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Gov. Rauner helps Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago celebrate 25 years

The Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago in Bartlett is celebrating its 25 anniversary with festivities that will include keynote speakers, worship, performances and notable attendees.

Close to 4,000 attendees are expected over the course of the 10-day celebration, which started Friday. The center was the first place of Jain worship in North America, according to media representative Hemant Shah, and is currently the only Jain place of worship in the Midwest. Close to 1,000 attend biweekly Sunday services. Jainism originated in India around 5,000 years ago with a message of nonviolence and forgiveness.

Illinois political figures expected to attend the festivities include Gov. Bruce Rauner and U.S. Reps. Peter Roskam and Raja Krishnamoorthi. Notable Indian dignitaries and scholars also will be coming in for events.

"Youth and adults are really excited to interact with dignitaries from India," Shah said.

A performance troupe from India will put on a play, and local youth and artists will perform in plays and musicals. A replica mountain topped with temples has been constructed in the parking lot in memory of a well-known Jain pilgrimage.

"It is very beautifully done; it is accurate to this pilgrimage," Shah said.

More information is at jsmconline.org.

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