Jain Calander 2016

This document is a comprehensive Jain Calendar for the year 2016, created by Kishor Bhimji Shah of Norbury, London, UK. It aligns with Vir Samvat 2542 and Vikram Samvat 2072. The calendar provides a month-by-month breakdown of themes and significant Jain practices, festivals, and principles.

Key Highlights:

• Monthly Themes: Each month is dedicated to a specific Jain concept or scripture, including:
  • January: Panch Kalyanaka (The five auspicious events in a Tirthankara's life)
  • February: Gyan Chauper / Gyanbazi (A Jain version of Snakes and Ladders illustrating karma and moksha)
  • March: Uttaradhyayan Sutra (A key Jain scripture)
  • April: Siddhachakra and Ayambil Oli (Worship of the nine supreme souls and a purification fast)
  • May: Bhaktamara Stotra (A devotional hymn)
  • June: Leshya (The colors of the soul reflecting the state of mind)
  • July: Jain Karma (The theory of karma)
  • August: Bahubali (A figure representing non-violence)
  • September: Paryushan Festival (The annual period of self-purification)
  • October: Diwali (Celebration of Bhagwan Mahavir's Nirvana)
  • November: Jain Temples of Girnar (Focus on a significant pilgrimage site)
  • December: Ashtamangala (The eight auspicious symbols)
• Core Jain Principles: The calendar emphasizes fundamental Jain tenets like:
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Underpinning all actions and thoughts.
  • The Navkar Mantra: The most sacred mantra in Jainism.
  • The importance of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct (Samyag Darshan, Samyag Gyan, Samyag Charitra).
  • The nature of Dharma: Defined as the inherent nature of an object or soul.
  • Self-responsibility: Highlighting that individuals are solely responsible for their karma and destiny.
  • The concept of Leshya: Explaining the spiritual states associated with different colors.
  • The Jain theory of Karma: Describing it as a physical substance attracted by actions and Kashays (anger, ego, greed, deceit).
  • The importance of forgiveness (Kshama): Particularly during Paryushan.
• Daily Practices and Observances: The calendar includes:
  • Guidance on performing Pacchakhaan (temporary vows).
  • Details on various Kalyanaks (auspicious moments) of Tirthankaras.
  • Lists of auspicious days and festivals throughout the year.
  • Recommendations to avoid green and root vegetables on specific days.
  • Information on the Chaturmas period.
  • Encouragement for daily reflection and practice of Jain wisdom.
• Devotional Content: The text features prayers, stotras (hymns), and verses from scriptures like the Uttaradhyayan Sutra and the Bhaktamara Stotra, along with philosophical quotes from Hemchandracharya.
• Inspiration and Guidance: The calendar is presented as a tool for spiritual growth and living a disciplined Jain lifestyle, with encouraging messages from the author and quotes from Jain Tirthankaras and Acharyas.
• Dedication: The work is inspired by and dedicated to the author's late parents and brother.
• Disclaimer: A note is included stating that these calendars are "NOT FOR SALE IN ANY FORMAT."

In essence, the "Jain Calendar 2016" by Kishor Bhimji Shah is a comprehensive religious and philosophical guide for Jains, offering a structured way to observe their faith throughout the year, understand key concepts, and engage in spiritual practices.