New Delhi, Jun 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday addressed the Centenary Celebrations of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Prime Minister remarked that the nation is witnessing a momentous occasion in India’s spiritual tradition, highlighting the sanctity of the centenary celebrations of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj. He stated that this event, imbued with the immortal inspiration of the revered Acharya, is creating an extraordinary and uplifting atmosphere. The Prime Minister extended his greetings to all attendees and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be present at the event.
Noting that today holds special significance for another reason, Modi recalled that on 28 June 1987, Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj was formally conferred the title of ‘Acharya’. He emphasised that this was not merely a title, but the beginning of a sacred stream that connected Jain tradition with thought, discipline, and compassion. The Prime Minister remarked that as the nation celebrates the centenary of Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj, the date serves as a reminder of that historic moment. Paying respects to Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj, Modi wished that may everyone be showered with Acharya’s blessings.
“The centenary celebration of Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj is not an ordinary event, it carries the memory of an era and echoes the life of a great ascetic”, remarked the Prime Minister, highlighting that to commemorate this historic occasion, special commemorative coins and postage stamps have been released. Shri Modi specially acknowledged and saluted Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji, noting that under his guidance, millions of followers are walking the path shown by the revered Guru. Modi mentioned that on this occasion, he has been conferred the title of ‘Dharm Chakravarti’ and humbly expressed that the Indian tradition teaches one to accept whatever is received from saints as a blessing. He therefore accepted the title with humility and dedicated it at the feet of Mother India.
Reflecting on the profound emotional connection shared with the divine soul whose words have served as guiding principles throughout life, the Prime Minister noted that speaking about such a revered figure naturally stirs deep emotions. He expressed that rather than speaking about Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj, he wished they could have had the privilege to listen to him once more. Modi remarked that encapsulating the journey of such a great personality in words is no easy task. He stated that Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj was born on 22 April 1925, on the sacred land of Karnataka, and was given the spiritual name ‘Vidyanand’. He highlighted that Acharya’s life was a unique confluence of knowledge and bliss. His speech carried profound wisdom, yet his words were so simple that anyone could understand them. Mentioning that Acharya Vidyanand Ji authored over 150 texts, undertook thousands of kilometres of barefoot journeys, and connected millions of youths with discipline and cultural values through his tireless efforts, the Prime Minister described Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj as a ‘visionary of the era’. He expressed his fortune in having the opportunity to personally experience the spiritual aura of the Acharya and receive his guidance and blessings over time. He stated that at this centenary celebration, he could still feel the same affection and closeness from the revered Acharya.
“India is the world’s most ancient living civilization, our country has endured for thousands of years because its ideas, philosophical thought, and worldview are eternal”, stated Modi. He noted that this enduring vision is rooted in the wisdom of sages, seers, saints, and Acharyas. He highlighted that Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj stood as a modern beacon of this timeless tradition. The Prime Minister observed that the Acharya possessed deep expertise in numerous subjects and demonstrated excellence in many domains. He praised the Acharya’s spiritual intensity, extensive knowledge, and command over languages such as Kannada, Marathi, Sanskrit, and Prakrit. Highlighting Acharya’s contributions to literature and religion, his devotion to classical music, and his steadfast commitment to national service, the Prime Minister said that there was no dimension of life in which the Acharya did not set exemplary standards. He underscored that Acharya Vidyanand Ji was not only a great musician but also a fierce patriot and freedom fighter, and a steadfast Digambar Muni who embodied complete detachment. He described him as both a reservoir of knowledge and a source of spiritual bliss. Shri Modi emphasised that the journey from Surendra Upadhyay to Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj was a transformation from an ordinary man to a transcendent soul. He called it an inspiration that the future is not bound by the limitations of the present life, but rather shaped by one’s direction, purpose, and resolve.
Remarking that Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj did not limit his life to spiritual practice alone but he transformed his life into a medium for social and cultural reconstruction, the Prime Minister underlined that through the establishment of the Prakrit Bhavan and several research institutions, the Acharya carried the flame of knowledge to newer generations. He stated that the Acharya also gave rightful recognition to Jain history. By authoring seminal texts such as ‘Jain Darshan’ and ‘Anekantvad’, he deepened philosophical thought and promoted inclusivity and breadth of understanding. The Prime Minister noted that from temple restoration to the education of underprivileged children and broader social welfare, every endeavour of the Acharya reflected a synthesis of self-realisation and public good.
Recalling that Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj once said that life becomes truly spiritual only when it becomes a means of selfless service, Modi said that this thought is deeply rooted in the essence of Jain philosophy, and intrinsically linked to the spirit of India. “India is a nation defined by service and guided by humanity”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, noting that while the world tried for centuries to quell violence with violence, India introduced the world to the power of non-violence. He emphasised that the Indian ethos has always prioritised the spirit of service to humanity above all.
“India’s spirit of service is unconditional—beyond self-interest and inspired by selflessness”, remarked Modi, emphasising that this principle guides the nation’s governance today. He cited initiatives like the PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, and free food grain distribution for the underprivileged as reflections of this ethos, aimed at uplifting those at the last rung of society. He highlighted that the government is committed to achieving saturation in all schemes, ensuring that no one is left behind and that progress is truly inclusive. The Prime Minister affirmed that this resolve is inspired by Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj’s ideals and remains a shared national commitment.
“The teachings and words of the Tirthankaras, monks, and Acharyas remain timeless and relevant in every era. Today, the principles of Jainism—such as the five Mahavratas, Anuvrat, Triratnas, and the Six Essentials—are more important than ever before”, stated the Prime Minister. He noted that eternal teachings, too, must be made accessible to the common person according to the needs of the time. Modi highlighted that Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj dedicated his life and work to this cause. “Acharya ji launched the ‘Vachanamrit’ movement to present Jain scriptures in colloquial language, he also used devotional music to convey profound spiritual concepts in a simple and accessible manner for the masses,” said Modi. Quoting from one of Acharya’s bhajans, the Prime Minister remarked that such compositions are spiritual garlands made from the pearls of wisdom. He added that this effortless faith in immortality and the courage to gaze toward the infinite are what make Indian spirituality and culture truly exceptional.
Highlighting that the centenary year of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj is a year of continuous inspiration, Modi emphasised the responsibility to not only imbibe the spiritual teachings of the Acharya in personal life but also to carry forward his work for the welfare of society and the nation. He highlighted Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s pivotal role in reviving the ancient Prakrit language through his literary works and devotional compositions. The Prime Minister noted that Prakrit is one of India’s oldest languages and the original medium of Bhagwan Mahavir’s teachings, in which the Jain Agamas were composed. He remarked that due to cultural neglect, the language had started fading from common use.
Modi further stated that the efforts of saints like Acharya Vidyanand Ji have now become national efforts. He recalled that in October 2024, the government granted Prakrit the status of a classical language. He mentioned the digitisation drive launched to preserve India’s ancient manuscripts, which includes a significant number of Jain scriptures and texts related to Acharyas. The Prime Minister further noted that the government is promoting the use of mother tongues in higher education. Reaffirming his address from the Red Fort, he reiterated the resolve to free the nation from the mindset of colonialism and to advance with both development and heritage in tandem. Modi stated that this commitment guides the ongoing development of India’s cultural and pilgrimage sites. He recalled that in 2024, the government organised large-scale celebrations to mark the 2,550th Nirvana Mahotsav of Bhagwan Mahavir, which was inspired by Acharya Vidyanand Ji Muniraj and blessed by saints like Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji. Remarking that in the times ahead, the nation must undertake more such large-scale efforts to enrich its cultural heritage, the Prime Minister affirmed that, like the current programme, all such initiatives will be guided by the spirit of Jan Bhagidari with the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas.
Modi stated that his presence on the occasion naturally evoked the memory of Navkar Mantra Diwas, during which nine resolutions were also shared. He expressed happiness that a large number of citizens are earnestly working to fulfil these pledges and added that the teachings of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj strengthen these commitments. Reiterating the nine resolutions, the Prime Minister stated the first resolution is to conserve water. He urged everyone to recognise the value of every drop, calling it both a responsibility and a duty towards Mother Earth. The second resolution is ‘Ek Ped Maa ke naam’, to plant a tree in the name of one’s mother and nurture it just as mothers nurture us, making each tree a living blessing from the mother. The third resolution emphasises that cleanliness is not for display—it reflects inner non-violence. He added that every street, neighbourhood, and city must be kept clean with collective participation. ‘Vocal for Local’ being the fourth resolution, Shri Modi urged citizens to choose and promote products made by fellow Indians, rich with the sweat and soil of the country. The fifth resolution is to explore and understand India, while it is good to see the world, one must also deeply know, experience, and cherish India. The Prime Minister outlined the sixth resolution to adopt natural farming, stating the need to free Mother Earth from harmful chemicals and promote organic farming across villages. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle being the seventh resolution, the Prime Minister advised mindful eating, inclusion of millets in traditional Indian meals, and reducing oil consumption by at least ten percent to combat obesity and boost vitality. The eighth resolution is to embrace yoga and sports as part of daily life. Modi stated the ninth resolution as to help the poor, underlining that holding the hand of the underprivileged and aiding them in overcoming poverty is the truest form of service. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that by working on these nine resolutions, citizens would also reinforce the teachings of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Muniraj.
