Mahesh Wadher Honored With JAINA Ratna Award In Chicago

India-West Staff Reporter

CHICAGO, IL –In a ceremony held on July 5 at the biennial JAINA Convention here, Mahesh Wadher of SoCal was presented with the JAINA Ratna Award. This accolade, bestowed every two years, recognizes an individual from North America for their exceptional contributions to the Jain community and humanity.

Wadher, celebrated as a visionary leader, has profoundly impacted the Jain community through his extensive work with JAINA (Federation of Jain Associations in North America) and JCSC (Jain Center of Southern California). His philanthropic endeavors, coupled with his unwavering passion and service, have significantly advanced education, health, and social welfare initiatives.

Wadher has contributed to the Jain community through his work with JAINA (Federation of Jain Associations in North America) and JCSC (Jain Center of Southern California). His philanthropic efforts supported education, health, and social welfare initiatives.

Wadher, who grew up without access to traditional Jain temples, engaged with his heritage by becoming a leading light through service for his community. As JAINA President, he initiated the Vaiyavach Committee and the JAINA India Foundation. These efforts expanded the organization’s reach in both the US and India.

His contributions include organizing conventions and leading fundraising efforts during the pandemic. He has supported Jain studies at universities.  Wadher’s work has also involved the upliftment of underprivileged families and the fostering of interfaith harmony. He serves as a Trustee of the Shrimad Rajchandra Dharampur Mission, USA.

 A distinguished panel including JAINA President Bindesh Shah, JAINA First Vice President Atul Shah, and Dr. Kokila Doshi, Chair of the JAINA Awards Committee presented the award.