Jains assemble together for chanting Navkar Mantra

Nearly 5,000 Jains assembled in Ranigunj here and chanted 'Navkar Mantra' together for 36 lakh times for world peace.
'Navkar Mantra' is considered to be the most pious mantras for Jains.
"The Navkar Mantra Jaap started at 8.30 am and continued non-stop for two hours till 10.30 am," said Parasmal Dungarwal, president of Shri Vardhaman Sthankavasi Jain Shravak Sangh Secunderabad, under whose aegis the event was organised.
"With young and old holding placards having messages on promoting peace, people from all walks of life from Jain community participated besides over 100 people from different religions too took part in the chanting," according to a release.

Jain Monk Praveen Rishiji Upadhyaya, who led the peace initiative said "I prefer 'Peace' on Earth than 'Pieces' of Earth. Let us all give peace a chance. I appeal to people to be part of the peace building. Our objective behind these initiatives is to sensitise people towards a culture of peace."
"There is a great need and urgency to unite people on this subject," he said adding "ensuring peace is not only the responsibility of the governments, but onus also lies on the people, who have to do their own bit."
Similarly, Jain Samaj is also embarking on another initiative where 1008 Jains along with their monks will go on 8 day fasting from from tomorrow till July 24 in Ranigunj.

"Through these initiatives, we want to build a sustainable movement for a culture of peace for generations to come," said Ashok Bohra, working president of Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh Secunderabad.