PM Inaugurates 2550th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of youth commitment to the values of Bhagwan Mahavir, signaling progress in the right direction for the nation. He emphasized that for India, modernity is its body, and spirituality is its soul.

On Sunday, in the grand Bharat Mandap of Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the 2550th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav on the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. He paid homage to the statue of Bhagwan Mahavir with rice and flower petals and witnessed a presentation of the dance drama "Vartaman Mein Vardhman" by school children depicting the life of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami. On this occasion, the Prime Minister also issued a commemorative postal stamp and coin.

Prime Minister Modi paid respects to the Jain community saints and extended greetings to all citizens on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. He offered his tribute to Acharya Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj and recalled his recent meeting with the revered saint, stating that his blessings continue to guide us.

He remarked, "Today, when the world is seeking peace amidst conflicts, India is looked upon as a harbinger of peace. The credit for this new role of India, as a global leader, goes to our increasing capabilities and foreign policy, but our cultural image also plays a significant role. Today, India has emerged in this new role because we proudly uphold vows like truth and non-violence on global platforms. We show the world that the solution to global crises and conflicts lies in India's ancient culture and traditions. Therefore, even amidst opposition, India is establishing itself as a 'Vishwa Bandhu' (Friend of the World)."

He addressed the issue of climate change and outlined India's initiatives such as Mission Life and the roadmap for "One Earth, One Sun, One Grid" along with the perspectives of 'One Earth, One Family, and One Future'.

Emphasizing the significance of the 2550th Nirvan Mahotsav of Bhagwan Mahavir, the Prime Minister referred to the completion of 75 years of the Constitution and the celebration of democracy which will determine the nation's future direction. He stressed that after 75 years of introspection, it is time to draw nectar in this Amrit Kal (era).

He stated, "During times of numerous wars in the world, the teachings of our Tirthankars have become even more important." He added, "Even after 2500 years, we are celebrating Bhagwan Mahavir's Nirvan Diwas, and I am confident that for thousands of years to come, the country will continue to celebrate the values of Bhagwan Mahavir."

Modi recalled Jain philosophies like Anekantavada and Syadvada, which teach us to understand various aspects of a subject and accept others' perspectives. Regarding the Jain religion's essence, he said, "The essence of Jainism is the path of victory, meaning, the path of conquerors." He emphasized that India achieved victory not by invading other countries but by self-improvement, despite facing adversities. Therefore, in every difficult era, some sage or sage emerged to guide us, helping the country find its way amidst the decline of many great civilizations.

He highlighted various events over the past 10 years and said, "Whenever I received an invitation from Jain Acharyas, I made an effort to participate in those programs." Before entering the new Parliament building, he recalled reciting 'Micchami Dukkadam' to remember his values. He also mentioned India's efforts to revive its heritage, referring to yoga and Ayurveda, stating that today's new generation identifies their pride with their identity.

Prime Minister Modi remarked that India is emerging from the era of corruption and despair, as more than 250 million Indians have been lifted out of poverty. Urging citizens to take advantage of this moment, he called on everyone to walk the path of non-stealing and non-violence and reiterated his commitment to work for the nation's future, thanking the saints for their inspirational words.

Noteworthy attendees at the event included Union Minister for Law and Justice (independent charge) and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, and other dignitaries from the Jain community.