On Jinshashan Establishment Day, May 8, the Jain community resolved to elect representatives in the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections who prioritise compassion, environmental protection, and animal welfare. The BMC elections are expected to take place this year after a gap of more than three years.
Vaisakh Sud Ekadashi day was when Lord Mahavira’s teachings established a reign of righteousness, compassion, and truth that will endure for 21,000 years, Jains believe. This is not just a historical event; it reminds us of our duty to create a similar governance in our lives, society, and nation where kindness, justice, and peace prevail for all living beings, said Girish Shah, managing trustee, Samasth Mahajan.
In a message, the community said they will strive for welfare governance based on the principles of Jinshashan in all states and across India. They hoped to spread the message of global welfare with the mantra ‘May all beings be happy’ (Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah).
According to Jain scriptures, Lord Mahavira attained Kevalya Gyan or omniscience on that day. However, his first sermon went unheard. On Vaisakh Sud Ekadashi, he established the Chaturvidh Sangh, the four-fold order consisting of sadhus, sadhvis, shravakas (laymen), and shravikas (laywomen). As gratitude to the Lord for gifting Jinshashan, Jains lit lamps, prepared sweets, and prayed for positivity and sweetness in life.
