golden colour at a Jain temple. According to the priest, the statue was installed some five years ago. The priest of the temple and the local people are taking the incident as a miracle by the God. Meanwhile, the police are keeping a close watch on the incident.

RAVINDRA JAIN BECOMES THE FIRST RECIPIENT OF THE G DEVARAJAN MEMORIAL AWARD -The first recipient of the G Devarajan memorial award instituted by 'Swaralaya', is composer and lyricist Ravindra Jain. At a glittering ceremony in the University Senate Hall-Thiruvananthapuram, the award was presented to Ravindra Jain by none other than Dr K J Yesudas. Born at Alighad in Punjab in 1944, Ravindra Jain has composed music cutting across all barriers of language. In fact, it was Jain who catapulted Yesudas to heights of popularity in Hindi filmdom with Chitchor. He has also composed music for the Malayalam film Sujatha (1977), in which Asha Bhosle, Hemalatha and Yesudas have sung. The visually challenged Jain weaves magic with his mind's eye. Courtesy Gaurav Jain E-Mail: gauravejainyji@gmail.com

 

Dated: - 20^th March'07

Dated: - 11^th March'07

There is Pratishtha Mahotsav going on in CBD Belapur from 03/03/2007 to
10/03/2007 The schedule is as follows:
Panch Kalyanak from 05/03/2007 to 09/03/2007
Pran Pratishtha on 10/03/2007
Timings are
Navkarsi : 8 AM
Function : 11 AM
Lunch : 12:30 PM
Dinner : 5:30 to 6:30 PM
Bhakti Bhawna : 8:30 PM
Venue:
Parshvanath Mandir (Now becomging Munusuvrat Swami Mandir)
sector 8-A
Near Kairali Hall
CBD Belapur
Navi Mumbai

Dated: - 8^th March'07

SUPREME COURT ORDERS HANDING OVER KESARIAJI TEMPLE TO JAIN SAMAJ BUT LOCAL ADIVASIS OPPOSE - Accepting the repeated appeals by the Jain community, The Hon'ble Supreme Court, after a long period of 33 years, has reiterated its earlier decision that the Jain temple at Shri Kesariaji, near Udaipur in Rajasthan, which was being controlled by the Devasthan Department of the Government of Rajasthan be handed over back to Jain samaj.  The Court Has accepted the contention of Jains that the temple belonged to them only and not to Hindus or any other community. However, it did not specify as to which sect, the temple should be handed over. This decision has been left to the Government of Rajasthan, saying that the State Government may settle this impending controversy between the two sects, Shwetambar  and Digambar. The decision was announced by double bench of Supreme Court, consisting of Hon'ble Mr. Justice S.B. Sinha and Mr. Justice Markendey Katju. on the 4th January, 2007. The announcement made by the Supreme Court has however sparked off agitation amongst the local adivasi poulation and they have adopted a damaging attitude.

Looking at the adverse situation, the local authorities, deputed a large contingent of police to control the situation and protect the temple premises, but the adivasi group, occupying  a near-by hillock, started pelting stones on the police, which resulted in death of one and injury to several policemen. Few adivasis have also been injured. Observing the still worsening situation, the authorities have alerted the army to keep ready, if called in for helping police. The local adivasis have great respect for the temple god, e.g. Bhagwan Rishabh dev, whom they call 'kala bhagwan'. Though the fight for the control of the temple looks as if it is between Jains and Adivasis, but it is apparent that the adivasis living close-by in a large number have been mis-guided by the vested interests and have ben been told that they will no more be allowed to enter the temple, once the control goes in the hands of Jains. The State Government will have to intervene quickly and clear the doubts once for all, if the problem is to be solved. Few days after the problem arose, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Mrs. Vasundhara Raje visited the place and met various sections of people, including adivasis,  people of Jain community and those of Hindu community. She has assured the Adivasi people that adequate compensation will be granted to the family of the deceased and all facilities will be provided for their rehabilitation.

ANCIENT JAIN IDOL SEIZED BY DELHI POLICE

On February 24 an idol of Jain Tirthanker, which dates back to around 800 years and worth several crores was recovered and two persons arrested in Chandini Chowk Market of Delhi. Police said they received a tip-off that two persons Pappu Yadav and Banu would come from Punjab to Delhi for selling these idols. Accordingly, a trap was laid and the two apprehended with the idol. During investigation, the accused  admitted that they were labourers in Uttar Pradesh. They also told them that another labourer, Ram Babu, in Hamirpur, UP, reportedly told them that they could make more money for all of them by "selling an idol which was precious".

They told police that Ram Babu asked them to accompany him to Sangrur in Punjab, where a "sculptor", Shiv Pal, could help them sell the idol. The two told police that they went to Sangrur but Shivpal suggested they try selling the idol in Chandini Chowk. At Delhi, while Ram Babu got down from the bus at a bypass, the two were arrested on their way to Chandini Chowk. Courtesy: Mr. Gaurav Jain 'Lakshaya', M: (+91)- 981 198 1233, E-Mail: gauravejainyji@gmail.com

Source-http://www.jainsamaj.org/magazines/february2007.htm

Dated: -3rd March'07

BEDI-PRATHISHTA- MAHOTSAV

DATED: - 27th April to 29th April-2007

ORGANIZER: - SHRI DIGAMBER JAIN SABHA, PATIALA
 

First ever Digamber Jain Mandir constructed in Patiala, Punjab
Under the supervision of Brahamchari Shri Rajesh Ji disciple of Acharaya 108
Vidya Sagar Ji; Maharaj, Shri 1008 Lord Mahavir Digamber Jain Shikhar Band Mandir
has been completed within 1 year (approx). The Bedi Prathishta of which has been fixed for from 27th of Aprl, 07 to 29th April, 07. All are warmly invited. Sabha will take care of all the Boarding and Lodging arrangements.

Venue Address:- Shri Digamber Jain Mandir- Baba Deep Singh Nagar
Badi Nadi Pul - Patiala (Punjab) Pin-147002

Any devotee capable of donating something and wishing to donate is also welcomed as your cooperation is expected in this noble cause of Dharam Parbhavana.

Kanwar Sain Jain
Gen. Secretary
1239 Phase-II Urban Estate-Patiala (Punjab)
Phone: + 91 175 2285386
+91 9949497987

DAted-28th January'07

10 idols stolen from Gurgaon Jain Temple

It is about the Ten 500-year-old idols were stolen from Gurgaon Digambar Jain Temple.
The news is reproduced as follows:-
GURGAON: Ten 500-year-old idols were stolen from Shri Digambar Jain Mandir in Gurgaon on Saturday morning.

"We have sent teams to different parts of the country where similar incidents have earlier been reported. Teams have been dispatched to New Delhi railway station, bus terminus and airport so that the idols weighing 30 kg are not exported out of the country," said Gurgaon SSP Hanif Qureshi.

DSP (crime) Rajesh Kalia added that seven teams have already left for Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana. The police said that the burglars had taken away the idols in a gunny bag. "We are working on all possible clues," Kalia added.

Expressing shock over the incident, Devender Jain, general secretary of Digambar Jain Samaj, said that the value of the idols could be in crores in international market. Stating that it is a major loss for the community, he said: "Some of our brothers and sisters have not taken food since morning. The burglars have spared other idols which are only 20 to 30 years' old. Cops have indicated the involvement of a major gang behind the incident," Jain added.

Kanwar Sain Jain, president of the Samaj, said that they never thought that idols could be stolen from the temple as it is located in one of the most crowded parts of the city and surrounded by Jain families.

The members of Jain Sabha have decided to hold a protest rally on Sunday demanding the early recovery of the idols and they would sit on relay hunger strike.

Source-Times of India dated 28 Jan, 2007

Antique idols worth Rupees 13 crore seized

Dated 25th December.06

Three asthadhatu idols of Lord Mahavira worth rupees 13 crore have been seized from a man in Shalimar bagh, area of North Delhi on Sunday. The three idols are said to be 700 years old.

For more details please refer to Hindustan times dated 25th December'07 Delhi