Polly CurtisThursday November 29,
A row has broken out after the UK's first Hindu state school announced a strict admissions code, which critics say favours followers of the Hare Krishna tradition over mainstream Hinduism.
The Krishna-Avanti school in north-west London will be the first school in Britain to make vegetarianism a condition of entry. To get their child a place at the primary school, parents of pupils will also be expected to abstain from alcohol to prove they are followers of the faith.
The policy is proving controversial within Hindu groups. Mainstream Hindus are claiming the policy favours the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) - also known as the Hare Krishna movement - which is backing the school and whose members follow strict vegetarian diets.
The 240-pupil state funded school will open next September in Harrow, where 40,000 of Britain's 1.5 million-strong Hindu community live, comprising 20% of the town's population. Competition for places at the school is expected to be fierce. The government is funding £10m of the £12m building costs.
The new admissions policy sets out how the school will allocate places when it is over subscribed. It gives priority to looked-after children from Hindu families and children with special educational needs, before next prioritising the children of "practising Hindu families".
Nitesh Gor, director of the I-Foundation, the Hindu charity which is backing the voluntary aided school, said: "In common with other faith schools - which may require letters from priests or proof of church or synagogue attendance - we want to give priority to those that are most active in their faith. The definition we have arrived at includes regular home and temple worship, as well as vegetarianism and avoiding alcohol."
Ten places at the new school will be reserved exclusively for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, the temple headquarters of Iskcon in Letchmore Heath, Hertfordshire.
Jay Lakhani, director for education at the Hindu Council UK (HCUK), claimed the school's admissions policy was unfair:
"While HCUK has no problem with the I-Foundation reserving a stated 10 places out of 30 at the school for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, we believe it is unfair to rule out other Hindus by imposing on them the strict rules of one particular, minority Hindu group in order for their children to attend.
"Because the Krishna-Avanti school was offered state funding and is being allowed to open as a 'Hindu' rather than an 'Iskcon' school, that is what it should be, a truly Hindu school that serves and reflects the wider Harrow Hindu community with its kaleidoscopic Hindu diversity."
Mr Gor defended the policy: "We recognise that some Hindus may eat meat in very specific prescribed circumstances and the criteria are not intended to exclude them. Broadly these criteria reflect practices which are common to all mainstream Hindu movements in the UK including the Swaminarayan temples, Iskcon and Jainism as well as all the other branches of Hinduism that have large congregations in Harrow."
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Hindu school is first to make vegetarianism a condition of entry
Polly CurtisThursday November 29,
A row has broken out after the UK's first Hindu state school announced a strict admissions code, which critics say favours followers of the Hare Krishna tradition over mainstream Hinduism.
The Krishna-Avanti school in north-west London will be the first school in Britain to make vegetarianism a condition of entry. To get their child a place at the primary school, parents of pupils will also be expected to abstain from alcohol to prove they are followers of the faith.
The policy is proving controversial within Hindu groups. Mainstream Hindus are claiming the policy favours the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) - also known as the Hare Krishna movement - which is backing the school and whose members follow strict vegetarian diets.
The 240-pupil state funded school will open next September in Harrow, where 40,000 of Britain's 1.5 million-strong Hindu community live, comprising 20% of the town's population. Competition for places at the school is expected to be fierce. The government is funding £10m of the £12m building costs.
The new admissions policy sets out how the school will allocate places when it is over subscribed. It gives priority to looked-after children from Hindu families and children with special educational needs, before next prioritising the children of "practising Hindu families".
Nitesh Gor, director of the I-Foundation, the Hindu charity which is backing the voluntary aided school, said: "In common with other faith schools - which may require letters from priests or proof of church or synagogue attendance - we want to give priority to those that are most active in their faith. The definition we have arrived at includes regular home and temple worship, as well as vegetarianism and avoiding alcohol."
Ten places at the new school will be reserved exclusively for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, the temple headquarters of Iskcon in Letchmore Heath, Hertfordshire.
Jay Lakhani, director for education at the Hindu Council UK (HCUK), claimed the school's admissions policy was unfair:
"While HCUK has no problem with the I-Foundation reserving a stated 10 places out of 30 at the school for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, we believe it is unfair to rule out other Hindus by imposing on them the strict rules of one particular, minority Hindu group in order for their children to attend.
"Because the Krishna-Avanti school was offered state funding and is being allowed to open as a 'Hindu' rather than an 'Iskcon' school, that is what it should be, a truly Hindu school that serves and reflects the wider Harrow Hindu community with its kaleidoscopic Hindu diversity."
Mr Gor defended the policy: "We recognise that some Hindus may eat meat in very specific prescribed circumstances and the criteria are not intended to exclude them. Broadly these criteria reflect practices which are common to all mainstream Hindu movements in the UK including the Swaminarayan temples, Iskcon and Jainism as well as all the other branches of Hinduism that have large congregations in Harrow."
A row has broken out after the UK's first Hindu state school announced a strict admissions code, which critics say favours followers of the Hare Krishna tradition over mainstream Hinduism.
The Krishna-Avanti school in north-west London will be the first school in Britain to make vegetarianism a condition of entry. To get their child a place at the primary school, parents of pupils will also be expected to abstain from alcohol to prove they are followers of the faith.
The policy is proving controversial within Hindu groups. Mainstream Hindus are claiming the policy favours the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (Iskcon) - also known as the Hare Krishna movement - which is backing the school and whose members follow strict vegetarian diets.
The 240-pupil state funded school will open next September in Harrow, where 40,000 of Britain's 1.5 million-strong Hindu community live, comprising 20% of the town's population. Competition for places at the school is expected to be fierce. The government is funding £10m of the £12m building costs.
The new admissions policy sets out how the school will allocate places when it is over subscribed. It gives priority to looked-after children from Hindu families and children with special educational needs, before next prioritising the children of "practising Hindu families".
Nitesh Gor, director of the I-Foundation, the Hindu charity which is backing the voluntary aided school, said: "In common with other faith schools - which may require letters from priests or proof of church or synagogue attendance - we want to give priority to those that are most active in their faith. The definition we have arrived at includes regular home and temple worship, as well as vegetarianism and avoiding alcohol."
Ten places at the new school will be reserved exclusively for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, the temple headquarters of Iskcon in Letchmore Heath, Hertfordshire.
Jay Lakhani, director for education at the Hindu Council UK (HCUK), claimed the school's admissions policy was unfair:
"While HCUK has no problem with the I-Foundation reserving a stated 10 places out of 30 at the school for children of families at Bhaktivedanta Manor, we believe it is unfair to rule out other Hindus by imposing on them the strict rules of one particular, minority Hindu group in order for their children to attend.
"Because the Krishna-Avanti school was offered state funding and is being allowed to open as a 'Hindu' rather than an 'Iskcon' school, that is what it should be, a truly Hindu school that serves and reflects the wider Harrow Hindu community with its kaleidoscopic Hindu diversity."
Mr Gor defended the policy: "We recognise that some Hindus may eat meat in very specific prescribed circumstances and the criteria are not intended to exclude them. Broadly these criteria reflect practices which are common to all mainstream Hindu movements in the UK including the Swaminarayan temples, Iskcon and Jainism as well as all the other branches of Hinduism that have large congregations in Harrow."
Renovation of the historical Jain temples in Bijapur
The Minister of State for Textiles Shri Basangouda R.Patil called on the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Shri Jagmohan here today to impress upon him the need for developing tourist facilities and renovation of the historical Jain temples in Bijapur, Karnataka.
Shri Patil presented a set of three project proposals of these temples to develop them with all facilities and infrastructure for the visitors. These temples are frequented by a number of pilgrims from all over the country.
He told Shri Jagmohan that Bijapur was the seat of Adil Shahi dynasty which ruled the kingdom for over 300 years. The rulers of the dynasty and the local Jain community patronized the Jainism turning Bijapur into a prominent seat of Jain learning, culture, literature and art. There are a number of Jain Temples in and around Bijapur dating back to 11th Century. These temples ravaged by nature with the passage of time, need urgent renovation from the archaeological point of view. He pointed out that among the list of the Jain temples marked for renovation at an estimated cost of Rs. 2604 crore by the Archeological Survey of India, some unique temples have not found place.
He said that the renovation of the Jain monuments in Karnataka would go a long way in preserving cultural heritage monuments and promoting tourism in the state.
Shri Patil presented a set of three project proposals of these temples to develop them with all facilities and infrastructure for the visitors. These temples are frequented by a number of pilgrims from all over the country.
He told Shri Jagmohan that Bijapur was the seat of Adil Shahi dynasty which ruled the kingdom for over 300 years. The rulers of the dynasty and the local Jain community patronized the Jainism turning Bijapur into a prominent seat of Jain learning, culture, literature and art. There are a number of Jain Temples in and around Bijapur dating back to 11th Century. These temples ravaged by nature with the passage of time, need urgent renovation from the archaeological point of view. He pointed out that among the list of the Jain temples marked for renovation at an estimated cost of Rs. 2604 crore by the Archeological Survey of India, some unique temples have not found place.
He said that the renovation of the Jain monuments in Karnataka would go a long way in preserving cultural heritage monuments and promoting tourism in the state.
Jaina Art & Architecture (10th Jaina Studies Conference at SOAS)
Dear Friends,
Please find attached the announcement of this year's 10th Jaina Studies Conference at SOAS on 'Jaina Art & Architecture' on 6-7 March 2007.
The conference will be opened with the SOAS Annual Jain Lecture which will be delivered by Prof. Maruti Nandan P. Tiwari (Banares Hindu University).
Thursday 6 March 200718:00-19:30 Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre,School of Oriental and African Studies, Russell Square, London WC1H OXG
The Annual Jain Lecture (followed by a reception)
Prof. Maruti Nandan P. Tiwari (Banares Hindu University)
'New Approach to the Study of Jaina Art and Architecture'
'New Approach to the Study of Jaina Art and Architecture'
The conference is co-organised and co-sponsored by the Centre of Jaina Studies at SOAS, the Centre for Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Lund (www.sasnet.lu.se/indrellund.html) and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London (http://www.vam.ac.uk/).
The conference is free and open to everyone!
The conference will welcome sponsorship contributions which will berecognised in the conference programme. Please contact Dr Peter Flugel for more information, on pf8@soas.ac.uk
For updates of the programme see:http://www.soas.ac.uk/centres/centreinfo.cfm?navid=875
Inquiries: jainastudies@soas.ac.uk
with best wishes for the new year
yours
Peter Flugel
Digambar Jains celebrate 75th birth anniversary of Acharya Bahubali Maharaj
Thousands of Jain devotees converged in Gurgaon on the weekend to celebrate the 75th birth anniversary of Acharya Bahubaliji Maharaj, the spiritual Guru of Digamber sect of Jain community and perform mass rituals.
Acharya Bahubaliji Maharaj, during his sermon, laid stress on the need to educate the masses for a progressive Indian society.
"I bless all castes and religions of the society. All religions should bring in home Sanskars (ethical values). When we have ethics at home, we can look forward to the creation of an ethical society. Education should be emphasised on by all religions as education is the key self-improvement," said Acharya Bahubaliji Maharaj, spiritual head of Digambar Jain community.
The Digamber Jains, under the aegis of their Acharya, provide free primary education to children at various places.
"Besides spreading word about religion, our Acharya is keen to spread education amongst the youth. He has schools at various places. We are soon planning to open a Jain University," said Kanwar Singh, President, Digambar Jain Association.
Jains have an ancient tradition of scholarship. The Jain community is the most literate religious community in India, and the Jain libraries are India's oldest.
Jains are a small but influential religious minority with at least 4.2 million practitioners in modern India.
The Jains follow the teachings of the 24 Jinas (conquerors) who are also known as Tirthankars. The 24th Tirthankar, Lord Mahavira, lived in sixth century B.C.
It is believed that after 200 years of Mah?v?ra's demise known as Nirvana (freedom from rebirth) the Jain faith witnessed a split in which two sects namely Digambar and Swetambar emerged.
In Sanskrit, 'ambar' refers to a covering like a garment. 'Dig', an older form of 'disha', refers to the cardinal directions. Digambar therefore means those whose garment is only the four directions, or "sky-clad". 'Svet' means white and Svetambaras are those who wear white coverings.
Digambar Jain monks do not wear clothes because they believe clothes are like other possessions, increasing dependency and desire for material things, and desire for anything ultimately leads to sorrow.
Svetambar Jain monks wear white seamless clothes for practical reasons and believe there is nothing in Jain scripture that condemns wearing clothes. Sadhvis (nuns) of both sects wear white. (ANI)
Acharya Bahubaliji Maharaj, during his sermon, laid stress on the need to educate the masses for a progressive Indian society.
"I bless all castes and religions of the society. All religions should bring in home Sanskars (ethical values). When we have ethics at home, we can look forward to the creation of an ethical society. Education should be emphasised on by all religions as education is the key self-improvement," said Acharya Bahubaliji Maharaj, spiritual head of Digambar Jain community.
The Digamber Jains, under the aegis of their Acharya, provide free primary education to children at various places.
"Besides spreading word about religion, our Acharya is keen to spread education amongst the youth. He has schools at various places. We are soon planning to open a Jain University," said Kanwar Singh, President, Digambar Jain Association.
Jains have an ancient tradition of scholarship. The Jain community is the most literate religious community in India, and the Jain libraries are India's oldest.
Jains are a small but influential religious minority with at least 4.2 million practitioners in modern India.
The Jains follow the teachings of the 24 Jinas (conquerors) who are also known as Tirthankars. The 24th Tirthankar, Lord Mahavira, lived in sixth century B.C.
It is believed that after 200 years of Mah?v?ra's demise known as Nirvana (freedom from rebirth) the Jain faith witnessed a split in which two sects namely Digambar and Swetambar emerged.
In Sanskrit, 'ambar' refers to a covering like a garment. 'Dig', an older form of 'disha', refers to the cardinal directions. Digambar therefore means those whose garment is only the four directions, or "sky-clad". 'Svet' means white and Svetambaras are those who wear white coverings.
Digambar Jain monks do not wear clothes because they believe clothes are like other possessions, increasing dependency and desire for material things, and desire for anything ultimately leads to sorrow.
Svetambar Jain monks wear white seamless clothes for practical reasons and believe there is nothing in Jain scripture that condemns wearing clothes. Sadhvis (nuns) of both sects wear white. (ANI)
Aussie students visit Jain College
Express News Service
BELGAUM: Jain College, Belgaum organised an international culture exchange programme and played host to four visiting students of La Trobe University, Australia, on its premises here recently.
The College in association with SBMJC-CMS, Bangalore has started the international students exchange programme ‘Understanding and appreciating India’. After visiting historical places in north Karnataka, the Australian students interacted with the Jain College students of Belgaum.
The visiting students were entertained with glimpse of classical music, cuisine and cultural practices. Australian student Katie Bryce expressed her views about her visit to Jain College on the occasion. The students’ delegation was accompanied by two faculty members of CMS, Bangalore.
Prof R G Dharwadkar, principal of the college said the students of Belgaum Jain College will too visit La Trobe University, Australia with which JGI has collaboration.
BELGAUM: Jain College, Belgaum organised an international culture exchange programme and played host to four visiting students of La Trobe University, Australia, on its premises here recently.
The College in association with SBMJC-CMS, Bangalore has started the international students exchange programme ‘Understanding and appreciating India’. After visiting historical places in north Karnataka, the Australian students interacted with the Jain College students of Belgaum.
The visiting students were entertained with glimpse of classical music, cuisine and cultural practices. Australian student Katie Bryce expressed her views about her visit to Jain College on the occasion. The students’ delegation was accompanied by two faculty members of CMS, Bangalore.
Prof R G Dharwadkar, principal of the college said the students of Belgaum Jain College will too visit La Trobe University, Australia with which JGI has collaboration.
Valley Jain community breaks ground on spiritual center
The first slab of marble has been laid in what the Valley’s Jain community believes can become America’s grandest Jain temple when it is dedicated in December 2008, with some 3,000 Jains from all over the world expected.
Through a majestic arch of pink sandstone, followers will pass into a spacious temple with floors of white marble, featuring statues of the 24 lords or tirthankars, surrounded by idols. The south Phoenix site will become the center for area Jain prayer, meditation and other activities.
Capping three days of festive celebrations on Sunday, members of the approximately 150 Jain families in the Valley dressed in their finest and most brilliant and colorful clothing from India to witness the historic “shilanyas,” or foundation stone ceremony. It included the burying of a time capsule and rites led by religious leaders from India.
“During the ceremony, people take their gold necklaces out and diamond rings out and just throw them in the pit. … It goes to the Lord,” said Dr. Kirit Gosalia, a past president of the Jain Center of Greater Phoenix. Some did so on Sunday, with about 500 people on hand.
In rhythmic rituals, energetic chanting, dancing, feasting and ancient traditions, the Jains took the sacred first step in development of their 12,000-square-foot “derasar,” or temple. The ornate $3 million temple is being built on four acres, once part of a farm, at 6202 S. 23rd Ave., just south of Southern Avenue, in Phoenix.
“The important thing is we wanted to do this for the next generation,” said Piyush Mehta, current president. “It’s what we were given from our fathers and mothers, and we want to pass our heritage on to the kids.” The temple will allow for more authentic practice of one of the world’s oldest religions. Jainism, which originated in northern India in the fifth and sixth centuries B.C., is based on the teachings of the 24 Jinas (conquerors), or tirthankars, meaning “shows the way.” It’s a complex religion, sharing much in common with Hinduism and Buddhism.
The 24th and most recent Jina was Lord Mahavira, who lived in the sixth century. Jains emphasize nonviolence, vegetarianism, painstaking protection of all living creatures, reincarnation and honoring the spiritual nature of all life. It honors no supreme or universal god. Jainism calls for self-control and spiritually progressing toward “moksha,” or the full realization of the true nature of the soul. The primary goal of Jainism is to become a “perfected soul,” according to its literature. That is described as pure consciousness and possessing “perfect knowledge, power, bliss and omniscience.” It values good deeds and action (karma) and prizes living with as few possessions as possible. It calls for tolerance and respect of contrary opinions.
Jains divide themselves in two major sects, the Svetambara, or white-clad, and the Digambara, or sky-clad or naked, best represented by the Jain monks whose possessions may only be a cup for water and a broom to sweep the ground as they walk to shoo away insects that could be stepped on. Digambara monks primarily live in forests or remote areas, walk from city to city barefoot, and rely on “householders” who are “pure in spirit” to give them food they eat once a day.
Only about 200,000 of the estimated 4.8 million Jains worldwide live outside of India. Virtually all Valley Jain families are first- or second-generation Indians.They talk longingly of their rich Jain religious experiences in India, and many travel back and forth regularly.
About half of the Valley’s Jains live in the East Valley. Since arriving in significant numbers in the 1980s, they have met in a number of schools, most recently Griffith Elementary in east Phoenix. A 2,000-square-foot house on their permanent site will be their meeting place until the temple is finished. About 100 people come together each weekend for lively ritual, chanting and cultural celebration.
The International Community for Krishna Consciousness plans to build its temple next door on four acres that was divided from the original purchase parcel.
All weekend, the Jains kept busy with pujas, or ceremonial rituals. They included a mantra to destroy sins and obstacles; a purifying of the grounds with water; a procession in which participants carried brass images of deities on their heads around the ground; and a ceremony involving the raising of the Jain, Indian and American flags, each of which unfolded on cue by scattering sparkling red confetti.
“We will be conducting the preaching of the Lord Mahavira’s message of nonviolence,” Mehta said. “We will spread the message of live and let live.”
For younger Jains, the temple should give them rich, new experiences in their religion.“I was born here,” said Gosalia’s daughter, Rena, 25. “It think it was harder when we were growing up only because our community was so small and spread out. Now we will gather together here as one community, in one spot.”
“I don’t know a lot of Jains because I had never seen them growing up and because they were always like in Mesa or Chandler,” she said. “We are privileged that we are going to have the best-designed temple that is possible,” Mehta said. “It will be built as a landmark. People from out of town will want to see the temple.”
Information can be found at http://www.jcgp.org/.
Lawn Griffiths, Tribune
Through a majestic arch of pink sandstone, followers will pass into a spacious temple with floors of white marble, featuring statues of the 24 lords or tirthankars, surrounded by idols. The south Phoenix site will become the center for area Jain prayer, meditation and other activities.
Capping three days of festive celebrations on Sunday, members of the approximately 150 Jain families in the Valley dressed in their finest and most brilliant and colorful clothing from India to witness the historic “shilanyas,” or foundation stone ceremony. It included the burying of a time capsule and rites led by religious leaders from India.
“During the ceremony, people take their gold necklaces out and diamond rings out and just throw them in the pit. … It goes to the Lord,” said Dr. Kirit Gosalia, a past president of the Jain Center of Greater Phoenix. Some did so on Sunday, with about 500 people on hand.
In rhythmic rituals, energetic chanting, dancing, feasting and ancient traditions, the Jains took the sacred first step in development of their 12,000-square-foot “derasar,” or temple. The ornate $3 million temple is being built on four acres, once part of a farm, at 6202 S. 23rd Ave., just south of Southern Avenue, in Phoenix.
“The important thing is we wanted to do this for the next generation,” said Piyush Mehta, current president. “It’s what we were given from our fathers and mothers, and we want to pass our heritage on to the kids.” The temple will allow for more authentic practice of one of the world’s oldest religions. Jainism, which originated in northern India in the fifth and sixth centuries B.C., is based on the teachings of the 24 Jinas (conquerors), or tirthankars, meaning “shows the way.” It’s a complex religion, sharing much in common with Hinduism and Buddhism.
The 24th and most recent Jina was Lord Mahavira, who lived in the sixth century. Jains emphasize nonviolence, vegetarianism, painstaking protection of all living creatures, reincarnation and honoring the spiritual nature of all life. It honors no supreme or universal god. Jainism calls for self-control and spiritually progressing toward “moksha,” or the full realization of the true nature of the soul. The primary goal of Jainism is to become a “perfected soul,” according to its literature. That is described as pure consciousness and possessing “perfect knowledge, power, bliss and omniscience.” It values good deeds and action (karma) and prizes living with as few possessions as possible. It calls for tolerance and respect of contrary opinions.
Jains divide themselves in two major sects, the Svetambara, or white-clad, and the Digambara, or sky-clad or naked, best represented by the Jain monks whose possessions may only be a cup for water and a broom to sweep the ground as they walk to shoo away insects that could be stepped on. Digambara monks primarily live in forests or remote areas, walk from city to city barefoot, and rely on “householders” who are “pure in spirit” to give them food they eat once a day.
Only about 200,000 of the estimated 4.8 million Jains worldwide live outside of India. Virtually all Valley Jain families are first- or second-generation Indians.They talk longingly of their rich Jain religious experiences in India, and many travel back and forth regularly.
About half of the Valley’s Jains live in the East Valley. Since arriving in significant numbers in the 1980s, they have met in a number of schools, most recently Griffith Elementary in east Phoenix. A 2,000-square-foot house on their permanent site will be their meeting place until the temple is finished. About 100 people come together each weekend for lively ritual, chanting and cultural celebration.
The International Community for Krishna Consciousness plans to build its temple next door on four acres that was divided from the original purchase parcel.
All weekend, the Jains kept busy with pujas, or ceremonial rituals. They included a mantra to destroy sins and obstacles; a purifying of the grounds with water; a procession in which participants carried brass images of deities on their heads around the ground; and a ceremony involving the raising of the Jain, Indian and American flags, each of which unfolded on cue by scattering sparkling red confetti.
“We will be conducting the preaching of the Lord Mahavira’s message of nonviolence,” Mehta said. “We will spread the message of live and let live.”
For younger Jains, the temple should give them rich, new experiences in their religion.“I was born here,” said Gosalia’s daughter, Rena, 25. “It think it was harder when we were growing up only because our community was so small and spread out. Now we will gather together here as one community, in one spot.”
“I don’t know a lot of Jains because I had never seen them growing up and because they were always like in Mesa or Chandler,” she said. “We are privileged that we are going to have the best-designed temple that is possible,” Mehta said. “It will be built as a landmark. People from out of town will want to see the temple.”
Information can be found at http://www.jcgp.org/.
Lawn Griffiths, Tribune
750 year old Jain idols found near Ahmedabad
750 year old Jain idols found near Ahmedabad Dec 13
(UNI)
Thousands of people gathered to see the Jain idols, dating back to the 13th Century, that were found in Sarkhej area of the city.
According to Y S Rawat, Director of state archaeology department, the idols and relics, found yesterday evening, dated back to the 13th century. One of the major finds was a Jain idol that dates back to 1286 A D. Some images along with a Jain patt with 24 carved figurines of Jain Tirthankars have been recovered.
The relics were discovered while digging work was on by Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) behind Koteshwar Mahadev temple in Sarkhej area.In all 22 statues and statuettes were recovered which have been handed over to the archaeology department.
Among the idols, one had 1,343 engraved on it.
(UNI)
Thousands of people gathered to see the Jain idols, dating back to the 13th Century, that were found in Sarkhej area of the city.
According to Y S Rawat, Director of state archaeology department, the idols and relics, found yesterday evening, dated back to the 13th century. One of the major finds was a Jain idol that dates back to 1286 A D. Some images along with a Jain patt with 24 carved figurines of Jain Tirthankars have been recovered.
The relics were discovered while digging work was on by Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) behind Koteshwar Mahadev temple in Sarkhej area.In all 22 statues and statuettes were recovered which have been handed over to the archaeology department.
Among the idols, one had 1,343 engraved on it.
Jainism ignored by Government Body!
Jainism ignored by Government Body!
Recently I visited a book exhibition in Pune which was arranged by National Book Trust, a Government of India body. The NBC has published lot of books on various subjects including history, art, architecture, sociology etc.
The books are written by renowned authors. Printing, paper and overall lookout of the books are nice and the books are affordable to common readers.
But it was a surprise for me that Jainism is totally ignored by the National Book Trust. I didn’t see any reference from Jain resources in books on above said subjects. In Indian art and architecture books, there is not a single photograph of any Jain monument, not even Gomateshwra statue, Mount Abu temples or Udaygiri-Khangiri caves.
The National Book Trust invites works from scholars for publishing, but I think it has nothing to do with works of Jain scholars.
The trust has published lot of books on Buddhism, I am afraid why it ignores Jainism.
While Jainism is getting wider popularity in western world, but in its homeland, a Government body is shy about it!
-M.S.Chavan
http://jainology.blogspot.com
Recently I visited a book exhibition in Pune which was arranged by National Book Trust, a Government of India body. The NBC has published lot of books on various subjects including history, art, architecture, sociology etc.
The books are written by renowned authors. Printing, paper and overall lookout of the books are nice and the books are affordable to common readers.
But it was a surprise for me that Jainism is totally ignored by the National Book Trust. I didn’t see any reference from Jain resources in books on above said subjects. In Indian art and architecture books, there is not a single photograph of any Jain monument, not even Gomateshwra statue, Mount Abu temples or Udaygiri-Khangiri caves.
The National Book Trust invites works from scholars for publishing, but I think it has nothing to do with works of Jain scholars.
The trust has published lot of books on Buddhism, I am afraid why it ignores Jainism.
While Jainism is getting wider popularity in western world, but in its homeland, a Government body is shy about it!
-M.S.Chavan
http://jainology.blogspot.com
Scholarly Articles on Jainology
Scholarly Articles on Jainology
We have uploaded a lot of scholarly articles and essays on various aspects of Jainology. The subjects include philosophy, history, sociology, art, architecture, famous Jains etc.
These articles and essays are written by renowned Jain scholars and are very useful for everybody who is interested in deeper study of Jainism.
To read the articles and essays, please visit our blog at:
http://jainology.blogspot.com
--M.S.Chavan
P.S.
You too can write for this blog
We have uploaded a lot of scholarly articles and essays on various aspects of Jainology. The subjects include philosophy, history, sociology, art, architecture, famous Jains etc.
These articles and essays are written by renowned Jain scholars and are very useful for everybody who is interested in deeper study of Jainism.
To read the articles and essays, please visit our blog at:
http://jainology.blogspot.com
--M.S.Chavan
P.S.
You too can write for this blog
Jain Samaj divided over `saptrangi abhishek'
Indore, Jan 10: The proposed `saptrangi abhishek' of the Digamber Jain Samaj at Babangaja in Barwani district scheduled this month, has landed in a row with a section of the Jain Samaj apparently expressing their opposition over the `abhishek' on the plea that it will pose danger to the statue. A number of distinguished persons from the Samaj said that `abhishek' may inflict damage to the historical statue of lord Adinath , hence it should be stopped.
The `saptrangi abhishek' of lord Adinath at Babangaja, the Jain religion's one of the most sacred places in the country, is organized every 12th year. Last time also because of some controversy, the `abhishek' could not take place and now it is after 17 years that the Digamber Jain Samaj has planned `saptrangi abhishek' from January 20 to February 4 this year.
However, going by the whale of protests from a section of the Digamber Jain Samaj, the proposed `abhishek' seems to have run into rough weather. While describing the `saptrangi abhishek' as against the religious text, the Samaj youths have threatened an agitation in this regard.
So far the `abhishek' of 84 ft height of `Bhagwan Bahubali' is being performed through water. However, this year, the Babangaja Barwani Committee has decided to perform `saptrangi abhishek' which will comprise of sugarcane juice, milk, curd, coconut, water, shahad, chandan and kesar. All these materials will be rubbed on the statue of Bahubali and it is feared that with the apply of these material, it will lead to development of germs on the statue.
Rohit Dhanote, president, Digamber Jain Yuva Sangathan said the idol of lord Adinath is a symbol of the Jain religion's faith and since ancient times `abhishek' has been performed on the idol of lord Adinath only through water and `panchamrit'. Some people are trying to break this tradition which is against the religious text, he said.
Other people associated with the association said since this historical statue is already facing erosion and undergoing cement treatment for its preservation, the `saptrangi abhishek' will only cause damage to the statue.
Panchkalyanak Pratishtha Mahotsav and the `saptrangi mahamastabhishek' of lord Adinath at Babangaja in Barwani district is scheduled to be organized from January 20 and it will continue till February 4. A large number of hight-profile dignitaries including the President of India, the Prime Minister, Governors of various states, chief ministers are scheduled to participate in one of the biggest religious congregations of the Jain Samaj. About seven lakh people from various parts of the country and abroad are expected to participate in this religious event.
Krishna K Jha
The `saptrangi abhishek' of lord Adinath at Babangaja, the Jain religion's one of the most sacred places in the country, is organized every 12th year. Last time also because of some controversy, the `abhishek' could not take place and now it is after 17 years that the Digamber Jain Samaj has planned `saptrangi abhishek' from January 20 to February 4 this year.
However, going by the whale of protests from a section of the Digamber Jain Samaj, the proposed `abhishek' seems to have run into rough weather. While describing the `saptrangi abhishek' as against the religious text, the Samaj youths have threatened an agitation in this regard.
So far the `abhishek' of 84 ft height of `Bhagwan Bahubali' is being performed through water. However, this year, the Babangaja Barwani Committee has decided to perform `saptrangi abhishek' which will comprise of sugarcane juice, milk, curd, coconut, water, shahad, chandan and kesar. All these materials will be rubbed on the statue of Bahubali and it is feared that with the apply of these material, it will lead to development of germs on the statue.
Rohit Dhanote, president, Digamber Jain Yuva Sangathan said the idol of lord Adinath is a symbol of the Jain religion's faith and since ancient times `abhishek' has been performed on the idol of lord Adinath only through water and `panchamrit'. Some people are trying to break this tradition which is against the religious text, he said.
Other people associated with the association said since this historical statue is already facing erosion and undergoing cement treatment for its preservation, the `saptrangi abhishek' will only cause damage to the statue.
Panchkalyanak Pratishtha Mahotsav and the `saptrangi mahamastabhishek' of lord Adinath at Babangaja in Barwani district is scheduled to be organized from January 20 and it will continue till February 4. A large number of hight-profile dignitaries including the President of India, the Prime Minister, Governors of various states, chief ministers are scheduled to participate in one of the biggest religious congregations of the Jain Samaj. About seven lakh people from various parts of the country and abroad are expected to participate in this religious event.
Krishna K Jha
Phoenix Ekta Mandir opens doors to devotees
NEW YORK: Ekta Mandir, the first Hindu Jain Unity Temple in Arizona, was inaugurated on Dec 22, 2007 by the Mayor of Phoenix, Phil Gordon and opened its doors to the people of Phoenix with a grand celebration of Pujas, Havan, Chanting of Vedic Hymns, Bhajans and Dances.
Devotees could not help but marvel at the beauty of the temple built in traditional Indian temple architecture. The celebrations attended by over 600 people began with the traditional Grand Shobhayatra in the early morning of Dec 22. Women and young girls took the decorated Kalash with coconut in the shape of Lord Ganesh over their head in a procession from the Indo-American Community Center to the Ekta Mandir site across the street. Following them were 17 families who carried the Utsav Murthies to the temple.
Once the procession reached the temple site, the Priest Satyanarayan Shastri, who led a team of priests and Vedic scholars from around the valley, conducted the main rituals. After the purification ceremony a Navgrah Puja and Havan were performed invoking the blessing of the nine planets. The Vastu Puja, Vastu Havan and Vastu Bali were performed after this.
Vastu puja for a Devsthan is different than Vastu Havan for a house. When we dig the ground, to put a foundation, we disturb many insects and living beings. They are being sacrificed and this puja is done to request their forgiveness and to make the place appropriate for worship. At the end of the puja, to honor their sacrifice, we offer a symbolic Balidan of lemon, coconut, pumpkin etc.After the Navagrah Havan, Mayor Gordon led a procession of the devotees around the temple.
This parikrama, known as Ashtadig Palak Bali, is performed at the eight corners around the building. At each stage, an offering of Lemon is made to feed the gods. In the Hindu belief the Universe is guarded by gods at eight corners. Devotees chanted "Ekta Mandir ki jai jai kar" during the procession.
In his speech, the Mayor, who has been a long time supporter of the community, nostalgically recalled attending the inauguration of the Indo American Cultural and Religious Foundation Hall as a young councilman, and then again as Mayor attending the ground breaking celebrations of Ekta Mandir in 2005.
The Mayor expressed his gratitude and said he felt truly honored to have been given this opportunity to come a full circle and be invited to the temple opening. He said the temple was a true testament to the diversity that exists in the great city of Phoenix and provided a sanctuary for people of two different faiths to worship as one. The two- day rituals included special Jain pujas and Hindu pujas that were performed to all the Gods.
The festivities included delicious food on both days for all and a colorful and diverse cultural program that reflected the diversity of the community. Built on 4.5 acres at a cost of $5.8 million, the 12,500 sq ft Temple is 95% complete. The Temple hopes to become debt free and looks to members of the community for their help in making it debt free. In the week leading up to the temple opening over $300,000 was pledged towards sponsoring the main door, 3 pillars, Maha Prasad and some of the Murthis.
The Board of Directors would be launching a major fundraising drive to make the Temple debt free by February before the Pran Prathista. The Grand Pran Prathista Celebrations will take place on February 15, 16 and 17.
An Art Pilgrimage
By7 Upneet Pansare
Talk of the Jain community and the first thing likely to strike you is either the pious customs that they religiously follow or their expertise spanning across different kinds of businesses. But a visit to the Jain Pavillion at the NSE Grounds at Goregaon would enlighten you about the little-known glory of Jain art.
With over 150 intricately carved idols of Lord Mahavir made of precious and semi precious stones and a collection of Jain iconography, miniatures, wall paintings from different periods of history, the Jain Pavilion is part of the second Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) conference which began on Thursday.
The highlight of the Jain Pavilion is the 14.6 feet wide, 12.7 feet high, 5 feet deep ‘ Ashtapad’- the place where Tirthankar Adinath is believed to have attained nirvana, a location near the Mansarovar—carved in crystal and brought form Brazil, all 11.8 tonnes of it. “The Jain pratimas (idols) on display have been made by local artisans from Jaipur from various gemstones including emerald, ruby, aquamarine, tourmaline, amethyst, kunzite, smoky, rose quartz and malachite,” said Naresh Mohnot of Mohnot Gems. Reportedly, a Jain doctor (who does not wish to be named) residing in the US owns some of the idols. Once the exhibition ends, the idols will be transported back to his home in the US.
A unique section of the Jain Pavilion also houses photographs of sculptures, mantras, cosmology and paintings from all the tirths (prominent Jain pilgrimage centres) in India including Bundi, Vidarbha, Shravanbelagola, Surat, Kolkata , Jiyaganj, Azimgunj, Khajurao, Devgarh, Gwalior, Mathura, Chanderi. The sculptures date from 2nd Century AD to 15th Century AD. From a massive Shatranjay Patt (1641 AD) featuring Sahasrakoot (miniature painting of 1,024 tithankars) from Ahemdabad to the benevolent statue of Neminath in Shravanbelagola, the exhibition captured the attention of young and old visitors alike.
Rishabh Kothari, a college student and a first time visitor to the exhibition, said: “The Jain Pavillion is the only exhibition of its kind that I have been to. I am a devout Jain and I am proud to see the exquisite talent of the Jain artistes.”
For some like housewife Uma Shah, visiting the exhibition was like going on a pilgrimage. “Under one roof, I got to see all the tirths,” she said.
Organiser Nikhil Shah explained that last year too, there was a similar exhibition. “But this year, we have organized it on a much larger scale. We have also managed to get hold of photographs of the tirthankar head from Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh) and a rare 40 ft long Panchakalyanak Patt from Karanja (Maharashtra), both dating back to thousands of years.”
Talk of the Jain community and the first thing likely to strike you is either the pious customs that they religiously follow or their expertise spanning across different kinds of businesses. But a visit to the Jain Pavillion at the NSE Grounds at Goregaon would enlighten you about the little-known glory of Jain art.
With over 150 intricately carved idols of Lord Mahavir made of precious and semi precious stones and a collection of Jain iconography, miniatures, wall paintings from different periods of history, the Jain Pavilion is part of the second Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) conference which began on Thursday.
The highlight of the Jain Pavilion is the 14.6 feet wide, 12.7 feet high, 5 feet deep ‘ Ashtapad’- the place where Tirthankar Adinath is believed to have attained nirvana, a location near the Mansarovar—carved in crystal and brought form Brazil, all 11.8 tonnes of it. “The Jain pratimas (idols) on display have been made by local artisans from Jaipur from various gemstones including emerald, ruby, aquamarine, tourmaline, amethyst, kunzite, smoky, rose quartz and malachite,” said Naresh Mohnot of Mohnot Gems. Reportedly, a Jain doctor (who does not wish to be named) residing in the US owns some of the idols. Once the exhibition ends, the idols will be transported back to his home in the US.
A unique section of the Jain Pavilion also houses photographs of sculptures, mantras, cosmology and paintings from all the tirths (prominent Jain pilgrimage centres) in India including Bundi, Vidarbha, Shravanbelagola, Surat, Kolkata , Jiyaganj, Azimgunj, Khajurao, Devgarh, Gwalior, Mathura, Chanderi. The sculptures date from 2nd Century AD to 15th Century AD. From a massive Shatranjay Patt (1641 AD) featuring Sahasrakoot (miniature painting of 1,024 tithankars) from Ahemdabad to the benevolent statue of Neminath in Shravanbelagola, the exhibition captured the attention of young and old visitors alike.
Rishabh Kothari, a college student and a first time visitor to the exhibition, said: “The Jain Pavillion is the only exhibition of its kind that I have been to. I am a devout Jain and I am proud to see the exquisite talent of the Jain artistes.”
For some like housewife Uma Shah, visiting the exhibition was like going on a pilgrimage. “Under one roof, I got to see all the tirths,” she said.
Organiser Nikhil Shah explained that last year too, there was a similar exhibition. “But this year, we have organized it on a much larger scale. We have also managed to get hold of photographs of the tirthankar head from Chanderi (Madhya Pradesh) and a rare 40 ft long Panchakalyanak Patt from Karanja (Maharashtra), both dating back to thousands of years.”
Jains declared as minority community in West Bengal
Calcutta, Dec. 13: The Assembly today passed a bill that will empower the government to declare the Jain community a religious minority.
“From now on, if the government considers it important to give any community minority status on the basis of religion, it can do so by only issuing a notification. This means the government will no longer have to drag the matter to the Assembly,” minority affairs minister Abdus Sattar told the House.
However, Opposition legislators dubbed the West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2007, “a bait” for minority voters.
“The government has chosen to clear the bill because it will consolidate its vote bank among the minorities in next year’s panchayat polls. Minorities were attacked and killed in Nandigram. So the move will help the government improve relations with the communities,” said Asish Banerjee of the Trinamul Congress.
Sattar rubbished the argument, saying Jains constituted only 0.07 per cent of the state’s population and there was no question of “building a vote bank”. The minister also denied any instance of torture on minorities in Nandigram.
“From now on, if the government considers it important to give any community minority status on the basis of religion, it can do so by only issuing a notification. This means the government will no longer have to drag the matter to the Assembly,” minority affairs minister Abdus Sattar told the House.
However, Opposition legislators dubbed the West Bengal Minorities’ Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2007, “a bait” for minority voters.
“The government has chosen to clear the bill because it will consolidate its vote bank among the minorities in next year’s panchayat polls. Minorities were attacked and killed in Nandigram. So the move will help the government improve relations with the communities,” said Asish Banerjee of the Trinamul Congress.
Sattar rubbished the argument, saying Jains constituted only 0.07 per cent of the state’s population and there was no question of “building a vote bank”. The minister also denied any instance of torture on minorities in Nandigram.
NCM to submit its report on anti-conversion law to Centre soon
New Delhi, Jan 14: The National Commission for Minorities(NCM) will soon present before the Centre a report on the anti-religious conversion laws passed by various states
It was few months ago that the Centre had asked the NCM to study all the legislations on religious conversions passed by Gujarat, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh to examine as to what extent they are infringing on the rights of minorities.
''Our effort is to submit the report before Parliament session begins in February,'' NCM member Harcharan Josh told UNI.
He said the Commission had deliberated over the matter and then referred the task to the International Law Institute.
Mr Josh said the Law Institute had been asked to give its opinion within 15 days, and they expected to receive the report within a week.
The issue of state legislations on religious conversions became controversial again when the Gujarat Assembly last year passed a Bill amending its anti-conversion law--the Freedom of Religion Act 2003--which says that Jainism and Buddhism shall be taken as denominations of Hinduism.
The NCM has already written to the Centre in this connection. It pointed out that the Clause 2(c) of NCM Act of 1992 empowers the Central Government to notify a minority for purposes of the Act, in the light of which the Union Ministry of Welfare notified on October 23, 1993 Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) as minority communities.
The Rajasthan law passed in April 2006, has, however, yet to receive the Governor's assent. The then Governor Pratibha Patil had referred the matter to the President with whom the Bill is lying since then.
Christian and civil rights organisations oppose the Bill, arguing that it seeks to restrict the right to freedom of religion and speech on the grounds of law and order, which is constitutionally impermissible
The proposed law not only tends to regulate conversions, but also to cripple the rights of the people, especially belonging to minority communities to propagate their faith, they say.
--- UNI
It was few months ago that the Centre had asked the NCM to study all the legislations on religious conversions passed by Gujarat, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh to examine as to what extent they are infringing on the rights of minorities.
''Our effort is to submit the report before Parliament session begins in February,'' NCM member Harcharan Josh told UNI.
He said the Commission had deliberated over the matter and then referred the task to the International Law Institute.
Mr Josh said the Law Institute had been asked to give its opinion within 15 days, and they expected to receive the report within a week.
The issue of state legislations on religious conversions became controversial again when the Gujarat Assembly last year passed a Bill amending its anti-conversion law--the Freedom of Religion Act 2003--which says that Jainism and Buddhism shall be taken as denominations of Hinduism.
The NCM has already written to the Centre in this connection. It pointed out that the Clause 2(c) of NCM Act of 1992 empowers the Central Government to notify a minority for purposes of the Act, in the light of which the Union Ministry of Welfare notified on October 23, 1993 Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) as minority communities.
The Rajasthan law passed in April 2006, has, however, yet to receive the Governor's assent. The then Governor Pratibha Patil had referred the matter to the President with whom the Bill is lying since then.
Christian and civil rights organisations oppose the Bill, arguing that it seeks to restrict the right to freedom of religion and speech on the grounds of law and order, which is constitutionally impermissible
The proposed law not only tends to regulate conversions, but also to cripple the rights of the people, especially belonging to minority communities to propagate their faith, they say.
--- UNI
Alva’s Nudisiri-2007 off to a Spectacular and Colourful Start at Vidyagiri
Spot Report by Gladson D’Almeida
Moodbidri, Nov 30: It was as if all the roads were leading to Moodbidri, the seat of Jainism in Dakshina Kannada where Kannada culture and language have found a new meaning and definition over the years under the and dedicated leadership of Dr M Mohan Alva, founder president of Alva's Education Foundation. Today Alva's Foundation stands as another name to culture, heritage, tradition and language along with its special contribution to education.
It is here that for the last 3 years, Alva's Nudisiri, a fest of Kannada language and literature has made its abode. Friday November 30 was no exception to this as the fourth Alva's Nudisiri was inaugurated by senior Kannada litterateur, novelist Ni Vyasaray Ballal. This man of great zest dynamic and lover towards Kannada was an inspiration to all on Friday. Despite his ill-health, he made it a point to attend the function on wheel-chair and inaugurate it. He even addressed gathering for a while in his feeble voice.
His entire address was later presented to the gathering by his younger brother Ni Srinivas Ballal. In his inaugural address Ni Vyasaray Ballal gave a clarion call to the gathering to revamp the present education system so that it nurtures literature and language to the maximum.
"Perhaps we Kannadigas are a little more attached to English than anyone else. We usually cannot expect an English invitation by a Gujarati. Even Marathi-speaking people make minimum use of English words in their day-to-day dealings. But we Kannadigas have this extra love towards English. It as such is not bad. But forgetting our mother tongue while giving importance to English cannot be accepted. In this regard the education institutions have a greater responsibility. I therefore have great regard towards Dr Mohan Alva, who is not only doctor for physical ailments but a true doctor who has made yeoman's contribution in healing the ailments of Kannada language, literature and culture. May Alva's Nudisiri remain to the end of this world, he added.
Earlier the programme began sharp at 9.15 am and all the guests were escorted to the Poornachandra Tejaswi auditorium with a colourful procession accompanied by dolu, veeragase, yakshagana, daiva kunita artistes. Once on stage, Dr Mohan Alva welcomed the guests and the gathering. In his keynote address said that the idea of holding a national-level literary and cultural fest was conceived when Moodbidri hosted the All-India Literary Convention fiver years ago. All those worked day-in-and-day-out for the success for literary convention felt that it was not enough to hold a convention and forget everything the next day. Accordingly Alva's Nudisiri was started and for the fourth successive year Alva's Foundation has been hosting this literary fest.
Later a special programme of consulting the Tulunadu Daiva for the success of the fest was held. It is a custom in Tulunadu to consult the Daivas before starting any auspicious programme. Blessing Dr Mohan Alva and the entire gathering, the Daiva said that everything will go on well since every minute aspect has been taken care by the organizers. Before the inauguration Tenka and Badaga thittu yakshagana artiste presented a small show on the stage.
Prof G Ventatasubbaiah, renonwed scholar in his presidential address presented a brief history Kannada literature. He further said that Kannada over the years has been a language which has nurtured other languages and given an equal place to all of them. "But in the bargain, at times, we have lost our identiy owing to many reasons. We have started appreciating other languages at the cost of our mother tongue. But it is at this point that persons like Dr Mohan Alva have forward and have made
their sincere efforts to promote Kannada literature and culture in their own way," he added.
Dr Mohan Alva honoured Ni Vyasaray Ballal and Prof G Venkatasubbaiah on the occasion on behalf of the entire gathering.
Mulki-Moodbidri MLA K Abhaychandra Jain, former minister Amarnath Shetty, his wife Jayashree Shetty were also present on the dais.
Moodbidri, Nov 30: It was as if all the roads were leading to Moodbidri, the seat of Jainism in Dakshina Kannada where Kannada culture and language have found a new meaning and definition over the years under the and dedicated leadership of Dr M Mohan Alva, founder president of Alva's Education Foundation. Today Alva's Foundation stands as another name to culture, heritage, tradition and language along with its special contribution to education.
It is here that for the last 3 years, Alva's Nudisiri, a fest of Kannada language and literature has made its abode. Friday November 30 was no exception to this as the fourth Alva's Nudisiri was inaugurated by senior Kannada litterateur, novelist Ni Vyasaray Ballal. This man of great zest dynamic and lover towards Kannada was an inspiration to all on Friday. Despite his ill-health, he made it a point to attend the function on wheel-chair and inaugurate it. He even addressed gathering for a while in his feeble voice.
His entire address was later presented to the gathering by his younger brother Ni Srinivas Ballal. In his inaugural address Ni Vyasaray Ballal gave a clarion call to the gathering to revamp the present education system so that it nurtures literature and language to the maximum.
"Perhaps we Kannadigas are a little more attached to English than anyone else. We usually cannot expect an English invitation by a Gujarati. Even Marathi-speaking people make minimum use of English words in their day-to-day dealings. But we Kannadigas have this extra love towards English. It as such is not bad. But forgetting our mother tongue while giving importance to English cannot be accepted. In this regard the education institutions have a greater responsibility. I therefore have great regard towards Dr Mohan Alva, who is not only doctor for physical ailments but a true doctor who has made yeoman's contribution in healing the ailments of Kannada language, literature and culture. May Alva's Nudisiri remain to the end of this world, he added.
Earlier the programme began sharp at 9.15 am and all the guests were escorted to the Poornachandra Tejaswi auditorium with a colourful procession accompanied by dolu, veeragase, yakshagana, daiva kunita artistes. Once on stage, Dr Mohan Alva welcomed the guests and the gathering. In his keynote address said that the idea of holding a national-level literary and cultural fest was conceived when Moodbidri hosted the All-India Literary Convention fiver years ago. All those worked day-in-and-day-out for the success for literary convention felt that it was not enough to hold a convention and forget everything the next day. Accordingly Alva's Nudisiri was started and for the fourth successive year Alva's Foundation has been hosting this literary fest.
Later a special programme of consulting the Tulunadu Daiva for the success of the fest was held. It is a custom in Tulunadu to consult the Daivas before starting any auspicious programme. Blessing Dr Mohan Alva and the entire gathering, the Daiva said that everything will go on well since every minute aspect has been taken care by the organizers. Before the inauguration Tenka and Badaga thittu yakshagana artiste presented a small show on the stage.
Prof G Ventatasubbaiah, renonwed scholar in his presidential address presented a brief history Kannada literature. He further said that Kannada over the years has been a language which has nurtured other languages and given an equal place to all of them. "But in the bargain, at times, we have lost our identiy owing to many reasons. We have started appreciating other languages at the cost of our mother tongue. But it is at this point that persons like Dr Mohan Alva have forward and have made
their sincere efforts to promote Kannada literature and culture in their own way," he added.
Dr Mohan Alva honoured Ni Vyasaray Ballal and Prof G Venkatasubbaiah on the occasion on behalf of the entire gathering.
Mulki-Moodbidri MLA K Abhaychandra Jain, former minister Amarnath Shetty, his wife Jayashree Shetty were also present on the dais.
Canada: Multi-faith stamp proves to be hoax
Ajit Jain in Toronto
A purported multi-faith 0.8 cents Canada postage stamp found its way to the Internet and annoyed leaders of a number of religious groups, but at the end of the day many people discovered it was a hoax.
"It appears that the whole thing is a hoax and there is no Canada Post stamp like that," one Leslie Mezei said in a widely circulated e-mail message.
The stamp was not an official stamp issued by Canada Post. "I believe somebody came up with an idea as to what the multi-faith stamp should look like and it got circulated and things went out of hand," Stan Middlestadt, president of the Ontario Multi-faith Council said in an interview on Wednesday.
Several leaders of the Jain community got worked up, exchanging dozens e-mails as to why 'Janism was not included in that stamp.'
"It is painful to see Jainism not shown on the Canadian stamp while Congo does," wrote Jain community leader Arvind Vora.
"Canadians having taken a lead on the multi-faith front (calendars, etc.) and authorities being aware of the Jain faith, it is twice painful," Vora added.
Prakash Mody, Jain community representative on the multi-faith council, who with the support of Middlestadt, had written the letter to the chair of Canada Post Philatelic Committee to issue a multi-faith stamp. That letter was written in May, but so far there's no response from them, Middlestadt said.
Desmond Sequeira from the local Goan community said, "It would be useful to find out what criteria were used in deciding which religion 'qualified' to have its symbol included on the postage stamp and who were consulted and informed before the final version was produced."
He said the purported stamp "has only 10 symbols and it means, besides the Jain community, several others have also been left out."
Despite efforts of a number of people, Canada Post hasn't so far reacted to this hoax.
However, the same people who started exchanging e-mails against this stamp have now started telling others the stamp was a hoax.
A purported multi-faith 0.8 cents Canada postage stamp found its way to the Internet and annoyed leaders of a number of religious groups, but at the end of the day many people discovered it was a hoax.
"It appears that the whole thing is a hoax and there is no Canada Post stamp like that," one Leslie Mezei said in a widely circulated e-mail message.
The stamp was not an official stamp issued by Canada Post. "I believe somebody came up with an idea as to what the multi-faith stamp should look like and it got circulated and things went out of hand," Stan Middlestadt, president of the Ontario Multi-faith Council said in an interview on Wednesday.
Several leaders of the Jain community got worked up, exchanging dozens e-mails as to why 'Janism was not included in that stamp.'
"It is painful to see Jainism not shown on the Canadian stamp while Congo does," wrote Jain community leader Arvind Vora.
"Canadians having taken a lead on the multi-faith front (calendars, etc.) and authorities being aware of the Jain faith, it is twice painful," Vora added.
Prakash Mody, Jain community representative on the multi-faith council, who with the support of Middlestadt, had written the letter to the chair of Canada Post Philatelic Committee to issue a multi-faith stamp. That letter was written in May, but so far there's no response from them, Middlestadt said.
Desmond Sequeira from the local Goan community said, "It would be useful to find out what criteria were used in deciding which religion 'qualified' to have its symbol included on the postage stamp and who were consulted and informed before the final version was produced."
He said the purported stamp "has only 10 symbols and it means, besides the Jain community, several others have also been left out."
Despite efforts of a number of people, Canada Post hasn't so far reacted to this hoax.
However, the same people who started exchanging e-mails against this stamp have now started telling others the stamp was a hoax.
Jain community most media-savvy than others
Televisionpoint.com Correspondent New Delhi
Hindus are slightly more exposed to the media than Muslims in India, but the Jain community, both men and women, is far ahead as far as reading newspapers or magazines is concerned.
According to the findings of the latest National Family Health Survey III, 76% Jain women read newspapers or magazines at least once a week as against 40% of Christian, 33% of Sikh, 30% of Buddhist, 23% of Hindu or 18% of Muslim women.
The number stands at 95% for Jain men compared to 61% for Buddhist, 60% for Christian, 56% for Sikh, 53% for Hindu and 45% for Muslim men. SCs and STs have the lowest media exposure - 55% of ST women and 38% of ST men are not regularly exposed to media.
Overall, in India, 65% of women and 82% of men aged 15-49 years are regularly exposed to any media. The most common form of media for both women and men is television. Over 55% and 63% of women and men respectively watch television at least once a week. However, for women, the next most common media source is the radio.
In every state, women are less likely that men to be regularly exposed to any media. The proportion with no regular exposure to media is highest for both women (60%) and men (40%) in Jharkhand.
In the case of women, Bihar (58%) and Rajasthan (53%) follow Jharkhand with somewhat lower percentages of women with no regular exposure to media whereas in case of men, Jharkhand is followed by Meghalaya (32%), MP (31%) and Chhattisgarh (30%). Delhi, Manipur, Goa and Kerala are the four states in which both women (92%) and men (98%) have the highest levels of exposure to one or more forms of media.
Media exposure is much higher in urban India than in rural areas. Only 13% women and 6% men in urban areas are not exposed to media compared to 45% women and 25% men in rural areas.
The report says the proportion with no regular exposure to media declines sharply with the wealth index, from 74% for women and 49% for men in the lowest wealth group to only 4% for women and 2% for men in the highest wealth group.
Compared to others, 44.7% and 43.7% Hindu and Muslim men watch television at least once a week, while 18% and 12.7% respectively do not regularly get exposed to any media.
So far as Hindu and Muslim women are concerned, 22.7% and 11% of them respectively read newspapers or magazines at least once a week, while 55.6% and 45.5% of them watch television weekly.
http://www.televisionpoint.com/
Hindus are slightly more exposed to the media than Muslims in India, but the Jain community, both men and women, is far ahead as far as reading newspapers or magazines is concerned.
According to the findings of the latest National Family Health Survey III, 76% Jain women read newspapers or magazines at least once a week as against 40% of Christian, 33% of Sikh, 30% of Buddhist, 23% of Hindu or 18% of Muslim women.
The number stands at 95% for Jain men compared to 61% for Buddhist, 60% for Christian, 56% for Sikh, 53% for Hindu and 45% for Muslim men. SCs and STs have the lowest media exposure - 55% of ST women and 38% of ST men are not regularly exposed to media.
Overall, in India, 65% of women and 82% of men aged 15-49 years are regularly exposed to any media. The most common form of media for both women and men is television. Over 55% and 63% of women and men respectively watch television at least once a week. However, for women, the next most common media source is the radio.
In every state, women are less likely that men to be regularly exposed to any media. The proportion with no regular exposure to media is highest for both women (60%) and men (40%) in Jharkhand.
In the case of women, Bihar (58%) and Rajasthan (53%) follow Jharkhand with somewhat lower percentages of women with no regular exposure to media whereas in case of men, Jharkhand is followed by Meghalaya (32%), MP (31%) and Chhattisgarh (30%). Delhi, Manipur, Goa and Kerala are the four states in which both women (92%) and men (98%) have the highest levels of exposure to one or more forms of media.
Media exposure is much higher in urban India than in rural areas. Only 13% women and 6% men in urban areas are not exposed to media compared to 45% women and 25% men in rural areas.
The report says the proportion with no regular exposure to media declines sharply with the wealth index, from 74% for women and 49% for men in the lowest wealth group to only 4% for women and 2% for men in the highest wealth group.
Compared to others, 44.7% and 43.7% Hindu and Muslim men watch television at least once a week, while 18% and 12.7% respectively do not regularly get exposed to any media.
So far as Hindu and Muslim women are concerned, 22.7% and 11% of them respectively read newspapers or magazines at least once a week, while 55.6% and 45.5% of them watch television weekly.
http://www.televisionpoint.com/
'Every Jain should be able to employ 1000 individuals'
MUMBAI: Speaking at the inauguration of a four-day trade fair organised by Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO), its President Hemant Shah expressed the desire that every young Jain should be economically empowered so as to employ 1000 individuals each.
Stressing on Jain unity, he appealed that the Jains should overcome obstacles that may come in the way of their unity, under the banner of JITO.
The JITO Triple Grand Event, comprising Multi-Product Trade Fair, International Business and Industry Conference and Jain Pavilion, is being held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon. JITO is a world wide body of Jains set to achieve socio-economic empowerment, value based education, community welfare, practice of compassion, spiritual upliftment of fellow beings through global fellowship.
"JITO doesn't believe in talking, but in actions. The facilitation of 60 people took 60 seconds, but their contribution to business, industry and society is noteable," Shah said. He added that it is also necessary that instead of being critical, people have to appreciate the good work that is being done.
JITO Secretary General Shantilal Kawar recalled the formation of the residential training institute for aspirants of the union and state civil services, which is one of the dream projects of JITO.
Kawar said that when he discussed the concept of the civil services examination training centre with their religious leader, the latter called him over one day and told him that it was an auspicious day to start work on the institute and asked him to call up individuals to seek their support. Not surprisingly, of the 13 individuals contacted, three promised to contribute Rs 1.5 crore each to become the trustees immediately, Kawar added. Today, the institute has 23 trustees and it requires a total of 32.
Rasiklal Dhariwal, another Jain industrialist, described Shah and Kawar as the two wheels of the chariot of JITO, who have been taking JITO ahead at a great speed and expressed confidence that the Jain community would give them all support. Dhariwal said that he has been sponsoring film award functions over the years and he has realised that by doing so he was merely entertaining people, but today he had an opportunity to contribute to the future of the Jain youth.
The religious leader, who is instrumental in the formation of JITO, gave an example of a Jain collector of Vadodra, who saved the lives of thousands of animals, preventing their slaughter, by making a statement that they are diseased. He said that JITO is the amalgamation of philanthropy, universal brotherhood and the welfare of all living beings.
The religious leader, who does not like his name or photograph being carried by the media, said that Ratan Tata expressed pleasure that Jains are coming together under one banner and described the unity as the ocean of philanthropy.
Earlier in the day hoisting of the national flag and the Jain flag marked the beginning of the JITO Triple Event. Later, the Jain Pavilion, which has on display some of the finest and rarest pieces of Jain art and sculpture, was inaugurated.
Stressing on Jain unity, he appealed that the Jains should overcome obstacles that may come in the way of their unity, under the banner of JITO.
The JITO Triple Grand Event, comprising Multi-Product Trade Fair, International Business and Industry Conference and Jain Pavilion, is being held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon. JITO is a world wide body of Jains set to achieve socio-economic empowerment, value based education, community welfare, practice of compassion, spiritual upliftment of fellow beings through global fellowship.
"JITO doesn't believe in talking, but in actions. The facilitation of 60 people took 60 seconds, but their contribution to business, industry and society is noteable," Shah said. He added that it is also necessary that instead of being critical, people have to appreciate the good work that is being done.
JITO Secretary General Shantilal Kawar recalled the formation of the residential training institute for aspirants of the union and state civil services, which is one of the dream projects of JITO.
Kawar said that when he discussed the concept of the civil services examination training centre with their religious leader, the latter called him over one day and told him that it was an auspicious day to start work on the institute and asked him to call up individuals to seek their support. Not surprisingly, of the 13 individuals contacted, three promised to contribute Rs 1.5 crore each to become the trustees immediately, Kawar added. Today, the institute has 23 trustees and it requires a total of 32.
Rasiklal Dhariwal, another Jain industrialist, described Shah and Kawar as the two wheels of the chariot of JITO, who have been taking JITO ahead at a great speed and expressed confidence that the Jain community would give them all support. Dhariwal said that he has been sponsoring film award functions over the years and he has realised that by doing so he was merely entertaining people, but today he had an opportunity to contribute to the future of the Jain youth.
The religious leader, who is instrumental in the formation of JITO, gave an example of a Jain collector of Vadodra, who saved the lives of thousands of animals, preventing their slaughter, by making a statement that they are diseased. He said that JITO is the amalgamation of philanthropy, universal brotherhood and the welfare of all living beings.
The religious leader, who does not like his name or photograph being carried by the media, said that Ratan Tata expressed pleasure that Jains are coming together under one banner and described the unity as the ocean of philanthropy.
Earlier in the day hoisting of the national flag and the Jain flag marked the beginning of the JITO Triple Event. Later, the Jain Pavilion, which has on display some of the finest and rarest pieces of Jain art and sculpture, was inaugurated.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
General Knowledge Examination in Jainology
General Knowledge Examination in Jainology
Institute For Jain Studies, Pune has announced an examination in
General Knowledge in Jainology. The examination is open to all and
can be given by correspondence. The question paper will be objective,
covering subjects like Philosophy, Culture, Literature and History.
No study material will be provided to the students, as the purpose of
this examination is to check the General Knowledge. Students can give
the answers in English or Hindi language.
Successful students will get a certificate from the institute.
For further details, please send a self-addressed envelope to:
Institute For Jain Studies
Post Box No. 58
Jagannath Complex, 199 Mumbai-Pune Road
Chinchwad East, Pune 411019
Mahavir Sanglikar
Founder & Working President
Cell: 91 989 020 3549
Email: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jainsamachar/post?postID=Jg-OqftOIxVHNrpCCeP5naBC3jMx55nuaPuRLXZz1OZXuVnspzEI3tlAP1jxVyNeAg0Tw-NA2o-xoGQojQ
Website: http://jainstudies.tripod.com/
Institute For Jain Studies, Pune has announced an examination in
General Knowledge in Jainology. The examination is open to all and
can be given by correspondence. The question paper will be objective,
covering subjects like Philosophy, Culture, Literature and History.
No study material will be provided to the students, as the purpose of
this examination is to check the General Knowledge. Students can give
the answers in English or Hindi language.
Successful students will get a certificate from the institute.
For further details, please send a self-addressed envelope to:
Institute For Jain Studies
Post Box No. 58
Jagannath Complex, 199 Mumbai-Pune Road
Chinchwad East, Pune 411019
Mahavir Sanglikar
Founder & Working President
Cell: 91 989 020 3549
Email: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jainsamachar/post?postID=Jg-OqftOIxVHNrpCCeP5naBC3jMx55nuaPuRLXZz1OZXuVnspzEI3tlAP1jxVyNeAg0Tw-NA2o-xoGQojQ
Website: http://jainstudies.tripod.com/
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Your Invitation to the 2nd International Conference of Jain Chartere
Dear Friends,
You are invited to be a part of a mega event.
2nd International Conference of Jain Chartered Accountants and Advocates
On Sunday 10th February 2008.
At Birla Matushri Sabhagar,
New Marine Lines, Mumbai 400020. India .
Organized Jointly by:
Jain Chartered Accountants Federation, Mumbai (JCAF)
Jain Advocates Federation, Mumbai (JAF)
Registration for the conference and Membership to the federation is
absolutely free of cost
To register for the conference please visit www.jainca.org/confreg.htm
To enroll as a member of the federation please visit www.jainca.org/memreg. htm
For further details please visit http://www.jainca. org or
E-mail on jcaf_mumbai@ yahoo.com / unite@jainca. org
Please forward a copy of this mail to your other friends / colleagues and relatives to make this event a grand success.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Jain businessmen pool in $13.75 mn for IAS academies
In an unexpected move, 36 leading Jain businessmen from India and abroad donated Rs.540 million ($13.75 million) to set up five academies to train students for the civil services examinations.
In an unexpected move, 36 leading Jain businessmen from India and abroad donated Rs.540 million ($13.75 million) to set up five academies to train students for the civil services examinations.
The donations - each amounting to Rs.15 million - were made following an appeal by Jain spiritual leader Munishri Nayapadam Sagarji Maharaj at the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) fair that opened here Thursday.
One of the JITO organisers, Girish Shah, told IANS the money collected would be utilised to set up five training academies to prepare students for the prestigious Indian Administrative Services (IAS).
Admissions will not be restricted only to Jains but deserving students from all sections of society shall be admitted, he added. The first such institute is already functional in New Delhi.
'The new academies shall be set up by July this year in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Indore and Chennai,' Shah said.
He said that usually Jain students, who are mostly into businesses, are not inclined towards government services.
'For those who are interested in serving the country and society, this will open an appropriate avenue,' he explained.
The JITO fair opened today with nearly 200,000 people in attendance at the sprawling NSE Exhibition Grounds in Goregaon in northwest Mumbai.
Dignitaries like the Sheikh of Dubai, IT wizard Sam Pitroda, union ministers Praful Patel and Sushilkumar Shinde, the chief ministers of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa, Shiv Sena executive president Udhav Thackeray and Dipak C. Jain, dean, Kellog School of Management, Chicago, US, will visit the fair over the next three days.
JITO president Hemant Shah said the three-day fair will give Jain businessmen and industrialists an opportunity to showcase their products and services to an estimated one million visitors from all over the world.
JITO vice-president Champalal Vardhan told IANS that 10,000 Jain delegates from 50 countries would take part in the international conference, which will be held during the fair.
An added attraction is the unique Jain Pavilion, which displays over 500 rare and ancient Jain artefacts from all over India.
In an unexpected move, 36 leading Jain businessmen from India and abroad donated Rs.540 million ($13.75 million) to set up five academies to train students for the civil services examinations.
The donations - each amounting to Rs.15 million - were made following an appeal by Jain spiritual leader Munishri Nayapadam Sagarji Maharaj at the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO) fair that opened here Thursday.
One of the JITO organisers, Girish Shah, told IANS the money collected would be utilised to set up five training academies to prepare students for the prestigious Indian Administrative Services (IAS).
Admissions will not be restricted only to Jains but deserving students from all sections of society shall be admitted, he added. The first such institute is already functional in New Delhi.
'The new academies shall be set up by July this year in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Indore and Chennai,' Shah said.
He said that usually Jain students, who are mostly into businesses, are not inclined towards government services.
'For those who are interested in serving the country and society, this will open an appropriate avenue,' he explained.
The JITO fair opened today with nearly 200,000 people in attendance at the sprawling NSE Exhibition Grounds in Goregaon in northwest Mumbai.
Dignitaries like the Sheikh of Dubai, IT wizard Sam Pitroda, union ministers Praful Patel and Sushilkumar Shinde, the chief ministers of Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa, Shiv Sena executive president Udhav Thackeray and Dipak C. Jain, dean, Kellog School of Management, Chicago, US, will visit the fair over the next three days.
JITO president Hemant Shah said the three-day fair will give Jain businessmen and industrialists an opportunity to showcase their products and services to an estimated one million visitors from all over the world.
JITO vice-president Champalal Vardhan told IANS that 10,000 Jain delegates from 50 countries would take part in the international conference, which will be held during the fair.
An added attraction is the unique Jain Pavilion, which displays over 500 rare and ancient Jain artefacts from all over India.
Jain meet in Mumbai attracts many
MUMBAI: A triple grand event of Jains from across the world is being held in Mumbai to deliberate on a wide range of issues relating to business and life.
The Jain pavilion at the event organised by Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO), a worldwide body of representing the community, is attracting huge crowds of Jains as well as non-Jains.
An 11-tonne Asthapa, that stands 12.5 feet high, is proving to be a major crowd puller at the pavilion. The Jain pavilion is displaying attractive collection of Jain iconography, miniatures and wall paintings from different periods in history together with exquisite Patts of the finest kind.
"The entire pavilion has been divided into two sections - sculptures and digital pictures. There are around 400 pictures of the Jain art right from the eighth century to the 11th century," Director of JITO and the organiser of the Jain Pavilion, Premal Kapadia, said.
According to Kapadia, the idols of all the 24 Jain Tirthankars, made from some of the rare gemstones are kept in the Ashtapad.
"A Jain temple is being built in New York and most likely even this will go there. Apart from that, a large number of idols presently kept at the Jain Pavilion will also be taken to New York," said Kapadia.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Jain Music Director on E-TV Marathi
The unique thing with Arvind that he conducts the one day workshop
called as NOTATION STATION and teaches to read, write the Sargam Notation system with very simple and interesting way to professionals and common musicins. Notation system helps musicians for perfection.
His workshops are appreciated by Music Dept of Mumbai University, Sangeet Kala Academy of Bombay Municipal Corporation, I.I.T. Bombay; Gandharva Sangeet Mahavidyalay, Pune; Catholic Churches in and around Mumbai;
also known personalities from film industry and many young singers and musicians.
Arvind is faliciated as SANGEET PRABHAVAK by Mumbai Jain Samaj and Dakshin Bharat Jain Sabha in hands of Shri Ravindraji Jain in 2004 at Birla Sabhagar, Mumbai.
He also conducts workshops on Devotional music.
Please watch him.
His contacts are 91 22 26823554 Cell: 91 09869620587
Modi and Singhal: Pro-Jains?
Junagadh, December 7 All India Sadhu Samaj president (Gujarat Chapter) Mahant Gopalanand has come down heavily on Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) president Ashok Singhal for his derogatory remarks on the sadhus of Gujarat, who have been tacitly campaigning against the Narendra Modi government.
Gopalanand said in a statement that while the VHP has been playing politics in the name of Hindutva, it has also misused the sadhus under the banner of Dharma Sansad and Hindu Jagaran.
He said the VHP under the leadership of Singhal, has mustered crores of rupees and gold bricks in the name of constructing a Ram temple at Ayodhya, but it never made the account public, and since it has failed to construct the temple, the VHP should be considered as an anti-national, anti-society and anti-religious organisation.
"Ashok Shinghal himself is a Jain and in spite of being a Jain, he is the leader of a Hindu religious organisation (VHP). He (Ashok Shinghal) never bothered about Jain sadhus," Gopalanand said in his statement.
He said though the foundation-laying ceremony of the ambitious Girnar ropeway project in Junagadh has been completed thrice, it could not get started, because of the opposition of the Jains to this project. "This is because Jains are against this project and, Singhal and Modi are pro-Jains," he said.
He said during the last five years, many sadhus, including several VHP office-bearers have been murdered, but none of the accused have been convicted or punished by law. "Why is the VHP not raising this issue of sadhus' murder under the BJP rule? There are number of slaughter houses functioning in Gujarat, but why is the VHP keeping quiet?" he said.
Gopalanand declared his support to Sarsa-based sadhu Avichaldas for the latter's announcement to start an agitation and mobilise sadhus from across Gujarat against Singhal. Gopalanand said the VHP is playing dirty politics in the name of Hindu Jagaran and looting the country and the religious people.
Gopalanand said in a statement that while the VHP has been playing politics in the name of Hindutva, it has also misused the sadhus under the banner of Dharma Sansad and Hindu Jagaran.
He said the VHP under the leadership of Singhal, has mustered crores of rupees and gold bricks in the name of constructing a Ram temple at Ayodhya, but it never made the account public, and since it has failed to construct the temple, the VHP should be considered as an anti-national, anti-society and anti-religious organisation.
"Ashok Shinghal himself is a Jain and in spite of being a Jain, he is the leader of a Hindu religious organisation (VHP). He (Ashok Shinghal) never bothered about Jain sadhus," Gopalanand said in his statement.
He said though the foundation-laying ceremony of the ambitious Girnar ropeway project in Junagadh has been completed thrice, it could not get started, because of the opposition of the Jains to this project. "This is because Jains are against this project and, Singhal and Modi are pro-Jains," he said.
He said during the last five years, many sadhus, including several VHP office-bearers have been murdered, but none of the accused have been convicted or punished by law. "Why is the VHP not raising this issue of sadhus' murder under the BJP rule? There are number of slaughter houses functioning in Gujarat, but why is the VHP keeping quiet?" he said.
Gopalanand declared his support to Sarsa-based sadhu Avichaldas for the latter's announcement to start an agitation and mobilise sadhus from across Gujarat against Singhal. Gopalanand said the VHP is playing dirty politics in the name of Hindu Jagaran and looting the country and the religious people.
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