Archive · 8 Nov 2025
Vice President Lauds Jainism's Contributions to Peace and Culture
Imagine a very important leader in India, the Vice-President, went to a special event for a wise Jain monk named Acharya Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj.
This monk just finished a very long fast, drinking only water for 180 days, which he has done many times before.
The Vice-President said that Jainism, an old religion, teaches great things like kindness to all living things and honesty.
These ideas, especially non-violence, have been so important that even leaders like Mahatma Gandhi used them.
Jainism also teaches us to live simply and care for the planet.
The Vice-President also mentioned how Jainism has influenced culture and stories in a place called Tamil Nadu long ago.
He believes the monk's message of saving culture and family helps make the country strong.
Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan praised Jainism's contributions to peace and culture at the 8th 180 Upvas Parna Ceremony.
He highlighted Jain principles such as non-violence (Ahimsa) and their global influence, including inspiration for Mahatma Gandhi.
The Vice-President lauded government efforts to grant 'Classical Language' status to Prakrit and preserve Jain manuscripts.
He noted Jainism's historical impact on Tamil Nadu's culture and literature, citing classical works.
Acharya Shri Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj was honored for completing his eighth 180-day fast and for his 'Save Culture, Save Family, Build Nation' campaign.
- Who
- Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan and Jain Acharya Shri Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj
- What
- A ceremony lauding Jainism's contributions to peace, global recognition, and cultural preservation, including government initiatives for Prakrit language and Jain manuscripts.
- When
- Saturday
- Where
- Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi
- Why
- To honor Acharya Shri Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj's 8th 180-day fast and highlight the significant role of Jainism in promoting peace, ethical values, and cultural heritage.
Vice President's Perspective
Jainism's Core Tenets
Significance of Jain Teachings
Vice President's Perspective
Jainism's principles like Ahimsa (non-violence) and vegetarianism have global impact, inspiring peace movements and environmental responsibility, with Ahimsa being adopted by Mahatma Gandhi.
Jainism's Core Tenets
The core tenets of Jainism, including Ahimsa, Satya (truth), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Anekantavada (multiple approaches to truth), are foundational to its philosophy and practice, influencing individuals and societies worldwide.
Cultural and Literary Influence
Vice President's Perspective
Jainism has a historic presence and wide influence on Tamil culture, contributing significantly to Tamil literature through works like Silappathikaram and Perungathai, and texts like Tirukkural, reflecting its ethical ideals.
Jainism's Core Tenets
Jainism's rich philosophical and ethical ideals, emphasizing non-violence, truth, and renunciation, are evident in classical Tamil literature and Sangam texts, showcasing its deep roots in the region.
Spiritual Discipline and National Campaigns
Vice President's Perspective
Acharya Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj's long-term fasting and his 'Save Culture, Save Family, Build Nation' campaign exemplify true strength through restraint, compassion, and discipline, inspiring society to uphold values and build a resilient nation.
Jainism's Core Tenets
The 8th 180-day fast (Upvas Parna Ceremony) undertaken by Acharya Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj is a testament to his spiritual discipline and commitment to spreading Jain principles and moral values.
- Event
- 8th 180 Upvas Parna Ceremony of Jain Acharya Shri Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj Ji
- Keynote Speaker
- Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan
- Location
- Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi
- Date
- Saturday (Specific date not mentioned, but implied to be recent)
- Jain Principles Highlighted
- Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), Anekantavada (multiple approaches to truth)
- Acharyashri's Campaign
- 'Save Culture, Save Family, Build Nation'
- Vice President's Personal Practice
- Vegetarianism for 25 years