Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Centenary Celebrations of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, emphasizing the significance of the occasion in India’s spiritual tradition. The event, organized by the Government of India in collaboration with Bhagwan Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust, marks the formal commencement of a year-long tribute to honor the revered Jain spiritual leader and social reformer on his 100th birth anniversary.
In his address, PM Modi described the centenary as a momentous occasion, reflecting the immortal inspiration of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj. He noted that June 28 holds special significance, recalling that on this day in 1987, Acharya was conferred the title of ‘Acharya,’ marking the beginning of a sacred journey that connected Jain traditions with thought, discipline, and compassion. To commemorate the occasion, special coins and postage stamps were released. The Prime Minister also congratulated Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji, under whose guidance millions follow the path laid by Acharya Vidyanand Ji, and humbly accepted the title of ‘Dharm Chakravarti’ conferred upon him, dedicating it to Mother India.
Reflecting on Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s life, born on April 22, 1925, in Karnataka, PM Modi highlighted his profound contributions as a scholar, author of over 150 texts, and a visionary who connected millions with cultural and spiritual values. The Prime Minister described him as a unique blend of knowledge and bliss, whose simple yet profound teachings inspired generations. Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s expertise spanned languages like Kannada, Marathi, Sanskrit, and Prakrit, and his contributions to literature, classical music, and national service were exemplary. A freedom fighter and Digambar Muni, he embodied detachment while serving as a reservoir of knowledge and spiritual inspiration.
PM Modi emphasized that India, as the world’s most ancient living civilization, owes its endurance to the timeless wisdom of sages and Acharyas like Vidyanand Ji. He praised the Acharya’s efforts in social and cultural reconstruction through initiatives like the Prakrit Bhavan and research institutions, which preserved Jain history and promoted inclusivity through seminal works like Jain Darshan and Anekantvad. His commitment to temple restoration, education for the underprivileged, and social welfare reflected a synthesis of self-realization and public good.
The Prime Minister underscored India’s ethos of selfless service, rooted in Jain philosophy and exemplified by Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s life. He cited government initiatives like PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat, and free food grain distribution as reflections of this ethos, aimed at uplifting the marginalized. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive progress, inspired by Acharya’s ideals, with the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas.
Highlighting the relevance of Jainism’s timeless principles, such as the five Mahavratas and Triratnas, PM Modi noted Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s efforts to make these teachings accessible through the Vachanamrit movement and devotional music. He also celebrated the government’s recent recognition of Prakrit as a classical language in October 2024 and the ongoing digitization of ancient manuscripts, including Jain scriptures. These efforts align with the broader mission to preserve India’s cultural heritage while promoting development, as seen in the 2024 celebrations of Bhagwan Mahavir’s 2,550th Nirvana Mahotsav.
PM Modi recalled the nine resolutions shared during Navkar Mantra Diwas, urging citizens to conserve water, plant trees, maintain cleanliness, promote local products, explore India, adopt natural farming, embrace healthy lifestyles, engage in yoga and sports, and support the underprivileged. He expressed confidence that these resolutions, inspired by Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s teachings, would strengthen India’s journey toward a developed nation during the Amrit Kaal.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekawat and revered saints were among the dignitaries present. The year-long centenary celebrations will feature cultural, literary, educational, and spiritual initiatives to spread Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s message of compassion, knowledge, and service.
from National https://ift.tt/NeShawP