“India Is the Oldest Living Civilization”: PM Modi

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 28th June: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Centenary Celebrations of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj at Vigyan Bhawan, describing the revered Jain Acharya as a “visionary of the era” and a “living embodiment of India’s eternal spiritual heritage.”

Marking the special occasion, PM Modi paid rich tributes to the Digambar Jain monk, calling his life a confluence of knowledge, discipline, and compassion. He said the centenary is not just a celebration but a reflection of India’s deep-rooted civilizational values.

“India is the world’s most ancient living civilization, a nation rooted in service and guided by humanity,” the Prime Minister stated, adding, “Our government has given Prakrit the status of a classical language, and we are digitizing ancient manuscripts to preserve our cultural heritage.”

A Tribute to a Spiritual Legacy

Recalling Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s contributions, PM Modi noted that the revered monk authored over 150 texts, travelled thousands of kilometres barefoot, and dedicated his life to youth empowerment, education, and spiritual upliftment. The Prime Minister referred to him as both a freedom fighter and a spiritual scholar, a rare synthesis of patriotism and renunciation.

Modi said that Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s journey—from Surendra Upadhyay to a Digambar Muni—was proof that an ordinary life, through discipline and devotion, could transcend into greatness.

“This event is not ordinary,” he emphasized. “It’s a celebration of values that have guided India for millennia.”

Commemorative coins and postage stamps were released during the event, and PM Modi was conferred the title of ‘Dharm Chakravarti’, which he humbly dedicated to “Maa Bharati.”

India’s Civilizational Spirit

PM Modi reiterated his government’s cultural vision, stating that the Prakrit language, once the medium of Lord Mahavir’s teachings, has been given due recognition through its classical language status.

He mentioned the digitisation campaign for ancient Indian manuscripts, many of which include Jain scriptures, and said India is progressing on a path that embraces both development and heritage.

He highlighted initiatives like PM Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Jal Jeevan Mission, and free ration schemes as manifestations of India’s ancient spirit of selfless service.

Jain Teachings: Timeless Relevance

Stressing the continued relevance of Jain values—from Anuvrat to Triratna—Modi praised the Acharya for launching the ‘Vachanamrit’ movement to present Jain teachings in common language. He hailed devotional music as a means used by the Acharya to simplify profound spiritual wisdom for the masses.

The Prime Minister called for collective national efforts to strengthen India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, stating:

“All our efforts will be in the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari’ with the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas.’”

Nine Resolutions for Amrit Kaal

PM Modi also revisited the Nine Resolutions he had shared on Navkar Mantra Diwas—ranging from water conservation and natural farming to supporting the poor and embracing Indian culture. He said these resolutions resonate with the life and ideals of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj.

“These are not just pledges but the foundation of our nation-building journey,” he remarked.

Dignitaries in Attendance

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, revered saints including Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji, and a host of dignitaries were present at the event.

Conclusion

Calling upon the nation to draw inspiration from Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s life, PM Modi concluded:

“Let us walk on the path shown by Acharya Ji. Let us make nation-building our highest duty.”