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New Delhi, Nov 9 (IANS) Lauding the government’s efforts in granting classical language status to Prakrit, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday attended the commemoration of His Holiness Acharya Shri 108 Shantisagar Maharaj in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
On his maiden visit to the state, the Vice President underlined the strong historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Jainism while addressing the event marking the centenary of Acharya Ji’s visit to the holy site in 1925 for the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony, an official statement said.
Radhakrishnan also acknowledged the efforts of the Government of India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to grant classical language status to Prakrit and launch the Jnana Bharatam Mission to preserve ancient manuscripts.
He also unveiled the statue of Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji at Shravanabelagola.
The Vice President appreciated the important role of Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji in reviving the Digambara tradition and his life as the embodiment of the Jain principles of nonviolence, aparigraha and anekantvad, which are very relevant in promoting inner peace and social harmony.
In an era marked by materialism and restlessness, the Vice President said, the life of Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji reminds us that true freedom lies not in possession, but in self-control – not in indulgence, but in inner peace.
The Vice President said that through this centenary celebration, the Digambar Jain Math at Shravanabelagola has not only honored the memory of a great saint but also rekindled an important spiritual flame for future generations.
He said the newly unveiled statue will stand as a symbol reminding every visitor of the power of simplicity, purity and compassion.
He expressed hope that the message of Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji will continue to inspire all Indians to follow the path of religion, tolerance and peace.
Recalling Shravanabelagola’s glorious history of over two thousand years as a center of Jain faith, the Vice President highlighted the 57-foot-tall monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali built by minister Chavundaraya of the Ganga Dynasty as a timeless testament to spiritual devotion and artistic excellence.
Radhakrishnan also reflected on the abdication of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya at Shravanabelagola under the guidance of Jain saint Acharya Bhadrabahu.
He said that this act of the great emperor symbolizes that even after achieving all worldly achievements, one must ultimately attain spiritual enlightenment.
–IANS
RCH/UK