COMMUNITY

JAINA's 23rd biennial convention to be held from July 3-6, 2025

Thursday, 27 Feb, 2025
Shri Abhay Firodia, Dr. Gyanvatsal Swami, Jessica Cox, Sagar Seth (Photos provided by JAINA)

The theme is 'Unity in diversity: A path to peace' 

Chicago: The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), representing 72 Jain Centers across the United States and Canada, has announced its 23rd biennial Convention in collaboration with the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC). This significant event, scheduled to take place from July 3rd to July 6th, 2025, here is expected to bring together about 5,000 community members from around the world to foster spiritual growth and unity. 

The JAINA Convention is held bi-annually and is essential for spiritual development, community engagement, and cultural exchange. It aims to unite Jains and non-Jains across North America and beyond, celebrating the richness of Jain heritage and diverse traditions. Participants can engage in spiritual discourses, attend insightful lectures, participate in interactive workshops, and enjoy inspiring keynote presentations from distinguished speakers. Light entertainment will also enhance the overall experience and promote a sense of connection among attendees. 

Atul Shah, JAINA's first Vice President and Convention Convenor, along with Co-Convenors Vipul Shah and Jignesh Jain, have reported that over 4,500 individuals registered shortly after the launch of registration, with expectations to exceed 5,000 participants. Dedicated volunteer teams are diligently working to ensure a well-organized Convention for all attendees. The event will feature several motivational speakers and distinguished social reformers, including Shri Abhay Firodia, Chairman of Force Motors and Jaya Hind Industries, who will speak on philanthropy, Dr. Gyanvatsal Swami from Akshardham, who will address spirituality; Jessica Cox, the world's first licensed armless aviator, who will provide an inspirational perspective, and Sagar Seth, who will inspire the youth. 

The theme for the JAINA Convention 2025, inspired by the profound Jain saying "_Parasparopagraho Jīvānām_," warmly reflects our commitment to inclusivity with the guiding principle of "Unity in Diversity: A Path to Peace."  

Each day features motivational speeches by inspirational speakers, insightful lectures from renowned Jain scholars on topics like philosophy, health, and sustainability, and cultural performances showcasing Jain heritage. Among Jain Scholars and dignitaries, Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni of Ahimsha Viswa Bharti, New Delhi, Saman Shrutprajna ji of Peace of Mind Foundation, Rajkot, Dr. Devendrakeerti Bhattaraka Swamiji of Belur, Karnataka, H.H. Sadhvi Shilapiji and Sadhvi Sanghamitraji of Veerayatan, Samani Prathibha Pragya ji, Samani Punya Pragya ji, Samani Aarjav Pragya and, Samani Swati Pragya a disciples of Acharya Mahashraman are attending the convention.  

In addition, there will be exhibitions showcasing Jain literature, art, and artifacts, providing a meaningful glimpse into our rich heritage. Don’t miss the marketplace, where you can find products embody Jain values and reflect our commitment to compassion and mindfulness. 

Manish & Shailja Gandhi, Dr. Chandra Varia, the Jagdish & Renuka Mehta family as Mahasanghpati, and Dr. Parag & Dulari Doshi, Vasant & Charulata Shah, and Atul & Dharmi Shah, as Sanghpati of the JAINA Convention 2025, invite the global Jain community to join and engage in an event centered on Jain philosophy and community bonds. 

For more details and registration, visit: www.jainaconvention.org.