Jain Mahotsav in Raipur Promotes Peace, Compassion and Non-Violence

*Teachings of Lord Mahavir guide humanity towards peace, self-discipline, compassion and non-violence: Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla* *The world today needs the message of non-violence, compassion, truth and self-restraint: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai* *Chief Minister and Lok Sabha Speaker seek blessings of Jain monks at Acharya Padarohan and Sahastravadhan Tapasya Mahotsav* Raipur, June 18, 2026/ Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday attended the Acharya Padarohan and Sahastravadhan Tapasya Mahotsav at Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur. They received blessings from Jain monks and paid respects to Pujya Vinaykushal Muni Ji Maharaj on his elevation to the position of Acharya. Addressing the gathering, Shri Om Birla said that the Acharya position symbolizes the highest ideals of penance, sacrifice, knowledge and spiritual leadership. Referring to Jain philosophy, he noted that the teachings of Lord Mahavir continue to inspire peace, self-discipline, compassion and non-violence, values that are increasingly relevant in a world facing tensions and conflicts. Observing spiritual state of Jain priests, Shri Birla observed that their lives of austerity, self-control and spiritual practice inspire society and contribute to the welfare of humanity. He described Acharya-designate Pujya Vinaykushal Muni Ji Maharaj’s elevation as a proud moment for the Jain community and praised Shatavadhani Hansbhadra Muni Ji Maharaj for his exceptional memory, knowledge and dedication to spiritual discipline. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that hosting the Acharya Padarohan Mahotsav in Chhattisgarh for the first time is a matter of pride and privilege for the state. He welcomed saints, devotees and guests from across the country, stating that the event has created a historic spiritual atmosphere and infused the state with positive energy. Speaking about Jain monks, Shri Sai said they have consistently propagated the values of non-violence, compassion, truth and self-restraint, which are essential for the modern world. He described Pujya Vinaykushal Muni Ji Maharaj’s elevation as recognition of a life devoted to knowledge, penance, discipline and service. He also lauded the remarkable memory, concentration and spiritual pursuit of 14-year-old Bal Muni Shatavadhani Hansbhadra Muni Ji Maharaj. Shri Sai added that Lord Mahavir’s message of “Live and Let Live” holds even greater significance today. Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh said that Jain monks inspire society through rigorous penance, fasting and disciplined living. He welcomed the saints who arrived in Raipur after long journeys undertaken as part of their spiritual practices. Union Minister of State Shri Tokhan Sahu said that the gathering of saints and devotees from across India for such a major spiritual event is a matter of great fortune for the state. He observed that the sacrifice, penance and disciplined lifestyle of Jain monks serve as a constant source of inspiration and help strengthen spiritual and moral values in society. The event was attended by office-bearers of Sakal Jain Shri Sangh, a large number of devotees and prominent citizens. Among those present were MPs Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, Shri Vijay Baghel, Smt. Kamlesh Jangde and Shri Mahesh Kashyap, along with MLA Shri Rajesh Munat and other public representatives.