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JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012JAIN DIGESTA publication of theFederation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA)Email: jaindigest.info@gmail.comJAINA is an umbrella organization of local Jain Associations in U.S.A and Canada. The purpose of theorganization is to preserve, practice, and promote Jain Dharma and Jain Way of Life.JAINA Headquarters: 43-11 Ithaca Street, Elmhurst, NY 11373Tele: 718 606-2885, Email: jainahq@gmail.com, Web: www.jaina.orgJAINA Executive CommitteePresident: Dr. Sushil Jainskjain99@gmail.com703-208-1861, 240-277-3039 (Cell)First VP:premjain@hotmail.com510-770-0503Secretary:ashokdomadia2009@gmail.com510-979-9312Treasurer:jainatreasurers@gmail.com847-913-0400VP-Canada:homekey123@yahoo.ca416-747-9777VP-West:rdhami@verizon.net310-541-2050VP-South West:Prem JainAshok DomadiaDipak DoshiAjay ShahRajen DhamiUdai Jainudaijn@yahoo.com,281-980-0741, 832-567-2298 (Cell)VP-South East :kdeepika@aol.com,954-431-5957, 954-980-8730 (Cell)VP Mid West:manishm@comcast.net734-668-0348VP North East:yokjain@yahoo.com,781-856-0769 (Cell)Dr. Deepika DalalDr. Manish MehtaYogendra JainVP Mid East: Haresh Shahharryshah2000@hotmail.com302-475-2672Past President: Lata Champseelatachampsee@gmail.com,416-441-2200, 416-877-1442 (Cell)YJA: Pavak Shah & Ami Maruchairs@yja.orgYJP: Rushabh Gudkacochairs@yjponline.orgFor the list of JAINA Committees,Trustees, Association members, &Affiliate’s information is available onwww.jaina.orgJAIN DIGEST Editorial Team510-770-9976,Email: news@jaina.orgChetan V. SanghviLata Champsee (Advisor)Reena ShahDr. Deepika DalalShami ShahRupal DoshiHeena NanduJAIN DIGEST AssociatesVimal ShahChandrakant ParekhDilip ParekhDisclosureThe Editorial Team endeavors to publish all thematerials that are submitted but reserves the right toreduce, revise, reject or edit any article, letter, orabstract for clarity, space, or policy reasons. Theviews expressed in the articles are those of theauthors and do not necessarily represent the views ofthe Editorial Team. These articles are published withthe authors’ names. The articles written or compiledby the Editorial Team are published as a jointcontribution of the entire Editorial Team, and do notnecessarily represent the views of JAINA..2

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012From the PresidentJAINA: Strength through Partnershipsai Jinendra:Welcome to the second Jain Digestnewsletter this year. In this issue we providethe updates on building strong relationshipswith our partners. I am pleased to announcenow, more than ever, that the success ofJAINA can be attributed to its flexibility inpartnering with other NGO’s, sisterorganizations and humanitarian agenciesacross the globe. This year, so far, JAINAhas continued to prove its mettle both athome (in USA) and abroad, leading multiplepartnerships and establishing itself as aglobal organization for good cause.This important milestone is the result of hardwork on the part of our volunteers in Haiti,Africa, Central America, India and at home inthe US. Our volunteers made the differenceby engaging themselves in multiple joint projects and working towards building long lasting andprecious partnerships. We often forget to realize the big role these partnerships play in influencing ouractions while helping us grow and mature.Our Mission to collaborate and support not only strengthens our relationship, but also helps train thesevolunteers. The mission to promote Jain way of life sends a strong message about JAINA’scommitment and partnership with NGO’s around the globe. There can be little doubt that alliance withour partner organizations are considerably stronger today because of our willingness to join hands withthem and deliver humanitarian projects anywhere and at any time.Volunteers make a tremendous impact on our progress. We want to give volunteers every resourcepossible to be successful contributors to our mission. Hence, an understanding of our culture ofselfless service becomes necessary. Our collective mission is to nurture current relationships and set aprecedent by creating new partnerships. These partnerships should serve as a model to grow andsustain in both capacities: as individual and as member organization in future.Our duty is unique for we must both lead and be led. We should strive to spread love, practicecompassion, tolerance, and charity. I trust we will continue to exercise the same valor, steadfastness,and compassion for many years to come.Thank you for everything you do and your service. It is my honor and privilege to represent you as yourPresident.Sincerely,Dr. Sushil JainPartner organizations:Ratanidhi Charitable trust, JP/HRO – Haiti, Rotary International, PCRM (physicians committee for responsiblemedicine), Kanchan Foundations, Bidada International, American Jewish Committee, Hindu AmericanFoundation, Dharmic Seva group, BAPS (Bochaswami), International School of Jain Studies, Chinmaya Mission,Habitat for Humanity, Clairmont Lincoln University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Florida StateUniversity.1

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012ai Jinendra -Community Celebrationime to bring some community news!Jai Jinendra! Time to bring some community news!There is little doubt that the North American Jaincommunity is a vibrant one. With increased partnershipwith other like-minded organizations, Jains are making theirpresence known in social, academic, art, cultural, political,and above all spiritual front. By joining hands with otherEastern faith organizations and Obama administration, weare highlighting the value of Eastern heritage not only tothe American society but to countries across the globe. Byproducing professional quality drama and other mediaprograms, we are using art as a vehicle to spread ourmessage. On the academic front, we are proactivelyinvolved in various ongoing activities and programs.Various departments of religious studies at top-tieruniversities are showing keen interest in Jain philosophy.Research is being conducted on various aspects of thereligion. At the spiritual level, we continue to maintain ourcloseness to our roots and different traditions. Recently, aUS resident took diksha. The Pathshala programs aregrowing with creative changes to motivate our youth intothe Jain way of Life. Lastly, the community spirit isdemonstrated at the Pratishtha events that elicitedexcitement among many thousands of members across thenation.We express our sincere apologies to the community for aslight delay in bringing out this issue of Jain Digest. It wasonce again a team effort and an endeavor to bring thenews and reach out to you in the best possible manner.Finally, Jain Digest is your vehicle to communicate, so please do send us your comments (atnews@jaina.org). We are also looking for volunteers to join our Jain Digest team.With Warm RegardsJain Digest Editorial Teamead “From the President” page and liked verymuch the idea of “two way communication” thatyou espouse. To truly achieve that we need tohave a provision for “Letters to the Editor” for theJain Digest and perhaps a section in the JainDigest that is devoted to “Suggestions fromReaders” for JAINA.Letters to the EditorThe front cover picture has been takenfrom the JAINA calendar. This is thepicture of the Ahmedabad HutteesinghTemple. We have selected this picture tofelicitate the JAINA calendar committee,for performing the excellent task ofbringing to the community beautifullydesigned calendars year after year.Perhaps even a section on the JAINA website for“Readers’ Blogs” that are solicited, but reviewedby the editorial team before publication.- Bipin Shah, CAWe very much appreciate you comment. Here is astart!2

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji’s 90 th Birthday.uch can be said aboutGurudev’s contribution to Jaincommunities especially inNorth America. Hedistinguishes himself by hisremarkable oratorical skills,compassionate leadership,inspirational teaching and hiscommitment to Jain dharma &Jains around the globe issecond to none.Born on July 26, 1922 in asmall town of Rajasthan,India, Gurudev spent first fiveyears of his monastic life insilence and meditation (whenhe was 20 years old). Withthis experience, he realizedthat the ultimate purpose of alllife is to expand one'sawareness and to liberate theconsciousness from attachment and aversion.This enlightened spirit brought wisdom, and withlucid language and eloquent speech today, heresides in the heart of millions all over India.After powerfully addressing the Second SpiritualSummit Conference in Geneva in 1970, he wasinvited to address the Third Spiritual SummitConference, arranged by the Temple ofUnderstanding series, at Harvard Divinity School,Cambridge, Massachusetts in October 1971. ThisFrom the President .............................................. 1JAINA: Strength through Partnerships ................. 1Community Celebration ....................................... 2Letters to the Editor ............................................. 2Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanuji’s 90 th Birthday. ......... 3Table of Index. ..................................................... 3Jain Pratishtha Mahotasav – Franklin Township,NJ. .................................................................. 4White House Conference on Dharmic Seva ........ 6Pratishtha Mahotsav of JCOCO Temple .............. 7A Path to Sadhutva .............................................. 8Talk by Arvind Vora on Nelson Mandelainternational Day .......................................... 102013 JAINA Convention at Detroit 11JAINA International Teachers' Conference 201212JAINA Candidates for Legislative Internship andDharmic Seva Survey Project ...................... 13Table of Index.- Based on information provided by Pravin K Shahwas his first trip to USA. Givinglectures in many leadinguniversities, Gurudev foundedthe Jain MeditationInternational Center in NewYork City and became aspiritual guide by helping bringtogether all the Jain Centers inNorth America under JAINA.In recent years, he has beenan avid advocate for animalrights and mindfulness in ourconsumption habits. Heemphasizes the need foradopting veganism a life-stylefree of all animal products andvegetarian (plant based) diet.He also promotes eliminationof animal based products (likemilk, ghee, silk etc.) from ourtemples and religious rituals.As we celebrate the 90thbirthday of Gurudev Chitrabhanuji and honor hisspiritual leadership, our heart is filled withgratitude and respect singing his immortal song“MAITRI BHAV NU PAVITRA ZARNU”(We will try to cover more details about thiscelebration in our next Jain Digest Issue)JAINA Extends Its International Outreach ......... 14JAINA Academic Scholarship Program (JASP)Awards ......................................................... 15Draupadi - An Awe-inspiring and ImpassionedPlay .............................................................. 16Mangalam: The Jain TV Show by JAINA ........... 17Shree Shatrunjay Mahatirth 99 Yatra 2011 ....... 18Florida International University confers HonoraryDoctorate degree on Dr. Dipak Jain............. 19Claremont University Inaugurates Jain Studiesprogram ....................................................... 20The JAINA Calendar – 1500++ Man-Hours ofCommitment. ............................................... 21Award Presented to Pravin K. Shah by JSCNC 213

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012Jain Pratishtha Mahotasav – Franklin Township, NJ.he dream of a new temple came true for theJains of Central New Jersey this year. Jain Centerof New Jersey (JCNJ) hosted the PratishthaCeremony of the new Jain temple. Thecelebrations went on for 10 days, from June 29 toJuly 8, 2012, marking the beginning of a newchapter for NJ Jain community. This auspiciousevent elicited excitement among thousands ofmembers of the Jain community across thenation. 1JCNJ displayed the fruits of labor, involving,fundraising, planning, and it’s execution in the wellplanned mahotsav during Pratishtha. Thehighlights of the event included, traditional ritesand rituals performed by different sects(Shwetamber Sthanakvasi and Deravasi,Digamber, and Shrimad Rajachandra), free meals,and cultural items.This exquisite marble Shikarbhandi derasarhouses captivating Anjanshalaka Pratimajis of ShriMunisuvrat Swami, Shri Mahavir Swami, ShriSimandhar Swami, Shri Vasupujya Swami andShri Shankeshwar Parshwanath. Additionally, inartistic deris surrounding the main deities,sculptures of dev, devi, and Guru Bhagwant willaccompany the 24 Tirthankars. Unity in diversitycan be observed under one roof where there is aDigamber derasar, Sthanakvasi hall, and ShrimadRajchandra Bhakti hall. Spread over nine and a1 Community Celebration picture on Back Cover.View from a Visitor from India“We were very lucky to enjoy once-in-a-life-timeopportunity of Pratishtha Mahotsav in USA.The mind was gripped with awe at this uniqueShikharbandhi Jinalaya with 5 tirthankar-idols,Digamber derasar, Sthanakvasi Upashraya andShrimad Dhyan mandir. The sight of manythousands participating in mantras, variousPoojas and reverential chants of "VandeVeeram" and "Jainam Jayati Shasanam" upliftedthe soul!Especially encouraging was the genuineenthusiasm, sense of involvement and respectfor the various vidhis shown by the youngergeneration. It makes the grand parents feelconfident that the roots of Jain religion havebeen firmly planted in the minds of youth whocall USA as their country!But the biggest achievement treasured by thisPratishtha was the unprecedented comingtogether of all Sampradays/firkaas at a singlesanctum-sanctorum for worshipping, as a singleunified group, of Jains and just Jains!The entire Mahotsav turned out to be a soulfuland spiritually elevating experience. One had tobe there to experience all this and feeloverwhelmed! And those who experienced weretruly blessed! “--Satyapal Sanghvi, (Visitor from India)half acres of land, there are two floors in the4

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012temple with around 44,000 square feet of spacethat includes a prayer hall, dining hall, kitchenfacility, pathshala rooms, library, storage rooms,living quarter for the pujari and a 350-car parkingfacility.Shwetamber: The Shwetamber sect pratishthamahotsav started with Manekstambh Ropan,Mangal Toran, Kumbh Sthapana Pujan, lighting ofthe Akhand Deepak, and Jawara Ropan, followedby numerous other daily pujans. On July 1,Utthapan Vidhi of all 5 Pratimajis was performedat Shantinathji’s derasar prior to the Pratimajis’pravesh in the Franklin Township derasar.Between July 5-8, devotees performed differentrituals like: pravesh in derasar, pohkana,pratishtha of pratima, pushpa vrushti by ahelicopter and the dwar opening of derasar.Entire sangh (many thousands) witnessed thepratishtha ceremony with great enthusiasm andjoy.Digamber: Digamber ceremony took place over aperiod of 3 days. Dhwaja Ropan, MandapInauguration, followed by Vidhi Nayak, NvidhiAdhyaksha Bhagwan Pravesh, and a processionwere the key rituals performed on the first day.The highlights of the second day prior to the firstdarshan and Samosaran darshan were DikshaKalyanak, vargodho, and Vedi Suddhi of thepedestal. The ceremony concluded with anothervargodho and Abhishek of all of the Bhagwans.The joy and excitement in Digamber communitywas palpable throughout all of these events.Sthanakwasis: Sthanakwasis took part in a halfday ceremony that commenced with NavkarMantra Patt pratishtha. Everyone attended thelectures by various dignitaries speaking on theimportance of Navkar Mantra. The communitychanted 108 Navkar Mantras and attended SamuhSamayik conducted by Shrimati Tarlaben Doshi.Members pledged to meet as a community at leastonce a month to take part in Samuh Samayik.Shrimad Rajchandra: Shrimad Rajchandradevotees celebrated the opening by chantingMantras and offering donations. They also hostedPrayer and Shobha Yatra followed by theircongregation in Shrimad Dhyan Mandir for the firsttime. Followers of Shrimad Rajchandra veryexcited to have an exclusive spiritual worship andprayer hall.Cultural and other Activities: Cultural and otheractivities transcending religious traditionalboundaries, add to the tempo of the event, andbring the entire community together. Deliciousmeals in the afternoon and evening added aunique flavor to the ceremony. The cultural eventsof the evenings energized the members andpresented an opportunity to socialize.Pathshalas from different parts of the state hadworked hard to present their own show. Edison,Pathshala told the love story of Nem Rajul throughprose and dance. The Jersey City groupperformed a well-received skit about AimuttaMuni. The Caldwell team decided to step out ofnormal bounds and refreshed the audience with aBroadway-inspired musical. Finally, bringing backthe importance of samayik in modern worldintertwined with humor, the South BrunswickPathshala performed an engaging and funny skitbased on “All Izz Well”. In addition other talentedartists had put together a symphony of stavansand dances. Different Pathshalas alsocollaborated to display a panch kalyanakexhibition on Mahavir Swami’s life.The JAINA Jain Digest team salutes thePratishtha Sanghpati, Pratishtha Conveners, theJCNJ Board of trustees, JCNJ Executivecommittee, (whose names are mentioned on theJCNJ web-site), and all other dedicated volunteersand participants whose tireless efforts made thispratishtha an unforgettable event. It is quitecommon to see some of the most dedicatedvolunteers, such as Aangi designers, derasardecorators, chefs and cooks, hall cleaners, andother organizers, to be hidden from the preview ofthe main events, yet they invariably are the sourceof inspiration for true seva.This temple is located at 111, Cedar Grove Lane,in Somerset, NJ. Like every derasar, it is a sourceof inspiration for seva and spiritual development.In the words of a wise sadhu; “The real purposeof a derasar is to build a derasar within”5

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012White House Conference on Dharmic Sevan Friday, April 20, 2012, Hindu American SevaCharities (HASC) along with The White HouseOffice of PublicEngagement andIntergovernmentalAgencies and theWhite House Office ofFaith Based andNeighborhoodPartnerships, jointlyhosted a conferencetitled, “CommunityBuilding in the 21stCentury withStrengthened DharmicFaith-BasedInfrastructures” for theDharmic (Buddhist,Hindu, Jain and Sikh)religious leaders.HASC under the leadership of Anju Bhargava , amember of President Obama’s Inaugural Councilon Faith Based and Neighborhood Partnerships,partnered with over fifty-five Buddhist, Hindu, Jainand Sikh organizations, including, Council ofHindu Temples, Federation of Jain Associations ofNorth America (JAINA), Soka Gakkai International- USA Buddhist Association, Sikh Organization.This conference was held to create a coalition ofeastern religious non-governmental organizations(NGOs) that can reach out to their respectivecommunities to develop and deliver collaborativesolutions and services to benefit the neighborsand communities around us while promoting betterunderstanding, mutual respect and tolerance ofour beliefs, culture and values.The event drew strong representation andparticipation from a dozen JAINA attendees fromExecutive Committee, Inter-GovernmentalRelations, International Service and Interfaith Sub-Committees, including President Dr. Sushil Jain,First Vice-President Prem Jain, Regional VPsDeepika Dalal and Dr. Manish Mehta, TreasurerDipak Doshi, Dr. Tansukh Salgia, Dr. ManojDharamsi, Prakash Mehta, Naresh Jain, JaineshMehta and others. They had the opportunity tointeract with senior White House and federalagency policy advisors as well as share core Jainbeliefs such as non-violence, respect for all life,tolerance for multiple viewpoints and compassion.JAINA and other delegates went back with theconviction that therewere many agencyprograms,opportunities andfunding available forJain centers whichwould enable them toget involved incommunity service,philanthropy andhumanitarian causes- both locally andglobally. JAINAwants to be proactivein this approach andis available to guidelocal Jain centersand our youth groupsto conceive and deliver needed service projects tobenefit our adopted homeland.In his opening remarks, D. Paul Monteiro, DeputyAssociate Director, White House Office of PublicEngagement, observed that the Dharmic-American community is interested in tackling thesame issues that America is facing. Everyone inother religious traditions and government agenciesare also facing some of the same issues like:healthcare, security, education, sustainability, etc.He encouraged more than sixty participants tofollow up on this premier conference withconcerted action and new public-privatepartnerships stating, “The real measure of thisconference’s success will be in how much moreengaged in service and how effective the Dharmiccommunities become in the months ahead.”Anju Bhargava of HASC, lead organizer of theevent stated, “In America, our collective faithinfrastructures (such as temples, ashrams, andmeditation and yoga studios) are still in earlystages of establishment. As we see it, the seva(meaning compassionate service in Sanskrit)movement is a tool for ensuring social justice, anda way to deal with myriad community and socialissues. The eastern Dharmic traditions sharemany commonalities of belief. We are trying tounderstand how we can engage with each other6

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012collectively, and how more of us can engage withthe administration in solving common pervasiveproblems of society.”Former US Senator, civil rights champion andpresidential advisor, Harris Wofford, spoke of theprofound contribution, Asian spirituality made tothe US Civil Rights movement, recounting that itwas a workshop on Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolencethat deeply inspired the actions of civilrights pioneer Rosa Parks on the day she refusedto move to the back of the bus. On a personallevel, it was his encounter with the followers ofGandhi in the late 1940’s that inspired hisunwavering dedication to the US Civil Rightsmovement.During a session with Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook,United States Ambassador for InternationalReligious Freedom, concerns were raised aboutthe condition of religious minorities in Pakistanand Bangladesh, as well as the plight of Buddhistsin South-east Asia and Tibet. Dr. SivaSubramanian, HASC Board Member called on theUS Dharmic community to work more closely withher in addressing their concerns. AmbassadorCook emphasized the importance of engagementwith religious groups, because “religious freedomis closely associated with higher economicprogress.”Dr. Sushil Jain, President of JAINA and a retiredUS Navy veteran stated, “This first DharmaConference at the White House helped JAINAdelegates understand the level of attention andpriority President Obama has given to reachingout to minority faith groups in America.” TheDharmic community leaders were delighted tohear from federal officials about the currentprograms undertaken for community service andquality of life, as well as addressing communityneeds.Other areas of concern expressed by theparticipants included: the challenges of integrationfaced by recent Burmese and Bhutanese refugeesin America; the effective leverage of Dharmiccommunity resources and networks for worldwidedisaster response, support of information-sharingin anti-terrorism efforts, religious literacy programsin the public schools, providing much-neededsupport for Dharmic-based members serving inthe US Armed Forces and expanded spiritualsupport services for veterans as well as prisonersin their respective faiths to hasten rehabilitation.This conference marked an expansion anddeepening of dialogue between the ObamaAdministration and the Buddhist, Hindu and Jaincommunities. It also helped recognize thecontribution these faiths are making to theAmerican society,” Bill Aiken, Public AffairsDirector, Soka Gakkai Buddhist Association said,“And I think it got a number of faith representativesthinking about how they can expand, broaden anddeepen their contribution."Pratishtha Mahotsav of JCOCO TempleThe JCOCO’s new Temple pratishtha mahotsav activities were performed and celebrated for the firstJain temple in Columbus metropolitan area, in Ohio on July 20, 21,22, 23 2012 with great enthusiasmand success. We will cover this event in detail in the next issue of Jain Digest.7

JAIN DIGEST .. August 20128A Path to Sadhutva(Based on an interview with Sadhavi Sanghamitra - the first US resident to take Diksha)“ he inauguration day of Shri Gurudevji’s(Upadhyaya Shri Amar Muniji Maharaj) memorialSaptparni, will be the day of your diksha.” Little didanyone know that these words of Acharya Chandanajispoken in some random context would miraculouslycome true 20 years later.Is a human being free and masterof his/her fate? Or is a human,slave of time (kaal), nature ordisposition (swabhav), destiny(niyati), or past deeds (pastkarma)? Does an outsidesupreme force (God) have theultimate power to erase the pastand redefine the future? The lifeof Sadhavi Sanghamitra is aclassic example of four samvaysthat throws light on this deepphilosophical quandary.Sadhavi Sanghamitra was born asMangalam in a scenic andhistoric coastal town of Murud,located in Raigad district of Maharashtra. BabyMangalam was her father’s pet who grew up listeningto lullabies in her father’s rich voice. Her father was agreat singer, a tabla player and a very kind andgenerous person. But this affection between father anddaughter did not last long; her father passed away whenshe was just 5. This was the saddest day of life for a 5year old child. Her father left a lasting impression onher mind. Many years later she would reminisce abouther past and visualize a life in her father’s presence. Itwould have been a lot different. Can one change one’sdestiny?Can a two year old have a higher level of affinitytowards a sadhavi whom she had barely met, comparedto her parents and other relatives? During a full familypilgrimage to Sammet-Śikhar, which included all theuncles (mama) and aunts (maushi), the two year oldbaby Mangalam insisted that she would only sit in thelap of Sadhavi Chandanaji 2 , instead of any doli (chaircarried by porters) or carried by any other relatives.Sadhavi Chandanaji (the title of Acharya had not yet2 Acharya Chandanaji is Sadhavi Sangamitraji’smother’s sister (mausi in sansaric life)been conferred on Chandanaji then) had accompaniedher sansaric family during Sammet-Śhikhar hill climb.One would wonder if the relationship between a guruand cheli was predestined.Mangalamji’s association with Veerayatan started fromits very inception. At the age of five she accompaniedher grandmother (nani) to Rajgiriand stayed with Chandanaji forabout a year. This is around thesame time when Chandanaji hadmet Upadhyaya Shri AmarMuniji and the idea ofVeerayatan was conceived.Staying with other sadhavis,young Mangalam felt a part ofthe new movement that wasabout to begin. Imitating hernani, who loved to serve people,the five year old took pride indoing little chores for othersadhavis, a nature that wouldlater become more pronouncedto encompass the largermovement of Veerayatan of empowering humanity.Was there something inherent in her nature that droveher to serve others?Sadhavi Sanghamitraji spent her childhood with heruncle (mama) and aunt (maushi), and did most of herschooling living with her mother in Roha, anothercostal town in Maharashtra. However, while she waswith her family, heart and mind would yearn to returnto Chandanaji and Guru Amar Muni Maharaj. Shewrote frequent letters expressing her desire to jointhem. Finally, her wish was granted when Chandanajiasked her to join her at the age of 12. It was time tobegin the next phase of her life. Why was this greatdesire to live with Chandanaji?Life in Veerayatan was different, she had to spendmany hours studying languages like Sanskrit andPrakrit, and performing other services in Veerayatan.Acharya Chandanaji was a strict teacher, and many atimes Mangalamji would feel that the task assigned toher was laborious and served no purpose. However,with the passage of time she realized the value of thetraining provided to her. While Chandanaji was thestrict teacher, Guruji (Upadhaya Amar Muni Maharaj)was the gentle mentor. Learning Jain scriptures from

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012Guruji was enjoyable and enlightening. Guruji in someway filled up the emptiness in her life which wascreated after she lost her father at a young age. Timedoes not stop, and this phase of Mangalamji’s life alsocame to an end with Guruji’s passing away (devlok),creating a huge vacuum in her life. Why do we cravefor permanence when the only thing guaranteed withtime is change?Trained along with other student sadhavis, Mangalamjiwas no longer keen to become a sadhavi. She insteadcontinued as the manager of Veerayatan. Call it karmicbondage or destiny; a young physician’s assistant cameto Veerayatan from USA to do some social work.Charmed by each other the friendship between thecouple grew. Communicating by letters for over twoyears the couple finally decided to marry. At age 26Mangalamji left Veerayatan for USA. Happily everafter – or did the journey just begin?Mangalamji felt very blessed after marrying a medicalpractitioner and becoming a part of a very generous,helping and understanding Hindu Punjabi family.Participating in sat-sang every Sunday, singing Kabirand Mira songs Mangalamji was now a part of adifferent world. Every day was beautiful, but none wasas joyous as the day when her daughter was born. Withthe motherly love for a new-born came moreresponsibility and attachment. Does one enter the cyclickarmic state or does an inner power rise to free oneselffrom karmic bondage?Life went on and things got set in a routine – butsomething was missing. As Mangalamji sometimesdrove alone through scenic terrains of North Carolina, afaint voice was trying totell her something. Thevoice got louder withtime and Mangalamjiexpressed the feeling ofrestlessness to herhusband. The call droveher towards meditation,and excessive hours ofsolitude. She wouldspend hours sitting onthe backyard porchsipping her tea, readingbooks, watching andfeeding the birds. Theconsiderate family hadaccepted this personality change that lasted for overtwo and a half years. With her growing spirituality, thethought of diksha finally crept in. What about theloving husband and the beautiful daughter?When Mangalamji first proposed the idea of diksha toher husband, he did not take her seriously. But as shepersisted, the husband left the decision to her by beingnon-committal. While one may be able to convince thehusband, what about the 11 year old daughter? Is it nota mother’s responsibility to be there when the daughterneeds her the most? On one end was a growing feelingto move towards the path of diksha on the other endwas the sense of responsibility towards her daughter.This predicament was resolved by her daughter. Herdaughter had been to Veerayatan multiple times andhad a fair idea of a sadhavi’s life. When Mangalamjibroached the topic of diksha with her daughter, sheexpressed that while she would be sad to see hermother go away from her, she would be equally proudto see her mother as a sadhavi. When we (interviewer)argued that even Bhagwan Mahavir delayed his Dikshaon his parents’ request, Mangalamji pointed out thateven Bhagwan Mahavir finally had to leave his wifeand daughter behind and reiterated that her daughterwas strong willed who would grow to be a goodhumane person. The question remains: what are ourreal duties and responsibilities?The path to diksha still had a few hurdles left to cross.She had to pass the test of Acharya Chandanaji. WhenChandanaji came to USA for the JAINA convention,Mangalamji arranged for an apartment from them tostay together. Acharyaji tested and questionedMangalamji from many different angles. CouldMangalamji let go all the attachments and enter in therealm of diksha? Finally after three days Chandanajigranted her the permission to take diksha. About 20years back two friendslived together like twinssharing every moment,they studied under thesame guru, shared theirintimate feelings, andboth were involved inthe nascent stages ofVeerayatan. Bhavikajitook diksha at a youngage to become SadhaviSampragyaji.Mangalamji took a verydifferent path toSadhutva. This story sofar leads us to believethat human life isdriven by destiny, nature of things, time, or past deeds.Is there something that defines human life differently?The Diksha ceremony and the inauguration of SriGurudevji memorial Saptparni were jointly celebrated9

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012in this ancient Jain bastion Rajgiri in Bihar. Themelodious hymns by Mangalamji (still dressed like asansaric bride) not only mesmerized the attendees butmade many in the audience realize the purpose ofsadhutava. With the blessings of Acharya ShriChandanaji, Mangalamji took diksha on December 20,2011 at Veerayatan,Rajgiri. Thus Mangalamjientered the next phase ofher spiritual quest asSadhvi Sanghamitra. Isthere something in thisspiritual quest that defineshumans a different way?Jain Center of NorthernCalifornia was privilegedto host the first ever BadiDiksha ceremony outsideof India. Over 2000enthusiastic communitymembers with manytravelling from differentparts of the US andCanada, came together for this unique three daycelebration at the JCNC Bhavan. The celebrationincluded bhajans and musical programs lead by themelodious voice of Sadhavi Sanghamitraji, raas garbaby community members, Bhaktamar Paath lead byAcharya Chandanaji, sermons by Chandanaji andSanghamitraji, a colorful diksha vargodha (includingchildren parade), and various other events. The mostimportant of all was the historic Badi Diksha ceremonyof Sadhvi Sanghamitraji by Acharya Chandanaji. Willmore members of North American Jain community takeup the path of sadhutva or stay in the illusionarypleasures of material world?In the words of Acharya Chandanaji, diksha in Jaintradition involves takingthe vows of sadhutva, andBadi Diksha, is a ceremonyto validate or confirm thevows. In essence thesevows represent a journey todetach from “me” and“mine”, and realize the real“me”. SadhviSanghamitraji in her lectureappositely described“Sadhutva is not aboutbeing perfect, but a way toperfection”. Sanghamitrajidescribed her Purusharth(human exertion or selfeffort)by trying to livealways in the present. Jain thinkers consider the fiveSamvays (destiny, nature of things, time, past deeds –past karmas, and self-effort) that make up the worldphenomena surrounding an individual. However,Purusharth is the first amongst the five equals and theonly one where we have control. And it is this effort ofstriving to reach perfection that defines the life ofSadhvi Sanghamitra.Talk by Arvind Vora on Nelson Mandela international Dayrvind Vora, of JAINA interfaith committee, wasone of the five invited to speak on Nelson Mandelainternational Day - July 18, 2012 at the UN ChurchCenter. Covering the topic “Hope and Promise ofLeadership”, Arvindbhai spoke on how Jain valuesinculcated at early age in Gandhiji boretremendous fruits for humanity. In his speech heelaborated on different Jain Values and how eachof them provided a great impetus for Gandhiji tobe a great leader.For example talking about Anekantvada,Aravindbhai said “Grasping the truth or reality,knowing very well the diversity in India, multitudeof complexity, Gandhiji displayed calmness andcoolness, befitting stoicism of Jain priestly class.He knew the difficulties faced by Britain becauseof wars in Europe leading into World War II as wellas public sentiments in free world aboutImperialism and Colonialism. He won the hearts ofintellectuals, rich and powerful by bringingawareness about truth and reality from a differentangle that was invisible to them.”Correlating the concepts of Ahimsa, Aparigraha,and Anekantvada and its direct application in thelife and various movements of Gandhiji, heencouraged his audience to study more aboutGandhi and understand the true meaning of aleader and leadership qualities.10

JAIN DIGEST – August 20122013 JAINA Convention Planning Begins at Detroitet ready for four days of JAINA Conventionpacked with diverse programs to engage andexcite all ages. Plan to attend JAINA’s premierevent of 2013 with your entire family to celebratethe past, present andfuture of Jainismthrough social andcultural events;reconnect andrecharge your spiritfrom interactions withgurus, acharyas,scholars and friends;and enlighten yourselfwith inspiring faith-,leadership- andservice- focuseddiscussions withbusiness, civic andcommunity leaders andphilanthropists who exemplify Jain values.To create a memorable convention, a 12 memberteam has been constituted consisting ofexperienced leaders and enthusiastic volunteersfrom JAINA and Jain Society of Greater Detroit(JSGD). The JAINA 1 st VP, Prem Jain(prejain1@gmail.com) is the Chairman of theboard and convener for the 2013 convention. Co-Convener working with Prem Jain is Vastupal B.Shah (vshah44@yahoo.com). Vastupalbhai hasbeen the past President of the JSGD, and JaineshMehta of Houston.A logo design competition was launched in Juneto solicit logo ideas from the 13,000 Jain familiesacross North America. The attendees of the 2012YJA Convention were specifically asked toparticipate in this competition. There has been anamazing response to this competition and thewinner’s logo will be announced soon. You cansee the logo that won on the JAINA.org website orFacebook page JAINA Convention 2013.There is great enthusiasm in the Jain communityof Greater Detroit to participate and make theJAINA Convention 2013 a big success. The hugevolunteer pool drawn from the 500 memberfamilies of JSGD has already begun work to make2013 Convention an efficacious and wonderfulexperience. To ensure this success they are alsocollaborating with the Jain Society of Houstonvolunteers to draw from the successful experienceof JAINA Convention in 2011.The JAINA Convention Board invites Jain Centersin the Midwest andacross North America tocontact the Co-Conveners to offer ideas,assistance and expertisein planning this megaevent. Your ideas arebeing requested forprogramming ideas,discussion panels andentertainment in order tohelp create a conventionyou want to experience.The Convention is beingdesigned to encourageattendance by Jains and non-Jains who areinterested in the Jain Way of Life.Mark your calendars and stay tuned for furtherupdates and Convention-related mailings. Earlybirdregistration will open in November 2012during Diwali week. For more information aboutConvention-related developments, visitwww.JAINA.org.11

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012JAINA International Teachers' Conference 2012-Coordinators: Rajul Vasa, Sailes Jain, & Pravin Shahain Center of Southern California in Los Angelesorganized the fourth JAINA InternationalTeachers' Conference on May 26 and May 27,2012 under the leadership of Sailes Jain and RajulVasa. Eighty Pathshala teachers from fifteencenters of United States, Canada and Singaporeparticipated in the conference. All out stationparticipating guests were hosted by teachers andvolunteers of Jain Center of Southern California.The goal of the conference was to design andbuild a systematic instruction plan whichcould be used as a guide line to teach Jainreligion in the class rooms.During the conference, some of the teachersprovided a write up on the methods and structurethey use for class lessons, while others madepresentations on the special teaching methodsand techniques they use in their classrooms. Itwas revealed that the teachers used a variety ofteaching aids, like: written material, handouts,power point presentations, internet, andillustrations on white boards and cut outs fromvarious publications to teach their students. Everypresentation was unique and came across as aneffective tool for teaching religion.Study material on Religion was reviewed andconsidered for two basic groups: Group 1 (Level 1and Level 2) that included children 9-yrs old andyounger & Group 2 ( level 3 and level 4) thatincluded children 10-yrs and older. The decision,for each group to finish about one hundredlessons of sixty minutes each when the project iscompleted, was taken. Each lesson would containteaching material, method, time management,brief quiz and home work. One entire session wasdevoted to updating the existing JAINApublications. The Group reviewed publicationsJES 302 (Principles of Jainism Level 3) and JES103 (Alphabet book) and will continue to updatethese two publications, post conference andsubmit a revised version for the next printingwithin two months. Jain Stotra and Sutra groupmembers compiled material that included differentsects of Jain religion. This group agreed to collectmissing material before finalizing a book/ booksfor study. A request to all the Jain Centers andindividuals of different sects is made to sendrelated material to Sailes Jain atsailesjain@aol.com to enhance the quality of thecontent of the book.The language (Hindi and Gujarati) teaching grouphad the largest attendance and they came up witha format for revised books. They compiledenough material for level 1 (the plan is to havetotal of four levels) which includes graphics andletters and agreed to continue their work, postconference, to submit the first draft within twomonths. It was also decided that JAINAEducation Director Pravin Shah would bring thebook to publication level.Q&A session was the most popular session in theConference. Participants freely exchanged ideasand learned from each other. One very importantissue that came up during this session was tointroduce a special curriculum to teach childrenwith disabilities. Three of the participating teachersshared their experience with their own disabledchild. Many teachers came forward to developspecial material and program to teach Jain religion12

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012to our children with disabilities.The conference concluded with a feeling ofaccomplishment and its success was attributed toteacher participation. This Conference broughttogether teachers from different centers,contributing to the implementation and teachingmethods. This conference not only resulted inexchange of ideas but also in formation of anactive group working together for a common goal.JAINA Candidates for Legislative Internship andDharmic Seva Survey ProjectAINA announced the selection of AmbikaPandya and Monika Kothari as members of itsinaugural class of summer interns – one intern willundergo training on important legislative functionson Capitol Hill, and the other willlead a special project to study anddocument the dharmic sevacontributions of North AmericanJains to their respective local andglobal communities. Theinternships provide a competitivecash stipend, and JAINA’sExecutive Committee will closelymonitor the outcomes. JAINAhereby appeals to the leadershipof each Center to cooperate andsupport this important study withtheir timely and detailedresponses when they are contacted.Dr. Sushil Jain, President of JAINA stated, “Fromthe early Jain professional migrants in the 1960s,our community now has grown, prospered andmatured with the third generation Jains takingcenter stage. To assure the sustainability of JainWay of Life in North America wemust nurture our youth to becomemore involved and engaged in thecommunity and legislativelandscapes and promoteawareness of our core values,such as non-violence,compassion, tolerance of multipleviewpoints, vegetarianism andecological balance”.Based on their strong credentialsand their aspirations to make adifference in society, twoimpressive young adults were selected from ahighly competitive pool of applicants. AmbikaPandya, 20, of Staten Island, New York is a risingjunior at New York University, studying Economicswith a minor in Business and an interest inbusiness law. She has been active at the JainCenter of America in New York for several yearsas a volunteer, translator, and participant inreligious classes and cultural programs. Thissummer, Ambika, will spend sixweeks in Washington D.C., rotatingunder the mentorship ofexperienced officials at theAmerican Jewish Committee (AJC),which has entered into a uniquepartnership with JAINA to offer thisspecialized training. The AJC is theJewish community’s globaladvocacy organization and haspreviously co-organized twoLegislative conferences with JAINAon Peace, Harmony and Non-Violence (October 2009 and March2012). These conferences attracted many leadinglegislators and federal agency officials who arenow more aware of Jain beliefs and Jain Way ofLife. Ambika told that she accepted the JAINAinternship offer because it would allow her to useher education and her Jain ideals and principleswith her interest in internationalrelations and public outreach. Shehopes to gain experience in thesefields through managing, assisting,and coordinating events andprograms with her supervisors.Monika Kothari, 21, of Canton,Michigan began studying atPathshala at the Jain Center ofDetroit at 8 years of age. At presentshe is a senior at Michigan StateUniversity (awarded the university’sAlumni Distinguished Scholarship),pursuing a dual major in Anthropology andPolitical Theory and Constitutional Democracy.Last summer she interned with State Voices, anational organization that promotes civic13

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012engagement and policy research. This summershe is interning with APIA Vote-Michigan, anonprofit organization that advocates for the rightsand interests of Asian Americans. She plans toapply to law school in Fall. Monika will serve as apart-time Special Projects Intern under thementorship of Dr. Manish Mehta (JAINA MidwestRegional Vice-President) to help document thecommunity involvement and dharmic seva-basedservice, charitable and outreach activities of Jainsocieties and youth groups across the UnitedStates and Canada. She will specifically conductan online and telephonic survey by contacting alllocal Jain center leaders and JAINA Directors, togather information about their local Jain centers’service projects which could benefit both domesticand international population (e.g., Jivedaya,disaster relief, volunteering at shelters and nursinghomes, etc.). The results of the survey will becompiled and published this Fall in a compendiumthat will be shared with all the Jain centers, andforwarded to senior federal officials, electedrepresentatives, the White House and UnitedNations. Jain centers are encouraged to prepareposters and presentations at the next JAINAConvention to be held in Detroit, July 4-7, 2013.Monika hopes that her contribution to thispublication will not only give her greaterappreciation for Jain involvement in public life, butalso introduce non-Jains to Jain values andactivism.JAINA expects to continue this program andcollaboration annually with the AJC, andencourages interested college students and recentgraduates to apply next year.JAINA Extends Its International Outreachhe Executive members of JAINA decided toexpand its reach and services globally in itsconvention held in Houston. So a series ofsummits termed as Jain Leadership Summitswith the title “Empowering the Underprivileged”were planned in USA, Europe and India. A largenumber of influential Jainsattended the first twosummits organized inMumbai and Delhi in themonth of January. 60influential philanthropistsattended Mumbai Summit.The Delhi summit was atwo day affair: 150influential Jains acrossIndia attended the first dayand 70 participated in thetechnical sessions the following day.Activities initiated after summits in Mumbaiand Delhi1) Appointment of a full time executive in India.Mr. Sahil Narang, young MBA, was appointedon Feb 13 to work full time for JAINA projects inIndia.2) Work related to preparing DATABASE ofprominent Jains and Jain institutions involved insocial service like healthcare, education,employment generation and philanthropic14activities associated with these areas has beendeveloped. Around 100 Jain NGO’s, 200 otherNGO’s and 500 Funding agencies over theglobe have also been listed in the database.3) Setting up an Indian organization dedicated toJAINA activities is being incorporated as a nonprofitsociety in New Delhi. Shri P.S. Surana,eminent corporate lawyerfrom Chennai, will be soongetting this societyincorporated withheadquarters in New Delhi.4) Pilot projects:a) Upgrade H L JainSenior Secondary Schoolin Delhi, a 120 years oldschool with list ofprestigious alumni is beingassisted to upgrade itseducation delivery system. The number ofsteps initiated includes upgrading physicalfacilities, training and motivating the teachersand orienting management. Dr. Shugan Jainis leading this initiative on behalf of JAINA.Since the inception of JAINA in the school, ithas seen major changes ranging fromchanges in infrastructure to the teaching skillsof teachers.b) Employment generation in Bundelkhand:JAINA is working with Shri Vijay Jain and ShriNirnajan Juva of Ahmedabad to enrich the

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012education standards of Jain children invillages of Bundelkhand and to also organizecamps to attract and train Jain youth so thatthey can be gainfully employed. A series ofcamps have been organized and severalAssociate village teachers have beenappointed to guide the Jain children andyouth in the area.c) Supporting foreign students with logisticalmatters during their visit to InternationalSummer School for Jain Studies.5) Updating JAINA website and informationdissemination activities are being coordinatedfrom India office.6) Activities in USA to support India operations –a) Delegates from Jain NGO's in India attendedLegislative conference at U.S. Capitol.Congressmen and their executive staffmembers attended this conference.b) JAINA as UN consultant and affiliated NGO'swere invited by U.S. State department toattend G8 summit for discussion oneradication of poverty and strengtheningprimary education in developing nations.c) JAINA Scholarship program for the needystudents in USA is in full swing. JAINAScholarship committee is in final selection ofneedy and deserving students.7) JAINA leaders are in the process ofinterviewing professional grant writers for jointprojects between USA and India.Planned Activities1. Holding summits in Chennai (Aug 12th) andBengaluru (August 13th). You are requested tosend suggestions and mark these dates forjoining us.2. JAINA is in the process of incorporating projectoffice in India and initiate fund raising and someprojects. You are requested to send yoursuggestions and ways you wish to getassociated with its operations in expanding theoperations throughout India.JAINA Academic Scholarship Program (JASP) Awardshe Federation of Jain Associations in NorthAmerica (JAINA) is pleased to announce theselection of five recipients of the JAINA AcademicScholarship Award for the 2012-2013 academicyear. This is JAINA’s first batch of scholarshiprecipients, and the organization was veryimpressed with the high academic caliber of thecandidates who expressed interest in the award.The selected candidates for this year’s JASPawards are; Mitali Shah of Schaumburg, IL toattend Loyola University, Naisargi Shah of NorthYork, Ontario to attend Ryerson University, NehaJain, of Westborough, MA to attend RochesterInstitute of Technology, Raj Shah of Commerce,GA to attend University of Georgia and Tirth Shahof Commerce, GA to attend University of Georgia.The mission of JASP program is to motivate,identify, and provide financial aid to practicing Jainstudents who will pursue bachelor’s degrees ataccredited universities across North America, andwho have a demonstrated financial need. Thisprogram is conducted under the guidance of JASPcommittee members Udai Jain, Dr. TansukhSalgia, Yogendra Jain, and Mehool Kakabalia.The program was launched in April of 2012 andhas received substantial support from directors atvarious Jain Centers throughout North America. Avariety of young people with diverse backgroundand interest submitted their scholarshipapplications both online and by mail.A panel of four members, comprising of MehoolKakabalia, Himanshu Ajmera, Amar Salgia, andTanvi Daga, evaluated each application based onpredetermined selection criteria. The fivescholarship recipients were selected from a wideand talented pool of applicants after undergoing arigorous review process. JAINA is proud torecognize and reward these hardworking youngpeople in the Jain community. We will continueand expand this scholarship program on anannual basis for accepted university students withfinancial need, and strongly encourage eligiblecandidates to apply in the future.15

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012Draupadi ‐ An Awe‐inspiring and Impassioned Playuman societies have always used Drama as animportant media for entertainment, storytelling, butabove all for delivering important messages.Studies have shown that a live drama with astirring script, powerful but realistic acting, properset-up, and great direction can leave a lastingimpression on a human brain. Pondering overmany ideas to deliver a message on“Empowerment of Women”, Samani SanmatiPragya at JVBNJ laid down the plan of conveyingthe communique through a Draupadi play.However, for this impression, to be pronounced,the drama needs a have soul of its own. Thedrama should move audience into the time-spaceof the act performed on the stage. For a drama todepict the multifacetedcharacteristics of thefeminine spirit was notan easy task.Seeking assistance ofMr. AshwiniSakhamitra of StudioABCD, SamaniSanmati Pragya, andSamani Jayant Pragyaundertook a plan ofputting together thishistoric play. Guided bySamanijis and underthe direction of Aswaniji a combined team of morethan 125 volunteers from both US and Indiaworked tirelessly for several months to prepareand present this grand show. The lead characterof princess Draupadi was played by popular TV,film and theatre artist Upasana Singh from Indiaand a team of more than forty local cast members16Draupadi – The Feminine SpiritDraupadi the princess, the sensuousunparalleled beauty, the graceful queen, dutifulwife, resolute in her beliefs, icon of humanspirit, embodiment of female virtue, the ironwilled, the valorous - second to none, is theunforgettable heroine and a mahasati in JainMythology. Her fiery personality sometimesrevealed her anger and vengeance on thosewho intended any harm to her. However, it isher ultimate commitment to her feminine self,not deviating from human values in the mostcompelling circumstances, introspecting andrealizing one’s own folly, and finally selectingthe path of renunciation that defined her uniquefemale character.and volunteers from JVBNA. . The audio andmusic track was created and produced by StudioABCD, India involving professional artists andcomposers from the industry. The historicalambience was created by periodic costumes andmeticulously designed backdrops all designedspecifically for this show under the guidance ofStudio ABCD.The effort of this hard work came to fruition onMay 19 th , 2012 at Union County Performing ArtsCenter, Rahway, NJ. Jain Vishwa Bharti of NorthAmerica, JVBNA - anon-profit organizationbased in NJ inassociation withTimeless MahatmaTrust, Mumbaipresented a play“DRAUPADI” in Hindi.The sold outperformance wasattended by anaudience of over 1200from the tri-state area.The tireless efforts ofthe chairman Mr. Surendra Kankariya, the entireJVBNA BOD, the president Mr. Ramesh Parmar,the entire JVBNA EC and all the JVBNAvolunteers could be seen in the production of thisplay. The event was covered by TV Asia and theSouth Asia Times, the media sponsors of thisplay. Many other dignitaries including leaders of

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012the Jain and other community organizations fromthe tri-state area were present at the event.When a four year old starts questioning hisparents about the intricacies of the act, a sevenyear old asks probing questions, and a 13 year oldstarts reading about Indian mythology, one knowsthat drama had the desired effect. Themesmerizing event was highly appreciated by theentire audience. JVBNA continues to receive callor emails of praise from various members in theaudience.Such dramas are one in thousand, not becausethey are mesmerizing, but because it awakensthat inner-self to remove some of our ingrainedprejudices.Mangalam: The Jain TV Show by JAINAedia Production Committee was formed in2006 with an objective to present Jain Religion inan unbiased, non-sectarian way and to showcasethe unity of Jains in North America through themedium of television. Giving special attention tothe community youth, "Mangalam Jain TV Show"was launched in 2007 as a weekly broadcastprogram. It has given the Jains of North Americaan important presence in the media. With its earlysuccess in US, Mangalam is now aired in Canada,UK, Ireland and Europe in both Hindi and Englishlanguage. In the topics ranging from the basicJain principles to somewhat complex Karmatheory, the emphasis has always been on practicalapplications of Jain principles in daily life.Besides regular lectures on Jain principles andJain way of life, special programs on Jain CenterPratishtha Mahotsav, Ashtapad PratishthaMahotsav, JAINA and YJA conventions, interfaithconferences, and visit with world religious leaderslike Pope and Dalai Lama have also been aired.Programs have covered a wide range of topicsincluding Jain education, social work done by Jainorganizations, multi-episode series on BhaktamerStotra, Samavasaran, and Mahaveer Janma”Now we all have a pat of success on ourback, and looking retrospectively, I believe itwas not only the performance of the cast thatmatters the most, it was the concept, script,audio, music, costume, make up andmeticulously designed backdrops created theentire ambience to tell the story andmesmerize the audience. I believe we all owethis success to the vision of samanijis and ourdirector from Studio ABCD-Ashwiniji by havingfaith in amateurs like us and preparing us workwith professional artist, Upasna Singh.”-Sunil Mehta,( acted as Duryodhan in thePlay)kalyanak celebrations, Jain Cooking, Jain news,Jain meditation and Jain yoga techniques.Mangalam gave a good platform to the youth inJain community. Youth perspectives on Jainreligion were presented in their interviews andperformances. With the youth presenting Jain art,music and musical performances, the Mangalamteam has been successful in producing an AudioCD called “Mangalam”.Keep watching MANGALAM, “Be Proud of It,Be a Part of It"Mangalam team requests community members tobe a part of its endeavor by making a smallcontribution. For details go towww.mangalamshow.com, or mail suggestions tomangalamshow@gmail.com.Team: Producer/Director: Dr. Mamta Shah, ArtDirector: Shefali Ajmera, News director: DiptiMehta, Web Managers: Manish Shah & RajatJain, Technical director: Sandip Mehta, Hosts:Mamta Shah & Rushab Mehta. The National teamcovering all geographical area includes, AnuragJain, Chetan Shah, Soumin Mehta, Sunil Vora,Ashish Bhandari, and Prakash Mody.17

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012Shree Shatrunjay Mahatirth 99 Yatra 2011The 99 Yatra 2011 was organized at one of theholiest places in Jain tradition, the ShreeShatrunjay Mahatirth in Palitana City, India. Thiswas a historic event as this was the first time Jainsfrom North America (as a group) visited to India tocomplete this auspicious activity. The yatra wasattended by 12 persons from India and 60individuals from NorthAmerica.The Shree ShatrunjayMahatirth 99 Yatra2011 was performedunder the guidance ofAcharya ShreeYashovijaysurijiMaharaj and AcharyaShree VijayKalaprabhasurijiMaharaj. As a supportto these AcharyaBhagwants, The 99Yatra activities wereconducted under the direction of, ShreePurnachandravijayji Maharaj, ShreePuranarakshitvijaiji Maharaj and other SadhvijiMaharajs.The day to day activities of the 99 Yatra 2011were performed by Shree Narendrabhai Nanduand his team. The organizers worked tirelessly toensure that each yatra attendee could take part inPrabhu Bhakti for the entire yatra. As per the 99Yatra requirements, all Yatra attendees were ableto perform various religious ceremonies at DodhGaon, Tran Gaon, Chha Gaon Yatra, and NavTuk. The yatris were also able to visit ShriShatrunjay Dam Temple, Shri Bhandriya Tirth,Shri Kadamgiri Tirth, Shri Hastagiri Tirth andvarious other religious places.Acharya Vijay Kalaprabhasuriji mentioned in hisfirst motivating lecture that he was very surprisedby the interest that North American Jains hadtaken in returning toone of the holiestplaces in Jain religion.He pointed out thatthis is a testament tohow important all ofthe 99 Yatra attendeesview Shree ShatrunjayMahatirth and, moreimportantly, the Jainreligion. AcharyaBhagwant concludedhis first lecture bysaying this truly isBhagwan’s influenceon the mindset of the yatra attendees.A significant part of the yatri’s day happenedduring the evening when Acharya Bhagwantwould deliver an enlightening lecture. Also, duringthe evening program each yatri had theopportunity, through a lottery system, to performAarti and Mangal Divo. The 99 Yatra eventsreached a climax on December 24 and 25. TheMala Ropan and the Yatri Bahuman was a way tocelebrate all of the yatris’ accomplishments bycompleting a historical set of pious activities.All 99 Yatra attendees felt that this had been the18

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012most memorable and historic event in their lives.This Yatra couldn’t have been completed withoutthe blessings from Adeshvar Bhagwan. Each yatriwas thankful to the Yatra Chairman Arvind R.Shah and his team members for their tirelessefforts to put together such a major once-in-alifetimeevent.Through all of the positive energy received by theAcharya Bhagwants, Narendrabhai Nanduinformed all 99 Yatra attendees that 34 yatris wereable to complete a chhath with seven yatras in twodays. This truly is a proof of the strength thatAdeshvar Bhagwan and the Shree ShatrunjayMahatirth can provide followers of the Jainreligion.As news spread to all of the United States Jaincenters about the unforgettable Shree ShatrunjayMahatirth 99 Yatra event, many members felt theyhad missed out on a wonderful opportunity. Butwith the support of JAINA, another ShreeShatrunjay Mahatirth 99 Yatra Yatra has beenplanned for 2013. The tentative dates for thisevent are November 17, 2013 through January 17,2014. Please mark your calendars and make sureyou do not miss this unique opportunity.For more information contact Arvind R. Shah (99-Yatra Chairman), Tele: (248)-828-1736, Email:ashah_1941@yahoo.comFlorida International University confers HonoraryDoctorate degree on Dr. Dipak JainDr. Dipak Jain, Chairman, Jain Education andResearch Foundation (JERF), was honored withan Honorary Doctorate degree by the FloridaInternational University (FIU). Dr. Jain played asignificant role in theestablishment of BhagwanMahavir Professorship of JainStudies at the FIU. This rarehonor, which had been earlierconferred on luminaries suchas His Holiness the DalaiLama and former Israelipresident Yitzhak Navon, ispresented to men and womenwho represent the ideals andpurposes for which theUniversity stands. The degree was conferredduring the spring commencement of the Universityon April 30, 2012. Born inTezpur, India, Dr. Jain is awell-known expert in the fieldof Marketing. He was Dean ofthe Kellogg School ofManagement at NorthwesternUniversity from 2000 to 2009and is presently Dean atINSEAD, Paris, France.The activities at FIU wereinitiated by Samanijis underthe guidance of AcharyaMahashramanji. Since 2006,Samani Charitaya Pragya and Samani UnnatPragya have been conducting courses on Jainphilosophy and inspiring students towards Jainway of life at FIU. In 2009, Samani CharitayaPragya approached various community membersto strengthen the relationshipwith FIU and establish apermanent seat for Jainstudies there (FIU). This activeeffort resulted in gettingsupport from variouscommunity members, many ofthem currently continue toserve on the JERF board. Ahistory making milestone wasaccomplished in 2010 byestablishing a BhagawanMahavir Professorship of Jain Studies at ReligiousStudies Department of FIU. Subsequently, JERFwas launched whose Boardmembers include; Dr. DipakJain - IL, Sapan Bafna - FL,Prem Jain – CA, Dr. NirmalBaid – CA, Ramesh Parmar –NJ, Kamlesh Shah – FL, Dr.Kirti Jain - KY, Shashi Jain -FL, Bipin Shah – CA, andJainendra Navlakha - FL. Theexecutive committee isheaded by Dr. NeptuneSrimal. Currently, SamaniChaitanya Pragya and SamaniUnnat Pragya continue to conduct courses on Jain19

JAIN DIGEST .. August 2012philosophy, provide spiritual guidance, andconduct valuable first-of-its-kind research onPreksha Meditation.Preksha Meditation Research Project at FIUPilot Research Study of Preksha Meditation wasundertaken by Samaniji at FIU. The research wasto analyze the impact of Preksha Meditation onthe cognitive ability of Students with learningdisability and those without learning disability.Students meditated for a month, three days aweek and enjoyed the experience. In thisfeasibility research, pre and post-test were done,which showed that both groups were equallyreceptive to the meditation practice.Latika & Rajiv Jain Fellowship inReligious Studies/ Jain Studies at FIUCandidates are sought for a two-year graduatefellowship to be awarded to a highly qualified andmotivated student in Religious Studies with aconcentration in Jain Studies. Candidates shouldhave a B.A. (all fields will be considered), anundergraduate GPA higher than 3.5, and meetuniversity requirements for admission. Thefellowship will cover tuition, fees and stipend fortwo academic years and the intervening summer.Study or research in India is possible. It isexpected that the holder of this fellowship willpursue an M.A. thesis in Jain studies.Deadline for applications is March 1, 2013, andthe fellowship will be tenable from August 2013.Please address questions to:Dr. Nathan Katz, Bhagwan Mahavir Professor ofJain Studies, Department of Religious Studies,Florida International University, Miami FL 33199(U.S.A.). For information about the Master'sDegree in Religious Studies, and to apply, go tohttp://casgroup.fiu.edu/religion/pages.php?id=1621Claremont University Inaugurates Jain Studies programIn 2011, Claremont Lincoln University inauguratedits Jain Studies program, partnering with theInternational School for Jain Studies (ISJS), theFederation of Jain Associations in North America(JAINA), and the Jain Center of SouthernCalifornia (JCSC). In the first quarter, they maderemarkable strides together. Seven students fromClaremont went to India this summer to take partin the ISJS summer education program. Prior totheir departure, these students, along with sixothers, visited the Jain Center of SouthernCalifornia to participate in puja and aarti.Additionally, a group of students began digitalrecording of existing Jain lectures to create anonline resource for Jains and scholars of Jainismaround the world. Over 100 books weregenerously donated to the university library toincrease the Jain holdings. The first InternationalJain Conference on Bioethics will also be held atClaremont in August 24-25 2012, and the firstcourse, “Applied Jainism: Bioethics among theDharma Traditions,” will be taught in Fall 2012.Many of these actions were made possible by agrant that was awarded by the prestigious UberoiFoundation in order to grow the Jain Studies DearProgram and a generous gift from Gurudev and-Brianne Donaldson, Coordinator, Dharma TraditionsPramoda Chitrabahnu of Jain MeditationInternational Center.Finally, Claremont Lincoln is launching a majorresearch project into the experience of Jainsduring the 1947 Partition of India and Pakistan.Currently they are attempting to raise $22,000 forthe first phase of the project. To date, they have acommitment of approximately $10,000 fromindividuals in India and the U.S. and are waiting tohear back from other grant sources. Please visithttp://jain.claremontlincoln.org/ to learn moreabout what's happening. We welcome yourfeedback and support.Bioethics: Religious and SpiritualApproaches, a 2012 ClaremontInternational Jain Conference.August 24-25, 2012For questions, please contactlidiya.potapenko@cst.edu20

JAIN DIGEST – August 2012The JAINA Calendar – 1500++ Man‐Hours of Commitment.The JAINA Calendar & Mini Library Committeewas formed in 1999 by Ex JAINA President, Dr.Mahendra K. Pandya and first Calendar waspublished in the year 2000. The Goal of thisCommittee is to produce an exquisitely designedCalendar, present Jain values and heritage, brandJAINA in the minds of the community members,and freely distribute the calendar to all the JAINAMembers throughout North America and otherparts of the world.The first JAINA 2000 Calendar was distributed toover 8,500 families. JAINA Calendar Committeehas distributed over 130,000 Calendars andreceived over $710,000 in donations since theyear 2000. In 2012 alone, the calendar wasdistributed to over 14,250 Families.JAINA Calendar Production Process involvesmultiple functions and expertise. The JAINACalendar Committee comprises of about 10volunteers. It takes about 4 months to produceeach Calendar and involves over 15 people in 5cities and over 1,500 Man-Hours. Some of thefunctions involved are: Design, Layout &Production of Calendar, Temple Photography &Write-Up, Dates, Holidays & Tithis, JAINA Writeup& Committees, Printing & Packaging andDistribution, and Fund Raising & Collection offunds.JAINA Calendar Committee is pleased toannounce the upcoming launch of the JAINA TirthYatra Temple Book. This beautiful, extensive,hardbound, pictorial book lays out a guided tour ofover forty historically and architecturally significantJain Temples spread geographically throughoutIndia detailing various features of each Temple viaimages and accompanied text. This 275+ pagebook provides an excellent opportunity to learnabout the architectural features, historicalsignificance and geographical locations of theseimportant Jain Temples. This book is laid out as aconvenient tour guide companion for those whowant to learn about the heritage of Jain temples.This unique and informative Temple Book not onlyserves as a great addition to your family’s livingroom or library book collection, but it also makesfor a magnificent gift for any special occasion! TheJAINA Tirth Yatra Temple Book is available forpre-ordering on www.jainatemples.org – (allinformation and a general overview about thebook is available on this website).To fund the free distribution of the annual JAINACalendar, do not forget to donate (no donationfund is used to cover the donation time or travelexpenses). Work on the 2013 JAINA Calendar hasalready started. For more information pleasecontact Ms. Ambika Pandya at 718.816.0083 orvisit www.Jainatemples.org.Award Presented to Pravin K. Shah by JSCNCShri Pravin K. Shah, a renowned promoter ofJainism at national and international level, wasawarded the first ever Jain Study Center of NC’sLife Time Achievement Award, during MahavirJayanti, 2012. He was recognized for hisdedicated service (of many decades), undertakingand finishing countless projects and initiativesfocused on Jain education for the youth acrossmany countries in the world. He is also thefounding member of the Jain Study Center of NC,which started in 1979.The award was presented by Sadhavi Shubhamjiof Veerayatan in front of many local leadersincluding founders and current President of theHindu Society of NC, and the Jain membership atlarge.21

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