TFP Bureau, Raipur, September 10, 2024: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the noble tradition of the Jain religion, emphasizing forgiveness and penance, at the Siddhishikar Vijay Utsav held on September 9 at the Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium. The event, organized by the Jain community, celebrated the spiritual dedication of 114 ascetics who completed 44 days of ‘Tap Sadhana,’ a rigorous form of penance, in keeping with the Jain tradition.
The ascetics, ranging in age from 11 to 80, were honored by the Chief Minister for their commitment. Shri Sai praised the Jain community’s deep-rooted practices, noting that their acts of devotion and discipline bring peace, prosperity, and well-being to the entire state of Chhattisgarh. He lauded the Jain monks and saints, who embark on long barefoot journeys, practice restraint, and pray for the welfare of humanity.
“The Jain religion has a noble tradition of forgiving and seeking forgiveness,” said Shri Sai, adding that the presence of the saints in the sacred land of Lord Ram’s maternal home, Mata Kaushalya’s birthplace, would bless the people of Chhattisgarh with prosperity and happiness.
Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, who presided over the event, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the importance of the blessings that the state receives from its spiritual leaders and saints, whose guidance provides strength and motivation. Dr. Singh expressed hope that Chhattisgarh would continue to thrive as a land of peace, prosperity, and happiness.
Raipur MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal congratulated the ascetics on their penance, stating that their spiritual efforts would bring bliss to the people of Chhattisgarh. He encouraged attendees to embrace the teachings of the revered Jain saints in their own lives.
Revered Jayapal Vijayi Maharaj addressed the gathering, underscoring the core values of non-violence and compassion in Jainism. He remarked on the profound spiritual depth of the religion, likening Jain philosophy to the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean and the heights of Mount Everest. He praised the 114 ascetics for achieving spiritual victory through their penance.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Revered Priyadarshi Vijay Ji Maharaj and Revered Teerth Prem Vijay Ji Maharaj, along with MLAs Shri Rajesh Munat, Shri Gajraj Pagaria, and Shri Swarup Chand Jain. Members of the Shri Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Samaj and Chaturmas Samiti, as well as other dignitaries, were also present.