Chicago, IL:
The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), representing 72 Jain Centers across the United States and Canada, is pleased to announce 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, in Chicago, Illinois, 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.
Mr. Atul Shah, JAINA's first Vice President and Convention Convenor, along with Co-Convenors Mr. Vipul Shah and Mr. 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." This convention is a heartfelt celebration of the beautiful tapestry of traditions within our Jain community. It emphasizes how our differences can bring us closer together, nurturing a sense of unity and shared purpose. We can create a welcoming space that honors each unique perspective while fostering compassion and understanding.
The convention offers a platform for Jains to connect and build lasting relationships. 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.
We invite attendees to join heartwarming workshops focused on Ahimsa, nurturing environmental consciousness, fostering youth development, and promoting health and wellness. Together, we will explore how to incorporate Jain principles into our daily lives.
The 2025 JAINA Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois, promises to be a landmark event for the Jain community, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for youth from across North America. The convention will feature a variety of activities focused on education, networking, and personal growth. One of the main highlights will be the keynote address by Sagar Sheth, CEO of Roth, who will inspire attendees with his insights on leadership and success, encouraging them to embrace their potential and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Additionally, the Jain Academic Bowl (JAB) will showcase 20 teams from across North America, competing in a spirited celebration of academic excellence and Jain traditions.
This year’s convention is a wonderful opportunity to empower and uplift youth, inspiring them to embrace Jain values while navigating the modern world and shaping their leadership journeys. The convention will also provide a unique platform for Jain Matrimonial activities, offering young adults an opportunity to connect, network, and explore potential life partners within the Jain community. With 475 members from Young Jain America (YJA) and Young Jain Professionals (YJP) attending, the event will foster connections among the next generation of Jain leaders and professionals. Participants will engage in discussions, workshops, and networking sessions designed to help shape their future endeavors.
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.
Mr. Manish & Shailja Gandhi, Dr. Chandra Varia, the Jagdish & Renuka Mehta family as Mahasanghpati, and Dr. Parag & Dulari Doshi, Mr. Vasant & Charulata Shah, and Mr. 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.
About JAINA
The Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) is the preeminent organization representing Jains outside India, encompassing over 200,000 members across 72 Jain Centers in the United States and Canada. Established in 1981, JAINA is committed to preserving, practicing, and promoting Jain Dharma and the Jain way of life. The organization supports unity among Jains from diverse sects and regions, striving towards global peace and harmony. Through its various programs and initiatives, JAINA collaborates with different organizations for disaster relief and humanitarian aid, disseminating the message of peace globally.
About Jainism
Jainism is a religion and lifestyle that has been followed primarily in India for over five thousand years. Jains value meditation, yoga, nonviolence, vegetarianism, environmentalism, gender equality, and cultural respect. Lord Mahavir, born in 599 BC, is revered as the last perfect Jain soul to achieve Nirvana. The core principles of Jainism are Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct. It advocates for kindness, tolerance, and the equality of all life forms.
Jainism has contributed to world peace through its teachings of nonviolence and forgiveness. Mahatma Gandhi incorporated these teachings into the 'Ahimsa' movement, which played a role in India's independence from colonial rule. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. also drew on this principle in his efforts for equality and civil rights for minorities in the US.
