| |
|
Supreme
Court :’For many centuries Indian society cherished two basic
values of life that is Satya and Ahimsa'
Delhi, December 14, 2009: The Supreme Court has lashed out at
litigants who attempt to pollute the pure fountain of justice by
resorting to falsehood and unethical means for achieving their
goals. A bench comprising Justices G S Singhvi and A K Ganguly noted
that in order to meet the challenge posed by these new creed of
litigants, the courts have from time to time evolved new rules and
they are not entitled to any relief, interim or final.
Dismissing a plea of such a litigant, the bench observed
that, ’For many centuries Indian society cherished two basic
values of life that is Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non violence).
Mahavir and Gautam Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi guided the people to
ingrain these values in their daily life. Truth constituted an
integral part of justice delivery system, which was invoked in
pre-Independence era and the people used to feel proud to tell truth
in the courts irrespective of the consequences.
Jyot exhibition is a journey into knowledge
Mumbai, December 3, 2009 (DNA): Jyot an exhibition is a journey into knowledge and a very rare
opportunity to change the course of life, said Acharya Dev Yugbhushan
Suriswaraji Maharaj Saheb, also known as Nana Pandit Maharaj, the inspirational
source of the grand exhibition The knowledge to be exhibited during the 11-day exhibition called 'Jyot' is
stored in the Jain scriptures. However, there is a need to make these scriptures
relevant to the modern times.
The followers of Jainism believe in the concept of 'Gyanpanchami', which means
worshipping knowledge. The exhibition too is nothing but worshipping knowledge. Everyone is facing problems, either at individual level or at community level.
'Jyot' provides a solution to such problems by giving a clear vision of life.
The exhibition is based on the intrinsic knowledge stored in the religious
scriptures. It is not just an exhibition, but a journey of mankind. It will
change the life and vision of the visitors.
Theft at Jain temple in Bundi Rajasthan
Bundi (Raj), November 27, 2009 (PTI): Two Idols of Lord Parshavnath made of astadhatu (eight
metals), one gold parasol, 11 silver parasols and other valuables were stolen
from a Jain temple in Rajasthan's Bundi district, police said today.
The incident took place yesterday at Hindoli city, about 202 km from Jaipur, in
the district, they said. A case has been registered against unidentified persons in Hindoli police
station.
Jain pilgrims call for pukka pavements after monks die on road accidents
Mumbai, November 20, 2009: One Jain monk and four nuns have been killed in road accidents this month in
Mumbai alone. Jains are especially vulnerable as they believe that every
organism has a potentially divine soul. They are forbidden from killing any
living thing and must watch carefully that they do not crush insects underfoot.
Sagarchadra Sagar Maharaj, of the Walkeshwar Jain temple in Mumbai, said: “We
have asked that footpaths be made along highways and expressways.” Another
member of the city’s Jain community told a local newspaper: “Over 80 [Jain monks
and nuns] have died in accidents in the past three years. It is high time that
something is done.”
The calls were backed by Krishnaraj Rao, of Sahasi Padyatri — the Movement for
Brave Pedestrians — a veteran campaigner forpavements in Mumbai. “Footpaths are virtually non-existent, even in the most densely populated areas
of this city, and walking along our highways is a very risky enterprise. Even to
get to a bus stop a pedestrian has to risk their life,” he said. “Devotees of
all communities go on pilgrimage on foot. Footpaths along highways will be good
for all of them.”
NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF INTELLECTUALS
National Conference of Intellectuals by VJS on Sunday, 22nd November 2009 (From 12 to 3pm) In holy presence of Pujya Muni Shri 108 CHINMAY SAGAR ji Maharaj (Jungle Wale Baba) Shisya of Pujya Aacharya Shri 108 VIDHYA SAGAR ji Maharaj At: Speaker Hall, Constitution Club, Bithal Bhai
Patel House, Rafi Marg (Behind R.B.I.), New Delhi-110001 (Tel#: 23711849, 23327337)
A number of intellectuals (IAS, IPS, IES, IRS, IFS, Judges, Advocates and other qualified &
respected persons of different communities) from Delhi & other states will participate in the conference.
We invite & request you to participate in the conference and send confirmation of your participation by e-mail / telephone at your earliest.
Sunjay Jain, President Vishwa Jain Sangathan (Regd.)
"Deeksha Kunj", IX/1976,Lane No. 4, Mob #: 09312278313, 09213691505
Jain temple in Kumbhalgarh looted
JAIPUR, November 8, 2009: Silver ornaments and other valuable items were stolen from Jain temple in Kumbhalgarh under Kelwara police station of Rajsamand early morning on Saturday. Police have registered a case against unidentified miscreants and are investigating the incident.
It was second such incident within a month. In October two idols of Mahaveer Swami along with three silver umbrellas, symbolic throne and donation box were stolen from a Jain temple in
Jaipur. According to a report, the caretaker of the temple, Ramesh Chandra closed the temple premises after performing the prayers and went back to his house on Friday night. When, on Saturday morning, Chandra came to the temple, he found the locks broken and three silver umbrellas and the donation made by devotees missing.
Recently, Bagru police had arrested five persons and recovered three
ashtadhatu' idols from their possession. The arrested persons have confessed that they had stolen the idols from an ancient Jain temple in Bagru and were trying to sell them off to a Gujarat-based person.-
The Times of India
VJS organized stutdents councelling programme
Delhi, October 27, 2009: Vishwa Jain Sangathan organized stutdents councelling programme on 23th Oct 2009 at Atithi programme, 6 No, Kailash
Nagar, Delhi-31. Pujya Shri 108 Vairagya Sagar ji maharaj addressed to students of different communities and motivated them for vegetarianism,
ahimnsa, duty towards parents & country, simple living and high thinking etc.
by - Sunjay Jain, (vishwajains@yahoo.com)
. President - Vishwa Jain Sangathan
Punjab CM assures full support to Jain community
Amritsar, October 25, 2009: Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today called upon the people to adopt a secular outlook and participate in the religious congregations of spiritual leaders irrespective of caste or religion.
He was participating in the Guru Puja Maha Utsav organised in memory of Jain Pradhan Acharya Sri Sohan Lal Ji here today. Assuring the Jain community of full support in all their social
activities, Badal said that the land demanded by Jain community for the construction of a memorial of Pradhan Acharya Sri Sohan Lal Ji belongs to Improvement Trust, Amritsar and any decision about handing it over to Jain
community can be taken up only after passing a resolution by the members of the trust.
Praising the philosophy of Jain spiritual leaders, Badal said that they advocated austerity,
secularism, service to humanity and ahimsa. He said that all these values are pertinent in modern society and added that people as well as Governments should abide by them.
Idols stolen from Jaipur Jain temple
Jaipur, October 7, 2009 (PTI) Two idols of Ma haveer Swami
along with three Chattr (umbrellas) were among a few articles found
stolen today from a Jain temple here, police said. "Thieves
entered from rear gate of the temple located at Nehru Nagar, and
stole the idols made of copper, three small umbrellas of silver, one
donation box and one symbolic throne," police said, adding, the
idols of few inches were established in year 2001. "A case has
been registered with Shastry Nagar police station and investigation
into the matter is on," they added.
5 idol thieves arrested
JAIPUR, October 5, 2009: Bagru police on Sunday arrested five persons and recovered three
ashtadhatu' idols from their possession. The arrested persons have confessed that they had stolen the idols from an ancient Jain temple in Bagru and were trying to sell them off to a Gujarat-based person. According to reports, seven idols of God Neminath, which are around 250 years old, and silver ornaments were stolen from a temple situated in Bagru area of Jaipur rural on August 27.
The incident came to light when the temple was opened next morning. Temple priest Subhash Sharma had lodged an FIR with the police. Irate people of area had demonstrated in front of the Bagru police station and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits. The markets were kept closed in view of the protests. The police had promised that they would make all efforts to work out the case at the
earliest and nab the culprits soon.
The SP (Jaipur rural) said that four of the arrested persons have been identified as Hanuman Bhopa, Sheoraj
Bhopa, Thakkar and Ramesh Bairwa. He said the idols are made of black stone and other precious metals. During interrogation, the culprits have revealed that they used to steal idols and sell them to one Thakkar, who has also been arrested. The Bagru police said that the arrests is a major achievement as their interrogation would lead to arrest of other members of the idol theft gang active in the district. They also expect recovery of more idols which were stolen in the past.
Source: The Times of India
Two
arrested for stealing Mahavira Swami idol
Lucknow, September 30, 2009 (PTI) Two persons were
arrested and an 'ashtadhatu' (amalgamation of eight
metal) idol of Swami Mahavir Jain, worth over Rs four crore in the
international market, recovered from Kanshiram Nagar, police said
here today. Acting on a tip-off, police yesterday arrested
Brijkishore and Satyendra Singh from Sidpura area and recovered the
idol, they said. During interrogation, the accused told police that
the idol was stolen from a temple in Uttar Pradesh's Etah
district, they claimed.
Political career supersedes reverence
Mumbai, September 25, 2009 (DNA): A week after Jain sadhus announced to avoid two Jains pitted against
each other in the coming assembly elections, Congress nominee Rajkumar Bafna, a
Jain, filed his nomination against Mangal Prabhat Lodha of the Bharatiya Janta
Party (BJP) from the Malabar Hill constituency. After a meeting of Jain temples trustees, businessmen and Sadhus, the community had
decided that Jains will not contest against each other to prevent division of votes.
However, the Sadhus hinted that the community would support Lodha. "It was a
collective decision of the community. Lodha helps Jains and it was decided that
the community support him and asked others to withdraw as he is a sitting MLA
for two terms," said Ganivarya Nai Padmasagar Maharaj, the force behind getting
all Jains together.
Jyot comes to Ahmedabad with Jain wisdom
Ahmedabad, Sept.14, 2009: Between October 23 and November 2 this year, Ahmedabad will host
nearly seven lakh visitors from across the world, who will be coming to the city
for attending Jyot -- a mega exhibition based on intrinsic Jainism knowledge.
The mega event is being organised by Jain youth under the guidance of Acharya
Dev Yugbhushan Suriswaraji Maharaj Saheb, also known as Nana Pundit
Maharaj. Many Jain industrialists and businessmen from the city and abroad are working
hard to make this gala event a success.While the event will be based on Jainism knowledge, it will not be limited to
the Jain community.
Heritage panel drives Jains up the wall
Mumbai, September 11, 2009 (DNA) : A delegation from the Fort Jain Trust Mandal met the Mumbai Heritage
Conservation Committee (MHCC) on Thursday to seek permission to reconstruct a
wall of the 200-year-old Bhagwan Shantinath Jain temple, the city's first Jain
temple, near Bora Bazaar, Fort. Some MHCC members objected to the demand,
pointing to some alleged irregularities when the temple was renovated two years ago.
"The trust made a request to restore the wall to its original form," local BJP
legislator Raj Purohit, who accompanied the delegation, said. "But some MHCC
members said the temple was not renovated as per MHCC regulations."
The delegation took offence at the claim. "The temples, which have to be carved
from stone, are designed by our religious architects, called Sompuras," said
Mahendra Jain, a representative of the mandal. "They are a community who
traditionally build temples. But the MHCC asked us why we did not use RCC or
steel. We follow Jain vastu shastra and the Puranas and their comment has hurt
our religious sentiments." The heritage panel demanded certain documents to decide on the course of action
on Thursday.
Ending violence is duty of each person: Jain seer
Mysore, September 6, 2009: Jain Muni Sri Prasanna Sagar Maharaj, who is participating in
Chaturmasa, will be in Mysore till October 25. He is known for his revolutionary thoughts on religions. He said violence can be conqured through united efforts. Excerpts of his answers
Q: What is your perception about violence which has increased manifold compared to ancient days?
A: Violence was there in the past and it is continuing. But the dimension and definition have changed. In the past, man fought for his survival. Now, his fight is for prestige with ego playing a major role. Violence can be conquered. Every individual plays a role in ending or preventing violence.
Q: From where does your optimism on ending violence originate?
A: India has over 60 lakh religious leaders. People like Sri Sri Ravishanker Guruji and Tarun Sagar Maharaj should take the lead in uniting all these saints, seers, munis and sadhus to root out violence.
Q: Do you think preachings of saintly people will have any impact on people who are violent?
A: Things may not change on a single day. Like how a drop of water trickling on a rock for years leaves its mark on it, definitely a sustained effort will yield results.
Q: What is your opinion on alleged involvement of Islmic groups in terrorism?
A: Islam is a great religion and there is no place for violence in it. I have read Quran. If someone is indulging in violence in the name of religion it is not the fault of the religion, but of the misguided
elements.
Q: What is your message to the society?
A: None is happy. If the poor is worried about what to eat, the rich is worried about what and what not to eat. People should shun the western culture of "hotelme jio, hospitalme maro" (live in hotel, die in hospital). Ultimately Indian culture and satsang will help in resolving the issues.
Q: What is your opinion about politics and the role of religion in it?
A: Religion and politics should have sugar-water relationship.
Source: The Times of India
Three persons arrested for idol stolen from a Jain temple in MP
Indore, September 3, 2009(PTI) : With the arrest of three persons and recovery of a
200-year-old idol, police today claimed to have busted a gang of antique smugglers.
The 'ashtadhatu' idol was stolen from a Jain temple in Madhya Pradesh's Teekamgarh district, police said.
The arrest were made here following a tip off regarding the trio's plan to sell
off the idol to a Maharashtra based dealer for Rs 1.25 crores.
Jain community to observe fast to protest Sadhvi's arrest
Jalandhar August 30, 2009: In protest against the arrest of Sadhvi Chelna Devi for allegedly hurting religious sentiments, the Jain community of Punjab today announced that it would observe a fast tomorrow. Vipin Jain, General Secretary of the Jain Temple in Jalandhar Cantonment, in a statement said Digambar Jain Sabha Punjab, a representative body of the community of the state, had decided that the community members would give up food for a day on Sunday.
Chelna Devi (50) delivered a religious discourse at the Jain Temple on late Thursday night during which she allegedly made comments against Maharishi Valmiki drawing the ire of the Valmiki community.She was arrested under Section 3 of Prevention of Atrocities on SC/ST Act.
Jain college to hold math fest tomorrow
CHENNAI, August 30, 2009: There has been a spate of activity at the Guru Shree Shantivijai Jain College for Women in Vepery, with 15 colleges taking part in various events, including quiz
programmes, elocution contests and plays. The college has been creating an awareness about the H1NI flu among students. At a camp organised by the GSS health and nutrition club on August 25, medical practitioner and consultant Dr V Seethalakshmi Sreedhar briefed students and faculty on the causes, human-to-human transmission of the virus, signs and symptoms, preventive measures, and the importance of wearing masks. About 200 students benefited.
Govt cancels GO imposing ban on sale of meat
LUCKNOW, August 20, 2009: The state government on Tuesday cancelled the government order that banned the slaughter and sale of meat across the state in wake of the Jain festival Paryushan Parva. Citing a government spokesperson, a media release issued by information and public relation department said, "The Supreme Court order that formed the basis of the said GO was not applicable for UP. Therefore, the order stands cancelled with immediate effect."
Dr Sanyag Jain NIPER faculty bag OPPI awards for 2009
Mumbai, August 14, 2009: Dr Sanyag Jain, assistant professor, Department of Pharmaceutics of National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education, Professor P V Bharatam, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Research (NIPER) and SAS Nagar have bagged the prestigious OPPI scientist and Young scientist Awards for the year 2009, respectively.
The Organization of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), Mumbai has instituted 'Scientist
Awards' in collaboration with NIPER, as a part of its Public Private Partnership initiative to honour outstanding Research Scientists working in India to encourage scientific culture. The award has been set-up with the objective to recognize scientific contributions of significance from scientists in India in the field of human healthcare. Each award carries a cash prize of Rs 1, 00,000, Citation and a Trophy.
Dr Sanyog Jain's young researcher of the Institute won the OPPI young scientist award in the field of pharmaceutics (novel and improved drug delivery systems). His interests includes Targeted and controlled drug delivery using nano colloidal drug carrier's eg vesicular carriers
(liposomes, niosomes etc) and particulate carriers (polymeric micro and
nanoparticles), vaccine delivery through non- parenteral (oral and topical) routes, development of non-viral vectors for gene delivery,
Radiolabeling
and pharmacoscintigraphic evaluation of drug delivery systems. Dr Sanyog has published more than 30 research papers in national and internal journals of repute and delivered several invited talks in national and international conferences. Earlier he has won Punjab State Young Scientist Award, Best oral presentation award in Humboldt conference, IDMA GP Nair award and university gold medals for securing first rank in both B Pharm and M Pharm.
Bihar promotes Jain circuit
AHMEDABAD, August 2, 2009: Bihar government has come up with
a Jain circuit to woo the community in the state. It was in Bihar
that Jainism, which has millions of followers today, was first
propagated, according to officials. The chief proponent of Jain
religion and 24th tirthankara, Lord Mahavir, was born near Patna,
capital of Bihar. The most revered Jain pilgrim spot in Bihar is
Jalmandir Temple complex at Pawapuri. Says officer in department of
tourism, Bihar government, The prominent Jain spots are Vasokund,
believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavir, Rajgir, Kundalpur,
Lachhaur Nalanda, Pawapuri, among others.
This is the first time Bihar Tourism has prominently
displayed their tourist destinations with this attractive religious
circuit, says visitor Nitin Dalal. Says another visitor Dinesh
Patel, "I'm curious about the tourist destinations in Bihar and
places of religious importance there. The state is still to be
explored in terms of tourism."
Source: The Times of India
Pitchers
stolen from Jain temple
Mumbai, July 22, 2009: The DN Nagar police are on the lookout
for an unidentified man who stole four gold-plated pitchers from a
Jain temple worth Rs2 lakh on Tuesday. According to the police, the
temple located on the JP road in Andheri (west) is undergoing
renovation since a few months. On Tuesday, around 7 am, when the
temple was opened, the carpenters noticed that four out of the eight
pitchers were missing. They immediately informed the temple
authorities who reported the matter to the police.
The police found a skull cap lying on the spot and have
detained a person staying nearby the temple. "We are
interrogating the suspect and further investigations are on,"
said a senior officer from DN Nagar police station. The police had
earlier asked the temple authorities to install CCTV cameras in the
temple. -DNA
Remains
are of a Jain temple, says monk
Vadodara, July 14, 2009: The remnants of an ancient temple,
which were found on the SSG hospital premises during digging a few
days back, are of an ancient Jain temple. This was claimed by a Jain
monk who visited the site on Monday. The remnants included an arc,
some carved stones and an idol. MSU vice-chancellor, Ramesh Goel,
has appointed a committee to investigate the matter and submit a
detailed report in this regard.
The remnants were found while digging was going on for
construction of an auditoriumat the SSG hospital. Dr Adish Jain, who
was passing by the place, saw the sand stones found at the site. On
a close look, he was astonished to see carvings on the stone. He
immediately informed senior officials of the hospital about it, and
soon the archaeology department officials were informed about the
remnants. - DNA
Jain youths visit temple remains found on SSG campus
VADODARA, July 12, 2009: A 23-member team from Shri Jain Yuvak Mahasang (SJYM) on
Sunday visited the SSG Hospital and Baroda Medical College campus, where remains of temple from thirteenth century AD were unearthed during digging. They inspected the sculptures and remains which may be part of Jain temple. They will be visiting the site on Monday and seek necessary permission from dean of BMC to carry detailed investigation of
sculptures and remains. Help of archaeologists will be sought to ascertain the status of the remains and the era they belong to. "We have had the look at the remains and briefed about them to our saint, who is willing to visit the site. As per our saint, the remains can be part of Jain temple which must have been destroyed by ruling dynasty of that period," said general secretary of SJYM Deepak Shah.
"Once the status is ascertained, we will be preserving the remains of the temple. The designs are akin to those found in Jain temples, but we will seek advice of experts before arriving to any
conclusion," added Shah.
The remnants of an ancient temple were found while digging ground near
the nursing hostel of SSG Hospital Vadodra on July 8, 2009 The remnants contain an arc, some carved stones and an idol. After preliminary
investigations, the remnants are believed to be of a Jain temple. While digging of ground for the construction of an auditorium at SSG hospital
was going on, some sand stones were found along with the soil. Dr Adish
Jain, who was passing by the place, saw the stones. He found them interesting and when
he took a close look at them, he was astonished to see carvings on the stones.
He immediately informed senior officials of the hospital about it, and soon
archaeology department officials were informed about the remains. A team of archaeology department rushed to the spot, and during investigations
found an arc, an idol and some carved stones from the site.
Jain temple
at Vasai burgled
MUMBAI, July 10, 2009: Cash and valuables worth Rs 27,000
were stolen from a Jain temple in Vasai (W) on Wednesday night,
which is a stone's throw away from the deputy superintendent of
police's office. The theft occurred after the temple had closed its
doors in the evening. The police believe the thieves may have scaled
a nearby tree that allowed them access to the temple's terrace. Most
of the valuables were kept on the first floor of the temple.
"Silver ornaments and valuables worth Rs 26,000 were stolen,
including a crown. The thieves also took Rs 1,000 from the donation
box,'' said an investigating officer. The robbers, however, left
change worth Rs 2,000 in the cash box-and made away only with
currency notes.
Shantilal Shah, one of the trustees of the temple,
reported the theft on Thursday morning. "It's possible that the
burglars had visited the temple before, as they knew where the
valuables were
kept. The temple is also close to the railway station,'' said senior
inspector Ashok Pawar. This is the fifth time over the last 25 years
that this temple has been looted, but no guard or watchman has been
deployed in or around the compound, the police said.
Source: The Times of India
Parasnath to be developed as an “adarsh” station ,
Giridih, July 4, 2009: Mamata Banerjee’s budget proposals have brought the smiles back on the people of this district lacking a proper railway network. Mamata’s proposal to ensure “railway connectivity” between Giridih and Madhuban, near Parasnath, has become the talking point of the town. Along with the new link — which is expected to be completed
soon — the railway minister included Parasnath in her plan to develop multi-functional complexes in 50 stations nationally. Parasnath would also be developed as an “adarsh” (ideal) station with “basic facilities such as drinking water, adequate toilets, catering services, waiting rooms and dormitories especially for lady passengers and better signage.”
Giridih have two railway stations — Giridih and Parasnath. However, while only a passenger train — Giridh-Madhupur — touches the district headquarters daily, Parasnath, with a Grand Chord section and scheduled stops for several trains, cannot fulfil the travel requirements of the people here.
The Giridih-Madhuban link would be beneficial for thousands of
passengers even those who want to take a train from Parasnath, about 40km from here. Madhuban, a religious centre for
Jains, may see a boost pilgrim and tourist traffic after the link is made operational.
Foreign students attend lectures on Jainism
VARANASI, June 19, 2009: On a week long education tour from June 14 to 19, a group of foreigner students studied Jainism at the International School for Jain Studies (ISJS), Parshwanath Vidyapeeth. The students came from various countries including the US, UK, Belgium, Japan, Thailand and Norway. According to Dr SP Pandey, director in-charge Parshwanath
Vidyapeeth, the students were engaged in various classes during their stay. Prof MNP Tiwari, department of history of art, Banaras
Hindu University (BHU), delivered a lecture on Jain Art while Dr Pandey delivered a lecture on Anuvrata (code of conduct for Jain house-holders. Sarah Hadmac, lecturer at Hawaii University, delivered her lecture on Jainism and ecology presenting the relationship between nature and man especially in the light of Jain scriptures. Prof Sudarsh Lal Jain, former dean, Faculty of Arts, also taught code of conduct for Jain monks and penance.
The visiting students also witnessed the puja ceremony held at
Shvetambar Temple, Bhelupur. Students discussed with faculty members on various concepts of Jainism in detail and also visited the Jain temples. The group left for New Delhi on Friday.
Source: The Times of India
Jain sadhvi
passes away in Kota
Kota, June 8, 2009: JAIN sadhvi Aryaka Shantimati Mataji
passed away on Sunday evening at the Digambar Jain Temple in
Talawandi, Kota. Jain saints and the jain community paid
homage to the Jain sadhvi and carried out
her 'Chakdol Yatra' (procession after death) in the Talawandi
area after her death. Later, she was cremated at the Digambar Jain
Temple Dharamshala premises. The 97- year-old Jain sadhvi was under
'Sallekhna Samadhi' from over a decade. She had stopped
consuming any kind of eatable, and survived only on liquids for the
last few days. |
|
|
DIGAMBAR JAIN DIKSHA FESTIVAL AT KUNDALPUR
Jain pilgrimage destination Kundalpur where the Jain temples built on the
surrounding hills is a divine and peaceful place for a Diksha
Ceremony. Recently there was a Diksha Ceremony where fifty women embraced the Jain mother positions. They swore celibacy and renounced
possessions. The ceremony took place in a huge tent, filled with thousands of Jain followers. The Jain Mothers, called
'Aryikas' wear white saris and the part of the sari covering their heads has blood spots. The Jain saints and Aryikas have shaved heads. They use their own hands to pull their hair out. The ceremony was attended by over eighty Digambar saints and also . Aacharya Vidya Sagar Ji
Maharaj. |
Aacharya Vidya Sagar Ji
Maharaj. |
|
Jain
temple in Sowcarpet, Chennai head pujari murder and theft
CHENNAI, May 31, 2009: In a spine-chilling incident, a
five-member gang smothered the head pujari to death with a pillow
and escaped with gold jewellery worth Rs two crore at the near-
century-old Jain temple in Sowcarpet early on Friday morning. The
murder and heist came to light when one of the persons gagged and
tied up by members of the gang raised an alarm.
Police suspect the crime to be the handiwork of Nepali
security guard Prem Singh because he had disappeared almost
immediately. The amount of gold stolen was estimated to be 15 kilos.
Police claimed that nearly seven kilos of gold were recovered
from a nearby street and the security guard's room. They identified
the head pujari as S Himmath Mal (41), from Rajasthan. The attackers
had stuffed with cloth the mouth of the junior pujari, Bharath Singh
(25), to prevent him from raising an alarm. His hands were tied as
well. According to temple sources, the kavach' (costume made of
gold) and mukut' (kireedam) weighing 15 kilos were missing from the
strong room located on the first floor of the temple.
The Chandra Prabhu Maharaj Juna Jain Mandir in Mint Street,
Sowcarpet, was built in 1913. The idol of Mahavir is installed on
the first floor; idols of the Jain Thirthankaras are installed on
the second floor. Soon after news about the incident broke out, a
large number of Jain devotees gathered at the temple. Businessmen in
the street downed their shutters till noon. Temple sources
said that burglars had struck at the temple in 2006, but did
not gain entry to the first floor as the door was locked from
inside. Based on the complaint of temple trustee secretary Jethmal
Santharia, police have registered a case. Further investigation is
on.
Hundreds
of Jain devotees throng Koba Jain temple
Gandhinagar, May 23, 2009 : Hundreds of Jain devotees
gathered at the Koba Mahavir Jain Aradhna Kendra here on Friday to
witness the 'Surya Tilak' of Lord Mahavir Swami. 'Surya Tilak' is a
unique event in which sun rays appear on the forehead of
Mahavir Swami through a hole on the top of the Koba temple. On
Friday, exactly at 2.07 pm, 'Surya Tilak' took place for three
minutes at the temple. About 1,000 Jain devotees adored the
spectacular event.
"On May 22, Acharya Kailashsagar Suriswarji died in Koba
Jain Aradhana Kendra. Since then Acharya Padmasagar Suriswarji
pioneered to worship Lord Mahavir by Surya Tilak," says
Manubhai Jain, an administrator of Koba Jain Aradhana Kendra.
Nileshbhai R Shah, a devotee, said, "Every year my family
attend this miraculous event in the temple. This unbelievable
spiritual occurrence happens only in two temples of India - one at
Jain temple of Kanyakumari and second at Jain Aradhana Kendra at
Koba. We feel so pure from within after darshan of this rare
incident."
Source: DNA
Religious
knowledge for kids in Jain Temples
Bhopal, May 21, 2009: On the opportunity of Shrut
Panchami Knowledge Culture and Education camp is being
organised at various Jain Temples of Bhopal. The camp has started
from 17th May and will continue for 28th May on the day Ritu
Panchami. At around nine centres of the city the camp is organised,
in which at least 2000 people are participating. In this camp people
of 5 years to 70 years of age are involving. Here information of
religion is providing. The motto of arranging this camp is to
promote religion, culture and knowledge among today's children and
elders.
In this twelve days programme children are participating in
maximum number. On the occasion of Ritu Panchami, the great festival
of Jain Religion children are being given more stress to protect
from on western style and its culture. Considering this thing
this twelve days "Sarvodaya Gyan Vidya Sanskar Shikshan"
camp is held for developing moral and Jain religion among children.
- Bhopal Today Team
Gandhinagar
to have a tallest Mahavir Swami idol
Gandhinagar, May 13, 2009: Jain monk Padmasagarsurishwarji
Maharaj today announced that Gandhinagar would have Lord Mahavir
Swami’s 108 ft idol. Once ready this idol would be the tallest
idol of Mahavir Swami who is the 24th Jain Tirthankara. Proposed
idol would be erected on Gandhinagar’s ‘J’ road. It would
weight 228 tone. Making of this Panchadhatu idol has already
started. Padmasagarsurishwarji Maharaj further said that there would
be a mountain like structure behind the idol.
source: Desh Gujarat
UK
YOUNG JAINS INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION - 2009
Young Jains events are open to all members and non-members,
and welcome you to explore your values, beliefs and practices. Young
Jains International Convention is proposed to be held from 17th to
19th July 2009 - Online Registration Now Open. To request your
registration form, please email Rishma Shah, E-Mail : registration@youngjains.org.uk
or call 0794 9794 312.
The venue of the program is Canons High School, Shaldon
Road, Edgware, UK. Take a July week-end out to bridge the gap from
where you are to where you want to be. The Young Jains International
Convention looks into the fundamentals of the timeless Jain
tradition in a very real sense. It explores essential areas that
will help you get a better grasp on life: 1. Who you are at your
core. 2. Your goals in life 3. The barriers that hamper your efforts
4. The tools available to overcome those barriers.
Shilanyas
Mahotsav for Derasar Jain Center in Franklin
FRANKLIN (SOMERSET), May 8, 2009: Nine shila stones were
ceremonially cleansed with milk and placed in the excavated site of
the future Jain Center on Cedar Grove Lane in Somerset. Members of
the Jain Center of New Jersey chanted holy mantras during a
recent groundbreaking ceremony as they buried the stones beneath the
spot where the main altar will be located.
During the May 2 day-long ceremony, known as a Shilanyas
Mahotsav, a symbolic kurm — a gold tortoise — also was placed in
the ground. Because of its strong back, the tortoise signifies the
long lifespan of the Derasar or temple. When completed, the project
will include three buildings totaling about 51,000 square feet. The
sanctuary will seat about 340 people. The largest building, a prayer
hall, will have two floors with a total area of about 42,000 square
feet. The project is expected to cost about $12 million. A
caretaker's house also will be built on the 9.6-acre site. A parking
lot with space for more than 320 cars has already been constructed.
CHILD
DIKSHAS CASE ADMITTED IN MUMBAI HIGH COURT
The Mumbai High Court has admitted a petition filed in a case
of bal-diksha where in the Indore- based parents had challenged the
power of the Child Welfare Committee to look into the life of
a sadhvi. A bench of Justices, D K D Deshmukh and R. S. Mohite,
while hearing the arguments, indicated the possibility of making
compulsory the appointment of a guardian for such bal- dikshas.
"We may make it necessary for a district judge to appoint a
guardian for every minor who takes diksha (renunciation of the world
as practised among Jains),'' observed Justice Deshmukh. At one
point, Justice Mohite seemed unhappy with the fate that greeted
baldikshas. Senior counsel Rafiq Dada, assisted by advocate Sanjay
Jain, said the court could not interfere with the practice of diksha.
An NGO had complained to the CWC, which had opined that the
bal-dikshas required better looking after. But the parents said
their daughter had chosen to take diksha on her own and no one else
could intervene in the age-old tradition followed by the Jain
community. The court had appointed a panel to interview the child,
who had accepted diksha, NGO counsel Mihir Desai said. A report
submitted to the court held that the six-year-old's diksha was
"clearly a decision taken for her without thinking about
the consequences'' and "not in her best interests''.
Mangalore becomes a cruise tourism hub
Mangalore, April 25, 2009: The first cruise vessel of the current financial year 2009-10 , M.V. Nautica called at NMPT on 24 April, 2009. The vessel which started its voyage from Thailand with 442 passengers and 374 crew on board called at NMPT as its first port of call. All together 250 passengers opted for ground tour and visited tourist spots like 1000 pillar temple at
Moodabidri, Monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali at Karkala, St. Aloysius chapel, Cashew processing units,
Kudroli Gokarnanatha temple, City shopping at and returned to the ship. Majority of the passengers in the age group of 50-80 are US citizens and few are from UK, Netherlands, Canada, etc. The passengers have enjoyed the scenic beauty of Mangalore and hospitality extended to them during their short visit to this town and expressed their wish to visit these places again.
Source: Mangalorean.Com
JIWO celebrates womanhood
Ahmedabad, April 22, 2009: Jain International Women's
Organisation (JIWO) celebrated Vaishakh Utsav 2009' with a splendid
dance performance by artist Chandan Thakore's troupe, at Tagore Hall
on Tuesday. With almost 400 women in attendance, the event, with
women's emancipation as its theme, began with women entrepreneurs
displaying their wares. And, following all the interaction among the
members of this massive business community was the mesmerising
performance by Thakore's group an ode to the spirit of woman.
Presented for the first time in India after their maiden
performance at Modhera temple, the dance depicted various roles
played by a woman.
Mahavir
Jayanti celebrated today
April 7, 2009: Lord Mahavir jayanti was celebrated today in
India and other countries with Processions and prayers. The day
celebrates the birth of Mahavira, the last of the 24 Tirthankaras of
the Jain community. He was born on the 13th day of the rising moon
of Chaitra. On this day, Jain temples are decorated with
flags. In the morning, the idol of Mahavira is given a ceremonial
bath called the ''abhishek''. It is then placed in a cradle and
carried in a procession. The devotees were offerings of milk, rice,
fruit, incense, lamps and water to the people in procession.
Vice President M. Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr.
Manmohan Singh have greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of
Mahavir Jayanti. In his message, the Vice President said that the
teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir are relevant at all times to emancipate
mankind from suffering and to ensure peace and happiness through
spiritual excellence He called upon the people to imbibe the
enlightened teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir to usher in peaceful and
harmonious society.
In his separate message, Dr. Singh said that Lord Mahavira''s
life and philosophy inspire all of us to lead a life of compassion,
sacrifice and non-violence. "His message of peace and
non-violence provides hope for mankind and has become even more
relevant in today''s world," Dr. Singh said.
Jain Society
interfaith dialogue
Bartlett, March 27, 2009: The Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago will host an interreligious dialogue on issues important to people of all faiths at its
Pre-Parliament of World Religion Event beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday at its Bartlett temple, 435 N. Route 59. The event will include learning activities for children, youth and adults; prayers, reading and songs from different religious
traditions; speakers; and dinner and a tour of the temple. All will focus on the issue of
nonviolence and peace. For more information, contact Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago.
Jains lose custody battle of stolen idol of Lord Mahavira
New Delhi, March 18, 2009: The efforts of three Jain temple committees to get a
stolen idol of Lord Mahavira for offering prayers did not succeed in a Delhi
court which trashed the claim saying it did not belong to them and was the
court's property until disposal of the case. "It (stolen idol) is the case property in the present FIR and its production is
very essential for the prosecution case and in such a situation, it would not be
appropriate to release the same on the 'superdari' (conditional release)"
Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Nivedita Anil Sharma said.
The court said that being followers of the Jain religion did not make the
claimants the real owners of the idol. "Merely because the revisionists are followers of the Jain religion and pray to
Lord Mahavira, 24th Trithankar, it cannot be said that the idol should be
released in their favour," the court said, adding they were not its owners prior
to the alleged theft.
The capital-based Shri Digamber Jain Mandir Management Committee, 1008 Shri
Parshvanath Digamber Jain Mandir and Shree Vardman Digamber Jain Mandir Sabha
had filed petitions after being denied possession of the idol by a lower court.
The ASJ, however, said the Metropolitan Magistrate may give its custody to the
Centre or Archaeological Survey of India in order to maintain and preserve it.
The idol of Lord Mahavira was recovered from accused Manoj Kumar at Maurice
Nagar Police station here in 2006 and a case of theft was registered.
The temple committees had approached the court seeking its custody on
'superdari' saying "the Jain community prays to and worships Lord Mahavira and
the idol rightfully belonged to them ... it may be handed over to them for
performing puja."
The court rejected the claim and said "even otherwise, it is yet to be
established if the idol recovered is actually that of Lord Mahavira."
"The committees have not shown anything which could indicate that the right to
hold the possession of the idol is vested in them as it is apparently neither
they nor the person from whom the idol was stolen are the owner," it said.
The court held that the police, which has to prove the offence of theft and the
antique nature of the idol during the trial, was the rightful owner.
Bureau Report
Tirthankara Idols found, Jains thank cops
Kolkata, March 16, 2009: The Jain community in the city felicitated the Commissioner of Police with some
other officers on Sunday for tracing the two idols that had gone missing from a
Jain temple in Burrabazar in February. The officers were honoured with flowers and tikas, with the Kolkata Police being
adjudged the “best in the country”, and even being “as good as the Scotland
Yard”. On February 9, two idols - of Astadhatu and Lord Shantinath (made of silver) -
had gone missing from the Shree Neminath Digamber Jain Temple in Posta.
The incident led the members of the community to take out processions, demanding
action against the culprits. They also submitted a memorandum to various
authorities, urging that the idols be recovered at the earliest. During this period, as a protest, no idols were kept in the temple by the
members of the community. On March 5, the police recovered the idols from one of the employees associated
with the temple.
At the felicitation ceremony, the representatives of the community spoke in
glowing terms about the police’s swift action. They also recalled the other
instance when the police had recovered three idols in 1994 - they went missing
from the Shantinath Digamber Jain Mandir in Kakurgachi. The idols were recovered
within a month from a pond in Baruipur. However, they also reminded the cops that the idol of Lord Parswanath (the 23rd
Tirthankara), which went missing from the Shri Parswanath Digamber Jain Mandir
in Alipore, has not been found yet. Expressing satisfaction on the recovery of the idols, Commissioner of Police
Gautam Mohan Chakrabarti said, “We will try to find the idol stolen from the
Alipore temple as quickly as possible.”
Source: Express News Service
Thieves
decamp with valuables worth Rs 25 lakh
HUBLI, March 12, 2009: An incident of thieves posing as
sales tax officials who drove away with a truck loaded with yarn
cone bundles worth more than Rs 25 lakh, has come to light lately.
According to the police, the driver of a Tamil Nadu registered truck
was resting in the vehicle on March 2 after parking it in front of
Jain Temple near Gabbur Bypass Road near the city. Around 10 pm, he
was woken up by two unidentified persons asking him to show the
vehicle's documents. When he approached the vehicle in which
the thieves had come, they blindfolded him, tied his hands and
dragged him into their vehicle. They decamped with Rs 9,800 and a
mobile phone. Then the driver was taken to an unidentified place
where he was kept locked in a room till March 6 before he was left
at same place from where he was kidnapped. In a complaint lodged
with the Kasabapet police, the victim alleged that the robbers drove
the truck full of yarn cone bundles.
Source: The Times of India
Jain temple idols in Kolkata recovered
KOLKATA, March 06, 2009: Members of the Jain community on Thursday went to the Lalbazar police headquarters to express their gratitude to city police chief Gautam Mohan Chakrabarti and deputy commissioner (detective department) Jawed Shamim for retrieving two idols thar were worshipped in the Jain temple in Alipore.
A few months ago, the two idols one 8-inch eight metalled and other a 4-inch silver one went missing. It deeply hurt the sentiment of the Jain community. After a thorough investigation,
detective department sleuths recovered the idols from a sacked security guard, who worked in a building near the temple.
Vinod Jain, a spokesperson of the community, said, "We are really thankful to the city police for retrieving the sacred figures. They did their best to recover them." The police commissioner also said that the idols should go back to where they belong, the temple.
Source: The Times of India
Invest where Mahavira got elightment
NALANDA, February 26, 2009: Nobel laureate Amartya Sen Saturday urged industrialists from the Jain
community to invest at Pawapuri in Bihar where Lord Mahavira, Jainism’s founder,
attained enlightenment. “They should invest for its development,” Sen told reporters here.
The economist, who visited Pawapuri Friday, said there was a need to set up
hotels, an engineering college and better infrastructure at Pawapuri in
Nalanda district. Sen recalled that he last visited Pawapuri in 2003 when he was part of a
delegation of former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Sen is in Bihar for a
meeting of the mentor group of the proposed Nalanda International University in Nalanda. |
|
|
Ritualistic Bath for Lord Bahubali's Feet Performed
Beltangady, February 26, 2009: The 'Padabhisheka' of the statue of Lord Bahubali located at Venur near here, was performed on Wednesday February 25. The event was organized by Jain Digambara Teerta Temple Committee. The Padabhisheka (ritualistic bath of the feet) was performed with
different holy liquids like water, milk, tender coconut water etc., in addition to the anointment of the Lord's feet with sandalwood paste.
Sri Charukeerti Swamiji of Jain Math Moodbidri, Dharmastala Dharmadhikari Dr D Veerendra
Heggade, his wife Hemavati Heggade, Anita Surendra Kumar, Dr Padmaprasad Ajila, Supriya Harshendra Kumar, Gunapal Jain, temple committee secretary and Vijaya Adhikari were present on the occasion. Later, the Kalikunda Yantraradhana Mahotsav was celebrated at Shri Parshwanata Swamy Basadi here.
Source: DAIJIWORLD
Thieves decamp with donation box and silver parasol
Chhatarpur, February 18, 2009: Unidentified thieves decamped with donation box, silver parasol and brass dome from a Jain temple, situated at Sevagram in thana
Khajuraho. According to the Thana police, in the morning people saw the lock of the temple broken. Rakesh Jain informed the police about the theft. Police had no clue in the case after the 3 days of the incident. People of the Khajuraho are concerned after the spurt in the increasing incidents of theft. On the other hand police officers have assured that they are trying to trace the culprits involved in theft in the temple
earnestly. Police has inquired some of the suspects.
Source: Chronicle News Service
Jain University, Bangalore, Declared Deemed-to-be-University
February 13, 2009 : A proposal was received from Sri Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain Educational & Cultural Trust,
Bangalore, Karnataka seeking to declare Sri Bhagawan Mahaveer Jain College, Bangalore as a ‘Deemed-to-be-University’, in the name and style of “Jain University”, under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956; Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, the Central Government, on the advice of the UGC, hereby declare that “Jain
University, which is a registered Trust, shall be an “Institution
Deemed-to- be- University” for the purposes of the aforesaid Act, provisionally for a period of five years subject to some conditions.
JAINA SCRIPTURES AND PHILOSOPHY
The 11th Jaina Studies Workshop is going to be held on 12th
and 13th March, 2009 at School of Oriental and African Studies, London. Jaina Scriptures and Philosophy will be the theme of the event. Fourteen scholars from various fields of Jainism from all over the world will deliver their lectures. For more details contact Dr. Peter
Flugel, Tel: (+44-20) 78984776, E-Mail: pf8@soac.ac.uk
Parasnath on amenity drive
Ranchi, Jan. 30: Once it was a must-visit spot for both Jains and tourists, but neglect has led to a dwindling footfall of visitors to the Parasnath hills. But, the state tourism department, it seems, has woken up to the problem and is now mulling plans to provide “world-class”
facilities to visitors to the Parasnath hills — also referred to as Shri
Teerth. Located 170km from Ranchi, every year lakhs of Jain pilgrims visit Parasnath hills. The tourism department has mooted a plan to develop the area and rope in the occasional foreign visitor as well. Plans include a bus stand, a shopping complex, a mediation-and-yoga centre, hotels and an amusement park.
State tourism secretary A.K. Singh said they are in the process to procure 106 acres to start the project in three months. “We are also chalking a blueprint for the mega project by roping in
department officials. The government has decided to sanction Rs 50 crore shortly,” the secretary said. “The project would also provide employment to local youths. We would take in 400 men for this project in a bid to improve the socio-economic condition of the area. The people would also be responsible for the upkeep of the hills,” Singh said.
“Over foreign 1,000 tourists come here every year, including some
NRIs. We also receive some 5 lakh domestic tourists. We want these numbers to increase and promote the area as a must-see spot.”
Apart from the Parasnath temple, there are several Jain temples belonging both to Digambers and Svetambers sects. On Mahavir Jayanti, the temple is chock-a-block with visitors and pilgrims.
Source: The Telegraph
Illegal mining in Kaman that has five Jain temples
JAIPUR: January 19, 2009: Illegal mining in Braj Chourasi
Parikrama, in the neighbourhood in Kaman tehsil of Bharatpur district, has forced the district administration to seek deployment of more police to curb the menace. According to Vineet Narain, convener of Braj Rakshak Dal (BRD), a
non-governmental organization dedicated to restoration of the hills, forests and cultural heritage of the Aravali region, the
Braj, ranging from Mathura in UP to Kaman tehsil in Rajasthan, is considered sacred due to its connection with Krishnaleela'.
He also said that Kaman has five Jain temples, a Lord Krishna temple and a cave, which is facing destruction due to mining which has come close to it. The significance of these structures has been noted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Around 20 crushers are still functioning in the banned area in Kaman area, which should be immediately stopped, he said. These crushers are also illegally supplying raw material to crushers on the UP side, he said. The district administration has demanded two companies of Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC) to take action against illegal mining. Various stone-crushing units are operating without valid license in the restricted area.
Source: The Times of India
Ancient ornaments looted from Jain temple in Sirohi
Jaipur, January 16, 2009 (PTI): Unidentified men decamped with ancient silver ornaments, weighing 138 Kgs, after drilling a hole in the basement of a Jain temple at
Sirhi, Rajasthan a Peshwa village, police said today. The thieves removed bricks and made a hole to the basement of the Kandhunath temple. They then cut out iron rods using welding machines and loot the jewels, they said.
Superintendent of Police Sirohi Gaurav Srivastava said police suspect the robbery to have taken place during the intervening night of December 29-30, but it was detected only on January 14 when a group of kite fliers noticed debris near the temple and the hole leading to the basement. A case has been registered and a priest and two guards, who were reportedly on duty at the time of the incident were being interrogated, he said.
Source: PTI
Ornaments worth Rs
2.4 Lakh stolen
AHMEDABAD, January 07, 2009: Burglars targeted a Jain derasar on Monday night and decamped with cash and ornaments worth Rs 2.4 lakh. This is the third incident of derasar theft in a month in the western part of the city. "The caretaker lives behind the derasar. However, he feigned ignorance about the theft that took place between Monday evening and Tuesday morning the time when the derasar remained closed. Thieves had used sharp cutters to break the door lock and the bars on donation box. Moreover, they also took away ornaments of the main idol. We have registered a complaint of Rs 2.40-lakh theft," a Naranpura police station official said. Police said they have found fingerprints of an adult on the donation box and
questioning nearby residents to know more about the theft. Similar thefts were reported in Vejalpur and Ellisbridge areas in December and January.
Source: The Times of India
|
|
More
News Digambar
jain samaj News -2008 (English)
...
Digambar jain samaj News -2007 (English)
|
