Hyderabad: The power of spiritual practice (Sadhana) performed with mind, speech, and body is immense. Such practice yields highly fruitful results. These thoughts were expressed during a discourse session organized at Shankheshwar Bhavan in Goshamahal under the auspices of Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Sangh.

It was stated that during Chaturmas, one should engage in religious worship that destroys the four states of existence, quenches desires, eliminates delusion, and liberates from worldly bondage. Just as bundled sticks are hard to break, while individual sticks snap easily, we must unite our mind, speech, and body to prevent negativity from breaking us. Right perception binds minimal karma. Great souls say contentment brings more happiness than possession. To strengthen the soul’s virtues, one must fortify righteousness, which remains with us across lifetimes.

It was emphasized that one should not succumb to temptations, as such tendencies are unfit for the afterlife. Earnings should be made ethically, free from greed. The scripture “Upadesh Mala” states that conquering attachment and aversion should be our goal. Detachment from food, body, family, and wealth is necessary to purify the soul. Liberation requires attaining a state of equanimity—mere practice without overcoming attachment is insufficient. Practicing righteousness is like adorning the soul with gold; becoming righteous is akin to turning the soul into gold itself.

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Details on Gyan Puja, Siddhitap, and Ganadhar Pujan

During the discourse, it was announced that religious texts for Chaturmas study should be offered, and donations for Gyan Puja should be pledged. Benefits of scripture recitation were received by attendees. From July 15, collective chanting will begin, followed by Siddhitap austerity from July 16. On July 12, beneficiaries were urged to partake in the worship. On July 10, Ganadhar Gautam Swami’s puja will commence at 9 AM. The event saw participation from devotees and committee members.

Shankheshwar Bhavan

Shankheshwar Bhavan is a significant Jain temple located in Shankheshwar, Gujarat, India. It is renowned for its idol of Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, and is an important pilgrimage site for followers of Jainism. The temple has a rich history dating back centuries and is known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.

Goshamahal

Goshamahal is a historic palace located in Hyderabad, India, built in 1682 by the sixth Qutb Shahi ruler, Abdullah Qutb Shah, as a royal residence. It later became the headquarters of the Nizam’s military and is now a protected heritage site. The palace is known for its distinctive Mughal and Persian architectural influences, reflecting the region’s rich cultural history.

Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Sangh

Shri Shankheshwar Parshwanath Jain Sangh is a renowned Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankara, located in Shankheshwar, Gujarat, India. The temple, believed to be over 900 years old, is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains and is famous for its black idol of Lord Parshwanath adorned with a serpent hood. It holds historical and spiritual importance, attracting devotees for its serene atmosphere and religious festivals.

Upadesh Mala

“Upadesh Mala” is a revered spiritual text in the Marathi language, composed by the 17th-century Hindu saint Samarth Ramdas, a guru of the legendary warrior-king Shivaji. It consists of moral and philosophical teachings in verse form, offering guidance on devotion, discipline, and righteous living. The text remains influential in Maharashtra, embodying the Bhakti movement’s ideals and Ramdas’s emphasis on duty and self-realization.

Gyan Puja

Gyan Puja is a sacred ritual in Jainism, performed to venerate knowledge and the teachings of the Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). It involves the worship of scriptures, especially the Jain Agamas, and symbolizes the importance of wisdom and learning in spiritual growth. The practice reflects Jainism’s deep reverence for knowledge as a path to enlightenment and liberation (moksha).

Siddhitap

Siddhitap is a revered spiritual site located in the Sindhupalchok District of Nepal, known for its association with Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the 8th-century Buddhist master. It is believed that he meditated here, leaving behind sacred footprints and blessings, making it a pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists and followers of Vajrayana. The site is surrounded by natural beauty and is considered a place of profound spiritual energy and enlightenment.

Ganadhar Pujan

“Ganadhar Pujan” is a significant ritual in Jainism that honors the Ganadhars, the chief disciples of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara. The practice involves paying respects to these enlightened beings who compiled and transmitted Mahavira’s teachings, forming the foundation of Jain scriptures. It reflects Jainism’s deep reverence for spiritual teachers and their role in preserving sacred knowledge.

Ganadhar Gautam Swami

Ganadhar Gautam Swami was the first principal disciple (Ganadhar) of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. A highly learned scholar, he played a key role in compiling and preserving Lord Mahavira’s teachings in the form of Jain scriptures (Agamas). He is revered in Jain tradition for his wisdom and dedication to spreading Jain philosophy.