Prime Minister Narendra Modi today wrote an article in an English daily paying tributes to Jain seer Vidhyasagar Maharaj. Mr Modi wrote that the life of Sant Shiromani Acharya Shri 108 Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj is a spiritually rich epoch graced with profound wisdom, boundless compassion, and an unwavering commitment to uplift humanity. The Prime Minister said, he had the honour of receiving the blessings of the seer on numerous occasions.
Mr. Modi said, he feels a deep sense of loss, akin to losing a guiding light that has illuminated the path for countless souls, including himself. He said, the warmth, affection, and blessings were not just gestures of goodwill but profound transmissions of spiritual energy, empowering and inspiring all those fortunate enough to have come in contact with the Spiritual leader.
Mr Modi said, Pujya Acharya Ji will always be remembered as a Triveni of wisdom, compassion, and service. He was a true Tapasvi, whose life epitomized the ideals of Bhagwan Mahavir. His life exemplified the core principles of Jainism, embodying its ideals through his own actions and teachings. The Prime Minister wrote his care towards all living beings mirrored Jainism’s profound respect for life. He lived a life of truthfulness, reflecting Jainism’s emphasis on honesty in thought, word, and deed. He also led a very simple lifestyle. He said, it is due to stalwarts like Vidhyasagar Maharaj that the world continues to be inspired by Jainism and the life of Bhagwan Mahavir. He stood tall among the Jain community but his impact and influence were not limited to only one community. Mr Modi said, people across faiths, regions, and cultures came to him and he worked tirelessly towards spiritual awakening, particularly among the youth.
The Prime Minister said, Vidhyasagar Maharaj believed that a strong nation is built on the foundation of its citizens’ commitment to their duties-towards themselves, their families, society, and the country. He encouraged individuals to cultivate virtues such as honesty, integrity, and self-reliance, which he saw as essential for the creation of a just, compassionate, and thriving society. Mr Modi said, this emphasis on duties is of great importance as the nation is working towards building a Viksit Bharat.
He said, education was an area very close to the heart of the Jin Seer. It was his firm belief that education is the cornerstone of a just and enlightened society.
He championed the cause of knowledge as a means to empower individuals, enabling them to lead lives of purpose and contribution. His teachings emphasized the importance of self-study and self-awareness as the pathways to true wisdom, urging his followers to engage in lifelong learning and spiritual growth. Mr Modi at the same time, Sant Shiromani Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj wanted the youngsters to get an education that is also rooted in the cultural ethos. In the domain of healthcare too, his contributions were transformative.
