PM Modi Hails India as Ancient Living Civilization at Acharya Vidyanand Ji Centenary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the grand Centenary Celebrations of Acharya Shri Vidyanand Ji Maharaj at Vigyan Bhawan on Saturday, hailing the event as a “momentous milestone” in India’s spiritual journey and civilizational pride.

PM Modi reflected on the date’s historic significance, noting that June 28, 1987, marked the conferment of the title ‘Acharya’ upon Vidyanand Ji, transforming the spiritual tide of the Jain tradition. “This is not merely a centenary event,” he remarked, “but a celebration of discipline, compassion, and timeless thought.”

In a symbolic gesture to honour Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s enduring legacy, the Prime Minister released commemorative coins and postage stamps. Acknowledging the spiritual guidance of Acharya Shri Pragya Sagar Ji, PM Modi accepted the title of ‘Dharm Chakravarti’—a gesture he humbly dedicated at the feet of Maa Bharati.

Reaffirming India’s cultural ethos, the Prime Minister stated, “India is the world’s most ancient living civilisation—a service-oriented and humanity-centred nation.” Emphasising knowledge preservation, he announced that Prakrit has now been accorded classical language status. He also launched a campaign to digitise ancient Indian manuscripts, preserving invaluable wisdom for future generations.

He concluded with a call to action for Jan Bhagidari, reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas’.

The event also set the stage for a year-long tribute to Acharya Vidyanand Ji, featuring literary, spiritual, and cultural programs across India to celebrate his scholarship, which included over 50 works and the memorisation of more than 8,000 Jain Agamic verses.

Acharya Vidyanand Ji Maharaj authored more than 50 works on Jain philosophy and ethics. He played an instrumental role in the restoration and revival of ancient Jain temples across India and worked for education, especially in Prakrit, Jain philosophy, and classical languages.