Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the year-long centenary celebrations commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj, an esteemed Jain Acharya, scholar and social reformer.
The Culture Ministry and Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust jointly held the ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
The event honoured Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s legacy in Jain philosophy, ethics, and classical languages like Sanskrit and Prakrit.
Author of over 50 texts on Jain ethics, his teachings continue to shape India’s spiritual and intellectual heritage.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi said, “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.”
PM Modi recalled that Acharya Vidyanand received the title of Acharya on 28 June 1987, describing the occasion as a sacred moment that connected the Jain community with the principles of thought, restraint, and compassion.
The organisers honoured PM Modi with the title of ‘Dharma Chakravarti’ during the ceremony.
He accepted the honour with humility, stating, “I do not consider myself worthy of such an honour. However, our values teach us that whatever is received from the saints must be accepted as prasad. I dedicate this title to Maa Bharti.”
Referring to Acharya Vidyanand as a ‘modern beacon of India’s ancient tradition’, the Prime Minister noted that his name itself signified the fusion of ‘vidya’ (knowledge) and ‘anand’ (bliss).
“India is the world’s most ancient living civilisation. Our eternal philosophy is sustained by seers and saints like Acharya Vidyanand,” he added.
PM Modi reflected on the Acharya’s vast contributions beyond the spiritual realm, stating, “He transformed his life into a mission for cultural and societal rejuvenation. He was not just a spiritual figure but a visionary of his time.”
He also expressed personal reverence, saying, “Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj was ‘Yug Purush’ and ‘Yug Drashta’. I was blessed to have received his guidance and blessings. I still feel his love and presence today.”
Also present at the event were Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rashtrasant Paramparacharya Shri 108 Pragyasagar Ji Muniraj.
Both paid homage to the spiritual legacy of Acharya Vidyanand.
Known for his inclusive, non-violent, and ethical approach to spirituality, Acharya Vidyanand played a key role in reviving ancient Jain temples and promoting classical education.
His teachings continue to inspire generations devoted to India’s philosophical and spiritual traditions.
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