Correct Answer : New Delhi
On the auspicious occasion of Mahaveer Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated (21st April 2024) the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event paid tribute to the 24th Tirthankar, Bhagwan Mahaveer, whose teachings of Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya (Chastity), and Aparigraha (Non-attachment) have illuminated the path of peaceful coexistence and universal brotherhood.
Honouring India’s Spiritual Heritage :
During the ceremony, PM Modi released a commemorative stamp and coin, witnessing a dance drama titled “Vartaman mein Vardhaman” performed by school children. He praised the youth’s dedication to Bhagwan Mahaveer’s values, calling it a sign of the nation moving in the right direction.
Amrit Kaal: A Spiritual Inspiration :
Highlighting the significance of the
2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav, PM Modi noted the happy coincidence of it occurring during the initial phase of Amrit Kaal, as the nation works towards a golden century of independence. He emphasized that the idea of Amrit Kaal is not merely a resolution but a spiritual inspiration that allows us to live through immortality and eternity.
India’s Farsighted Approach :
The Prime Minister underlined India’s strength in envisioning centuries and millennia, attributing it to the nation’s farsighted approach and longest-living civilization. He stated, “It is India which thinks not for self but for all and believes in everyone. It is India which not only talks about traditions but also policies.”
Embracing Diversity and Seeking Peace :
PM Modi recalled philosophies like
Anekantavada and Syadvada, which teach us to embrace diverse views and seek peace. He acknowledged that humanity expects peace from India in times of global conflict, owing to its cultural image, growing capabilities, and foreign policy initiatives like Mission LiFE, One Earth One Family and One Future, and One World-One Sun-One Grid.
Reviving Spiritual Values :
Stressing the relevance of Bhagwan Mahaveer’s teachings in the modern era, PM Modi urged citizens to follow the path of ‘Asteya and Ahimsa’ and revive spiritual values as a demand of the time. He stated, “For India, modernity is its body, spirituality is its soul. If spirituality is removed from modernity, anarchy is born.”
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Progress :
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s progress in overcoming challenges, with over 25 crore Indians emerging from poverty. He expressed his commitment to working for the nation’s future and thanked the saints for their inspiring words, encouraging citizens to seize the moment and embrace progress while upholding spiritual values.
As India celebrates the 2550th Bhagwan Mahaveer Nirvan Mahotsav, it serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich spiritual heritage and the timeless teachings of non-violence, truthfulness, and universal brotherhood, guiding the country towards a prosperous and harmonious future.
