Navkar Mahamantra Day Unites Atlanta in Spiritual Harmony

Consulate and JITO Atlanta Unite Community in Sacred Celebration of Navkar Divas

In a powerful confluence of devotion, culture, and community spirit, the Consulate, in collaboration with the Jain International Trade Organization (JITO) USA Atlanta Chapter, hosted an uplifting celebration of Navkar Mahamantra Day—also known as Navkar Divas—within the serene halls of the Consulate in Atlanta.

This special occasion, dedicated to one of Jainism’s most sacred mantras, drew an enthusiastic crowd from across the Jain community, uniting individuals and families in a shared experience of spiritual elevation and cultural pride.

The Significance of Navkar Mahamantra

At the heart of the celebration was the Navkar Mahamantra, a fundamental and universal prayer in Jainism. Unlike many religious chants, the Navkar Mantra does not refer to any particular deity but instead honors five categories of spiritually elevated beings — Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and all Sadhus.

The mantra promotes humility, detachment, and self-purification, carrying with it a timeless message of peace, non-violence (Ahimsa), and spiritual awakening. Chanting it is believed to help cleanse one’s karmas and elevate the soul toward liberation (Moksha).

Leadership with Vision: A Celebration of Values and Service

The event was steered by two distinguished leaders — Mr. Viral Shah, Chairperson of JITO USA Atlanta Chapter, and Mrs. Nikita Shah Kothari, Chairperson of JITO Ladies Wing (JLW), who together infused the celebration with energy, purpose, and reverence. Both leaders emphasized the dual mission of JITO: nurturing spiritual growth while remaining deeply rooted in community service and social upliftment.

“Navkar Mahamantra Day is not just a ritualistic gathering,” said Mr. Viral Shah in his remarks. “It’s a reminder of the values we stand for — non-violence, truth, compassion, and service. JITO’s mission is to bring these values into daily life, business ethics, and community leadership.”

Mrs. Nikita Shah Kothari echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the JITO Ladies Wing’s role in creating spiritually empowered and socially responsible women leaders within the Jain diaspora.

Words of Encouragement from the Consul General

The Consul General addressed the gathering with words that reinforced the universal essence of the occasion. He underscored the significance of ancient wisdom in modern life, noting that chanting the Navkar Mahamantra offers a path not just to personal peace but also to communal harmony.

He praised JITO Atlanta for acting as a bridge between spiritual heritage and civic leadership, and commended the organization’s efforts in promoting a sense of belonging, purpose, and inclusivity within the Indian-American community.

An Atmosphere of Devotion and Reflection

Attendees joined together in the collective chanting of the Navkar Mantra, transforming the Consulate into a sanctuary of peace and spiritual resonance. The harmonious repetition of the mantra created a meditative atmosphere, leaving a profound impact on all present.

Many community members shared their reflections, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to connect with their roots, reflect on Jain teachings, and participate in a rare moment of stillness and unity amidst the busyness of modern life.

The celebration was also marked by moments of silence, deep introspection, and gentle interaction, emphasizing mindfulness, community bonds, and the quiet strength of collective faith.

Fostering Cultural Roots Abroad

JITO Atlanta’s initiative is a part of a broader movement to preserve and promote Jain principles globally, especially among younger generations growing up in the West. Through events like Navkar Mahamantra Day, the organization seeks to bridge generational and cultural gaps by creating meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and spiritual enrichment.

With their growing presence across the United States, JITO chapters continue to build a strong network of socially conscious professionals, entrepreneurs, and spiritual seekers, rooted in Jain values and driven by a vision of global harmony.