Jain Heritage And Beyond

The book "Jain Heritage and Beyond" by Shailesh Shah, published by the Oshwal Association of the UK, is a commemorative souvenir marking the Pratishtha Mahotsav (consecration festival) of the first Shikharbandhi Jain Derasar (temple with spires) in Europe, located at the Oshwal Centre in Northaw, Hertfordshire.

The souvenir serves as a comprehensive record of this significant achievement for the Jain community, particularly the Oshwal community in the UK. It details the journey from the initial vision to the realization of the temple, highlighting the dedication, hard work, and community effort involved.

Key aspects covered in the souvenir include:

• Messages from key figures: The book features messages from the President of the Oshwal Association of the UK, the Derasar Project Chairman, Joint Convenors of the Pratishtha Mahotsav, the Souvenir Editor, and esteemed Jain spiritual leaders like Pujya Shree Chitrabhanuji. These messages express gratitude, pride, and the spiritual significance of the temple.
• History of the Oshwals: It provides a brief history of the Oshwal community, tracing their origins in North India and their migration through various parts of India before settling in East Africa and eventually the UK. It emphasizes their qualities of hard work, thrift, and community spirit.
• The Derasar Project: The construction of the temple is extensively documented, including:
  • Key ceremonies: Details of the Bhoomi Poojan (groundbreaking ceremony), Khanan Vidhi (groundbreaking ritual), Shilanyas (foundation laying ceremony), Anjanshalaka (applying collyrium to idol eyes), and the Pratishtha Mahotsav itself.
  • Architectural and construction details: Information about the design principles, materials used (pink sandstone and Indian marble), the craftsmanship involved, and the specific dimensions and features of the temple, such as the Shikharas, Ghummat, and intricate carvings. The fact that no steel was used in its construction is highlighted.
  • Funding schemes: An overview of the various fundraising initiatives that were undertaken to support the project, demonstrating the community's active participation.
• Jain Philosophy and Principles: The book delves into fundamental Jain concepts, explaining:
  • The Jain Symbol: The meaning behind each element of the Jain symbol, representing the universe, Ahimsa (non-violence), the four noble truths, the three jewels (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct), and the abode of liberated souls (Siddhashila).
  • The Three Jewels: Detailed explanations of Samyak Darshan (Right Faith), Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct) as the path to liberation.
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): The paramount importance of non-violence in Jainism, encompassing awareness, harmony, integration, nobility, service, and abstinence, and its relevance in modern times.
  • The Tirthankaras: Biographies of the 24 Tirthankaras, focusing on the first Tirthankar Lord Adinathji, the 23rd Tirthankar Lord Parshwanathji, and the 24th Tirthankar Lord Mahavirswami, including significant events from their lives and teachings.
  • Yakshas and Yakshinis: The role of these guardian deities in Jainism, with specific mentions of Padmavati Mata and Manibhadra Veer Dada.
  • Jain Festivals and Celebrations: Descriptions of important Jain festivals like Paryushan Mahaparva, Navpad Oli, Mahavir Janm Kalyanaka, Diwali, and others, along with the associated rituals and their spiritual significance.
  • The Way of Going to the Temple: A guide to the proper etiquette and procedures to follow when visiting a Jain temple, including the significance of Nissihi, Pradakshina, Puja, and contemplation.
  • The Navkar Mantra: An explanation of the most important mantra in Jainism, its meaning, and its significance in bowing to the Panch Parmesthi (five supreme spiritual entities).
  • Jain Pilgrim Centres: Descriptions of renowned Jain pilgrimage sites in India, such as Shatrunjay (Palitana), Girnar, Delvada (Abu), Ranakpur, Jaisalmer, Sametshikhara, Pavapuri, and Kshatriyakunda, highlighting their historical and religious importance.
  • The Relevance of Mahavir's Values: An exploration of how the teachings of Lord Mahavir, such as Ahimsa, Aparigraha (non-attachment), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism), remain highly relevant in contemporary society.
  • Gandhi and Jainism: A discussion on the influence of Jain principles on Mahatma Gandhi's life and philosophy.
  • Temples for Life: The concept of temples as living shrines of Jain values, emphasizing their role in uniting nature and spirit, and their outreach to the community.
  • Identification of Dharma: An examination of the meaning and characteristics of Dharma (religion) in the Jain context, emphasizing Ahimsa, self-restraint, and penance.

The souvenir is richly illustrated with photographs of the temple construction, ceremonies, and various deities, making it a valuable historical and spiritual document for the Jain community. It reflects the successful culmination of a dream project and serves as a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of the Oshwal Association of the UK.