Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described love, compassion, and harmony as humanity’s most powerful tools while addressing the release of the 500th book authored by revered Jain Acharya Shrimad Vijayaratna Sunder Surishwarji Maharaj. In a video message, the Prime Minister said the Acharya’s writings offer timely spiritual guidance in a world increasingly affected by division and conflict.
A Life Where Knowledge Is Lived, Not Just Written
PM Modi said Acharya Vijayaratna Sunder Surishwarji Maharaj’s personality reflects restraint, simplicity, and clarity, adding that his teachings are not confined to scriptures but are lived and practiced. He noted that when the Acharya writes, his words carry experience, when he speaks, compassion flows, and even his silence guides seekers.
The Prime Minister said the Acharya’s 500 literary works form a vast ocean of thought, offering simple yet profound solutions to complex human problems across generations.
Jain Philosophy in a Contemporary Form
Highlighting the relevance of Jain philosophy, PM Modi said values such as non-violence, non-possessiveness, and many-sidedness remain deeply relevant in modern society. He noted that these teachings, passed down from the Tirthankaras and Acharyas, find contemporary expression in the writings of Vijayaratna Sunder Surishwarji Maharaj.
At a time when the world is facing social fragmentation and conflict, the Prime Minister said the message of love and harmony contained in the 500th book provides moral and spiritual direction.
‘Parasparopagraho Jivanam’ and Collective Responsibility
The Prime Minister recalled the Jain principle “Parasparopagraho Jivanam,” which means all life is interconnected. He said understanding this idea shifts human thinking from self-interest to collective welfare, encouraging individuals to work for society, the nation, and humanity.
He linked this philosophy to India’s broader developmental journey, where cultural values and modern aspirations move forward together.
Nine Resolutions for a Better Society
Reiterating the nine resolutions he had earlier shared on Navkar Mantra Day, PM Modi urged citizens to actively adopt them in daily life. These include water conservation, planting trees in the name of one’s mother, cleanliness, promoting local products, Bharat Darshan, natural farming, healthy living, yoga and sports, and helping the poor.
He said these resolutions align closely with Jain values and can strengthen both individual character and national progress.
Youth, Culture, and a Developed India
PM Modi said India’s young population is playing a central role in building a developed nation while remaining rooted in cultural heritage. He stressed that the guidance of saints, spiritual literature, and ethical teachings is essential in shaping the moral foundation of this transformation.
He expressed confidence that the Acharya’s thoughts would continue to illuminate India’s intellectual and human journey for generations to come.
Gratitude and Blessings
The Prime Minister expressed regret over his inability to attend the event in person due to unavoidable circumstances, thanking the Acharya for understanding and allowing him to connect through a video message.
