Jains Celebrate Mahavir Jayanti At NY Consulate
India-West Staff Reporter
NEW YORK, NY – The Consulate General of India, NY and International Ahimsa Foundation Inc. in partnership with the Jain International Trade Org – USA, and the Federation of Jain Associations in North America, hosted Mahavir Jayanti, Lord Mahavir’s 2621st birth anniversary celebrations on May 20, at the Consulate General of India. The event also celebrated India’s yearlong initiative: Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, a press release said.
The program, attended by about 200 people saw Deputy Consul General Dr. Varun Jeph as a Keynote Speaker. Former Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney also emphasized the importance of “Live and Let Live.” Several other elected officials sent their representatives to the event.
The guest speakers were Samniji Nirdeshika Kamal Pragya and Samniji Karuna Pragya. Their profound insights and teachings on non-violence were appreciated by all in the audience.
Dr. Neeta Jain, Founder and President of International Ahimsa stressed the need for teaching children the 5 Jain principles to make the world a better place.
The organization recognized four individuals with the “Ahimsa Award” for their extraordinary contributions to society – Dr. Ashok Shaha, Chair Head and Neck Surgery/Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; Arvind Vora (Chair, JAINA Interfaith Committee & Shanti Fund of Long Island; Sweta Jain, Founder and President, Goshwara, Luxury Designer Jewelry; and Kavita Bafana Cofounder, Little Ustaads Music & Namaste Book Series.
The event was emceed by Aditi Lamba. A skit was acted by young Jains on “Color of Thoughts and their impact” directed by Surbhi Pandya. Two mesmerizing performances were presented on “Mahavir Sa Mujko Banjana Hain” and “Garaj Garaj Aaj Megha” by Little Ustad Arts.
