NEW YORK (TIP): The Consulate General of India, NY and International Ahimsa Foundation Inc. in partnership with JITO USA (Jain International Trade Org – USA), and JAINA (Federation of Jain Associations in NA), hosted Mahavir Jayanti, Lord Mahavir’s 2621st birth anniversary Celebration on Saturday, May 20th, 2023, at the Ballroom of the Consulate General of India in NY. The event also celebrated India’s yearlong initiative: Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav (75 years of India’s independence).The program was attended by about 200 guests.
The event was graced by many dignitaries and community leaders. Deputy Consul General of India Dr. Varun Jeph In his keynote address said : “ Lets bring more of Lord Mahavir’s message of Ahimsa & Satya ( truthfulness) in our lives. ” Congressman Gregory W. Meeks sent his best wishes via a video message. He said that this year’s occasion will bring together the community to honor Lord Mahavir’s principles of non-violence and peace.” Former Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney also emphasized the importance of “Live and Let Live” in today’s time, a teaching of Lord Mahavir. NYS Assemblyman David Weprin was represented by his Chief of Staff David Sprea and was also joined by Ms. Miosotis Munoz, Deputy Commissioner of External affairs, NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs. She also mentioned that Mayor Adams truly believes in non-violence. Democratic District Leader Gurdip Singh Narula also attended the event.
We extend our sincere appreciation to our esteemed guest speakers, Samniji Nirdeshika Kamal Pragya and Samniji Karuna Pragya, for their blessings and enlightening talks. Their profound insights and teachings on non-violence were truly educative.
Dr. Neeta Jain, Founder and President of International Ahimsa Foundation Inc. dwelt on Lord Mahavir’s life She stressed on teaching children the 5 Jain principles to make the world a better place to live in. She further mentioned that Lord Mahavir is the one that told the world that “Non-Violence is the Supreme Religion and it’s more relevant in today’s world than ever before. We should pass on Mahavir’s teachings to our next generation so they can learn how to adopt the virtues of non -violence in their lives and make this world a better place to live in peace and harmony.”
On this occasion, the organization honored 4 distinguished individuals with the “Ahimsa Award” for their extraordinary contributions to society. They included Dr. Ashok Shaha MD (Chair Head and Neck Surgery/Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center), Mr. Arvind Vora (Chair, JAINA Interfaith Committee & Shanti Fund of Long Island), Ms. Sweta Jain (Founder & President, Goshwara, Luxury Designer Jewelry), Ms. Kavita Bafana (Cofounder, Little Ustaads Music & Namaste Book Series), for their remarkable contributions and achievements. Their presence inspired many youngsters who attended the event.
“Ahimsa Awards” and a NYS Assembly Proclamation were presented to honorees by Deputy Consul General, Dr. Varun Jeph, Board of Director IAF, Dr. Ravi Goyal, President and Founder, Dr. Neeta Jain, Vice President, Mr. Amarjyoti Jain and Chair Advisory Board, Mr. Rajeev Pandya.
“All four honorees are purveyors of peace and align with our mission to spread Lord Mahavir’s message of ‘Live and Let Live,’” Dr. Jain said. Dr. Ashok Shaha said in his acceptance speech that “Forgiveness is the most Important virtue in Life”
Mr. Arvind Vora another honoree expressed his views after the event as “ one can’t expect better way to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti than the confluence of dignified location of Indian Consulate, partner organizations like JITO & JAINA, stage decorations including Gandhi on a spinning wheel, participation by youths in dance and skit conveying messages of Mahavir and diverse audiences. Everything was wrapped up very efficiently.”
Ms. Sweta Jain also emphasized in her speech, the importance of “Practicing Ahimsa in today’s time.
Ms Kavita Bafana expressed her views on how important it is to keep our culture alive.

The International Ahimsa Foundation Inc. was founded in 2012 with the goal of spreading the message of non-violence and peace based on Jain teachings throughout the world.

The event was emceed by Aditi Lamba and began with the American National Anthem sung by Michelle Della Fave. Dr. Smita Guha sang the Indian National Anthem. A skit was presented by young Jains on “Color of Thoughts and their impact” directed by Surbhi Pandya. Two mesmerizing performances were presented on “Mahavir Sa Mujko Ban jana Hai” and “Garaj Garaj Aaj Megha”.by Little Ustad Arts: Directed by Kavita Bafana and Vanita Kothari. Mr. Rajeev Pandya Chair, Advisory Board of IAF thanked all the sponsors, media partners and volunteers. At the end, Jain lunch was served.
You can watch the video at Indian Consulate fb @indiainnewyork or IAF fb page. You can also follow International Ahimsa Foundation on our website: International Ahimsa Foundation New York!
(Press release)