Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commemorated the 100th birth anniversary of revered Jain spiritual leader Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj by unveiling commemorative postage stamps and coins at a grand ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
The event marks the beginning of a year-long national celebration honouring the life, teachings, and legacy of Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj. Organised by the Union Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust, the ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rashtrasant Paramparacharya Shri 108 Pragyasagar Ji Muniraj.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi reflected on the significance of the day, recalling that it was on June 28, 1987, that Acharya Vidyanand Muniraj was conferred the title of ‘Acharya’. “It wasn’t just an honour but a sacred connection that linked Jain values of restraint and compassion to Indian culture,” he said.
In a heartfelt gesture, PM Modi also accepted the honorary title of ‘Dharma Chakravarti’ bestowed upon him during the event. “I do not consider myself worthy of this title. But in our tradition, anything given by saints is accepted as ‘prasad’. I accept this honour with humility and dedicate it to Maa Bharati,” he said.
An exhibition titled “Life and Legacy of Acharya Shri 108 Vidyanand Ji Maharaj” was inaugurated alongside the event, featuring paintings and murals that depict the Acharya’s spiritual journey and contributions.
The celebrations, which commenced with this event, will continue until April 22, 2026. During this period, a series of cultural, literary, educational, and spiritual programs will be organised across India to pay tribute to the late spiritual leader.
Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj, a prolific scholar and social reformer, authored over 50 works on Jain philosophy and ethics. He was also instrumental in promoting education in Prakrit and classical languages, and played a key role in the restoration of ancient Jain temples across the country.
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