Hyderabad, November 11, 2026: Sanjana Lunawat, a 25-year-old MBA graduate, fashion designer and boutique owner from Bhadgaon in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, will renounce her business and worldly life to embrace Jain Sadhvihood in Hyderabad on November 15. The initiation will take place during the Jain Bhagwati Diksha Mahotsav, a two-day event expected to draw over 10,000 devotees.
The Diksha Mahotsav will be held at Exhibition Grounds, Nampally, under the guidance of Jain monk Pujya Acharya 1008 Shri Gyanchandraji Marasahab. Festivities begin on November 14 with a procession from Lalit Kala Thoranam featuring vintage cars, horses and traditional bands, culminating in the Diksha ceremony the following day.
Event details and dignitaries
Several dignitaries are expected to attend, including C.V. Anand, Director General of Police; Mahesh Bhagwat, DGP (Law & Order); and V.C. Sajjanar, Hyderabad Police Commissioner. The event is organised by Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh, Greater Hyderabad, with Swaroopchand Kothari as Chairman and Chief Convenor, Annraj Bafna as President, Manoj Kothari as Diksha Mahotsav Planning Convenor, Pawan Katariya as General Secretary, and Dharmender Nahar and Sajjan Gandhi as Convenors.
Sanjana’s journey to monkhood
Sanjana said her interest in Jain philosophy began at age 12 and deepened over the years, leading her to prepare for three years before deciding to become a Sadhvi. She explained that the transient nature of worldly relationships and her spiritual inclination influenced her decision. “I do not find the kind of happiness and peace I am seeking in this materialistic world. I believe I will find that happiness and peace through a life dedicated to Jain Dharma,” she said.
She described the challenges of ascetic life, including walking barefoot, wearing simple white clothing, giving up comforts such as fans and electricity, and undergoing the ritual of plucking her hair. Sanjana stated she is fully prepared for these challenges.
Family support and community context
Sanjana’s father, Kavarlal, is in the automobile business, and her elder brother, Shubham, is also engaged in business. Her mother, Mamata, said it was emotionally difficult for the family to accept her decision, but Sanjana’s determination was clear—she even stopped eating sweets and fruits until her parents gave their consent.
Jain Dharma has an estimated 19,000 to 20,000 Sadhus and Sadhvis, with over 1,000 coming from non-Jain backgrounds, according to Swaroopchand Kothari. Sanjana will join this spiritual community following her initiation.
Significance of Jain Diksha
Manoj Kothari, Diksha Mahotsav Planning Convenor, said becoming a Jain Sadhvi requires conviction, courage, self-discipline and spiritual commitment. Jain monks and nuns follow five great vows: non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy and non-possession. The life involves strict discipline, detachment, and years of preparation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a press release provided by the concerned organisation and has been edited for style and clarity with the assistance of AI tools. BusinessFortnight does not verify, endorse, or take responsibility for the claims, figures, or statements made in the original release.
