The 23rd Biennial JAINA Convention held from July 3-6, 2025, in Schaumburg, Illinois, epitomized a global gathering of the Jain community, focusing on spirituality, culture, and unity with more than 5,000 participants from around the world.
The 23rd Biennial JAINA Convention, hosted by the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) in collaboration with the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC), took place at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Schaumburg, Illinois. From July 3 to July 6, 2025, the convention gathered delegates from 72 Jain Centers across the U.S. and Canada, alongside attendees from 10 other countries including India, the UK, Germany, Oman, Dubai, and Kenya. Celebrated under the theme “Unity in Diversity: A Path to Peace,” this event highlighted Jain principles such as Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantvad (multiple viewpoints), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
The convention commenced on July 3 with registration and a memorable Temple Dwar Opening Ceremony,
featuring Ashtapad—a unique creation showcasing 24 Tirthankaras—with sacred rituals and chants embracing the essence of Jainism. This was followed by the Exhibition Inauguration Ceremony displaying art, literature, and artifacts that emphasized the rich cultural heritage of Jainism.
A grand cultural procession in the South Parking area added to the vibrancy, with decorated vehicles and traditional dances performing under the banner of an overhead airplane marking the convention’s presence. The evening’s Opening Ceremony combined spirituality and artistry, welcoming delegates with blessings from renowned Jain spiritual leaders like Pujya Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muniji. A memorable performance of the Broadway-style production Sthulibhadra & Kosha—Nritya Natika, portraying Jain stories of love and renunciation, captivated the audience.
Day two on July 4 began with calming yoga and meditation sessions, led by Samani Dr. Pratibha Pragyaji and Samani Punya Pragyaji, fostering inner peace among attendees. The day’s events included stirring speeches by JAINA President Bindesh Shah and JSMC President Pragnesh Shah, followed by a keynote by Pujya Dr. Gyanvatsal Swamiji on spiritual resilience. A variety of sessions included “મૈત્રીવાદ નો શંખવાદ” by Dr. Tej Sahebji and “The Most Urgent Act of True Ahimsa: What We Eat” by Dr. Faraz Harsini advocating for veganism.
The afternoon’s program included discussions on parenting within Jain principles led by Seema Jain, and a Women
Empowerment Forum featuring Judge Neera Bahl among others. Keynote presentations and sessions explored diverse themes such as ecological crises and crisis care, enriching attendees with knowledge and inspiration. A blood drive that started on this day exemplified Jainism’s commitment to compassion, potentially impacting 276 lives.
July 5, day three, saw a session with Jessica Cox, the world’s first licensed armless pilot, whose life story inspired many. Distinguished speaker Saman Shrut Pragyaji shared insights on living with compassion. The JAINA Awards recognized outstanding contributions within the community, awarding the prestigious JAINA Ratna to past president Mahesh Wadher of California.
Attendees gained perspectives from sessions such as Digital Karma by Pinkesh Shah, exploring AI’s ethical dimensions, alongside unity and diversity topics. The evening culminated with cultural performances and a keynote by Bollywood icon Sonu Sood emphasizing charitable actions.
On the final day, July 6, meditation set a serene start to the day, with a closing ceremony that featured musical prodigy Sparsh Shah’s inspiring keynote, galvanizing attendees to embrace purpose and compassion in their lives. Conveners and JAINA leaders expressed gratitude to the volunteers, sponsors, and committees who ensured the convention’s success, highlighting crucial support roles such as that of the food committee led by Hitesh Shah and the transportation team.
JAINA, founded in 1981, connects over 200,000 members through its educational and humanitarian initiatives. Its reach and influence are further endorsed by USAID certification and UN Special Consultative Status. The event’s success reinforced the legacy of unity and collaboration within the Jain community. For more information, visit the original source.
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