More than 250 people attended the function including various representatives from the Birmingham Council of Faiths, Arya Samaj, Vegan group, Braham Kumari, Friends of the earth, Young Jain of West Midlands and other Jain from up and down the country.
The event was very successful, with a lots of involvement from young and old Jain to spread the message of Lord Mahavir to Jain/non Jain. Various dignitaries were also presented by Arvinder Jain with a Mahavir Award for spreading the message of non violence.
Arvinder Jain President of International Mahavir Jain Mission Birmingham, highlighted the relevance of Mahavir Jain teachings and suggested that it is as relevant today as it was 2610 years ago. The need for compassion (KARUNA), non violence (AHIMSA), multi views (ANEKANTVADA) non possessions (APARIGRAHA), and not to misuse nature, there fore protecting the environment and natural resources so they can be preserved for future generations. It is one of the key teachings of Jainism for more people to limit their needs and desires, than fewer demands placed on the environment. The world conflicts today can also be resolved peacefully, by following a simple philosophy of Lord Mahavir.
The key dignitaries’ were:
The High Commissioner of India representative: Mr Kartar. Singh,
The Founder President of young Indian Vegetarians: Nitin Mehta OBE
Young Jains Of West Midlands including international Jain students acted brilliantly on a skit written by Samaniji, deciple of Acharya Mahapragya ji, trained by Archana Jain. I am grateful to Acharya Shree. The court scene was set in Lord Mahavir’s time. This helped make clear the teaching of Lord Mahavir to Jain and all non Jain present. For more details see our recently launched website: http://www.jainashram.org.uk/