Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted the vital role of Jain literature in shaping India’s intellectual and spiritual heritage, calling it the “backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur.” Speaking at the ‘Navkar Mahamantra Divas’ event at Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital, PM Modi emphasized that preserving ancient Jain texts is a national responsibility.
“The literature of Jainism is the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur. Preserving this knowledge is our duty,” PM Modi stated during his address.
The Prime Minister also underscored the significance of granting Classical Language status to Prakrit and Pali—ancient languages integral to Jain and Buddhist traditions. “That is why we have granted Classical Language status to Prakrit and Pali,” he noted, highlighting the cultural and scholarly importance of these languages.
Reflecting on his personal connection to Jainism, PM Modi shared that his early exposure to Jain teachings in Gujarat, where the influence of Jainism is deeply embedded, shaped his spiritual journey. “Since childhood, I have been in the company of Jain Acharyas,” he said. He also spoke reverently of chanting the Navkar Mantra, describing it as a moment of deep reverence and connection with the five supreme beings: Panch Parmeshthi.
The Prime Minister pointed to the architectural and cultural influence of Jainism in the new Parliament building, mentioning the ‘Shardula Dwar,’ the idol of a Tirthankara at the Lok Sabha entrance, and the depiction of all 24 Tirthankaras on the walls. “A magnificent painting of Lord Mahavir adorns the roof of the Constitution Hall,” he added, emphasizing Jainism’s profound impact on India’s national identity.
PM Modi linked spirituality to the nation’s progress, asserting that a developed India should not only embrace technological advancements but also remain rooted in its ancient traditions. “A developed India means progress as well as heritage—an India that will not stop, that will not pause, that will touch great heights without being severed from its roots,” he said.
In this context, the Prime Minister announced the launch of the ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission,’ an initiative unveiled in the 2025 Union Budget. The mission aims to survey and digitize millions of ancient manuscripts across the country. “Many important texts are slowly disappearing. Through this mission, we will connect antiquity with modernity,” PM Modi explained. He also highlighted the potential of Artificial Intelligence in making India’s spiritual legacy globally accessible.
The Prime Minister also drew attention to efforts to retrieve ancient heritage from abroad, including the return of more than 20 statues of Tirthankaras in recent years. “This is a matter of national pride,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to reclaiming India’s cultural heritage.
Referring to the Gyan Bharatam initiative as an “Amrit Sankalp,” PM Modi stated that India will preserve its knowledge systems and inspire the world by blending technology with spirituality.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Navkar Mahamantra Divas at Vigyan Bhawan, a significant spiritual and cultural event dedicated to the revered Jain chant. During the event, attended by members of the Jain community and spiritual leaders, PM Modi led the collective chanting of the Navkar Mahamantra, describing it as a spiritually energizing and unifying experience.
The event, which also included the participation of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, aimed to celebrate the timeless teachings of Jain philosophy, promoting values such as inner peace, self-realization, and harmony. Religious scholars, Jain monks, dignitaries, and hundreds of followers gathered for the occasion, emphasizing Jainism’s teachings on nonviolence, truth, self-discipline, and inner transformation.
(With ANI inputs)
