Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, 77, passes away; PM Modi responds
PTC News Desk: Renowned Jain Muni Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, aged 77, passed away early Sunday morning at Chandragiri Teerth in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the demise of Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj.
In a statement, Prime Minister Modi remarked, "My thoughts and prayers are with the countless devotees of Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj. He will be remembered by future generations for his invaluable contributions to society, particularly his efforts towards spiritual enlightenment, poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and more."
Last year, Prime Minister Modi visited Dongargarh, a revered pilgrimage site in Chhattisgarh's Rajnandagon district, where he met Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj. During his visit, Modi also paid homage at the Maa Bamleshwari Temple situated at the foothills of Dongargarh.
Reflecting on their interaction, Modi shared, "I had the honor of receiving his blessings for years. I can never forget my visit to the Chandragiri Jain Mandir in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh late last year. At that time, I spent time with Acharya Shri 108 Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj and received his blessings."
Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda also expressed his condolences, stating, "I am shocked to hear about the passing of the revered Saint Shiromani Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj. He has enriched the profound spiritual heritage of Jainism with new dimensions. His teachings, filled with wisdom, compassion, and goodwill, will continue to guide us for the advancement of society and culture. I offer my humble respects at the feet of the departed Acharya Shri."
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Who was Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj?
1. Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was a revered saint in the Digambar Jain community.
2. He was highly esteemed for his exceptional scholarly pursuits and deep spiritual insight.
3. Born on October 10, 1946, in Sadalga, Karnataka, he displayed a keen interest in spirituality from a young age.
4. At 22 years old in 1968, Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was initiated as a Digambara monk by Acharya Gyansagar Ji Maharaj, and he attained the Acharya status in 1972.
5. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to the study and application of Jain scriptures and philosophy.
6. Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj was proficient in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and other languages, and he authored numerous insightful commentaries, poems, and spiritual treatises.
7. Among his notable works within the Jain community are Niranjana Shataka, Bhavana Shataka, Parishah Jaya Shataka, Suniti Shataka, and Shramana Shataka.
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(Inputs from agencies)