|
|
|
|
Dear Sadharmiks,
Jai Jinendra! Pranam!
I am pleased to share an article in the latest edition of Jain Digest in which Payal Seth explores the inspiring journey of Vikas Khanna, a celebrated Michelin-starred chef, and highlights how his culinary talent and philanthropic efforts have touched many lives, emphasizing the profound impact an individual can have on the lives of others and inspiring readers to make the world better through selfless acts.
JAINA Women's Committee is pleased to invite you for a virtual gathering on 28th October at 4 pm EST where the discussion will delve into the significance of S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education. It will be led by Yogita Shah, a distinguished NASA scientist who played a pivotal role as a lead engineer in the Mars Mission 2020. More information is provided below.
I am delighted to announce the inauguration of the temple at the Jain Center of Greater Sacramento (JCGS) and the splendid celebration of the "Panchanika Pratishtha Mahotsav," which took place from October 12th to 16th, 2023. This five-day event brought together over 700 guests, including local community members and Sangh members from across the USA. This significant milestone marks the realization of a long-held dream for the Greater Sacramento area's Jain community. Please check the captivating pictures and video of this auspicious event below.
On August 27, 2023, the Jain Center of New Jersey (JCNJ) organized its first Gujarati language Shibir for kids aged 7 to 18 in Franklin Township, NJ, with over 50 participants. The event included oratory, singing, essay competitions, and traditional Gujarati games. JCNJ also offers both in-person and virtual Gujarati Pathshala sessions twice a month for kids aged 5 to 18, which are accessible worldwide. Please check the details for more information.
Two weeks ago, we highlighted an article about the historic achievement of the first-ever Vardhaman Tap Oli's completion in the USA by Dr. Jyoti Gandhi. As her Parna Function is set to take place on October 29th at the Jain Temple of New York, I am delighted to present the remarkable life journey of Dr. Jyoti Gandhi in both Gujarati and English. Once more, I extend my heartfelt Anumodana to the dedicated Tapasvi and salute her unwavering perseverance.
In another remarkable first, Mumukshus Tanyaben and Karanbhai Shah will be honored by the Jain Society of Greater Detroit through a Royal Bahuman Ceremony scheduled for October 29th. This represents yet another historic achievement for the Jain community in the USA, as both Mumukshus were born here. Please refer to the invitation below for further details.
A vast 45,000 square-foot temple complex is underway near Ahmedabad at Dholka, designed to house four distinct Jain sects and include an Aradhana Bhavan, Jain Upashray, Sthanak Bhavan, Digambar Bhavan, and Terapanth Bhavan. This monumental project, with an estimated cost of Rs 100 Crore, aims to offer accommodations for 1024 Sadhus and Sadhvijis. Donations and sponsorships for various components are being encouraged to support this spiritual endeavor, which promises to become a significant pilgrimage site and cultural landmark in the region. Please check below for more details.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Nitin Shah, a distinguished member of our JAINA family, for his well-deserved recognition. He has been honored for his unwavering commitment to providing dedicated healthcare services by the Lestonnac Free Clinic, an organization that offers free healthcare services to low-income and uninsured residents in Southern California, thanks to the support of compassionate volunteers and donors.
Please check the most recent YJA newsletter, where you'll find a captivating article centered on Navpad Oli. Additionally, there's a link to a recorded session featuring Param Samyaktaji Mahasatiji, discussing how this spiritual practice can transform the mind, body, and soul.
I want to draw your attention again to the Jain Book Recycling project. This initiative aims to manage the disposal of unused Jain literature responsibly, ensuring it is handled without causing any Ashatana (disrespect). Please review the details below on submitting your surplus or unused Jain books.
Sincerely and respectfully,
Haresh Shah,
JAINA President
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jain Digest October 2023
Vikas Khanna: A Culinary Maestro with a Compassionate Heart By Payal Seth
Vikas Khanna, a restaurateur, Michelin-starred chef, and cookbook author, is not only celebrated for his culinary expertise but also for his extraordinary acts of compassion and philanthropy. Born in Amritsar, India, Khanna's journey from a small kitchen in his grandmother's home to the global culinary stage is remarkable.
In this article, Payal Seth delves into the heartwarming and compassionate acts of Vikas Khanna. She says, “Through his culinary prowess and philanthropic initiatives, Khanna has touched countless lives, reminding us of the profound impact a single individual can make in the lives of others. As we witness his compassionate acts, let us be inspired to look beyond ourselves and make the world a better place, one selfless act at a time.”
To learn more about this remarkable living legend, go to:
read the full article
To read the full October 2023 Jain Digest, go to:
Jain Digest October 2023
|
|
|
|
JAINA WOMEN'S COMMITTEE conference: IMPORTANCE OF S.T.E.M. EDUCATION
The JAINA women's committee enthusiastically presents a conference on the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) studies. As the world undergoes rapid transformations, it is important that we all understand the implications of these changes for us and our society. STEM education is crucial for the younger generation and the parents to understand. Tremendous avenues of opportunities are available for the future.
We will have an exciting educational conference on “Unleashing the power of STEM, Inspiring the innovators of tomorrow.”
Our speaker is Yogita Shah, avionics domain lead at NASA.
She was the lead engineer in Mars Mission 2020.
She will talk about various fields of STEM Education.
The conference Day - Saturday, OCTOBER 28th, 2023.
Time - 4:00 PM—6:00 PM EST
|
|
|
|
Jain Centers Latest News
"Panchanika Pratishtha Mahotsav" @ Jain Center of Greater Sacramento
With Prabhu Krupa and with the blessings of Gachchadhipati Acharyadev Pujyapad Shrimad Vijay Rajyashsurishwarji Maharaj Saheb and Acharya Shri Vitragyashsurishwarji Maharaj Saheb, the “Panchanika Pratishtha Mahotsav” at the Jain Center of Greater Sacramento (JCGS) was indeed a remarkable journey that transcended all the expectations, leaving behind a trail of sheer joy and spiritual enlightenment.
JCGS has now become a prominent place of worship for the entire Sangh and visiting guests. This transformation took place from October 12th to 16th of 2023 during the five-day celebration of the Pratishtha Mahotsav of Mul-Nayak Parmatma Prabhu Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath, Sahnayak Prabhu Shri Adinath Swami and Prabhu Shri Mahavir Swami along with 24 Tirthankar's murtis in the bhamti as well as Dev Devi and Gandharas.
Such an indelible, blissful, and spectacular celebration and experience would not have been possible without the esteemed presence of Vidhikar, Guruji Narendrabhai Koradia, Sangeetkar, Shri Anilbhai Gemawat, his daughter Pooja Gemawat and the complete musician team of Shri Kirit Bavishi (Kunal Bavishi, Harshil Shah, and Maulik Bavishi) from SF Bay Area. The Vidhikar and entire music team created a deeply spiritual atmosphere filled with divinity through daily puja- mantras, Bhakti-Bhavna, Varghoda (procession), and Uchchamani (boli).
The JCGS community witnessed the participation of more than 700 guests (local and Sangh members from all over the USA). The entire temple and surroundings reached the pinnacle of religious fervor. Every corner of the JCGS Derasar was fully packed and graced by the presence of Shravaks-Shravikas from JCGS Sangh, JCNC (Jain Center of Northern California) Sangh and its executives, as well as members from various USA Sanghs. The Seniors Mixer Group of JCNC, led by Kirit Bavishi and Nitin Shah, also arrived with full enthusiasm in a bus to witness such once-in-a-lifetime Pratishtha Mahotsav.
One of the proudest and happiest memories that the JCGS Sangh will never forget was seeing the many tears of joy and a sense of accomplishment across our entire Jain family at our Derasar during the final Pratishtha. That moment will be engraved in our hearts and souls forever. From the captivating rituals that enlivened the blissful atmosphere to the profound discourses that touched the hearts of all attendees, each moment during the Panchanika Mahotsav, was a testament to the power of the collective devotion and unwavering faith of the entire JCGS Sangh. It is indeed one of the significant milestones and a dream of many that has come true for the community in the Greater Sacramento area.
It was not just the inauguration of a temple; it was weaving stronger bonds within and outside our community, strengthening our spiritual connections, and embracing our cultural heritage. JCGS feels truly blessed to have such a dedicated and loving group of individuals as part of their family. Their support, blessings, and well-wishes have been a source of immense inspiration for us. JCGS extends heartfelt thanks to everyone for being a part of this special occasion and for your unwavering support and guidance.
Please check the captivating pictures and video of this auspicious event that set a new milestone in the history of JCGS
JCNJ Organizes In-Person Cum Virtual Pathshala To Teach the Gujarati Language
On August 27, 2023, Jain Center of New Jersey (JCNJ) organized for the first time a Gujarati language Shibir for kids aged 7 to 18 at Munisuvratswami Jinalay, Franklin Township, NJ. More than 50 kids registered and participated enthusiastically during the full-day event. Many kids partook in Oratory (વકતૃત્વ), singing, and essay competition in Gujarati language and show their talent. Many indoor and outdoor games, which are prevalent in Gujarat, were also organized, and kids loved playing those games. JCNJ thanks all the sponsors and volunteers for arranging this Shibir.
JCNJ organizes in-person and virtual (can be attended from any corner of the world) Gujarati Pathshala twice a month for basic Gujarati language for kids aged 5 to 18.
Below please find the link for the photo-video collage and the feedback on Shibir, and a link for the Gujarati Pathshala Registration.
Gujarati Shibir photo/videos: https://youtu.be/qNEG_J8BuzA?feature=shared
Gujarati Shibir Feedback: https://youtu.be/at8FxE3T0II?feature=shared
Gujarati Pathshala (in-person and virtual) Registration link: https://tinyurl.com/GujNJ23
|
|
|
|
Inspirational Life Journey of Dr. Jyoti Gandhi, who completes first-ever Vardhaman Tap Oli in the USA.
|
Two weeks ago, we featured an article highlighting the historic achievement of Dr. Jyoti Gandhi in completing the first-ever Vardhaman Tap Oli in the USA. This remarkable journey encompasses 100 fasts and 5050 Ayambil rituals spanning nearly 36 years. Dr. Gandhi, a distinguished JAINA Ratna Awardee from JCA, has also served as Vice President and President of the Jain Center of America, New York.
As we eagerly approach her Parna Function scheduled for October 29th at the Jain Temple of New York, we are thrilled to share the inspiring life journey of Dr. Jyoti Gandhi in both Gujarati and English. Once again, I extend my heartfelt Anumodana to this dedicated Tapasvi and salute her unwavering perseverance.
The Jain Temple of New York Sangh warmly invites all of you to join us in celebrating this significant milestone during the Parna Function. For additional information, please refer to the attached flyer.
|
|
|
|
Invitation to Diksha Bahuman Ceremony for Young Mumukshus born in the USA
The Jain Society of Greater Detroit would like to invite the Sakal Shri Sangh to the Diksha Bahuman ceremony of Mumukshus Tanyaben and Karanbhai Shah, which will be held on October 29th at our temple. It is indeed a moment of excitement as these two great souls will be gracing their Sangh with their presence.
Please encourage your kids and Pathshala students to attend the event either in person or virtually.
The schedule will be as follows:
- Date: Sunday, October 29th
- Varshidan Procession: 9:30 AM
- Bahuman Ceremony: 11:00AM
- Diksharthi Speeches: 12:30 PM
- Sangh Swamivatsalya: 1:30PM
If you plan to attend in person, RSVP at the link below. If you cannot come in person, we can watch the Bahuman Ceremony and Diksharthi speeches on the livestream. For any questions, please reach out to Rishi Zaveri (+12484702304).
RSVP (for in-person attendance): https://forms.gle/NXex4uBcqg62q6oK6
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/@JainSocietyofGreaterDetroit
|
|
|
|
Shree Sahastrakoot Jinalay Mahatirth, Dholka – A Grand Temple Complex Planned Near Ahmedabad to House Multiple Sects
A sprawling temple complex of grand proportions is set to grace in Dholka. Spanning an impressive 45,000 square feet, this magnificent development will serve as a spiritual haven for devotees and house dwellings for four different sects of Jainism.
The ambitious project will encompass various key components, including the Aradhana Bhavan, Jain Upashray, Sthanak Bhavan, Digambar Bhavan, and Terapanth Bhavan, all designed to cater to the spiritual needs of the Jain community.
One of the standout features of this remarkable temple complex is its capacity to accommodate a significant number of Sadhus and Sadhvijis. With a total of 500 rooms, the complex will comfortably house 1024 spiritual leaders, fostering an environment for deep meditation and devotion.
The entire project is slated to cost approximately Rs 100 Crore, reflecting the magnitude and grandeur of the endeavor.
By checking out the videos and flyers provided, interested parties will have the opportunity to participate in various sponsorships for components such as Pratima Bharai, Pratishtha, and more. This initiative serves as an excellent opportunity for devotees to be part of a historic and spiritually enriching project that will undoubtedly become a symbol of faith and unity.
As the construction progresses, this grand temple complex is expected to become a significant pilgrimage site for devotees from far and wide, enriching the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.
|
|
|
|
Dr Nitin Shah honored with the “Acta Non Verba” Award from Lestonnac Free Clinic
|
|
|
|
YJA Update
Jains across the world are currently celebrating Navpad Oli. During Navpad Oli, Jains worship the Navpadji - the 9 supreme entities of the universe - and perform Ayambil Tap.
Learn more about the benefits of completing an Ayambil and how it transforms the mind, body, and soul by watching the recording of our Spring Swadhyay session with Param Samyaktaji Mahasatiji.
To learn about more ways to practice Navpad Oli, reflect on Jain principles, and lead each day with the right Bhav (intention), check out the article below!
Want to learn more about Navpad Oli? Visit yja.org/navpadoli for more information!
|
|
|
|
“JAIN BOOK RECYCLE PROJECT” BY JAINA EDUCATION COMMITTEE
|
|
We are delighted to introduce the "Jain Book Recycle Project" initiated by the JAINA Education Committee. This meaningful effort is dedicated to the responsible redistribution of Jain literature that you may no longer require. By sending your unused Jain books to the provided address, you can help ensure these valuable resources find new and appreciative readers who will benefit greatly from them. For comprehensive project details, shipping guidelines, and operational procedures, please refer to the information provided below. Your contribution has the potential to create a profound impact!
To know about the shipping address, please contact
Virendra Shah – jcflag@yahoo.com - 310-218-7979,
Pravin K Shah – jainaedu@gmail.com - 919-859-4994
and
Raj Salecha – contact@jainelibrary.org - 401-400-2030,
and to access the complete project details, kindly click here.
To quickly connect and participate in this endeavor, you can utilize the QR codes provided below. Your support in this project is greatly appreciated and will undoubtedly make a difference.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
