“The literature of Jainism is the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur. Preserving this knowledge is our duty”- Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
India reverently celebrates Mahavir Jayanti. It is a day that resonates with deep spiritual significance and profound peace. This day commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. More than a festival, it is a heartfelt tribute to a life devoted to compassion, self-restraint, and truth. In a world often clouded by conflict and chaos, Lord Mahavira’s eternal message of ahimsa (non-violence) shines brighter than ever. His principles of satya (truth) and inner awakening guide countless souls. They inspire a more mindful and harmonious existence.
PM Modi Inaugurates Navkar Mahamantra Divas
This year, the spirit of Mahavir Jayanti was powerfully invoked. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Navkar Mahamantra Divas on April 9.The Navkar Mantra, central to Jain prayer, is more than a collection of sacred syllables. It is a rhythmic flow of energy, stability, and light.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on his own roots in Gujarat. He spoke of how Jain Acharyas shaped his understanding from an early age. This personal connection reinforced his message. He emphasized that Jainism is deeply relevant today. It is not merely historical. This is especially true in an India that seeks to grow without losing its roots.
Celebrates Mahavir Jayanti : Jain Values in Modern India’s Spirit and Sustainability
This relevance is embodied in the architectural and cultural fabric of modern India. It is evident in the depiction of Sammed Shikhar at the new Parliament’s entrance. It is also reflected in the return of ancient Tirthankara idols from overseas. These are not artifacts of nostalgia; they are living symbols of India’s spiritual continuity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described climate change as today’s biggest crisis. He said its solution is a sustainable lifestyle. The Jain community has practiced this for centuries. The Jain community has been living the principles of simplicity, restraint, and sustainability for centuries. Lord Mahavir’s timeless teachings align beautifully with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), a national call for sustainable living.
Jainism’s emblem, “Parasparopagraho Jivanam”, meaning the mutual interdependence of all life offers a deeply ecological worldview.
Nine Resolutions for a New India
In a poetic tribute to the power of “nine” in Indian and Jain traditions, the Prime Minister proposed nine resolutions anchored in the Navkar Mantra, each a commitment to knowledge, action, harmony, and rooted progress. He noted how repeating the mantra nine times, or in its multiples like 27, 54, or 108 represents spiritual completeness and intellectual clarity.
These resolutions align with the principles of Jainism and the vision of a sustainable and harmonious future.
Jain literature, etched in Prakrit and Pali, holds profound treasures of thought. The government’s initiative to grant these languages classical status and digitize Jain manuscripts under the Gyan Bharatam Mission is a tribute to this ancient wisdom.
₹25 Crore Centre for Jain Studies Approved at DAVV Indore under PMJVK Scheme
In March 2024, the Ministry of Minority Affairs approved projects under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) Scheme for the establishment of ‘Centre for Jain Studies’ in Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) in Indore. With financial assistance of ₹25 crore, this centre aims to preserve and promote Jain heritage, foster interdisciplinary research, and enhance global understanding of Jainism as a way of life. It will support digitization of ancient Jain texts, facilitate academic research, and serve as a hub for students and scholars to engage with Jain teachings, traditions, and practices, while also promoting community engagement and awareness.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs in the past also approved a project focused on preserving Jain culture through digitization of manuscripts, knowledge sharing, and promoting interdisciplinary research on Jain traditionsOn Mahavir Jayanti in April 2024, a commemorative stamp and coin on the occasion of 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav.
As India marches on the path of becoming a developed nation, Lord Mahavir’s message of inner conquest, compassion, and truth offers a guiding light. The Navkar Mantra brings harmony. The discipline of the Sadhus is a testament to strength. Life’s interdependence reaches beyond individuals, affecting the entire world.
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