Fadnavis Lauds Indian Culture at Jain Festival

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis celebrated the enduring spirit of Indian culture, emphasizing its core values of life, harmony, and coexistence during his address at the Paryushan Mahaparva 2025, hosted by Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur on Tuesday evening. The event, held at the NSCI Dome in Worli, marked one of Jainism’s most significant festivals, dedicated to forgiveness, introspection, and spiritual renewal.

Paryushan Mahaparva, an eight-day Jain festival, focuses on seeking and granting forgiveness, fostering compassion, and practicing self-discipline. Fadnavis described the event as “an unforgettable celebration of devotion, discipline, and compassion,” highlighting its role in uniting communities. He praised the Jain community’s commitment to non-violence (ahimsa) and charity, noting their contributions to education and healthcare through institutions like the Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care initiative, which operates hospitals and schools across India.

“Indian culture, the world’s oldest, thrives because it cherishes life, promotes harmony, and ensures coexistence,” Fadnavis said. “Our traditions teach us that every life has a right to exist, and society must protect and nurture it.” He connected these values to Jainism’s principles, emphasizing their universal relevance in fostering peace and mutual respect in today’s world.

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Fadnavis also acknowledged the mission’s global outreach, inspired by Shrimad Rajchandra, a 19th-century Jain spiritual leader and mentor to Mahatma Gandhi. The mission, under the guidance of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshbhai, has over 100 centers worldwide, promoting spiritual growth and community service. The Chief Minister commended its efforts in preserving Jain values while addressing modern challenges through initiatives like environmental conservation and youth empowerment programs.

The event saw thousands of attendees, including prominent Jain leaders and devotees, engaging in prayers, meditation, and discourses. Paryushan’s rituals, such as Samvatsari, where individuals seek forgiveness for past wrongs, resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the festival’s message of humility and reconciliation.

Fadnavis urged citizens to draw inspiration from such festivals to strengthen societal bonds and promote unity. As India navigates rapid modernization, he stressed the importance of preserving cultural roots to maintain harmony in diverse communities.

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