Surat, India:
Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat: The spiritual city of Surat is once again witnessing an atmosphere of deep faith and renunciation as 13 individuals prepare to embrace the path of monkhood during the grand Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat, scheduled from November 5 to 7. The event, to be held at the scenic Rome Rome Param Sparsh Vatika in the Pal area, is set to be one of the most spiritually significant gatherings of the year, marking the city’s enduring devotion to Jain values of restraint, simplicity, and compassion.
A Family’s Collective Step Towards Renunciation
Among the 13 individuals taking diksha (initiation into monkhood), three belong to the same family — Manojbhai, Induben, and Vrishtik Kordia. Their collective decision to renounce worldly life has deeply moved the Jain community of Surat.
The festival, organized under the auspices of Param-Jin-Bhadra-Shanti Shwetambar Muni Sangh and Acharya Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan, will be graced by over 500 Jain monks and nuns, including the revered Acharya Bhagwant Yashovijaysuri Maharaj, Acharya Bhagwant Munichandrasuri Maharaj, and Acharya Bhagwant Kulchandrasuri Maharaj. Their presence will add immense spiritual significance to the occasion.
Out of the 13 seekers, 11 are residents of Surat, highlighting the city’s deep spiritual roots and commitment to Jain dharma. The event is expected to draw thousands of followers, devotees, and visitors from across India and abroad, making it a global center of faith and devotion during these three days.
Three-Day Spiritual Celebration
The Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat will unfold through a series of sacred rituals, ceremonies, and devotional gatherings, each reflecting the essence of Jain spirituality — purity, sacrifice, and the pursuit of liberation.
Day 1 – Wednesday, November 5: The Prelude to Renunciation
The festival will begin at 9:00 AM with the auspicious Shantidhara Abhishek, a sacred water offering ceremony symbolizing peace and purity.
At 12:00 PM, the Chhaap Bharvani Mangal Vidhi and Mehndi Rasam will be performed, marking the joyous yet emotional prelude to renunciation.
The evening will host a heartfelt event titled “Tyag Ka Samman” (Honoring Renunciation), beginning at 8:00 PM, where devotees will listen to inspiring reflections and speeches by the women initiates who will soon take the vows of ascetic life.
Day 2 – Thursday, November 6: The Grand Varshidan Yatra
On the second day, the sacred Varshidan Yatra will commence at 8:30 AM, during which the initiates will offer their worldly possessions as acts of charity and detachment.
This symbolic procession through the streets of Surat will showcase the essence of Jainism — giving up material wealth to embrace spiritual wealth.
In the evening, a special farewell ceremony titled “Prabhu Milan Ki Pyaas” (The Longing to Meet the Divine) will take place, where the soon-to-be monks and nuns will share their inner reflections and gratitude before taking their final meal as householders.
Day 3 – Friday, November 7: The Sacred Diksha Ceremony
The most awaited and spiritually significant day will be Friday, November 7, marking the official diksha ritual.
At 5:04 AM, the initiates will enter the sacred mandap (ceremonial pavilion) in a state of prayer and reflection.
The main diksha ceremony will begin at 8:30 AM, led by Acharya Bhagwant Yashovijaysuri Maharaj.
During this solemn ritual, the 13 aspirants will receive Rajoharan, the symbolic act of accepting ascetic life — a transformative moment that signifies detachment from worldly ties and the beginning of a new spiritual journey.
Upon completion of the ceremony, they will be formally recognized as Jain monks and nuns, dedicated to a life of meditation, non-violence, and spiritual discipline.
The Spirit of Renunciation Lives On
The Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat is more than just a religious event; it is a living example of humanity’s eternal quest for inner peace and liberation.
The sight of individuals from different age groups, including young seekers and members of a single family, choosing to renounce worldly comforts for spiritual enlightenment, has deeply inspired devotees across the community.
As the chants of “Michhami Dukkadam” and “Jai Jinendra” echo through the venue, the air in Surat is filled with devotion, compassion, and reverence. The event also highlights the city’s role as a major spiritual hub, reinforcing its reputation as a “Dharmnagari” — a land of faith and virtue.
List of the 13 Initiates
The following seekers will embrace monkhood during the Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat:
- Manojbhai Vadilal Kordia
- Dhruvin Manojbhai Kordia
- Vruddhit Manojbhai Kordia
- Sanya Rashmibhai Kordia
- Rashmin Sushilbhai Jain
- Rahul Sushilbhai Jain
- Bhavya Rajeshkumar Mehta
- Jyoti Motilal Lalvani
- Shreya Jayeshbhai Veera
- Khushi Pankajkumar Mehta
- Vriddhi Jigneshkumar Shah
- Tyagi Nareshkumar Shah
- Parth Bhavinkumar Shah
Their decision reflects the Jain community’s timeless belief in spiritual upliftment through non-violence, self-discipline, and compassion for all living beings.
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A Global Message of Peace and Simplicity
While the event is deeply rooted in Jain philosophy, its message resonates universally — reminding humanity that true happiness lies in detachment, compassion, and self-realization.
Organizers believe that the Jain Diksha Mahotsav Surat will serve as an inspiration not only for followers in India but also for global audiences in the UK, US, and other parts of the world who seek peace through spiritual living.
Through the renunciation of 13 devoted souls, Surat once again stands as a shining example of India’s spiritual heritage — a place where faith and renunciation walk hand in hand toward the path of ultimate liberation.
