By A Correspondent
Chicago: The 23rd Biennial JAINA Convention, held from July 3 to July 6, 2025, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Schaumburg, Illinois, marked a significant moment for the global Jain community. Drawing over 5,000 attendees from 72 Jain Centers across the United States and Canada, along with participants from 10 countries including India, the UK, Germany, Oman, Dubai, and Kenya, this event became one of the largest Jain gatherings outside India. This historic occasion also made Chicago the first North American city to host the JAINA Convention for the fourth time.
Organized by the Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA) and hosted by the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC), the convention embraced the theme “Unity in Diversity: A Path to Peace.” Over the course of four immersive days, attendees were united in exploring the enduring principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantvad (multiple perspectives), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) through a range of cultural, spiritual, and educational experiences.
The convention opened on July 3 with a powerful combination of logistical efficiency and cultural richness. Early registration welcomed a steady stream of national and international delegates. The Temple Dwar Opening Ceremony introduced a divine energy to the venue, highlighted by a breathtaking Ashtapad featuring the 24 Tirthankaras. The atmosphere was enriched by spiritual chants and rituals that connected participants to their roots. Following that, the Exhibition Inauguration offered a journey through Jain art, literature, and heritage, sparking admiration and curiosity across generations.
Outside the venue, the South Parking area was transformed into a lively stage for a Grand Cultural Procession. The spectacle featured decorated cars, traditional dances from women’s and youth groups, and a symbolic airplane flying overhead, celebrating the launch of the convention with color and exuberance. The Opening Ceremony later that evening was a fusion of spiritual depth and creative brilliance. Convener Atul Shah welcomed the gathering, while Co-Conveners Vipul Shah and Jignesh Jain guided blessings from prominent Jain spiritual leaders such as Pujya Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muniji, Pujya Saman Shrutpragyaji, and others. Acharya Lokesh Muniji delivered an inspiring keynote on the relevance of Ahimsa in today's world, which set a profound tone for the event. The evening closed with a Broadway-style production, “Sthulibhadra & Kosha – Nritya Natika,” a captivating narrative blending love, renunciation, and spiritual insight.
Day two began on a tranquil note with early morning meditation and yoga sessions led by Samani Dr. Pratibha Pragyaji and others. These practices grounded attendees for a day packed with inspiration and reflection. The Main Stage featured speeches by JAINA President Bindesh Shah and JSMC President Pragnesh Shah, followed by impactful talks by Pujya Dr. Gyanvatsal Swamiji and Acharya Lokesh Muniji. Manu Shah’s discussion on compassion resonated with the audience, further reinforcing the convention’s guiding values. The Jains Got Talent (JGT) semi-final rounds energized the crowd with performances from young talents, while breakout sessions like the IAAMJV alumni meeting strengthened community bonds.
On the same day, a blood donation drive commenced, collecting enough blood to potentially save 276 lives. Afternoon sessions were a diverse mix of wellness, ethics, and spirituality. Talks on veganism, energy healing, and parenting through Jain principles kept halls full and audiences engaged. Media coverage was facilitated by a press conference organized by Hemant Shah. Highlights continued with teachings from Samani Dr. Pratibha Pragyaji and Sadhvi Shilapiji, a presentation by the NY Jain Sangh, and lectures on ecological responsibility and mental health. An empowering Women’s Forum featured Judge Neera Bahl and others, while Sri Vimal Shah, CEO of Bidco Africa, inspired the business-minded with a rousing keynote. Evening entertainment included cultural performances by children and adults from across Jain centers, followed by a music program that had the audience dancing with joy.
The third day, July 5, was a crescendo of spiritual insight and cultural brilliance. Morning sessions opened with more meditation, followed by an address from Schaumburg’s Mayor and a keynote by Jessica Cox, the world’s first armless pilot. Her story of perseverance inspired standing ovations. Religious teachings from Saman Shrut Pragyaji further uplifted the audience. JAINA’s ongoing initiatives were shared, and community stalwart Mahesh Wadher received the prestigious JAINA Ratna Award.
Afternoon sessions pushed boundaries of both intellect and imagination. Topics ranged from artificial intelligence’s ethical dimensions to chronic disease reversal through lifestyle, with additional panels exploring unity, global peace, and Jainism’s relevance in governance. Contributions from speakers like Pinkesh Shah, Acharya Lokesh Muniji, and Swanubhuti Jain encouraged introspection and action. Committee meetings continued as attendees networked and contributed to future planning.
That evening, JSMC Chairman Vipul Shah and Trustee Jignesh Jain took the stage to reflect on the two-year journey of organizing the convention. They recounted the history of Jainism in North America and honored Chicago’s unique role. Bollywood star Sonu Sood then took the spotlight, stirring hearts with his message on service and compassion. Laughter followed, thanks to comedian Sugandha Mishra’s lively hosting, while performances by TV singing stars lit up the night. The performances by Rishi Singh, Atharva, Khushi, Avirbhav, and others were nothing short of electrifying.
The final day began with peaceful Pranayama and a closing ceremony that radiated gratitude and inspiration. Sparsh Shah, known for his musical talent and resilience, delivered a stirring keynote that called on attendees to live courageously and compassionately. The Kids Club program, led by Dimple Shah and Radhika Jaina, hosted over 200 children in engaging and educational experiences throughout the week. Youth programs including YJA, YJP, and Jain Connect reached more than 800 young adults and professionals, fostering leadership and lasting connections. These sessions were a mix of fun, personal development, and spiritual exploration. The Jain Academic Bowl, modeled after Jeopardy, saw fierce yet friendly competition among nearly 20 teams.
The final acknowledgments came from Atul Shah, Vipul Shah, Jignesh Jain, Bindesh Shah, and Pragnesh Shah, who expressed heartfelt thanks to the board, the 300+ volunteers across 40 committees, and major sponsors such as Manish and Shailja Gandhi and Dr. Chandra Varia. The technology efforts, led by Convention Secretary Jagat Shah, ensured seamless experiences throughout, while transportation and food logistics—especially five daily meals for 5,000 people—were executed flawlessly under Hitesh Shah’s leadership.
As the curtain closed, comedian Ojas Rawal sent the crowd into fits of laughter, ending the convention on a joyous high. The energy in the hall was electric as the crowd gave a standing ovation in celebration of the convention’s unforgettable journey. The JAINA Convention 2025 did more than celebrate Jain values—it brought them to life. It reaffirmed that unity in diversity is not just a theme, but a lived reality for thousands of Jains who, regardless of background, came together in a shared vision of peace, compassion, and community.
Founded in 1981, JAINA today represents over 200,000 members across 72 centers and holds the distinction of being a certified USAID partner and having UN Special Consultative Status. Its mission of promoting Jain Dharma through education, service, and interfaith dialogue was beautifully realized at this year’s convention. With fully vegan meals and inclusive accommodations, the 2025 JAINA Convention proved that ancient values remain profoundly relevant in the modern world—and that, when embraced collectively, they have the power to transform hearts and communities alike.
