USA Paryushan Mahaparva 2023 The much-awaited Paryushan Mahaparva at New Jersey, graced by the presence of Pujya Gurudevshri, commenced on August 13, elevating devotees from all over the globe through pravachans, meditations, celebrations, the first ever Atmarpit Diksha on American soil, amongst several other modes of connection! On the day prior to the commencement of the Paryushan Mahaparva, Pujya Gurudevshri touched the hearts of Ritesh-Krupali Punamiya, Trushang-Aarti Desai, Mihir-Ami Shah, Rishabh-Barkha Ajmera and Neel-Hiral Sarvaiya through enthralling pratishthas. He also blessed seekers with tapascharya parna. Satiating Snatra Puja Each morning dawned with a vibrant energy, as participants engaged in the uplifting Snatra Puja, paying homage to purifying events like Chyavan and Janma Kalyanak of Tirthankar Bhagwan. Amidst an atmosphere of joyfulness, devotees partook in pakshal, pujan and dances, deepening their connection with the Lord. Pulsating Pravachans Pujya Gurudevshri’s discourses unearthed the hidden treasures within the profound words of Shrimad Rajchandra Vachanamrut Patrank 505. Through eight enlightening pravachans, elucidating on the supremely peaceful and blissful religion expounded by the Dispassionate Ones, the aspirants were privileged to receive a deeper understanding of spiritual truths, guiding them towards greater self-awareness and inner growth. Pujya Gurudevshri’s exposition of this sacred Patra, overflowing with His wisdom and wit, ignited a spiritual spark within the seekers, inspiring them to absorb, reflect and integrate these teachings into their lives. Stimulating Sessions While the mornings resonated with the profound wisdom of the Master, afternoons featured insightful sessions by the Mission’s Swadhyaykars. Atmarpit Kothariji illuminated devotion’s core in ‘Hey Prabhu! Hey Prabhu!’, showcasing the importance of catching our weaknesses and how surrender to the compassionate Master helps us eradicate them. Atmarpit Nemiji explained ‘Yam Niyam’, underscoring the role of an Enlightened Master and His commands for inner growth amidst rituals. Atmarpit Maulikji’s sessions on ‘Kshamapna’ blended wisdom, contemplation and inner purification as seekers embarked on a journey of self-cleansing. Atmarpit Shraddhaji led meditation sessions, fostering inner stillness. There were Yoga sessions too which enabled physical and mental fitness of the participants. Classes were designed for children where they received teachings about the sacred life of Param Krupalu Dev and about Mokshmala, one of His fine literary creations. Elevating Evening Celebrations Over the course of eight evenings, a blend of inspiring and devotional dedications were staged. These included a stirring drama, ‘Mangalam Sthulibhadraya’, an engaging quiz on ‘Raj Katha’, patriotic Indian Independence Day celebrations and a pulsating pujan of Shri Atmasiddhi Shastra. There also was a sublime celebration of Shri Mahavir Janam. A charitable cycling event featured a heartfelt donation for each kilometre pedalled. There also was a diverse range of stalls, including Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care, SRMD Yoga, Divineshop, Raj Uphaar, and a Sadhna exhibit where daily satsang synopses were shared. Astounding Atmarpit Diksha The USA Paryushan Mahaparva 2023 was very special as two American-born young devotees embraced Atmarpit Diksha, a ground-breaking event on US soil. At the Atmarpit Mehendi ceremony, the crowd danced joyfully, welcoming Dr Mansi Shah and Saloni Bhargava, chosen by Pujya Gurudevshri to be a part of His Atmarpit family. The evening’s highlight was a moving skit portraying the duo’s courage to wage war against delusion with their Master by their side. Adorned with devotion, they danced to the elevating composition ‘Apurva Avsar’. Their parents shared moving narratives of their journey with Pujya Gurudevshri. The Master applied mehendi, inscribing the sacred name ‘Raj’ on their hands and then blessed them by applying pithi. The Atmarpits, parents, relatives and seekers joined in the ceremonial pithi application. During the Diksha ceremony, brimming with devotion and joy, Dr Mansi and Saloni venerated Bhagwan Mahavir, Param Krupalu Dev and Pujya Gurudevshri. He blessed them with tilak and vasakshep, gifting them the Atmarpit mala, kada and attire. Embracing the vows, they expressed supreme gratitude to Pujya Gurudevshri for taking them in His fold and for guiding them onto the path of liberation. The new Atmarpits’ parents were felicitated. Sanctifying Samvatsari On the final day of Paryushan Mahaparva, emotions soared to new heights during the soul-purifying Samvatsari. The devotees turned inward, engaged in heartfelt introspection, recounted their wrong deeds and beliefs and atoned for them. A deep sense of repentance surfaced effortlessly. Amidst this spiritually-charged atmosphere, the compassionate Master moved through the aspirants, His tender gaze blessing the devotees. With tears glistening, they sought forgiveness, pledging to realign their lives with the teachings of the Enlightened Ones. Notable attendees during the Paryushan Mahaparva included 2023 JAINA Ratna recipient, Adarniya Chandrakantbhai Mehta; JAINA Presidential Awardee, Adarniya Tarlaben Doshi; Adarniya Sureshji and Shri Vikram Hazra from the Art of Living Foundation. The most eminent of Jain festivals, the Paryushan Mahaparva, took an entirely different meaning and significance in the hearts of those who were privileged to be present. May the glory of the religion of the Dispassionate Ones and the grace of the Master be ever etched in the consciousness of all devotees!
