Prime Minister Modi Sends Congratulatory Message for Acharyashree’s 50th Diksha Mahotsav
Surat (Gujarat), May 5: The 50th Diksha Kalyan Mahotsav of Acharyashree Mahashramanji, the eleventh spiritual leader of the Jain Shwetambar Terapanth Dharmasangh, was celebrated with immense fervor in Surat, the textile and diamond hub of Gujarat, on Thursday. This significant event marked a key milestone in the journey of Acharyashree Mahashramanji, who was initiated into the Terapanth Dharmasangh on Vaishakh Shukla Chaturdashi, an auspicious day for the community.
The grand celebration took place at Bhagwan Mahaveer University and attracted thousands of attendees, both in-person and online through platforms like the Paras Channel and Terapanth’s YouTube channel. The festival’s key theme revolved around reverence for Acharyashree and his transformative impact on the Jain community, with particular focus on its youth. The day was also designated as Youth Day, and young followers of the Terapanth tradition expressed their admiration for Acharyashree through various creative mediums.
In a special moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt congratulations to Acharyashree Mahashramanji, sending a letter that was read aloud by Chief Munishree Mahavir Kumarji in the presence of thousands of devotees. The celebratory atmosphere was further amplified by a series of speeches from prominent dignitaries, including Mr. Sanjay Surana, President of the Akshay Tritiya Pravas Vyavastha Samiti Surat; Mr. Pankaj Daga, National President of the Akhil Bhartiya Terapanth Yuvak Parishad; Mr. Sanjay Jain, Chancellor of Bhagwan Mahavir University; Mr. Mansukhlal Sethia, President of Jain Shvetambar Terapanthi Mahasabha; and Acharyashree’s brother, Mr. Surajkaran Dugad, among others.
The festival was marked by a series of musical and spiritual performances, including a composition by the Terapanth Yuvak Parishad-Surat. Notable speeches and seminars were presented by various leaders, and a poignant song was performed by Chief Munishree Mahavir Kumarji and Saint Vrind. Several revered monks, such as Muni Yogeshkumarji, Muni Kumarashramanji, and Munishree Uditkumarji, shared their reflections on the importance of Acharyashree’s guidance.
In his address, Yugpradhan Acharyashree Mahashramanji reflected on the significance of time in the spiritual journey, emphasizing the need for balance and equanimity. He spoke about his initiation day and the support he received from his family, especially his mother, who played a crucial role in inspiring his decision to renounce worldly attachments. Acharyashree also highlighted the importance of adhering to the thirteen rules of Terapanth and the continued effort to bring more aspirants, or Mumukshus, into the community. He concluded his speech by announcing that the Maryada Mahotsav of 2024 will be held in Vashi-Navi Mumbai, which was met with cheers and applause from the crowd.
A special release of Yuva Drishti, the youth magazine of the Akhil Bhartiya Terapanth Yuvak Parishad, was another highlight of the event. Furthermore, Jain Vishwa Bharati inaugurated 31 Agamas, and the Jain flag was ceremoniously transferred from the Surat Pravas Vyavastha Samiti to the Acharya Mahashraman Chaturmas Pravas Vyavastha Samiti in Mumbai as part of a symbolic gesture of change in leadership.
The Diksha Kalyan Mahotsav also underscored Acharyashree Mahashramanji’s commitment to non-violence and self-control, which are foundational to the Terapanth philosophy. The festival not only served as a moment for devotees to pay their respects and seek blessings but also acted as a platform for the youth to express their dedication to their faith. The celebration highlighted the core principles of the Terapanth Dharmasangh: discipline, spirituality, and social harmony, setting the stage for the continued growth of the community.
Rajneesh Singh is a journalist at Asian News, specializing in entertainment, culture, international affairs, and financial technology. With a keen eye for the latest trends and developments, he delivers fresh, insightful perspectives to his audience. Rajneesh’s passion for storytelling and thorough reporting has established him as a trusted voice in the industry.
