25-Year-Old MBA Graduate and Fashion Designer to Embrace Jain Sadhvihood in Hyderabad on November 15
Hyderabad, November 11, 2026: In a remarkable decision to pursue spirituality over materialistic comforts, 25-year-old Sanjana Lunawat, an MBA graduate, fashion designer and boutique owner from Bhadgaon town in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, is set to renounce worldly life and embrace Jain Sadhvihood in Hyderabad on November 15.
The two-day Jain Bhagwati Diksha Mahotsav will be organised at Exhibition Grounds, Nampally, on November 14 and 15, under the guidance of Jain monk Pujya Acharya 1008 Shri Gyanchandraji Maharaj. More than 10,000 devotees are expected to attend the spiritual event.
The celebrations will begin on November 14 with a grand procession from Lalit Kala Thoranam, featuring vintage cars, horses and traditional bands. The programme will culminate in the Bhagwati Diksha ceremony on November 15. Several dignitaries, including C.V. Anand, DGP; Mahesh Bhagwat, DGP (L&O); and V.C. Sajjanar, Hyderabad Police Commissioner, are expected to attend.
Speaking on the occasion, Swaroopchand Kothari, Chairman and Chief Convenor, said that Sanjana’s decision to renounce her career, ambitions and material comforts at such a young age reflected extraordinary conviction, courage and spiritual commitment. He also appreciated her parents for supporting her spiritual aspirations despite the emotional challenges involved.
Manoj Kothari, Diksha Mahotsav Planning Convenor, said that Jain ascetic life demands immense discipline and dedication. Jain monks and nuns follow five great vows — non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy and non-possession. Walking barefoot, observing strict food disciplines and giving up material comforts are integral to their way of life. He added that Sanjana had prepared herself for three years before taking this important step.
Addressing a press conference along with her mother Mamata and office-bearers of Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh, Greater Hyderabad, which is organising the Mahotsav, Sanjana spoke about her spiritual journey and the reasons behind her decision.
Sanjana said she had developed an interest in Jain philosophy and its teachings at the age of 12, and her spiritual inclination had gradually strengthened over the years.
Explaining her decision, she said, “I see more happiness and peace in becoming a Jain Sadhvi than in this materialistic world. I believe that a life dedicated to Jain Dharma will give me the inner peace and happiness I am looking for.”
She explained that reflections on the temporary nature of worldly relationships and life had further strengthened her determination. Although the decision was emotionally difficult, she said she had spent three years preparing herself for the demanding life ahead.
Speaking about the challenges of ascetic life, Sanjana said she was fully prepared to walk barefoot, wear simple white clothing, give up material comforts such as fans and electricity, and undergo the traditional ritual of plucking her hair.
Her father, Kavarlal, is engaged in the automobile business, while her elder brother, Shubham, is also involved in business. Her mother, Mamata, said that it was emotionally difficult for the family to accept the decision initially. However, Sanjana remained firm in her determination and even stopped eating sweets and fruits until her parents agreed to her spiritual aspiration.
The office-bearers present at the press conference included Swaroopchand Kothari, Chairman and Chief Convenor; Annraj Bafna, President; Manoj Kothari, Diksha Mahotsav Planning Convenor; Pawan Katariya, General Secretary; Dharmender Nahar, Convenor; and Sajjan Gandhi, Convenor for Diksha.
Jain Bhagwati Diksha marks the renunciation of worldly life and the adoption of an ascetic path based on non-violence, self-discipline, simplicity, sacrifice and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.
