Hyderabad, August 17: A unique Jain religious programme brought together 1,008 women for a collective Namoththunam chanting session in Hyderabad on Sunday.
The programme was held at Uttaradi Math on Raghavendra Temple Road in Kachiguda. Organisers said the event highlighted the spiritual and social message of Namoththunam.
Namoththunam is an ancient Jain hymn of reverence. It honours the Arihants and encourages devotees to recognise and develop their qualities.
According to Swarup Chand Kothari, Chairman of Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh, the prayer teaches people whom to admire and why.
Participants said the message has particular relevance among young people amid growing celebrity and hero worship.
Namoththunam Highlights Qualities Over Fame
Raksh Jain, one of the participants, said Jain philosophy encourages people to admire qualities such as self control and humility.
Similarly, Supriya Bhalgat, a Data Scientist, said Namoththunam shifts the focus from asking what one can receive to what one can become.
Participants also highlighted qualities including wisdom, discipline, compassion and freedom from negative passions.
Dr Roshni Jain, an Endodontist, said young people have many potential role models today. However, she said the focus should remain on character rather than fame, wealth or power.
Sheetal Jain, a teacher, described the message as a shift from “I want” to “I want to become”.
Shwetha Agarwal, a Lecturer, said the prayer can also encourage personal improvement. She highlighted patience, self control, compassion and discipline as qualities people can develop.
Retired Professor Geeta Krishnamachary said children should be taught not only whom to admire but also which qualities deserve admiration.
Priyanka Jain, a lawyer, said the ancient practice can offer a relevant message to younger generations. She said the prayer encourages people to focus on personal growth.
The organisers said they are also considering a similar collective programme for couples later this month.
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