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New Delhi: Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Saturday lauded the efforts of the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to grant ‘classical language’ status to Prakrit and preserve Jain manuscripts through initiatives such as the Jnana Bharatam Mission.
The government granted ‘Classical Language’ status to Prakrit on October 3, 2024. The decision recognized its rich historical and cultural significance as a source of ancient literature and its importance in Jain traditions.
Addressing the eighth 180th fast breaking ceremony of Jain Acharya Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj in New Delhi, Radhakrishnan said that in a digital age that is taking us away from our roots, we must take inspiration from our spiritual leaders to build a just, compassionate and united India based on enduring values, a statement said.
Radhakrishnan praised Acharya Hansaratna Surishwarji Maharaj for demonstrating that true strength lies not in wealth or position, but in restraint, compassion and discipline. He emphasized that Acharya ji’s “Save Culture, Save Family, Build Nation” campaign inspires the society to preserve values, strengthen families and build a resilient nation.
He also underlined the historical prevalence of Jainism in Tamil Nadu and its widespread influence on Tamil culture.
The Vice President said that Tamil Nadu shares a deep, historical connection with Jainism – evident in the Sangam literature, epics like Silappathikaram, the legacy of Jain poets and the ancient temples that stand as testament to our pluralistic heritage.
The Vice President noted the significant contribution of Jainism to Tamil literature during the Sangam and post-Sangam period, citing classical works such as Silappathikaram by Ilango Adigal and Perungathai by Kongu Velir, which reflect the philosophical and ethical ideals of non-violence, truth and renunciation.
He also mentioned that there is Jain influence on texts like Tirukkural and Sangam literature.
Radhakrishnan highlighted the presence of many Jain monasteries across Tamil Nadu, which historically served as centers of learning, the statement said.
Acharya Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj is a revered Jain monk known for his spiritual discipline and long-term ascetic practices.
Mahaparna marks the formal conclusion of his 180-day fast, which he has undertaken for the eighth time, reflecting his devotion, discipline and commitment to spreading the principles of Jainism and moral values. This event is a symbol of faith, self-control and inspiration for the devotees and the wider community.
Highlighting the profound contributions of Jainism, one of the world’s oldest religions, Radhakrishnan said its teachings – ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and anekantavada (multiple approaches to truth) – have left a lasting impact on India and the world.
He said that the non-violence adopted by Mahatma Gandhi in India’s freedom struggle has been inspiring global peace movements.
The Vice President further highlighted that the Jain ethos of vegetarianism, compassion towards animals and sustainable living has been recognized across the world as a model for environmental responsibility.
Recounting his personal journey, Radhakrishnan shared that he had adopted vegetarianism after coming to Kashi 25 years ago, noting that it inculcates humility, maturity and love for all beings.
–IANS