Chhattisgarh

• 08 Feb 2025

Samadhi Smriti Mahotsav in Chhattisgarh

Why in News? 

Recently, the Union Home Minister addressed the first Samadhi Smriti Mahotsav of Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj in Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh. 

 Key Points 

• Addressing the Mahotsav: 
  • He also participated in Shri 1008 Siddhachakra Vidhan Vishwa Shanti Mahayagya. 
  • During the event, the minister released: 
    • A commemorative coin of Rs 100 
    • A special postal envelope of Rs 5 
    • 108 footprints and portrait of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji 
    • Laid the foundation stone of the proposed Samadhi Smarak 'Vidyayatan' 
• Education and Social Development Initiatives: 
  • The minister announced the foundation stone of a girl’s school in Dindori district, Madhya Pradesh, which will offer free education, skill development, and employment opportunities. 
• Role of Jain Saints in National Unity: 
  • The minister acknowledged the contribution of Jain saints, who spread the spiritual message from Uttar Pradesh to Karnataka, Bihar to Gujarat. 
    • He highlighted that Acharya Ji taught us that India’s identity is deeply rooted in its culture. 
  • Acharya Ji wrote the Hindi epic 'Mookmati,' which has been translated into many languages and remains a significant work on philosophy, ethics, spirituality, and the nation. 

 Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj 

 

• Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was a highly respected monk in the Jain community, known for his wisdom and spiritual leadership. 
• He embraced monasticism at a young age and attained the esteemed title of Acharya, signifying his deep knowledge and spiritual achievements. 
• He actively worked in the fields of education, healthcare, environmental protection, and sustainable agriculture. 
• He encouraged societal progress and urged people to participate in democratic processes. 
• In his final days, he undertook Sallekhana (a voluntary Jain practice of fasting to death) and abstained from food and liquids for the last three days of his life.