Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Centenary Celebrations of Acharya Shri 108 Vidyanand Ji Maharaj at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 28 June 2025. The event marks the beginning of a year-long national tribute (from 28 June 2025 to 22 April 2026) jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Culture and Bhagwan Mahaveer Ahimsa Bharti Trust, Delhi.
Who Was Acharya Shri 108 Vidyanand Ji Maharaj?
| Aspect | Details |
| Birth | 22 April 1925, Shedbal, Belagavi, Karnataka |
| Spiritual Initiation | Received at a young age; became a prominent Digambara Jain Acharya |
| Philosophical Contributions | Memorised 8,000+ Jain Agamic verses, authored 50+ texts |
| Major Works | Jain Darshan, Anekantvad, Mokshmarg Darshan |
| Spiritual Practices | Practiced Kayotsarga meditation, Brahmacharya, extreme austerity |
| Travels | Walked barefoot across India for decades |
Major Contributions
Jain Flag and Emblem
In 1975, during the 2500th Nirvana Mahotsav of Bhagwan Mahavir, he:
- Conceptualised the five-colour Jain flag
- Introduced the Ahimsa symbol (hand)
- Gained consensus across Jain sects, creating a unifying identity for the community
Revival of Jain Heritage
- Led restoration of ancient Jain temples in: Delhi, Vaishali, Indore, Shravanabelagola
- Key figure in:
- Shravanabelagola Mahamastakabhishek
- 2600th Janm Kalyanak Mahotsav of Lord Mahavir
Kundgram Identification
- Identified Kundgram (Basokund, Bihar) as the birthplace of Bhagwan Mahavir
- Officially recognised by the Government of India in 1956
Promotion of Jain Education
- Founded multiple pathshalas and institutions for:
- Young monks
- Education in Prakrit, Jain philosophy, and classical languages
Social and Ethical Reform
- Championed:
- Forgiveness rituals
- Inter-sect harmony
- Spiritual egalitarianism
- Constructive dialogue across Jain sects
About the Centenary Celebrations (2025–2026)
- Celebrated from 28 June 2025 to 22 April 2026
- Nationwide programmes focusing on: Culture, literature, education, and spirituality
- Aim: to spread awareness about Jain ethics, Ahimsa, and national integration through Jain values