In a powerful display of humility and spiritual reverence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Navkar Mahamantra Divas celebration on Wednesday barefoot and chose to sit among the public rather than on the dais, underscoring the Jain values of equality and devotion.
The Prime Minister’s symbolic gesture was widely appreciated as a mark of deep respect toward Jain spiritual traditions and the sanctity of the Navkar Mantra, a foundational prayer in Jainism dedicated to non-violence, inner peace, and spiritual awakening.
Addressing the gathering at Vigyan Bhawan, PM Modi reflected on the spiritual and national significance of the mantra, calling it the “centre of our faith” and the “fundamental note of our life.” He highlighted how the principles embodied in the Navkar Mahamantra resonate with his vision of a developed yet rooted India.
“The philosophy of the Navkar Mantra aligns with the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). An India that reaches new heights without forgetting its heritage,” Modi said.
He also lauded Jainism’s contribution to India’s cultural and intellectual legacy, describing Jain literature as the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur.
PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving ancient knowledge by granting Classical Language status to Prakrit and Pali, two ancient languages deeply connected with Jain and Buddhist traditions.
“These languages carry immense scholarly and cultural value. Recognizing them is part of honoring our heritage,” he noted.
The Prime Minister led a collective chanting of the Navkar Mahamantra, calling it a spiritually energizing and unifying experience. He invited citizens across the country to join in the chant at 8:27 AM, calling it a collective prayer for peace, strength, and unity.
The central ceremony in Delhi saw participation from Jain monks, religious scholars, community leaders, and hundreds of devotees, while similar events were held across the country. The gathering echoed the core Jain values of nonviolence, truth, self-discipline, and inner transformation.
Earlier in the event, PM Modi announced that initiatives like ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ would focus on preserving and digitizing India’s spiritual manuscripts, blending tradition with technology for future generations.
The Navkar Mahamantra Divas served not only as a spiritual observance but also as a celebration of India’s timeless philosophies and a call to integrate them into modern life for national and individual growth.
