Indian Jain leader calls for global peace at pre-JAINA Summit in Chicago

Acharya Lokesh Muni founded the Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati organization, which works for peace and emphasizes non-violence.

The event was graced by the presence of former presidents and dignitaries. / Courtesy Photo

Acharya Lokesh Muni, the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, delivered a stirring inaugural address at the JAINA Convention Planning Summit held on June.24 in Chicago. Addressing a large gathering of 7000 delegates from across the globe, the Indian spiritual leader emphasized the Jain philosophy's commitment to peace, harmony, and non-violence in today's world.

Highlighting the growing global adoption of Jain lifestyle principles, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic, Acharya Lokesh underscored the role of Jain community in fostering a healthy society. He stressed the community's duty to propagate Jain principles worldwide and contribute to global welfare amidst rising violence, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Acharya Lokesh Muni delivering his inaugural address. / Courtesy Photo

In support of the upcoming World Jain Society's Kumbh Mela, known as the 'Jaina Convention’ in Chicago, Atul Shah, Vice President of JAINA, emphasized its significance in promoting unity and peace within the global Jain community and beyond. Co-conveners Vipul Shah and Jignesh Jain highlighted the ongoing preparations for the convention, which aims to foster discussions on global harmony, stability, and social justice.

The JAINA Convention in Chicago promises to be a pivotal event in advocating Jain principles for global harmony and social justice, uniting Jain communities worldwide in their commitment to peace and stability. The convention is scheduled to be held from July.3 till July.6, 2025, in Chicago.

The JAINA Convention Planning Summit was held on June.24 in Chicago. / Courtesy Photo

The June.24 pre-summit event commenced with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Maha Sanghapati and Sanghapati, followed by an enlightening discourse by Acharya Lokesh, setting a spiritually uplifting tone for the event. Welcoming the attendees, JSMC President Pragnesh Shah and Jaina President Bindesh Shah expressed their enthusiasm for organizing such a significant summit.

The event was graced by the presence of former presidents and dignitaries, including Prem Jain and Dr Sushil Jain, reflecting widespread support and enthusiasm among the participants.