JVB London - Report On Mahavir Jayanti Celebrations 2007 At Jain Ashram, Birmingham

On 22nd April 2007, Mahavir Jayanti was celebrated at the Jain Ashram in Birmingham. Mahavir Jayanti is one of the main festivals celebrated by Jains all over the world. They celebrate it by remembering Lord Mahavir in various ways and with full devotion.

We were privileged to have Samani Prasanna Pragyaji and Samani Manan Pragyaji from Jain Vishwa Bharati, London on this auspicious occasion. A welcome speech was given by Mr. Arvinder Jain (Secretary of Jain Ashram organisation). Over 70 people participated enthusiastically at this function - which included Gujarati, Punjabi Jain families across the Midlands and even some non-Jains.

The program started with the recitation of the Namokar Mantra. This was followed by many Bhakti songs, which made the whole atmosphere of the Jain ashram very devout. Samani Manan Pragyaji sang a melodious song related to Janam Jayanti of Lord Mahavir.

Samani Prasanna Pragyaji addressed the audience about the relevance of Mahavir Jayanti and why people celebrate it which in turn led to interactive discussions with the people present.

The lecture was based around the teachings of what Lord Mahavir had set-out:

1. Putting a limit on the attachment of possessions - not to get into the habit of accumulating possessions by wrong-doings for financial gains. Since non-possession is not possible in the complete-sense for the house-holder but unnecessary attachment to belongings and their collection should be controlled
2. Furthermore putting a limit on consumption of individual items – like use of silk, leather, perfumes, cosmetics etc. as the manufacturing process of these involves violence and cruelty of other living beings
3. Living a life of unity, harmony and friendliness - there should be no disagreement between religions, groups and families. We should learn to co-exist not only with different natures but even in conflicting natures (Trying to lead a life on the path of the principle of Anekantvada: recognizing multiplicity of viewpoints and having the patience and tolerance to accept them)

The program ended with everyone chanting the Aarti and having refreshments.