Pathardi | 10th September | Rajendra Devdhe
Religion “Forgiveness is the ornament of the brave!” Forgiveness is a virtue of the brave. In any situation, one should control anger, keep the mind calm, and forgive the mistakes of the other person. The one who forgives is greater than the one who asks for forgiveness. If a person can achieve this, life becomes more pleasant, as preached by Jain Sadhvi Chandrakalashriji. In the Jain Sthanak of Pathardi, the last day of the Jain festival, Samvatsari, also known as Kshamapana Day, was celebrated in a highly devotional atmosphere. On this occasion, Mahasati Snehashriji and Mahasati Shrutaprajashriji were also present on the dais.
On the day of Samvatsari, Jain community members, both young and old, observe fasting and penance. In temples and Sthanaks, “Aloyana” (confession) is recited, and after that, “Michhami Dukkadam,” meaning “I seek forgiveness from all living beings,” is chanted, asking for forgiveness from 8.4 million life forms. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in India but also in many countries around the world. On this day, individuals seek forgiveness for mistakes made knowingly or unknowingly throughout the year. When one asks for forgiveness, true inner purification is achieved.
Mahasati Snehashriji stated, “The one who has forgiveness in their life has a pure soul.” Do not have the thought in your mind that the other person should take the first step, and only then will you take the second step. The one who takes the first step is truly great; remember this throughout your life. Do not hesitate in your heart before asking for forgiveness. If you take the first step, the other will naturally follow. The world bows to those who bow down. If forgiveness is sought with an open heart, the soul also becomes purified. The essence of this great spiritual festival is forgiveness. Build relationships of friendship, affection, and warmth with everyone. Seeking forgiveness is a noble act that brings joy and peace to the mind. Therefore, at every moment in life, one should keep a forgiving perspective, she concluded.
The Paryushan Mahaparva, which began on 1st September, concluded today on Samvatsari with a communal recitation of Aloyana and collective prayers for forgiveness. During these eight days, there were various activities, including communal worship, fasting, meditation, renunciation rituals, and charity, all celebrated with great enthusiasm. Different discourses by the Mahasatis on various topics, competitions, and exams for women and children were conducted, with prizes awarded to the winners.
Ascetics who undertook various austerities since the beginning of Chaturmas were honored during the event. On this occasion, women presented a beautiful and educational play based on the life of Gandhar Shri Jambuswami. Various religious and cultural programs were held. Subhashchandra Chordiya gave the introductory speech, Suresh Gugale hosted the event, and Sunil Gugale delivered the vote of thanks.
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