No one can deny the ways of the modern world. No one can escape the long reach of progress coming right at our doors. There is no denying that most societies have risen to become better versions of what they were once by following a steady pace of progressive actions that improve their ways of life. But how far are we willing to go in the name of progress? How much are we going to sacrifice in the name of it? In India tradition is still important for many families. Even in the face of social change we still commit fiercely to family values and traditions tied to our faith. This is why it’s so important to take a stand when it matters.
What is going on in Shikharji Tirth?
Shikharji Tirth, also known as the Parasnath Hill is currently in danger. The mountain is located in the Giridih district in Jharkhand. The holy beliefs tell the stories about how 20 Tirthankaras have been led to salvation in this holy place, making it a sacred natural monument where those with strong faith can reach the Nirvana. As time has gone by, the Shikharji Tirth has become a place of pilgrimage for many people looking to gather the strength of spirit left behind by the Tirthankaras since there haven’t been any new ones in the modern age. This sacred ground is currently in danger, on the brink of disappearing in the name of progress, when it should be preserved with the same reverence as Catholics, Jews and Muslims have for their holy lands.
Why this Cause is Important?
The things happening with Shikharji Tirth can only be described as a travesty, an insult, for the Jain people. Their traditions are being threatened by the very government that should watch for the heritage of the nation, the one that should do everything in its power to keep tradition from colliding with progress. Sadly what is taking place it’s completely the opposite and it has kept the Jains fighting the good fight by using every legal resource at their hand. The Bihar Land Reforms Act issued in 1953 has given the government all the leverage it needs to claim this holy land for their own plans, by not recognizing the faith of the Jains. Even when a section of the law clearly states that the government cannot act as the landowner on holy locations.
What will Happen if we Don’t take Action
By disregarding the beliefs of the Jains, the India government is outright rejecting their own countrymen, even when the Supreme Court of the nation has recognized their faith. Shikharji Tirth is currently targeted by the regional authorities to become a tourist destination at the cost of the holiness of the location. There are already plans in motion to build storefronts, hotels and many business ventures that will bring the vices that are entangled to them: drinking, gambling, prostitution, adultery, and commerce. The current visitors of the region are looking for enlightenment. If these plans take hold Shikharji Tirth will lose every that makes it unique and it will be another meager curiosity where spirituality will be a lost concept to its visitors.
To avoid this from ever happening the Jains need the help of their own countrymen across India. Please fill up this petition https://saveshikharji.com/petition.html and learn what you can do as a volunteer, or just to learn why this place it’s important as a holy ground. Every little bit counts! Even if it’s to create awareness about how traditions are threatened.