Source: Abhiyaan Gujarati Weekly
AHMEDABAD, INDIA, February 24, 2001: Appealing for funds internationally to restore Jain temples in Gujarat after the devastating January 26th earthquake, the Jain community has made extensive efforts to preserve valuables at all locations.Thirteen villages suffered losses including the sacred pilgrimage place of Bhadreshwar. After locating 205 murthis in 65 damaged temples, a team of about 40 volunteers have toured all temple sites to assess the damage. The team relocated murthis, gold, jewelry and silver utensils as well as rare scriptures and Jain art to a safe location near Ahmedabad. Diamond merchants of Mumbai also participated in the clean-up by collecting temple properties to keep in safe custody. Daily inspired talks by Jain monks has encouraged the youth to participate in the humanitarian work. Broken murthis were ceremoniously decommissioned and ceremoniously placed in the ocean. It is estimated that US$7.3 million will be needed to return the temples to their original pristine glory.