Is PM Modi Honoring Acharya Vidyanand's Centenary Celebrations?

New Delhi, June 28 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the inaugural event for the year-long celebrations commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj, a distinguished Jain spiritual leader, philosopher, and social reformer.

This gathering, held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, was organized by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust.

The tribute aims to honor the lasting legacy of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj, celebrated for his significant contributions to Jain philosophy, ethical living, and the preservation of Indian classical languages.

As an author of over 50 academic works on Jain ethics and philosophy, Acharya Vidyanand Ji's influence remains deeply engrained in the spiritual and intellectual landscape of India.

During the event, PM Modi remarked, "This centenary celebration of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj, filled with the devotion of his countless followers, has created an extraordinary atmosphere that is truly inspiring for all of us."

He further noted, "On June 28, 1987, Acharya Vidyanand Muniraj was awarded the Acharya title. This was not merely an honor but also a pure stream connecting the Jain community with thought, restraint, and compassion. This birth anniversary serves as a reminder of that historic occasion," he stated.

After receiving the title of Dharma Chakravarti, PM Modi shared, "I do not believe I am worthy of such an honor. However, our values teach us that whatever is received from the sants must be embraced as a divine offering (prasad)." He dedicated this title to 'Maa Bharti'.

He expressed, "Reflecting on a divine soul whose words we have always held as sacred teachings, whose voice has resonated with our hearts, evokes deep emotion. I wish we could hear Acharya Vidyanand Muniraj speak today. Summarizing the life journey of such a remarkable personality is a daunting task."

Highlighting the essence of his name, PM Modi explained that Vidyanand signifies a profound integration of 'vidya' (knowledge) and 'anand' (bliss).

"India stands as the world's most ancient living civilization. Our endurance over millennia is attributed to our eternal ideas, philosophy, and wisdom. The roots of this timeless philosophy are found in our sages, seers, sants, and Acharyas. Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj is a contemporary symbol of this ancient Indian legacy," he added.

"Our future hinges on the paths we choose, the objectives we set, and the resolutions we uphold. Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj transcended mere spiritual practices; he transformed his life into a vehicle for societal and cultural reconstruction," PM Modi stated.

He described Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj as 'Yug Purush' and 'Yug Drashta'. "I consider myself fortunate to have experienced his spiritual presence firsthand. He guided me occasionally, and I always felt his blessings. Today, I can sense his love and proximity," he expressed.

Also present at the event were Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rashtrasant Paramparacharya Shri 108 Pragyasagar Ji Muniraj.

Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj was widely appreciated for his inclusive and compassionate spiritual philosophy, rooted in non-violence and ethical living.

His initiatives were crucial in the revival and preservation of ancient Jain temples throughout India.

Additionally, he devoted his life to promoting education in classical languages such as Prakrit and Sanskrit, enriching the spiritual and intellectual fabric of Indian society.