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| Samani Prasanna Pragya | Samani Vikas Pragya |
Like all the major religions of the world Jainism recognises the inevitable pressures of 24/7 material lifestyle. Majority of the Jains find it difficult to devote sufficient time for their spiritual activity. Jain sages therefore set aside few days (8 to 10 days) annually as per Jain calendar for laypersons to participate in the festival of Paryushana.
Samanijis at Jain Vishva Bharati London believe that for a Jain to obtain the full benefit of participating during Paryushana Mahaparva it is important to understand the meaning of this religious event. It is also important to plan and prepare for this mahaparva.
During Paryushana Jains visit temples, recite mantras, read scriptures, practice penances, perform pratikramanas, meditate, attend discourses and participate in other religious activities. However, these activities are a means to an end and not every follower is aware of their ultimate goal.
The Sanskrit word Paryushana has three different meanings but all are interconnected. Firstly, it relates to staying closer to the soul. Secondly, it deals with shedding of karmas. Thirdly, it is about controlling passions and practicing forgiveness.
During her lecture which was delivered with a power point presentation, Samani Prasanna Pragya stated that Paryushana offers Jain community an opportunity to:
- elevate to higher spiritual level
- renew this quality
- reshape lives
- fulfil relationships
- create an environment for global peace and understanding
During this auspicious time Samani Prasanna Pragya urged the audience to raise the bar with full enthusiasm and awareness. An acronym SMART was given to the new goals:
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Realistic
T - Time bound
Samaniji urged the audience to pursue these goals with the aid of Five D’s:
- Direction
- Dedication
- Determination
- Discipline
- Deadline
Before the conclusion of her talk, Samani Prasanna Pragya reiterated that forgiveness is at the heart of the festival of Paryushana and during the eight days it prepares shravaka and shravika on the importance of seeking forgiveness.
As a corollary, excerpts from a documentary titled “SHADOW” were shown to the audience. This documentary dealt with transforming negative emotions to positive emotions.
At the start of the programme Mr Ashokbhai Gudka welcomed the audience on behalf of JVB London at the London Academy, Edgware, Northwest London. Samani Vikas Pragya conducted a meditation session and sang few hymns in her melodious voice. Before the conclusion of the programme Ms Pooja Jain and Mr Saggar Malde both spoke to the audience about the Paryushana programme to be held at London Academy from 26th August to 2nd September 2011. Mr Dinesh Shah gave a vote of thanks. The programme was concluded by the recitation of Mangal Path by the Samanijis.