JAIN TEMPLE

Jai Jinendra 🙏🏼

Historical records confirm Jainism was established in the 4th Century BCE. In these records, Jain temples and religious laws state Jain monks were forbidden to travel by mechanical means. Knowing this, Sushil Muni ji, also known as Guruji, faced a great dilemma.

During his deep meditation in 1974, Guruji was contacted by 12th Century acharya named Dadaguru Manidhari Jinchandra Suriji Maharaj. In this conversation, Dadaguruji requested Sushil Muniji to preach and spread awareness of Ahimsa (non-injury) and Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness) to all ends of the earth. Hearing his instructions, Guruji experienced a challenging decision. Does he listen to his mentors or does he break religious law, which he immensely respects?

He decided to take the mechanical leap, but the journey ahead would have initial turbulence. On June 17, 1975, although he walked 30 miles barefoot to the airport, thousands of Jains gathered at the airport, trying to stop him from entering the aircraft, going against Jain monk principles and laws.

After 33 years in India, he went abroad to spread Jainism. From Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj's blessings, guidance, and inspiration, we established Southern California Mahavir Jain Mission in 1985.

Guruji envisioned expanding his efforts of Siddhachalam, also known as Shri Siddhachalam Jain Tirth (New Jersey), to the West. We happily accepted and executed his vision into reality. Initial challenges and problems faced from the public, transformed into building blocks of our Jain temple foundation.

Southern California Mahavir Jain Mission provides a temple, a safe haven, for Guruji's Jain disciples and the surrounding communities. One that follows his holiness's teachings and encourages embracing the Jain religion. We encourage open dialogue and respectful interaction from all faiths and backgrounds, including different cultures, genders, races, and religions in an effort to create peace and preserve the non-violence principles of Ahimsa.

Southern California Mahavir Jain Mission proudly serves as a 501(c)(3), a non-profit organization that relies on members and surrounding communities for support. We are recognized by the IRS and tax-exempt.

We look forward to meeting you.