Union Home and Cooperative Minister Amit Shah, and CM Sai attended the Vinayanjali Ceremony at Chandragiri Tirth in Dongargarh.
Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was a rare personality who dedicated his life to the nation.
Shah thanked PM Narendra Modi for releasing A ₹100 coin and a special cover doc envelope depicting his life
Rajnandgaon/Dongargarh (BTI) – February 6, 2025:
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the Vinayanjali Ceremony at Chandragiri Tirth, Dongargarh. On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, Finance Minister Shri O.P. Chaudhary, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Naveen Jain, Lok Sabha MP from Rajnandgaon Shri Santosh Pandey, Jain saint Samatasagar Maharaj, public representatives, and Jain community officials were present.
Union Home and Cooperative Minister Shri Amit Shah stated that Digambar Jain Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was a divine personality, and it was a privilege to offer poetic tributes at this sacred place. Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj chose this place for his final meditation and attained Samadhi here. After a year, he had the opportunity to offer tributes again. He emphasized that Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was not just a saint or a Jain Acharya but a Yug Purush (epoch-making personality). He introduced new thoughts and a new era, dedicated himself to penance, and became a guiding light for Indian culture and karma, bringing global recognition to the nation.
Recalling his memories with Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, Shri Amit Shah mentioned that he always emphasized the preservation and enrichment of Indian languages and culture. He highlighted that during the G-20 Summit, the Prime Minister’s invitation used the term “PM of Bharat,” following Acharya’s guidance, which astonished the world and delighted the devotees of Indian culture.
On this occasion, the Home Minister released a ₹100 coin and a special cover doc envelope illustrating Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj’s life. Additionally, the consecration of the 108-ashtadhatu (eight-metal) footprints of Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was conducted.
Shri Amit Shah stated that Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj followed the path of asceticism and eventually merged with the five elements. His frail body reflected his extreme penance, and his life continues to inspire the Jain community spiritually. He was a rare soul who dedicated his life to the nation and spread the message of Ahimsa Parmo Dharma (Non-violence is the supreme religion) worldwide. He adhered to all principles of Jainism throughout his life.
The Home Minister emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the principles of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The world is one family) and Ahimsa Parmo Dharma are being promoted globally. He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for issuing a ₹100 coin and a ₹5 envelope in Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj’s memory, considering it a tribute to the great saint tradition, which is much needed in today’s society. He remarked that Acharya’s teachings, principles, and messages would remain immortal for generations. His life was marked by sacrifice, self-restraint, and penance.
India has always upheld a rich saint tradition, where saints have played a crucial role in unifying the nation and igniting national consciousness through devotion. By staying away from Western influences, they have strengthened Indian culture and language. Jain monks have significantly contributed to national unity through their renunciations, traveling barefoot as a testament to their dedication to sacrifice. Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj dedicated his life to religion, culture, and national service. Until his last breath, he selflessly followed Rashtradharma (national duty)…
