Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj as a spiritual colossus and nation-builder whose legacy extends far beyond asceticism into cultural revival, public service, and philosophical reform. Speaking at the centenary celebrations of the Digambar Jain Acharya at Vigyan Bhawan, Modi said the occasion was not just a tribute to a revered monk but a reaffirmation of Bharat’s civilisational ideals and spiritual traditions.
He began by recalling that it was on this day in 1987 that Vidyanand Ji was formally bestowed the title of Acharya, marking the beginning of a life of public illumination rooted in restraint and compassion. He called the title not a designation, but the flow of a sacred stream through Jain tradition and Indian consciousness. Modi offered personal reflections, saying he had often received blessings and guidance from Vidyanand Ji, and could still feel his love and presence on this commemorative platform.
Modi described the centenary not merely as a celebration of a man but as a dialogue with an era — one that embodied profound spiritual and social reform. He highlighted the release of commemorative coins and stamps, expressing that such honours were deserved by a figure who bridged the realms of scripture, public service, and cultural empowerment. Modi acknowledged the presence and role of Acharya Pragya Sagar Ji and humbly accepted the honorific title of ‘Dharmachakravarti’, dedicating it at the feet of Maa Bharati.
Calling Vidyanand Ji a visionary who radiated both knowledge and bliss, the Prime Minister said he was fluent in 18 languages, wrote over 150 works, and walked thousands of kilometres for spiritual awakening. He referred to the Acharya’s transformation from Surendra Upadhyay into a spiritual beacon as symbolic of how personal effort and purpose could transcend social limitations. He noted that the Acharya was not only a Digambar Muni and scholar, but a patriot, freedom fighter, musician, linguist, teacher, and humanitarian — a rare confluence of intellect, renunciation, and national service.
He spoke of how Vidyanand Ji institutionalised the Jain historical narrative through centres like Prakrit Bhavan and through texts such as Jain Darshan and Anekantvad. Modi praised his work in temple restoration, tribal education, and access to spiritual literature for the underprivileged, calling it an enduring model of “self-realisation in service of others”.
Referencing the Acharya’s motto that life becomes spiritual only when it becomes a medium of service, Modi said that message underpins every major national initiative today, from PM Awas Yojana to Jal Jeevan Mission, from Ayushman Bharat to free food distribution. He said these schemes embody the Jain philosophy of non-violence and inclusivity, where the last citizen is neither forgotten nor neglected.
Modi described the Acharya as a master communicator who interpreted Jainism’s deepest principles in common language through bhajans, commentary, and storytelling. Quoting one of his hymns — “Ab hum amar bhaye na marenge” — the Prime Minister said such verses celebrate the Indian soul’s fearlessness and spiritual continuity.
He spoke of restoring Bharat’s cultural dignity, noting that under his government’s effort, Prakrit had been declared a Classical Language and thousands of Jain manuscripts were now being digitised. He tied this to a larger mission of decolonising the national mindset and reintegrating traditional wisdom into education, governance, and development. He recalled how the government celebrated the 2550th Nirvana Mahotsav of Bhagwan Mahavir in 2024, inspired by the legacy of Vidyanand Ji Maharaj.
Citing nine resolutions he had proposed on Navkar Mahamantra Divas, Modi reiterated calls for water conservation, planting trees in one’s mother’s name, cleanliness as non-violence, supporting local products, exploring India before the world, organic farming, healthy eating, fitness and yoga, and helping the poor. He said each of these commitments draws strength from Vidyanand Ji’s teachings and Jain philosophy.
Concluding with a vision for Amrit Kaal, Modi said India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation must be rooted in its ancient consciousness, collective resolutions, and spiritual heritage. He urged all citizens to walk the path carved by Vidyanand Ji — one of depth, discipline, service, and unshakeable faith in Bharat’s civilisational identity.
