In Collaboration with
In this session, we will explore how birth and early life are understood and marked in the Jain tradition.
Although Jainism encourages simplicity and mindfulness over elaborate rites, certain meaningful ceremonies are observed to welcome a newborn. Participants will learn about the values that Jain families begin to nurture from birth—such as kindness toward all living beings, truthfulness, and respect for all life.
Participants will also get to learn how dietary practices, ethical living, and religious education are gently introduced from a young age in Jain households. This session will provide both insights into spiritual philosophy and practical aspects of Jain parenting.
This session offers a chance to understand how these birth ceremonies reflect the core values of Jain philosophy. We’ll also take time for a Q&A, allowing for deeper discussion and reflection on the ways Jains celebrate new beginnings in life.
Rajesh R. Shah, or Raj Shah, has been involved in interfaith work from a young age. His journey started as a Youth Member of SJRS in the 1980s and as a Management Committee Member from 1992 to present. When SJRS became the 10th Faith in the Inter Religious Organisation Singapore (IRO) in 2006, Raj signed up to become a Life Member. He subsequently joined the IRO Council in 2017 and went on to serve in various capacities on the Council. He took on the role of the rotating IRO Presidency from 2021-22 and continues serving as a Council Member to the present day.
While the Singapore Jain Religious Society (SJRS) was only officially registered in 1972, Jains were practicing in Singapore since the 1910s. Religious activities were originally carried out at a rented facility on 79 Waterloo Street until 1978 when the leadership decided to raise money to purchase land for a space of their own.
Today, all activities take place in the Smt. Nirmalaben Chandulal Doshi Jain Sthanak which is located at 18 Jalan Yasin. According to the SJRS, there are approximately 1500 people registered in the Society with most of them being Singaporeans and PRs.
Tania Wee is a dedicated volunteer with My Community, actively guiding the My Tanjong Pagar tour and Good Morning Geylang Serai walk. She is known for being a helpful and consistent presence across tours, helping participants discover the history, architecture, and communities of these neighbourhoods.
Outside of her volunteer work, Tania is an experienced architect and design leader, with expertise in healthcare and wellness environments. She is also a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators, reflecting her broader professional commitment to design, negotiation, and stewardship of the built environment.
Toh Choon Mei has been a committed volunteer with My Community since 2021, serving as the tour in-charge (IC) for My Tanjong Pagar tour. She played an active role in My Community Festival 2023 and is noted as the IC leading Tanjong Pagar heritage walks.
Working behind the scenes, Choon Mei contributes to tour coordination and volunteer support—helping ensure that cultural tours run smoothly and authentically. Her involvement reflects a sustained dedication to preserving and sharing the local history of Tanjong Pagar.
Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
Limited parking is available along Temple Road.
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
