Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan Unveils Idol of Acharya Shantisagar Maharaj at Shravanabelagola, Karnataka

(Shravanabelagola) Karnataka , November 9- Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan  participated in the Centenary Commemoration of Acharya Shri 108 Shantisagar Maharaj Ji’s visit to Shravanabelagola, marking one hundred years since the revered saint’s arrival at the holy site for the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony in 1925. On this occasion, the Vice-President unveiled a grand idol of Acharya Ji at the sacred Jain pilgrimage town in Karnataka.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President described Acharya Shantisagar Maharaj Ji as a luminary who revived the Digambara Jain tradition and lived a life rooted in the eternal principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Anekantavada (pluralism).

He observed that in an era overshadowed by material desires and inner unrest, the teachings of Acharya Ji remind humanity that true liberation stems from simplicity and self-discipline, not from material wealth or indulgence. “His life exemplifies that real strength lies in renunciation and compassion,” the Vice-President said.

 Radhakrishnan praised the Shravanabelagola Jain Mutt for celebrating this historic milestone, noting that the centenary observance has rekindled a spiritual flame that will continue to illuminate generations. The newly unveiled idol, he said, would stand as a symbol of purity, humility, and peace, inspiring devotees from across the world.

Reflecting on Shravanabelagola’s ancient legacy, the Vice-President underlined its two-thousand-year-old history as a cornerstone of Jain philosophy. He spoke of the 57-foot monolithic statue of Lord Bahubali, commissioned by the Ganga dynasty minister Chavundaraya, describing it as “a timeless monument to faith, artistic mastery, and spiritual elevation.”

The Vice-President also recounted the historic moment when Emperor Chandragupta Maurya renounced his throne and embraced ascetic life at Shravanabelagola under the guidance of Acharya Bhadrabahu. “His renunciation represents the eternal truth that worldly power, no matter how vast, finds fulfillment only in spiritual awakening,” Radhakrishnan stated.

Commending the Government of India for granting Classical Language status to Prakrit and for launching the Gyan Bharatham Mission to digitize ancient Jain manuscripts, the Vice-President said these initiatives play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s civilizational wisdom.

He highlighted Jainism’s deep cultural connections with Tamil Nadu, pointing to its influence on Sangam-era literature and classical works such as Silappadikaram, which continue to inspire linguistic scholars and spiritual seekers alike.

Lauding Shri Abhinav Charukeerthi Bhattarak Swamiji, the head of the Shravanabelagola Digambar Jain Mahasamsthana Math, the Vice-President commended his efforts in education, healthcare, and research, particularly through the Prakrit Research Institute, which advances studies in ancient Indian languages and philosophy.

Expressing confidence that Shravanabelagola will continue to serve as a radiant symbol of India’s spiritual heritage, the Vice-President said that its message of compassion and coexistence must reach every corner of the world.
“This sacred land continues to remind us that peace, tolerance, and self-realization are the truest forms of progress,” he remarked.

The event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including Governor of Karnataka Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Union Minister  H. D. Kumaraswamy, State Ministers Krishna Byre Gowda and  D. Sudhakar, MP from Hassan Shreyas M. Patel, and revered Jain monks of Shravanabelagola Math.

“Shravanabelagola continues to be a glowing beacon of India’s timeless spirituality and harmony,” concluded Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan.