Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the title of ‘Dharma Chakravarti’ on Saturday during the centenary celebrations of revered Jain Acharya Shri 108 Vidyanand Ji Maharaj in New Delhi.
The title was presented during a ceremony organised at Vigyan Bhawan, marking the formal launch of a year-long national tribute to the influential Jain spiritual leader. The event is being hosted by the Union Culture Ministry in collaboration with the Bhagwan Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust.
Accepting the honour, PM Modi humbly stated, “I do not consider myself worthy of this title. But it is our tradition to accept what we receive from saints as prasad. I accept this with reverence and dedicate it to Maa Bharati.”
Reflecting on the spiritual leader’s legacy, the Prime Minister noted that June 28 held special significance, as Acharya Vidyanand Ji was conferred the title of Acharya on this very day in 1987. “It was not just an honour, but a sacred thread connecting Jain values of restraint and compassion,” he said.
During the event, PM Modi and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also unveiled a commemorative postal stamp honouring the life and legacy of Acharya Vidyanand Ji. They toured an exhibition showcasing murals and paintings that depicted milestones from the Acharya’s ascetic journey.
In his address, PM Modi lauded India’s civilizational depth, saying, “India is the world’s oldest living culture. Our sages and saints like Acharya Vidyanand Ji are the source of our immortal philosophy.”
Born on April 22, 1925, in Shedbal, Belagavi (Karnataka), Acharya Vidyanand Ji was a towering Jain scholar who memorised over 8,000 Jain Agamic verses and authored more than 50 seminal works. His notable contributions include Jain Darshan, Anekantavada, and Mokshamarg Darshan.
Renowned for his intense austerity and barefoot travels across India, Acharya Ji was pivotal in restoring ancient Jain temples and played a historic role in the creation of the official Jain Flag and Emblem in 1975, with consensus from all Jain sects.
The centenary year, from June 28, 2025 to April 22, 2026, will feature nationwide cultural, literary, and spiritual programs, including initiatives promoting youth engagement, interfaith dialogue, Jain heritage awareness, and community outreach.
Spiritual leaders, scholars, and dignitaries from across India are expected to take part in the commemorative events, ensuring that Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s timeless message of non-violence, knowledge, and unity continues to inspire future generations.
